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Please share memories, anecdotes, photos, art, poems, or anything else that reminds you of our friend. Contributions welcome from anyone who knew him - ok to share outside of UCLA! ❤️

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I am deeply saddened by the sudden loss of such a kind colleague as Robert Gore. I didn't work with him on a daily basis, but every conversation I've had with him was memorable and positive, which is a rare thing. I was lucky to be the chair of the Librarian of the Year award committee in 2024 when we honored Robert, and I'm so glad that he had the opportunity to get his flowers for how beloved he was by his colleagues, students, and the artist book community. He will be greatly missed.

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Robert Gore named UCLA’s 2024 Librarian of the Year

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Gore, the visual arts librarian at UCLA since 2005, is sought after on campus and beyond for his expertise with artists’ book collections.

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Last summer I was meeting with a new campus colleague who works in the Public Affairs building. She mentioned an interest/background in Art History and I asked if she'd been to the Arts Library yet. We popped in unannounced, and Robert took us on an impromptu tour of the Arts Library's special collections, including my favorite, the book made of hair. He was so knowledgeable, kind, and always ready to teach anyone who was ready to learn. Our Teaching and Learning Functional Team meetings over the last several years would not have been the same without him. I even had the good fortune to meet Mitchell a few years ago, before he passed. I know they are together again, but I will miss Robert very much.

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Over a decade ago, I began working with artists' books and related materials at the Arts Library. Although I was often physically isolated in a corner office cubicle and in the Cage, I never felt alone. Robert Gore always made the time to guide me through the collections with kindness and respect, answering my questions and even giving me the confidence to answer them myself. Robert also instilled in me a great love of artists' books, and I could feel the presence of their creators whenever I held them. I also felt Robert's presence whenever I worked with artists' books, even when he was out of the office, because his love and care for them was that strong. Since then, I've been grateful to continue cataloging Arts Library artists' books on occasion and have shared with Robert my discoveries and realizations. I will miss him immensely but I will always feel him with me, especially when I catalog an artist's book.

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In 2007, I started employment at UCLA the same day as my colleague Janine Henri. As we emerged from a lot of paperwork and LHR onboarding, there stood Robert with bouquets of welcome flowers for both of us (and a vase). That was a solid indication of the sort of person I had the privilege of working with at the Arts Library for the last nineteen years. I don’t know how to begin documenting how much Robert has meant to me as both a colleague and a friend. He has left an indelible mark on the Arts Library’s collections and collaborative work culture, and truly on my life. Robert had an incredible breadth of subject and format expertise, but he was the opposite of a gatekeeper and delighted in student exploration of artists’ books, photography, and poetry in particular without over-explaining or complicating the process. I’ve learned so much from him about visual arts research and creative expression, but more than that he demonstrated the power of simply being an empathetic and thoughtful human being with colleagues, patrons, acquaintances, and friends. He was a gentle and kind soul who also thoroughly deplored a bully in no uncertain terms.

What else? I’ll miss the terrible puns he insisted on casually inserting into random discourse, our shared love of the Monty Python “dead parrot” sketch, our co-dependent whimsical t-shirt over-purchasing problem, his stance on vodka vs. gin martinis (he was ontologically wrong but love him anyway), the fact that he sent my mom a sincere sympathy card when her cat passed away despite not actually knowing my mom or said cat, me hovering at his office door talking about all manner of goings on, and the many Thanksgivings I spent with him and his late beloved partner Mitchell sampling the overpriced prix fixe menus of Los Angeles. I will leave it there, with thanks. Thank you for everything, Robert. I will never, ever forget you and love you always.

Diana

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In searching for photos of Robert, I found this one from 2016 TEDxUCLA, which featured cardboard cutouts of "original thinkers" set up in front of the Management School that we accidentally ran into. Robert stood still and posed with them for a while to see if anyone would notice.

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Robert Gore stands in between cardboard  cutouts of Walt Disney and Maya Angelou.

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I took Robert Gore’s Artist Books Fiat Lux course at UCLA in 2016 as a very fresh freshman. His 1 unit course introduced me to some amazing special collections and artist books at UCLA, and through the final project—creating your own artist book—encouraged me to see myself as an artist with something to express. I am proud to have been one of Robert’s many students who have been indelibly impacted by his teaching and work, and very sorry to hear that he has left us—but what a legacy he has left us! - Kyla Worrell, UCLA 2020

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One of my most touching UCLA memories is when Robert reached out to invite me personally to his Librarian of the Year event. My collaboration with him on acquiring Artist Books had meant more to him than I realized, and I was very moved that he felt I had in any way contributed to his stunning portfolio of accomplishments. He truly helped make me feel like I was a valuable part of the UCLA team.

His joy in the collection at large and his eagerness to share it with us, including during the impromptu Acquisitions team tour I sprung on the Art team when they reopened after the COVID-era remodel, was infectious. I very quickly started looking forward to the weird and wonderful creations he had me help acquire, privileged to see them even briefly in passing as I passed them on to Cataloging for inclusion in the Arts Cage.

His engagement and dedication will be sorely missed.

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I am heartbroken to learn of Robert’s passing. I deeply appreciated his leadership in photography within ARLIS, in particular. I was fortunate to be a presenter on the ARLIS panel he organized, Visual Literacy as a Pedagogical Tool: Photography and Beyond, and he was such a pleasure to work with.

My heart goes out to his family, friends, and colleagues.

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Thank you Robert for always leading with such a kind and warm spirit. I'm so grateful to have worked with you during my time at the Arts Library. Always so generous with time and knowledge, sharing opportunities, and being a source of inspiration during my early career. You had played a great role in so many wonderful things. Rest in peace.

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Sharing the photo that his dear friend Anita shared with me early last week. 

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I haven't had the pleasure of having Robert in my life for nearly as long as many of his friends and colleagues here at UCLA. But in the 18 months I've been here, I have been moved by his kindness, his generosity, his wry sense of humor and silly puns, and how much he truly loved his job. He has inspired so many librarians, scholars and creatives (and those at the intersection of all three!) over the decades, and I'm so sorry that we didn't get to send him off into a beautiful retirement knowing how many lives he truly touched. Robert was a gem. And I'm so glad to have known him. ❤️ - Jamie Hazlitt

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I’m incredibly grateful to have had Robert as a mentor and a colleague. Starting when I was an RDA (proto-LSRA) in 2015 Robert helped create an environment of support and curiosity at the Arts Library that helped to show me a path to Arts Librarianship.

I remember vividly the classes that he taught when I visited Arts as a grad student and again fell in love with the joy of artists’ books. One of Roberts great strengths as a teacher was to let objects speak for themselves. He was a great curator and advocate but also knew when to allow space for questions and organic curiosity.

When I joined UCLA Library in 2023 Robert sat down with me over multiple months and explained fund codes, approval plans and some of the more esoteric aspects of collections work in a large public institution. Without his and Diana’s guidance and support the transition to working at a large university library would have been much more rocky. Although he knew so much he was never patronizing.

I will miss his singing snatches of musicals and literary references. I will miss his understated humor and impish demeanor, but I will probably most miss his great kindness and genuine love and curiosity for the world.

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Robert working with Ariel West, FTVA’s 2025 Artist-in-Residence.

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Robert at the Arts table at the preservation fair last year.

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My first interactions with Robert involved a nasty mold outbreak in the Arts Special Collections. Most librarians would be rather frantic at this point, but Robert was philosophical, and helped me, as someone new to UCLA library, to navigate the situation with care and an eye to the big picture. Later, he and I had fun discussing artist books (we disagreed on whose book was most beautiful in a bookbinding exhibit, but we disagreed so amicably it was sweet). Robert was so generous … I could not have co-authored an article with a colleague on the conservation of artist books without his generous help, and I could not have facilitated a Kress supported symposium on the care of artist books without his assistance, and his sly, delightful lecture to our symposium group on the Arts Library artist book collection he put his heart into building and sharing. Robert and I lost our beloved partners relatively recently, and he was a great comfort to me as I navigated (and continue to navigate) grieving. Robert had a wonderful smile. He was an incredible teacher. He transcended so called “professionalism” (and he was a great professional) and modeled humanism for all of us… as a poet, a photographer, a friend. I will miss him , and will keep his memory near my heart. Thank you Robert… thank you. Chela

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I experienced Robert as a gentle soul, who welcomed me to the library. While we taught together just once, I remember his calm and steady presence. He cared deeply about the library, and his work changed people's lives.

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I'm so sorry to hear about Robert; truly, he was the best of us. I was able to get to know Robert through University of California Library system, as well as ARLIS-Socal, and he was a delight to be around and such a wise, kind, patient, and generous mentor. He will be very much missed. My heart goes out to his Arts Library colleagues, especially Lane Goldzer, Diana King, and Janine Henri (now emeritus), as well as the many many lives he touched at UCLA, working with the visual arts community and his beloved artists' book class.

I'm sharing an interview I did with him for an online Art librarianship course -- I loved hearing more about his time pre-UCLA.

Robert, you will be missed!

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Interview with Robert Gore, art librarian at University of California Los Angeles, conducted in 2017. This recording is made available under a Creative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0 license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

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Arts Library outing at the Hammer happy hour

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I first met Robert in December of 2014 when I started working at the Arts Library. He greeted me with a journal, a set of pens, and a UCLA mug. Thats just the kind of colleague he was. Thoughtful, caring, and giving. I enjoyed working with him closely for the next 8 years on all the daily tasks of the Arts Library. He was always willing to share his vast knowledge of visual art, and let me rustle around for buried treasure in the Arts workroom.

Robert supported my development as a librarian. He wrote me several letter of rec, continued to share his time and expertise during my time in school, and served as a reference for my first librarian position. I’ve benefitted in numerous ways from his kindness and support.

One of my favorite experiences with Robert was helping him with his Fiat Lux class on artist's books. We’d have to wheel several carts of books to Haines Hall from the Arts Library, set them up in the classroom, and assist students in looking at them. Seeing Robert in his element, teaching with the materials he loved, letting students enjoy the books, seeing their fascination and engagement. It was really lovely to witness, and inspiring too.

It’s hard to put into words what Robert meant to me and how much he helped in my development as a librarian. I’ll carry his example of leading with kindness and wonder with me throughout my career, and in my life.

Robert, I’m so sorry you had to leave us so soon. I’d hoped that we could get together again, so that you could see how much you were loved and missed by those who knew you closely. I hope that where ever you are, you can feel the warmth and joy you’ve inspired. I’ll miss your kindness and gentleness, and think of you when the Jacaranda blossoms bloom.

<3 Alex

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Here's one of Robert at A-Z West on an ARLIS trip to Joshua Tree and Palm Springs. I got to meet Mitchel on this trip too.

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I'm so saddened to hear about Robert's passing. When I think about him, I just think of someone who was incredibly kind and generous. He was so passionate not just about his work as the Visual Arts Librarian but about instruction, collaboration, and equity for everyone. He was always willing to help and support others. He had a quiet presence that was always welcome and made an impact, even if you didn't realize it. I always felt like he would stand up for what's right. And he always asked about my cats! It was the sweetest. Sending love to all who loved and knew him. He truly made a difference.

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Robert was such an amazing person.  .  .

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Robert was such an amazing person.  .  .

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. . .his talent for sharing his love of artists’ books was remarkable. The way he just lit up the space in response to the smallest spark of interest was a joy to witness.

While he is gone, his legacy is a lasting one.

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Robert will shine in my memory as a uniquely talented, impressive, and kind person. I recall meeting him soon after arriving on campus and immediately being a bit in awe when he mentioned his ties to one of my favourite artists, Emily Carr. I hadn’t met anyone with his specific link to her, via his BFA in Photography from the Emily Carr University of Art and Design (oh my!). And he was also a published poet? We’d drink coffee and chat about all things Canadian. Beyond his contributions in the workplace, I’ll miss his insights, wry humour, and love of the Canadian west coast. Merci pour tout, Robert. - Angela

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Typesetting as part of a CalRBS History of Typography course Aug. 2016

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Saying goodbye to Robert is so distressing. And how can I do justice in writing to one who had such a great way with words?

As Diana mentioned, Robert welcomed us with open arms when we began working together in September 2007. He was so calm, friendly, patient, and witty to boot! We were soon bonding over our 'tea table' meetings. I could not have asked for a better colleague.

It was a pleasure to watch Robert grow the artists' book collection and develop his Fiat Lux courses, and to see his students' response to his teaching activities. And it was also a treat to work with him to facilitate the use of Arts Special Collections, such as showcasing facsimile codices to a pre-Columbian art history course or Ed Ruscha publications to architecture students. I also enjoyed interacting with Robert outside of work: we occasionally attended the same ARLIS/NA (Art Libraries Society of North America) or AASL (Association of Architecture School Librarians) conferences and we even enrolled in the same California Rare Book School course one summer.

Others have already mentioned the legacy Robert leaves behind with the establishment of an artists' book endowment. But Robert's activities in this area predate that endowment. His interactions with users of that collection resulted in a donor providing annual monetary gifts for the acquisitions of artists' books as well as the annual donation of the latest "Peter Norton Family Christmas Project" by its publisher. Robert often held unboxing events to reveal the new donations and they never failed to be a big surprise. I have fond memories of these events. In addition to his legacy in the form of artists' book collections, Robert's interactions with another donor resulted in the establishment of an endowed Arts Librarian position. Such donor successes are a testament of the trust and respect that Robert was able to develop with donors and library users. This kind of trust and these donor-librarian relationships can only develop when subject expert librarians build and manage collections, provide research consultations and instruction sessions, and serve as subject liaisons to relevant departments. Robert was a strong advocate for branch library services and for maintaining an Arts Library -- something that was once under threat. His work has had a profound impact on the lives of UCLA faculty and students and will no doubt continue to do so. I so wished to see him be named as UCLA's first endowed Arts Librarian!

Robert, mon cher ami, your memory is indeed a blessing.

Janine H.

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Robert was an unfailingly kind colleague. From the moment I started working at UCLA Library over seven years ago, he generously provided me with many opportunities to collaborate and co-teach around creative research. I learned so much from him about object-oriented inquiry, and it was my privilege to get to witness his skillful facilitation of so many people’s engagement with artists’ books. I will miss his intellectual curiosity, his thoughtful sense of justice, and of course, his frequent puns and allusions during meetings. Here is a picture of him showing some artists’ books at a Student Committee for the Arts orientation event. Some student organizers reached out to me for a zine workshop and I was so happy to be able to loop in Robert–he was usually the one looping me into things!

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Robert and I hosting the Guild of Book Workers California Chapter Artist Book event in Arts Library

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My interactions with Robert were few and far between, but he was always so gracious with sharing his time and knowledge on artists’ books. He was always so excited to talk about his collection and truly cared about what would be most appealing to the students and in getting people interested in the arts. He will be greatly missed.

- Nicole Alvarado

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One of my earliest UCLA memories is of Robert onboarding me to the Teaching & Learning Functional Team—right away I was impressed by his thoughtfulness as an instructor and his dedication to teaching, and it made me excited to be joining the library. I’ve since valued him as an endlessly kind and wise colleague, and had been looking forward to proposing an artist book project to him so that, selfishly, I could learn more from his expertise. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to work with him.

Thank you, Robert—we will miss you.

-- Katherine Kapsidelis

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I am sorry for your loss. Robert was always kind to me in the brief interactions that we had. And what times I did interact with Robert he wanted to show how beautiful and awe inspiring works can be, whether it be trough architecture, photography, paintings, sculpture, literature, or some other form of expression or communication.

I wish Robert's family and friends much support through these difficult times. May your fond memories of him stay in your heart and help you carry on in your own journey.

-Douglas Ishimaru

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Robert highlights artist books and other Arts Library collections to Mellon Mays fellows in July of 2024 and 2025.

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Robert in action - Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship 

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Robert in action - Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship 

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My memories of Robert is that of warmth, kindness, and positivity. This was the case when crossing paths on campus, in countless meetings, and when I reached out to him directly for advice related to the Arts collections.

I always appreciated how he was able to lighten the mood with his wit and sense of humor when things got tense in the workplace; many of our direct interactions seemed to end with a laugh or a chuckle.

I will remember his knowledge of the trees and flowers (e.g., magnolias and jacarandas), his endless array of graphic t-shirts, his dislike of linen because of the wrinkles, and his connection with The Book of Hair.

I will miss you, Robert.

Simon

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Robert with his User Engagement family.

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It's been hard for me to think of something to say because Robert was such a fixture and it's still difficult to process that he's gone. Working with him over the years in meetings, as a guest in his Fiat Lux courses, and running into him on campus was always a happy experience. He always liked to post photos of the evening skies... here's one for you, Robert!

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Similar to others who have shared here, Robert was one of my earliest and most positive impressions of the UCLA Library and librarianship in general when I was a student. He introduced the concept of artists' books to me and my classmates and expanded my awareness of special collections. Over the years, he always had a time for a smile and hello when we crossed paths. I will miss him. -- Neil, LSC

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Robert was one of the kindest and most caring souls I have encountered throughout my journeys. As a student research assistant, I had the honor to work alongside all the wonderful people at the Arts Library. Robert brought a lovely energy to every space that he was in, and his passion for visual arts was absolutely palpable. I think of him often and will miss him dearly. May he rest in peace - Diana Cardenas ❤️

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While I did not know Robert intimately, he never ceased to bring warmth and light to my days. I worked at the Arts Library, shelving books and managing the front desk, as an undergraduate and graduate student. Our conversations were typically brief, but his presence was incredibly grounding. His smile and posture are deeply impressed in my memory; with kindness, he regularly checked in on how the student employees were doing, and he was always ready to unveil to students one of his favorite artists' books--made entirely of human hair. Robert was a constant in my life who provided me comfort and security amidst academic stresses. I am grateful to have known him, and I extend my best wishes to all those at Arts who are suffering a tremendous loss and continuing his legacy. Un abrazo enorme!

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ROBERT had a warmth and kindness that came through even in the briefest interactions, and his enthusiasm and passion for his work were infectious. I always enjoyed hearing him speak and was struck by the genuine joy and energy he brought to what he did.

Robert’s friendly demeanor was reassuring and memorable, and he had a way of making even small encounters feel meaningful. He will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, his passion, and the enthusiasm he shared with those around him.

As someone who understood the importance of books, libraries, and art, I think this sentiment is fitting: “A library is not just a collection of books; it is a collection of possibilities.” Robert seemed to understand that art and books can open those possibilities—and that sharing a passion for them can inspire others.

He will be greatly missed. - AA [AUD]

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I will never forget this evening, eating an outrageously good grilled cheese sandwich on one of Mitchell's and Robert's favorite rooftop bars in LA.

I will also never forget a wonderful tour Robert gave me of the UCLA art book archives. It was my first exposure to art books.

Most of all I will never forget how kind Robert was, and how he beautifully complemented my brother Mitchell.

Elissa Levin