Robert Gore and Mitchell Levin Endowment for Artists' Books in the Arts Library

Robert Gore, visual arts librarian at the UCLA Library, has established the Robert Gore and Mitchell Levin Endowment for Artists' Books in the Arts Library to support the acquisition, management and preservation of resources for artists' books. The endowment honors Gore's partner, Mitchell Levin, who passed away unexpectedly in November 2021. As a story analyst for major film studios and a writer and teacher, Levin's discernment of written and filmed narratives was legendary. Mitchell worked on many critically acclaimed films, one highlight being his role as a development executive/associate producer on The Crucible (1996). Mitchell loved artists' books and wanted everyone to know about them. The gift also celebrates Gore's passion for the artists' books collection. Funded exclusively by donor endowments and gift funds, and due in sizable part to Gore's acquisitions over his long tenure, UCLA Library has become one of the largest holders of artists' books in North America. These books spark discovery and discussion among researchers, faculty and students, including undergraduates, and are used regularly in teaching.