Established in 1994 as a bequest from Philip A. Carlson, W'81, this fund supports general acquisitions by the Library.

Mr. Carlson, a New York advertising executive, co-founded Ad Hoc Marketing Resources, a leading independent direct response advertising agency. In 1991, Ad Hoc was acquired by Jordan, McGrath & Taylor. Mr. Carlson then joined the advertising firm of Biederman, Kelly & Shaffer as senior vice president and chief financial officer, positions he held until shortly before his death in November 1993.

In naming the fund, Mr. Carlson honored his father, Mr. Allan G. Carlson.