September 26th / Boulder Main Library / 1001 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder

5:30-6:30 p.m. VIP author reception for table sponsors and their guests
6:30-7:30 p.m. Reception for table sponsors, their guests and individual ticket holders
7:30-9:30 p.m. Seated program for table sponsors, their guests and individual ticket holders

This event requires ticket purchasing in advance. It is currently sold out, but you can join the waiting list or sign up to volunteer before, during or after the event. More tickets may become available.

Table sponsors and their guests are welcome at 5:30 p.m. for a VIP author reception with Bonnie Garmus. The party then opens up to all ticket holders at 6:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, plentiful drinks, and numerous amusements throughout the south end of the beautiful Main Library. Sponsors and ticket holders are now welcome to pre-order the Collector’s Edition of Lessons in Chemistry, autographed by author Bonnie Garmus, through the Boulder Bookstore. The books will be available for pick-up and for sale at the Boulder Bookstore’s pop-up bookstore at the event. Chef Dina Paz, who has designed original recipes for the evening’s hors d’oeuvres and signature drink, will delight guests with a “Transformation Lab”, exploring the chemistry of cooking. The reception will also include a “shelfie” station, historic library photo displays and author book signings. The event continues and concludes on the second floor with a seated program over wine and dessert, featuring Bonnie Garmus and stories of lives forever changed by the Boulder Public Library.

Chef Dina Paz

Original recipes for the food and signature drink to be served at the gala are being developed exclusively for this event by chef Dina Paz.

Chef Dina is a self-described food nerd! For over 20 years, she has been a driving force in the food and beverage industry. Her passion lies in creating innovative and delicious food experiences informed by both deep culinary knowledge and cutting-edge insights. Chef Dina’s approach blends artistry with science, resulting in experiences that tantalize taste buds while fostering connection.

She is collaborating with our caterers, Community Table Kitchen, to design bites and sips in keeping with the 1950s and ‘60s, when Lessons In Chemistry takes place.

Bonnie Garmus & Lessons in Chemistry

Lessons in Chemistry was the #1 digital title borrowed from the Boulder Public Library in 2023. Many of you know the story: Set in the early 1960s, Elizabeth Zotts’ dream of being a scientist is put on hold when she finds herself pregnant, alone and fired from her lab. The novel was also turned into a popular mini-series starring Academy Award-winner Brie Larson.

Garmus’ book, appearance and empowering message provides a perfect backdrop to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boulder Library Foundation.

Photo credit: Moya Nolan

Special Brunch with Bonnie Garmus September 27

As a special incentive, all donors who give $2,500 or more this year to the Boulder Library Foundation by the night of our gala will receive an invitation for two to attend a special brunch with Bonnie Garmus at 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 27, hosted by our board President, Kitty deKieffer, at the Boulder Country Club.

This year, the 50 Year Gala will take over both floors of the Boulder Main Library’s southern half – on a grander scale than ever – in celebration of the Foundation’s 50th anniversary. Last year’s Foundation gala, on the library’s north end, attracted 200 library enthusiasts, and raised more than $75,000, which directly supported the Boulder Public Library’s mission to improve lives and build a stronger community. This year, we are expecting over 350 people and hoping to raise more than $150,000 for the Boulder Public Library.

Can’t make it to the gala but would still like to donate?

“Event” Sponsor

“Author” Sponsors

Sharon Bloom

Kitty deKieffer

Nancy & Lawrence Wojcik

“Book” Sponsors

Emily & Doug Hamilton

Julie Hass in Honor of Doris E. Hass, BLF Founder

Andy Sayler

“Chapter” Sponsors

Chris Barge & Erin Koenig

Alice Brown

Maureen Espinoza

David Farnan

Nancy & Gordon Goodman

Bonnie Graef

IBG & Take Two Book Clubs

Lori Lucas Schuyler

Cynthia Scott

Francine Lavin Weaver

Additional support provided by:

In-Kind Sponsors

Interested in monetary or in-kind sponsorship opportunities?

Contact us at info@boulderlibraryfoundation.org or 720-551-8385.