Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

A Celebration of Books Fall 2025 recap

December 4th, 2025

On December 2, Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies hosted “A Celebration of Books Fall 2025” to honor Purdue authors who published books throughout the past academic year. This event was the largest yet, spotlighting more than 100 authors whose scholarship spans the full spectrum of academic disciplines—from engineering and education to philosophy, technology, and the arts.

Sunil Prabhakar, Libraries and School of Information Studies, Interim, and Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs, shared formal remarks recognizing the authors’ achievements and the importance of scholarship. The program also featured five Purdue authors who shared insights into their latest works and the journeys behind them:

• Douglas Comer, distinguished professor of computer science in the College of Science
  • Author of “Operating System Design” 
• Roberto Gallardo, vice president of engagement
  • Author of “Indiana at a Glance”
• Anne Lucietto, associate professor in the School of Engineering Technology, Purdue Polytechnic
  • Author of “Women in Engineering Technology – Innovating for the Future”
• Jacqueline Mariña, professor of philosophy in the College of Liberal Arts
  • Author of “Kant’s Metaphysics of the Will”
• Wayne Wright, associate dean for research in the College of Education
  • Author of “Language Diversity, Policy and Social Justice,” “Research and Reflections on Southeast Asian American Education and Advancement,” “Foundations of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism,” and “Foundations for Teaching English Language Learners Fourth Edition”

Attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks while reconnecting and networking with colleagues across campus. Authors were greeted with corsages and a display of posters featuring the book covers, creating an interactive space where authors could sign their work for fellow guests. Each book has been identified as a “Purdue Authored Book,” visible by new, specially-designed stickers on the front cover and book spine. The collection is now on display in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education Library in Stewart Center and available for checkout.

Provost Patrick Wolfe delivered remarks, noting the incredible momentum behind faculty publishing at Purdue, and said, “I thank you for the support, encouragement, and dedication. We have published nearly three times as many faculty books this calendar year…and there are many more in the pipeline.” 

“A Celebration of Books Fall 2025” showcased the power of ideas, the persistence of research, and the enthusiasm of a campus committed to discovery. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the enduring value of books and the people who create them.