Irish books gifted to UW Libraries in honor Kevin Reilly, former UW System President

After nine years as the University of Wisconsin System President, Kevin Reilly made his departure on December 31, 2013, taking a position as presidential advisor for leadership with the American Council on Education.

As quoted in an article by UW–Madison News, Chancellor Rebecca Blank stated that, “Kevin Reilly’s commitment to higher education has had a tremendously positive impact on our state.” Recently, the libraries were given the opportunity to recognize former President Reilly through books gifted in his honor.

The campuses had given President Reilly a series of significant books, which were dedicated to him by each of the Chancellors. Upon his departure, these books were gifted back to each institution in the UW System. The books have been personalized with custom book plates, and will be added to the libraries’ collections in his honor.

Earlier this year, these 31 Irish-related books were distributed to the UW Institutions. The book received by UW—Madison was Companion to Irish Traditional Music, Second Ed., edited by Fintan Vallely. The book plate inside the front cover reads:

Dedicated to

Kevin P. Reilly

University of Wisconsin System President, 2004-2013

This is one of a set of Irish literature books given to UW institutions to honor UW System’s sixth President, Kevin P. Reilly, champion of more graduates, proud Irish American, published scholar in Irish studies, and devoted connoisseur of poetry – fondly known for reading a poem at virtually every Board of Regents’ meeting.

“With thanks and gratitude for everything Kevin has done to promote higher education in Wisconsin”

–Rebecca M. Blank, Chancellor UW–Madison

The Companion to Irish Traditional Music will live in the Mills Music Library. The first edition (1999) was used multiple times for Folklore classes, as well as Celtic music events, here on the UW–Madison campus. ACRL’s Choice Reviews awarded Companion as an Outstanding Academic Title in 2012, reporting, “This really is an essential authoritative guide for anyone interested in Irish music.”