Continuing their support for the University, Robert J. and Norma M. Lagomarsino donated $1 million in April to establish the John Spoor Broome Library and support the Robert J. and Norma M. Lagomarsino Department of Archives and Special Collections.
Robert Largomarsino served in the U.S. Congress from 1974 to 1993. Prior to that he was a California State Senator from 1961 to 1974, and Mayor of Ojai from 1958 to 1961. Mr. Lagomarsino's outstanding record of serving the people of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties is documented in an extensive archival collection, which he donated to the University in 1998. In 1961, as a state senator, Mr. Lagomarsino introduced the first legislation authorizing a public university for Ventura County.
"Bob and Norma are closely intertwined with the creation of California State University Channel Islands," said President Rush. "This generous gift helps ensure that our new library will contribute to the University's success."
A portion of the Lagomarsinos' gift will create an endowed fund to provide ongoing money for the processing and preservation of the University's Lagomarsino Archives and future collections, as well as additional support for the library's programs and services, including an annual Robert J. Lagomarsino Lecture.
Newly-appointed University Librarian Paul Adalian expressed gratitude for the major gift supporting the library that he is charged with planning. "The students of CSU Channel Islands are fortunate to have access to the primary research materials contained in the Lagomarsino archives. I think it is wonderful that Mr. and Mrs. Lagomarsino are providing additional funds to help create a Department of Archives and Special Collections, and to support related programs and services."
Further information may be obtained from the Office of the President 805-437-8410 or from the Library Archivist, Evelyn Taylor at 805-437-8830.