Library Associates Programs

Two programs were sponsored by the Library Associates at Georgetown University during the 1992 fall semester.

John Gilmary Shea

John Gilmary Shea was a pioneer historian of the Catholic Church in America, and a great book collector as well. In 1992 the library marked the centenary of Georgetown University's acquisition of the Shea library. Selected items from the library were on display in the Gunlocke Reading Room during the fall semester until January.

In the evening of October 16 some 50 to 60 members of the Associates gathered in the Murray Conference Room on the fifth floor of Lauinger Library to hear Rev. Gerald A. Fogarty, S.J. of the University of Virginia talk about why "It's tough to be first: John Gilmary Shea and the writing of American Catholic history." The occasion was special because a dozen members of the Library Advisory Council, in town for the next day's semi-annual Council meeting, were able to attend and meet the speaker.

In the Spirit of the Season

A few of the Library Associates gathered in the Riggs Library, with University President Leo J. O'Donovan, S.J., and University Librarian Susan K. Martin up-center.

The traditional Christmastime gathering of the Associates came off on a Monday evening, December 14, in the always-favorite Riggs Library, with an attendance of more than 150. Associates and friends enjoyed a couple of hours of becoming better acquainted and making new friends, in addition to the festive ambience and refreshments.

The high point of the evening came when University President Leo J. O'Donovan, S.J. brought greetings and a brief message. A trio from the Georgetown Symphony Orchestra played baroque music and Christmas selections throughout the evening.