LIBRARY NOTES
The Penelope K. Bardel Book Fund
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
For English and American Literature
Late last year, William Bardel, a member for 36 years, contacted the Library to say that he wished to surprise his wife, Penny, with a special Christmas present: a book fund in her honor. With a very generous contribution of $25,000, Mr. Bardel created the Penelope K. Bardel Book Fund. On Christmas morning, he presented his wife with the specially designed book plate pictured here.After the holidays, Mr. and Mrs. Bardel visited the Library to discuss the scope of the collection. Mrs. Bardel's choice was English and American literature.
During that visit, we learned that Penny Bardel is an avid reader and loves the Library. She told us that she frequently spent lunch hours here in the 1990s while working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, first as Associate Counsel, then as Associate Director with director Philippe de Montebello. Subsequently she taught English literature at the Lawrenceville School while Bill served as the school's CFO.These days, they divide their time between the city and Washington, Connecticut.
When we asked Bill what gave him the idea for this special gift, he mentioned familiarity with a book fund created by Penny's mother in a Maine island community, as well as similar funds that had been established at Lawrenceville. He added that creating such a fund at the New York Society Library is particularly gratifying because here it can have a greater impact than at a larger institution.The Bardels hope that their gift will inspire others to do the same either in honor or memory of a friend or family member.
The New York Society Library relies on the generosity of its donors. If you would like information about establishing a book fund, or donations of any kind, please contact Joan Zimmett, Director of Development (212-288-6900 x207 or jzimmett@nysoclib.org). We welcome donations in honor or memory of an individual, as well as planned and matching gifts. Contributions are fully tax-deductible and can be made by check, credit card, or in appreciated securities at any time throughout the year.
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