Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Profile

Dale M. Bentz has made an enduring impression on the University of Iowa through his 33 years as an administrator for the University Libraries and as a champion of everything the University represents.

As associate librarian and then director of the libraries until his retirement in 1986, Bentz was instrumental in a significant expansion of the library system that included building of the Hardin Library for Health Sciences. He linked University Libraries with other major libraries through membership in research library groups, a move that led to the beginning of computerization and automation at the University Libraries.

With others, Bentz helped establish the UI Center for the Study of Recent American History and he worked hard to expand the library's special collections. One of his greatest successes came in attracting to Iowa the late William Anthony, world-famed bookbinder and conservator. Out of that liaison grew the UI's remarkable Center for the Book, as well as the addition of Chicago Chef Louis' precious collection of rare and historic cookbooks to University Libraries.

Active in his profession both regionally and nationally, Bentz served in many leadership roles throughout his career, including president of the Iowa Library Association, president of the Resources and Technical Services Division of the American Library Association, and president of Beta Phi Mu, the international library science honorary society.

Throughout his stewardship at the University of Iowa, Bentz has been involved in innumerable volunteer efforts within the University and the community. In addition to his work on the Student Publication Board, the Faculty Council, and the Triangle Club, Bentz became active in the work of the UI Foundation in the early years of its development. He also served on and presided over the Iowa City Board of Education and helped establish Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa.

Bentz came to the University of Iowa in 1953 with degrees from Gettysburg College, the University of North Carolina, and the University of Illinois. He is a member of the UI Foundation's Presidents Club and is a life member of the University of Iowa Alumni Association.