José Aponte

2026 AOY Honoree, College of Information Science - Class of 1976

José Aponte is a nationally recognized leader in library and information science, celebrated for advancing equity, cultural awareness and community-focused public service over his four-decade career. 

Born in the South Bronx, José was the youngest son of a single mother — a children’s librarian. At age eight, he began reading stories to children at a local branch, earning 25 cents per session — an experience that shaped his lifelong devotion to public libraries. 

In 1976, José earned his master’s in library science from the University of Arizona through the Graduate Library Institute for Spanish-Speaking Americans, shaping his commitment to educational access and representation in librarianship. From his start as a branch librarian in Tucson to leadership roles across California, Florida and Colorado, he has been a transformational force. As director of San Diego County Library, he opened 10 new branches, expanded services, launched award-winning programs for vulnerable populations and earned national recognition, including Library Journal’s 2012 Library of the Year. 

His commitment to inclusive service earned him honors including the REFORMA Trejo Librarian of the Year Award and recognition as a Library Journal Mover & Shaker. He served on the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science and the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries advisory board and currently serves on the U of A’s Knowledge River Steering Committee. An artist and endurance athlete, José has raised funds for scholarships by running marathons and completing a cross-country cycling trip. 

The University of Arizona is proud to name José Aponte the 2026 Alumnus of the Year for the College of Information Science.