Jan. 25, 2024

The University mourns the loss of long-time librarian Mary Anne Sumner, who died Jan. 10 at the age of 69. Mary Anne worked for University Libraries for nearly 40 years, from October 1982 to February 2021, with a four-year lapse to raise her family.

Mary Anne is remembered fondly by library staff as a ball of energy, said Brian T. Gallagher, head of access services, who was Mary Anne’s supervisor. “Student employees at the Circulation Desk regarded her as patient and caring. She knew more about their lives outside of the library than quite possibly their parents,” he said.

“Mary Anne was an excellent staff member, always willing to help and cheerful in her work,” said Peter Larsen, interim dean of University Libraries. “But the thing I remember most was her involvement in the Gingerbread Express charity [which collects donations of clothes and toys for the holidays for needy children].”

“We used to call Mary Anne the ‘Energizer Bunny’ because she was the one who was always on the go,” added Elizabeth “Liz” Smith, an information services technician (IST) II and head of circulation. Judy Smith, IST-I at circulation, said, “Mary Anne’s giggle when she spoke is my fondest memory.  She also loved to share so no one was ever left out. She made sure that every person got a piece of whatever treat was being given out even if that meant being cut into six or more pieces!”

Professor Amanda Izenstark, co-chair of Public Services, was a direct recipient of that kindness.  “When I had some health issues that prevented me from eating certain things, she went out of her way to make sure I had something safe to eat at library events so that I would feel included.” 

Professor Emeritus Deborah “Debbie” Mongeau who served as chair of Public Services from 2007 to 2019,  said, “I remember Mary Anne as always being upbeat and positive. If things were not going smoothly she always tried to see the positive aspect of the situation. Her interactions with the patrons and her coworkers were stellar.”  

There will be no wake. A funeral will be held Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 1105 Main St., Hope Valley.  The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please make a charitable donation to your favorite charity.