Munson, Sr. to be honored

Lynda Rutledge, a journalist and photographer for 25 years and currently a best-selling author, will be the featured guest at the Friends of the Dallas Public Library Annual Gala on Thursday, Oct. 26. The “Novel Night Out” dinner and program, hosted by WFAA meteorologist Mariel Ruiz, will be held at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas. At the dinner, the Friends will also honor David M. Munson, Sr. (pictured above) with the May Dickson Exall Award for outstanding contributions to libraries and literacy in Dallas. The award is named for May Dickson Exall (1859-1936), who was instrumental in establishing both the Dallas Public Library and the Dallas Museum of Art. Munson was named this year’s winner before he passed away in June at 94. In addition to his longtime support for early childhood education and the Friends, Munson’s generous donation enabled the Dallas Public Library to enhance every full-service library location with Reading Ready Play Spaces to encourage young children to begin a lifetime of reading and learning. Proceeds from the October gala benefit Friends of the Dallas Public Library, which was established in 1950 to support the library through advocacy and financial support. The organization has donated $50 million throughout the years to enhance this vital civic institution. Tickets and sponsorships are available at supportdpl.org/a-novel-night-out, or by calling 214-670-1458. — Mary Wilonsky