As part of ISU’s ambitious comprehensive Redbirds Rising: The Campaign for Illinois State, Milner Library established a special, campaign-only recognition honoring Ange Milner. Donors who give a minimum of $1,000 between July 1, 2013, and June 30, 2020, will become one of Ange’s Keepers. At the end of Redbirds Rising, Ange’s Keepers will be permanently recognized in the library for their vital and generous support.
Ange Milner was the University’s first full-time librarian, serving from 1890 to 1927. Her forward-thinking initiatives laid the foundation for services in today’s library, which is named in her honor. For almost 40 years, Ange advocated for student needs and built library services that quickly outgrew the University’s first library location: a single 160 square foot room in the original Old Main. She created a library integrated into the curriculum and research needs of the University while always considering the needs of future students. The ideals Ange held and practices she introduced have served as a model to successive generations of librarians and laid the strong foundation for what is her now namesake, Milner Library
A gift to Milner Library is one way to directly impact all students. As the costs of monographs and serials rise, donations help us keep pace and still acquire unique materials. Recently donor dollars enabled Milner to purchase a rare illustrated Carthusian Breviary that has been used extensively by history classes and is the oldest book in Special Collections.
Designs are nearing completion for the Student Success Center on floor one. Slated to open during the 2020-2021 academic year, this space will serve as a highly interactive, service-focused, and technology-rich campus hub for learning, research, and technology. Gifts to the Student Success Center will help Milner Library and campus partners create an innovative and collaborative center focused on student support and development.
With help from our generous supporters, Milner Library can continue the proud tradition of service Ange established. For more information on giving to Milner Library or becoming one of Ange’s Keepers, contact Milner Library Director of Communications Erin Link by email at ellink@IllinoisState.edu or by phone at (309) 438-3897.
