Served University for years as professor, dean of University Libraries

July 11, 2023

Known for his wit, understanding, humility, kindness, frugality and handiness with tools during his 40 years of service to the University of Rhode Island, Professor David C. Maslyn, Sr. died peacefully at Westerly Hospital July 2.

He was born to Lawrence and Mary Maslyn in 1936 in Geneva, New York. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English and history at St. Bonaventure University. He received a master of arts in history and a master’s degree in library science, both from Syracuse University.

Known as Dave to his colleagues, URI hired him in 1974 as an assistant professor and librarian for special collections, and in 1975, he was named university archivist and special collections librarian. In 1977 he was promoted to associate professor and in 1983 he was promoted to professor. He also chaired the Department of Public Services/University Libraries and was named interim director of University Libraries. He was named dean of University Libraries in 2007 and retired from that position in 2014.

Colleagues offered lengthy tribute to David, saying “he was a kind person who saw the humanity in everyone.” Another said he had tremendous faith in his faculty and staff. “He conversed. And he connected. At the end, maybe no consensus was reached, but understanding was.”

Noted for his frugal nature, one colleague said, “When it came to the costs with ANY of our core library services and people…Dave Maslyn spared no expense…He knew what needed to be done – no matter the costs.”

He also was good with tools and construction, with one comment noting that the “best materials were his people, the faculty and staff.” 

Another offered this: “Under his direction, the library was a place of exciting initiatives, and the faculty flourished in this atmosphere to the point of receiving national and even international recognition.”

Calling hours will be held in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield, from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 14. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, 437 Carolina Back Road, Charlestown, at 10 a.m.  Saturday, July 15. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. For guest book and condolences and to see the entire obituary, please visit Avery-Storti Funeral Home.