On June 6, 2019, former Director of LSU Libraries George Guidry passed away at the age of 96. Guidry began his career as a student worker in the Circulation department in 1946 and worked in many capacities during his time at the Libraries, ultimately serving as Library Director for ten years before retiring in 1983. As director, he made a tremendous impact on the Libraries, expanding the library volumes from 1.2 million to 1.7 million, increasing the library budget to $5.l5 million, leading the Libraries toward automated services, and revitalizing the Friends of the LSU Libraries.

Aside from his service to the Libraries, Guidry was a US Army veteran who served in World War II and was an avid art collector. Guidry learned about Robert Rucker, his favorite artist, in the library, and was subsequently given or acquired several pieces. One piece was given to him at his retirement party in the staff lounge where 500 friends, relatives, and library colleagues gathered to wish him the best in his retirement. Upon his retirement, an endowment was created in his name to fund purchases for the E. A. McIllhenny Natural History Collection.

Guidry was an admired leader, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and LSU Libraries salutes his life and longstanding legacy.