Dinner raises funds for UCSD’s research libraries

UCSD Librarian Brian Schottlaender hosted the university libraries’ sixth annual Dinner in the Library event Sept. 17 at the Geisel Library. Renamed Geisel Library in 1995, it stands in honor of Audrey and Thedor Geisel (Dr. Seuss) for their generous contributions to the library and to literacy.

Audrey Geisel joined more than 100 other supporters who gathered before sunset to mingle and enjoy cocktails and appetizers provided by ChileCo Catering. Afterward they made their way into the library for a four-course dinner featuring Napa cabbage salad, edamame-encrusted Opah, ricotta pasta pillows, and a special huckleberry pot of crème. Guests dined by candlelight among the books at one long table decorated with stunning red rose bouquets.

Seth Lerer, University Dean of Arts and Humanities, was the evening’s speaker. He spoke on “the American language in our times.” Relatively new to the faculty, his teaching and research address Medieval and Renaissance literature, the history of the English Language, Children’s Literature, and the history of scholarship. Proceeds from the event go to support the purchase of library materials, instruction and services.

The UCSD libraries are consistently ranked among the top 25 public academic research libraries in the nation.