Mar. 22, 2018
2018 Brooks Gala and Silent Auction
Central Washington University announces its 5th Annual Library Gala and Silent Auction on Saturday, April 14, from 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. at the James E. Brooks Library.
To mark this year’s event, the gala will honor the legacies of former CWU president James E. Brooks and former dean of libraries, emeritus professor Patricia J. Cutright. Brooks and Cutright were instrumental in promoting Brooks Library and shared a goal of moving the library into the 21st Century by transforming it from a traditional brick and mortar repository for books to a vibrant hub of academic discourse to serve the campus, community, and the Central Washington region.
Proceeds from the 2018 Gala will make it possible to continue this journey, beginning with plans for creating a Learning Commons on the second floor of the library. The space will serve as a 200-seat flexible study, instructional, and programming space that encourages collaboration and diverse programming. The renovation will also accommodate projected enrollment increases and incorporate media technology to support academic creative expression.
This year’s proceeds will also fund the Brooks-Cutright Scholarship, to be awarded to a student currently enrolled in the Library and Information Science program.
“This is an occasion where the community, supporters, and friends of the library can come have a good time while giving back,” said Maureen Rust, student engagement and community outreach librarian.
The evening begins with wine and hors d’oeuvres, a program, a unique auction collection, student art gallery, and culminates with exciting entertainment and dancing in the library’s stacks. Ellensburg Big Band, JENtet Jazz Combo, The Apollo String Quartet, and The Professors Jazz Combo will be performing as the musical guests.
In addition to the silent auction, guests are encouraged to stop by the photo booth and Gala Wildcat Shop to take home a lasting memento from the evening’s festivities.
All are invited to attend. Dress is evening or dressy casual attire.
Tickets are available now at cwu.edu/tickets, by calling 509-963-1429, or in person at Wildcat Tickets in the Student Union and Recreation Center. If purchased in advance, tickets cost $10 for CWU students with CWU ID, $20 for adults.
Tickets may also be purchased at the door for an additional $5.00 per person. CWU students with CWU ID, pay the same $10 rate.
If you are unable to attend but would still like to support library initiatives and student scholarships in the library sciences, contact Maureen Rust at 509-963-2102 or Maureen.Rust@cwu.edu.
The CWU James E. Brooks Library sponsors the Gala and Silent Auction, in collaboration with the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce. Auction items are donated through the generosity of local library supporters and businesses.
Media contact: Dawn Alford, Department of Public Relations, 509-963-1484, Dawn.Alford@cwu.edu.