Donations fund library project at CLU

The Hugh and Hazel Darling Foundation of Los Angeles has given $250,000 to California Lutheran University for renovations to Pearson Library.

The foundation was established in 1988 to advance education in California. It previously provided a grant for the Hugh and Hazel Darling Distance Learning Laboratory in CLU's SpiesBornemann Center for Education and Technology.

Two other donations have provided the rest of the funds needed for the library project.

Alma Pearson of Santa Barbara donated $69,000. The library is named for Pearson and her late husband, Cliff, who were major donors for the facility when it was built 22 years ago.

The Crowner Family Trust contributed $55,000 for the project. Linnea Crowner was the sister of CLU's former library director Aina Abramson.

The gifts will pay for the second phase of library renovations started four years ago. The project will include renovated collaboration spaces, upgraded microfilm and microfiche storage and new lighting, carpet and upholstery.

Renovations will begin after the spring semester ends.