Dean M. Riley

Dean M. Riley serves as Professor of Library Science and director of Moody Library at Houston Christian University, a position he has held since joining HCU in 1994. His responsibilities span library administration, technical operations (including SirsiDynix systems), scholarly communications, and reference services. He actively contributes to university governance through roles on the Institutional Technology and Knowledge Committee, Safety and Crisis Committee, and several advisory groups.

His educational qualifications include:

• MALS, University of Missouri – Columbia
• MARE, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
• BME, University of Texas at San Antonio

Riley's research explores the intersection of information science and Christian theology. He investigates the quality of information in digital environments, the theological implications of information theory (drawing on Shannon, Buckland, Dervin, and Gitt), and the integration of faith in library practices. His work promotes a "stewardship of mind" approach, emphasizing that information is foundational to human existence and that librarians serve as guides in navigating information spheres. He advocates for open access resources and has developed strategies for institutional repositories and OER.

His publications, though limited in number, reflect a consistent theme of bridging library science with Christian faith. The 2010 refereed article "Information Apprenticeship" and non-refereed work "Wisdom and God in the Age of Information" both address theological perspectives on information. His earlier historical research on Texas Baptist associations demonstrates breadth in his scholarly interests.

Riley's professional recognition includes:

• Nominee, Opal Goolsby Teacher Excellence, 2006
• Elected in Beta Phi Mu International Library Honors Society, 1995

In addition to his administrative duties, Riley assists with grant writing for library initiatives and serves as a liaison to campus IT. While specific student advisees are not documented, his teaching philosophy emphasizes developing research strategies that seek truth beyond superficial information. He has presented extensively on library technology and faith integration, influencing both campus and professional communities.

As director of Moody Library, Riley leads a team that supports HCU's academic mission through resource management, technology innovation, and user services. His leadership extends to shaping the library's role in spiritual formation, reflecting HCU's Christian identity. Current projects include piloting Cloudsource+ and advancing open access strategies.