Special Collections Researcher Spotlight: Derek Stadler

Special Collections profiles researchers that have consulted collections in the department. Derek Stadler is the Library Web Services Coordinator and E-Reserve Manager at the City University of New York, Borough of Manhattan Community College. 

Derek Stadler, November 2015

Derek Stadler, November 2015

My name is Derek Stadler and I am currently employed at CUNY’s Borough of Manhattan Community College as the Library Web Services Coordinator and E-Reserve Manager. The position combines my experience in both the library and the technological world. I received a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Saint John’s University. Satisfying a desire to pursue a career in higher education, I next completed a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science at Long Island University. A Master’s degree in History soon followed.

My area of research is the history of Long Island and the Greater New York area in general. I consulted the department’s Emery collection for information on the Long Island Rail Road. The collection contains timetables and other material that can be used to document the growth of transportation on the island. Among many things, I learned that the Long Island Rail Road once provided frequent service throughout the entire island. As the twentieth century progressed, the service was reduced and then began to increase towards the end of the millennium. This highlights the need for the railroad and the importance of a well-maintained rail infrastructure.

My experiences [in Special Collections] have always been very rewarding. The staff is very courteous and the space is conducive to research. I wish I could spend more time conducting research but my own time restraints interfere. My advice to students: allot yourself a lot of time! You will be surprised what the collection has to offer once you see it in person.

For more information about Special Collections and University Archives, please visit the website for the department.  

Kristen Nyitray

Kristen Nyitray

Associate Librarian; Director, Special Collections and University Archives; and University Archivist at Stony Brook University Libraries
Contact her for research assistance with rare books, manuscript collections, historical maps, and SBU history. E-mail: kristen.nyitray@stonybrook.edu.
Kristen Nyitray
Posted in Special Collections & University Archives