WSU library system receives $3.2 million gift

The Washington State University library system has received a $3.2 million gift – the largest ever bestowed on the system.

Mike and Liz Johnson of Kirkland, Washington, met at WSU in the 1970s. Mike earned two degrees – a bachelor’s in economics in ’75 and a psychology degree in ’76, while Liz was a 1976 communications major.

By naming the university’s library system as beneficiary of their estate, the couple hope to ensure the libraries keep pace with the ever-changing ways information is stored and shared.

The libraries on the Pullman campus, together with those at the Spokane, Tri-Cities and Vancouver campuses, collectively offer more than 2.1 million book volumes and 30,000 periodical subscriptions in addition to other resources.

The Johnsons designated their bequest for unrestricted use. The bequest is a part of The Campaign for Washington State University. Since July 2006, the campaign has raised more than $670 million toward a goal of $1 billion to increase support for WSU’s students, faculty, research and programs.

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