It is with a saddened heart that the AUB University Libraries received the news of the passing away of Ms. Liliane Vitali on the 20th of April 2022.
Vitali first joined AUB Libraries as the Western Cataloger in Jafet in 1966. She was then the Science Librarian from 1971 to 1989, after which she was the Serials Librarian, until her retirement in September of 1999. Before joining AUB, Vitali worked at the library of the Beirut College for Women, from which she graduated in 1959. She then pursued her MS in Library Science degree at Simmons College, Boston, USA in 1963.
During her years at AUB Libraries, Vitali kept the library periodical subscription ongoing during the difficult time of the civil war. She worked diligently to complete the serial runs and to fill missing issues and gaps. She was an exceptional manager and colleague.
During the automation of the card catalog, she applied her experience and made the serials catalog automated, overcoming the many difficulties of the serials catalog. During the last few years of her employment, she introduced the electronic resources to the libraries and started subscribing to databases and electronic resources, which made the AUB libraries pioneers in online subscriptions in the region at that time.
The University Libraries' staff members, who worked with Vitale, expressed their heartfelt sadness when they learned about her passing away, remembering her as a genuine, kind, and trustful person, who sympathized and cared for them.
Fatme Charafeddine, Interim University Librarian, said that Ms. Vitale was her first, and most impressive colleague at the University Libraries. “She was highly educated and professional, yet she was very modest, gentle, and approachable. You couldn't but be touched by her peacefulness, work ethics and kindness." “She had an exceptional gentle and unworldly soul that all her colleagues loved and cherished. Rest in peace, dearest Liliane."
Rudaynah Shoujah, a recently retired UL staff member, who worked for more than 22 years with Liliane said that “True friends are never gone; their spirit lives on in the memory of those who love them. Liliane, my dear friend -and boss- you will always be remembered as the wonderful lady, friend, and professional you were". Adding “I was privileged to have you as my direct supervisor for many years. You were a remarkable lady, gentle and genuine. My first impression throughout the years never changed; you always were the good hearted, honest, kind, and sincere person. I'm glad to have known and crossed paths with you for many years. I will miss you, dear Liliane, a candle that silently kindled with love, care, and kindness to all. Farewell, Liliane. May your soul rest in heavenly peace, my dear friend."
Rest In Peace, Ms. Vitali and thank you, sincerely, for all what you have done for the AUB Libraries. Your memory will always remain close to our hearts.