Thank you to everyone that took part in our 50 Year Gala featuring Bonnie Garmus and stories of lives transformed by the Boulder Public Library. Together, we NETTED more than $125K, after expenses! These proceeds will directly support our library’s outreach and literacy programs.

Our Pulitzer Prize-winning event photographer, Bear Gutierrez, has curated a gallery of his best shots from the evening. Be sure to view the photos here.

Click here to listen to the Radio Book Club interview conducted live at the gala between Bonnie Garmus and Maeve Conran, brought to you by KGNU and the Boulder Bookstore.

Chef Dina Paz

Original recipes for the food and signature drink served at the gala were 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 collaborated 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 provided a perfect backdrop to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boulder Library Foundation.

Photo credit: Moya Nolan

This year, the 50 Year Gala took 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. We welcomed close to 400 people and exceeded our fundraising expectations, netting more than $125K, after expenses! These proceeds will directly support our library’s outreach and literacy programs. If you missed the opportunity to donate at the event, or want to make an additional contribution, please give today.

“Event” Sponsor

“Author” Sponsors

Kitty deKieffer

Nancy & Lawrence Wojcik

“Book” Sponsors

Bookie Chicas

Nancy & Gordon Goodman

Emily & Doug Hamilton

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

Andy Sayler

Nancy Shacklette & Friends

“Chapter” Sponsors

Chris Barge & Erin Koenig

BeeChicas

Alice Brown

The Colorado Group

Jennifer Donath & Karen McClellan

David Farnan

Bonnie Graef & Friends

IBG & Take Two Book Clubs

Lori Lucas

Francine Lavin Weaver

Additional support provided by:

           Pati Frey

In-Kind Sponsors