Bull Remembered

FROM: William McCully
Prospect Heights Public Library

Along with Robert McClarren and RoseMarie Jostock, Bob Bullen provided me with a warm welcome as a new NSLS Director in 1982.  Each time I saw him, Bull would inquire courteously about the welfare of my family and my library, often offering words of encouragement along with frequently hilarious anecdotes.  He gave an aura of human interest, concern, and encouragement which are uncommon in life today.  He was most proud of his own family and never failed to mention that he always encouraged his children to “get into State Library work whenever possible.” (It appears that they listened!)  Although it was always somewhat surprising to find such a genuine “southern gentleman” in the North Suburban LS, his grace and sense of humor always made the days go better.  Even after his own retirement, he returned frequently to celebrate the retirement of colleagues.  His passing leaves a real “humanitarian gap” in our State’s library community, and he will be missed by many who enjoyed his warmth and encouragement.