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Long-Time CLA Member Passes Away
Barbara Will, a Library Programs Consultant in Library Development Services at the State Library from 1987 until her retirement in 2006, passed away on Sunday, July 8.
Barbara had gone to upstate New York in late May to be with her father who was near death. After his funeral, as she was preparing to return home to California, she collapsed from what was subsequently diagnosed as an infected intestinal obstruction. She underwent emergency surgery and remained alive for several weeks but was never able to fully recover.
Barbara spent many of her years at the State Library coordinating networking activities throughout the state and facilitating development of what would eventually become the Library of California. She also monitored LSTA-supported projects such as the California Preservation Program and developed very successful targeted grant programs, including Services for People with Disabilities and Services for Small Businesses.
Barbara was nationally known as an expert on the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). She served on ALA committees and task forces advocating LSTA reauthorization, and every year she tenaciously fought for the highest funding appropriation possible from Congress.
Barbara was very active in CLA, and most recently served as chair of the Services to Restricted or Disabled People Round Table.
The library world has lost a true champion and a wonderful friend. Condolences may be sent to her husband, Gerry Bowers, 2971 Elmwood Ave., Stockton CA, 95204-3906. Mr. Bowers has indicated that donations to the Salvation Army or to the California State Library Foundation in Barbara's name would be appreciated.
Susan Hildreth
State Librarian of California
Posted on July 12, 2007 10:06 AM | Permalink