Celebrating 36 Years:
University Library’s Iconic Building Named in Honor of Former University President Branford P. Millar
Portland State University Library is pleased to note the 36th anniversary of its building’s naming as the “Branford Price Millar Library.”
On March 25, 1975, through a chain of events that began with a resolution passed at the PSU Faculty Senate and ended with approval from the State Board of Higher Education, the building formerly known as “Library West” was renamed in honor of the late Branford P. Millar. This international-style structure, which curves around a majestic, copper beech tree in the heart of the campus, is instantly recognizable today in Portland’s South Park Blocks.
In addition to serving as a distinguished English professor at PSU, Branford P. Millar was the second President from 1959 to 1968. He was a leader in developing the curriculum and degree authorizations that made it possible for PSU to transition to University status in 1969. President Millar was known as a gentle and authentic scholar of great wit. He cultivated a dedicated faculty and staff that worked diligently to expand the institution both academically and physically. Soon after his untimely death on January 18, 1975, the PSU Faculty Senate honored the late president by proposing that the Library building be named after him.
The University Library is honored to be in a building named after this prominent leader and educator. We know that without President Millar’s leadership, it would have been impossible for us to become the strong and vibrant University Library that we are today. We are proud to carry on President Millar’s legacy of commitment to higher education and student success.
