Tragedy Strikes Chicago's Literary Community: Beloved CEO Brenda Langstraat Bui Dies at 52
The Chicago Public Library Foundation has announced the shocking death of its President and CEO, Brenda Langstraat Bui, who passed away unexpectedly on Friday evening. The 52-year-old leader was a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at promoting literacy and community engagement.
Bui's contributions to the library system were multifaceted, with a focus on programs that catered to diverse audiences. Under her tenure, the foundation raised millions of dollars to fund various activities and services at city libraries, solidifying its reputation as a vital institution in Chicago's cultural landscape.
A champion of reading and education, Bui was known for her infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy. As the CEO of Working in the Schools (WITS), a non-profit organization she co-founded, she dedicated herself to providing literacy programs for underprivileged children. Her passion extended beyond formal events, as she often volunteered time to read to young students through WITS.
Bui's legacy is multifaceted, having played a significant role in shaping the Chicago Public Library's policies, including the elimination of late fees and the provision of free library cards to every public school student in the city. Her dedication to promoting equality and access to education has left an indelible mark on the community.
In a statement, Bui's husband, Ve, expressed his sadness and gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and colleagues. The investigation into her cause of death is ongoing, with the Cook County medical examiner's office pending results.
As news of Bui's passing spreads, Chicagoans are taking to social media to pay tribute to a woman who embodied warmth, generosity, and a love for life. From karaoke nights with friends to visits to Buckingham Palace as a teenager, Bui's life was a testament to her boundless energy and spirit. A memorial service is being planned by the Chicago Public Library Foundation, and funeral services will take place in Iowa.
In an era where education and community engagement are more crucial than ever, Bui's untimely departure serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one person can have on their community. Her legacy will be deeply felt, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and educators.
The Chicago Public Library Foundation has announced the shocking death of its President and CEO, Brenda Langstraat Bui, who passed away unexpectedly on Friday evening. The 52-year-old leader was a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at promoting literacy and community engagement.
Bui's contributions to the library system were multifaceted, with a focus on programs that catered to diverse audiences. Under her tenure, the foundation raised millions of dollars to fund various activities and services at city libraries, solidifying its reputation as a vital institution in Chicago's cultural landscape.
A champion of reading and education, Bui was known for her infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy. As the CEO of Working in the Schools (WITS), a non-profit organization she co-founded, she dedicated herself to providing literacy programs for underprivileged children. Her passion extended beyond formal events, as she often volunteered time to read to young students through WITS.
Bui's legacy is multifaceted, having played a significant role in shaping the Chicago Public Library's policies, including the elimination of late fees and the provision of free library cards to every public school student in the city. Her dedication to promoting equality and access to education has left an indelible mark on the community.
In a statement, Bui's husband, Ve, expressed his sadness and gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and colleagues. The investigation into her cause of death is ongoing, with the Cook County medical examiner's office pending results.
As news of Bui's passing spreads, Chicagoans are taking to social media to pay tribute to a woman who embodied warmth, generosity, and a love for life. From karaoke nights with friends to visits to Buckingham Palace as a teenager, Bui's life was a testament to her boundless energy and spirit. A memorial service is being planned by the Chicago Public Library Foundation, and funeral services will take place in Iowa.
In an era where education and community engagement are more crucial than ever, Bui's untimely departure serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one person can have on their community. Her legacy will be deeply felt, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and educators.
just read about Brenda Langstraat Bui 
she was literally making a difference in so many lives through literacy programs and community engagement 
as the ceo of chicago public library foundation, she was doing her part to make education accessible to everyone 
it's so sad that she passed away too young 
but i'm sure her legacy will live on 
rest in peace Brenda, your impact will be deeply felt 
I'm so saddened to hear about Brenda's passing, but at the same time, I think it's amazing how she left such a huge impact on Chicago's literary community. 
The fact that she was a driving force behind initiatives that promoted literacy and community engagement is truly inspiring. 
She was all about spreading the love for reading and education, and it's clear that she made a difference in so many lives. 
I'm loving the outpouring of support from friends, family, and colleagues on social media - it's beautiful to see people coming together to celebrate Brenda's life and legacy. 
Let's keep her memory alive by continuing to make education and community engagement a priority 
. I'm still trying to process the news... does anyone know what caused her passing? 
Can't believe the news about Brenda Langstraat Bui 
She was literally the heartbeat of Chicago's literary scene 
Her dedication to literacy programs and community engagement is still inspiring me, even though she's no longer with us 
52?! That's way too young! I'm literally shook by this news... Brenda Langstraat Bui was an absolute angel on earth 
. It's heartbreaking that her legacy will be remembered as a reminder of how much one person can impact their community - it feels like she was just getting started 
it was amazing how much love and kindness she showed everyone she touched 
her legacy will definitely live on in Chicago's community 
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oh man I'm literally still reeling from the news of Brenda Langstraat Bui's passing 
her legacy will be felt for generations to come 
, i remember hearing about her thru my friends who r part of the library team 
her legacy is gonna be felt for a long time tho