Alice Fujimoto is Library Friend of the Year

Alice Fujimoto, who served as one of the first honorary co-chairs for the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo annual Night in the Stacks fundraising event for the Edwin H. Mookini Library, is being honored as the 2010 Edwin H. Mookini Library Friend of the Year at Night in the Stacks 2010: Creating Legendary Friends with Caren Loebel-Fried, on Friday, November 19, 5:30 - 9 p.m.

“Alice always had a passion for education, the arts, and culture and her affinity for these areas has fueled her dedicated support for multiple efforts and organizations in our community,” noted Dr. Linda Golian-Lui, university librarian. “Her enthusiasm for the arts and close friendship with Esther "Kiki" Mookini led to her early involvement with raising awareness and resources for the Edwin H. Mookini Library. Alice believed in helping the library and the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo because she felt that the community would benefit greatly.”

“The initial thought of supporting a new library was very exciting to my mother,” said Wendy Matsuura. “She enjoyed galvanizing her friends, family members and the community to join her in doing something good for Hilo.”

The keynote speaker for the evening is local artist and author Caren Loebel-Fried, who will talk about her art and books. Copies of her latest book, "Legend of the Gourd", will be available for purchase. Additional guest authors include Janice Crowl, "Pulelehua & Mamaki"; Patsy Iwasaki, "Hamakua Hero: A True Plantation Story"; Dr. Mark Panek, "Gaijin Yokosuna: A Biography of Chad Rowan"; and Miyoko Sugano, author and co-editor, "Hookupu: An Offering of Literature by Native Hawaiian Women."

The silent auction begins at 6 p.m., and offers a wide assortment of items. Musical entertainment from Nanea, student dance performances, art displays, and tours of the newly renovated Library round out the evening.

Admission is free with a suggested donation of $25 per person. Each $25 tax-deductible contribution provides an opportunity to adopt-a-book in honor of a loved one, or to commemorate a special occasion. Reservations are required. Call Michelle Sylvester at 974-7759 or email libadmin@hawaii.edu or msylvest@hawaii.edu.