In this month’s newsletter: NoBo Library and the gifts that catalyzed it; sneak peek of the new playground planned for NoBo; featured chef for our 50 Year Gala; brunch with Bonnie Garmus; arts and crafts classes in NoBo’s new Studio 24; library news you may have missed.
See below for a message from our Executive Director, Chris, and view the full July newsletter here!
Dear Library Enthusiast –
I write to you this month from a bright, sunlit study room on the second floor of our brand new NoBo Library. Walking up the musical walkway to the entrance, I couldn’t help but smile.
Thank you to the thousands who showed up for the grand opening of this building on June 29. And for the more than 100 donors who have given over $1.1M and counting to help make it really special.
Andrew Carnegie would be proud. America’s most generous philanthropist gave Boulder $15,000 in 1906 to build what is known today as the Carnegie Library for Local History. With NoBo’s opening, we now have five library branches. A sixth one is slated to open in Gunbarrel next year.
Generous donors and library enthusiasts have helped propel our library’s progress all along the way.
Since its founding 50 years ago, the Boulder Library Foundation has raised money from thousands of generous patrons and granted the library more than $10 million.
We’ve supported two library funding initiatives at the ballot box, paving the way for our wonderful Main Library and improvements to The George Reynolds and Meadows branches.
Two years ago, we supported the Boulder Library Champions’ successful campaign to provide increased and sustainable funding through the creation of a new library district. Now, because of our generous taxpayers and voters, NoBo has opened its doors fully staffed and stocked with brand new books on every shelf.
Because of our donors, NoBo didn’t have to sacrifice as much of its original vision when costs escalated during the pandemic.
An amazing playground will soon be added that was catalyzed by a $700,000 grant the Boulder Library Foundation secured from the Colorado Health Foundation.
The Boulder Library Foundation’s NoBo Library Capital Campaign continues to help fund aspects of the project, including a playground and a new “Studio 24” Makerspace. The campaign will continue to add bells and whistles as more funds are raised. Learn more, or donate to the campaign, here.
With a shared vision for our future,
Chris Barge
Executive Director
