A front porch is not where you expect to find yourself inside a library. But at the University of Dayton, “Heidi’s Porch” feels right at home.
The University will dedicate the space in honor of Heidi Gauder, a UD alumna and longtime librarian and researcher who died in November 2024.
Gauder created the Porch Reads program to help students reconnect with the joy of leisure reading through free books and faculty-led discussions. Located near the best sellers section, the student nook will support the program and serve as a collaborative study space.
“Heidi loved reading, especially outdoors,” said Chris Gauder, her husband. “She created Porch Reads to bring students together to openly discuss different viewpoints about a book or topic. She would be very proud and thankful UD has provided a space where students can gather and relax to learn, discuss and grow.”
Heidi’s Porch and the Porch Reads program are donor-funded. Anyone wishing to honor Gauder’s legacy with a gift can designate it to the Libraries Deans Fund for Excellence at udayton.edu/give.