St. John’s Resident Wins University of Rochester Library Award

The prestigious Robert F. Metzdorf Award was presented by the Friends of the University of Rochester Libraries to St. John’s resident Mary Huth.

Huth’s career at University of Rochester and its libraries spanned 44 years, beginning in 1966 when she joined the Rush Rhees staff as a library assistant.  After serving as the acting head of both the Art Library and Rare Books and Special Collections (RBSC), she spent 32 years as assistant director of RBSC until her retirement in 2010.

“She was a wonderful colleague,” said St. John’s resident Jane Shuffelton, who worked with Huth for years in Rare Books and Special Collections. Shuffelton pointed out that Huth is also an emeritus trustee for the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House for her many years of service to the organization.

Mary championed the acquisition of resources to support research and teaching in such areas as indigenous studies, black history, health reform, and women’s studies, according to a nomination submitted on Huth’s behalf. “She is remembered by numerous scholars for her partnership over the years in research on suffrage, anti-suffrage, and anti-slavery movements.”

Another nomination cited the continuation of Huth’s contributions once she stopped working for the libraries. “Even after retirement, Mary’s dedication to women’s history and the Rochester community has continued. In 2020, Mary received the Speak for Thyself Award, given by the Alden Kindred of America, which honors exceptional women in the 21st Century who choose their own paths as pioneers, advocates, community organizers, and business leaders, thereby creating better lives for themselves and their communities.”

Huth received the 2025 Metzdorf Award from St. John’s resident, friend, and 2010 Metzdorf winner Judith Kharbas. Congratulations to Mary Huth!