We are very sad to share the difficult news that Alfonso Garcia, a longtime portal monitor in Green Library, passed away Sunday, August 31, after a long illness.

Most or all of you probably knew Alfonso -- in fact, he was such a public presence at the Green Library portals, where he served for so many years, that literally tens of thousands of Stanford faculty and staff would surely recognize him for his friendly smile, his hearty laugh, and the perpetually positive and welcoming attitude with which he greeted all of our patrons, as well as the fond farewell he bade them as they left the building.

In addition to being one of the kindest public faces of our Stanford Libraries, Alfonso was also a lifelong musician and enthusiastic creator and promoter of Mexican music.  He was also an inspiring survivor for many years, and -- no matter what sorts of unimaginable pain and discomfort he may have been experiencing -- always a positive producer of very good vibes for our patrons and colleagues alike.  We will miss him terribly.

Library Human Resources will forward any condolences to Alfonso's family on our behalf, and will inform SUL staff when memorial services are announced.