Librarian leaves staggering gift

Cudahy reading room to be named for Willouise "Willie" Donovan (BA '39)

When Willouise "Willie" Donovan was born a century ago, America's library system, too, was in its infancy. Andrew Carnegie's inspiration to make available to everyone a means of self education was embraced by Donovan, who spent her life as a teacher and librarian.

Donovan's devotion to the written word now benefits Loyola students who study in the elegant, warm, and inviting reading room of Cudahy Library. Upon her death in 2007, Donovan bequeathed a seven-figure sum to Loyola that included her family home. In honor of her gift, the library's reading room now bears her name.

 Read more about Willie Donovan's life and stunning gift to Loyola.