Howard Payne University’s Walker Memorial Library will host an Authors’ Reception and Archival Display this weekend in conjunction with HPU’s Homecoming 2016 celebrations. The authors’ reception will take place Saturday, October 29, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The archival display will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Seven authors will participate in this year’s reception including Dr. Don Newbury ’61, HPU’s chancellor and former president. Additional authors include Dr. John Duncan, 1982 HPU graduate and former member of HPU’s Board of Trustees; Rev. James Goforth, 1961 HPU graduate; Craig Hughes, 1975 HPU graduate; Mark Long, 1973 HPU graduate; Murselle McMillan, 2015 HPU graduate; and Sara Musgrove, 2006 HPU graduate.

“This will be a fun time to mingle and visit,” said Alexia Riggs, dean of libraries. “If you see a book you want to purchase you will have the opportunity to do so.”

The archival display will feature a recreation of a typical office from the university’s early years. Among the items featured in this display is the Founder’s Desk, the original desk used by Dr. John D. Robnett, HPU’s founder and second president.

Also on display will be historical items and memorabilia including HPU yearbooks for viewing and purchase, photos, posters, clothing and more. A special display will honor the classes of 1966 and 1976, which are celebrating 50th and 40th class reunions, respectively.

Additionally, the library has created a t-shirt display featuring 80 HPU t-shirts.

“We encourage alumni to donate t-shirts for this display,” Riggs said. “We keep the shirts well preserved and it’s a great way to capture slices of life at HPU during different decades.”

For more information, contact HPU’s Walker Memorial Library at (325) 649-8602 or [email protected].