By Kathleen Randall
Special to Rice News
The Friends of Fondren Library at Rice University hosted New York Times bestselling author and Houston native Katherine Center at its annual membership celebration and dinner at Cohen House Sept 15. Friends of Fondren Library members support Rice’s Fondren Library. The event was chaired by Friends of Fondren Library board members Caroline Baker Hurley and Bob Parkey ’88.
Friends of Fondren Library president Laura Turley started the program by welcoming guests and sharing personal examples of her love of libraries.
In her presentation, Center spoke to Rice alumni, donors and campus leaders about her life and progression as a writer. Over 20 years, she has published many books, some of which have been made into movies, but does not describe her success as being an overnight sensation. “I wanted to be a writer so bad … I spent years trying to sell my stories,” she said
Center said her slow progress forced her to figure out who she was and what she cared about as a writer. Ultimately, she wants her readers to feel better, hopeful and empathetic toward others. In all fiction genres, Center said, “All stories are healing. All stories are nourishing.”
In the Q-and-A session, Center shared life advice that was not just for writers. “Don’t be too critical (of your work),” she said. “Practice the art of self-encouragement.” Center also said to pay attention to what you are getting right.
Her message was part of the evening’s presentation highlighting books, writing and recognizing the members of Friends of Fondren Library and their support for Fondren Library’s collections and programs. The group’s annual membership celebration recognizes the generosity of members who ensure that Fondren Library continues to support Rice’s commitment to academic excellence.
To learn more about Friends of Fondren, visit https://library.rice.edu/places/friends-fondren-library.