Boulder Library Foundation’s 50 Year Gala
September 26, 2024
Boulder Library Foundation’s 50 Year Gala
September 26, 2024
The 50 Year Gala is Boulder’s signature library fundraising event for 2024, engaging readers, community leaders and library supporters for an entertaining evening to benefit the Boulder Public Library.
The gala will feature festive food and drink in the Boulder Main Library, a program featuring New York Times Best-Selling author Bonnie Garmus (Lessons in Chemistry) and the stories of lives forever changed by library programming. There will be a request from the podium that attendees make a generous donation.
Event Overview
September 26th / Boulder Main Library / 1001 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder
5:30-6:30 p.m. VIP author reception for table sponsors and their guests (Downstairs)
6:30-7:30 p.m. Reception for table sponsors, their guests and individual ticket holders (Downstairs)
8:00-9:30 p.m. Seated program for table sponsors, their guests and individual ticket holders (Upstairs)
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.
Gala Details
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.
Fundraising Goals
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?
Other Event Information
Dress: Cocktail attire
Parking: Click here to be directed to the library website with information about parking. Considering the number of attendees, we are expecting parking to fill up so please plan accordingly.
Lodging: If you need a place to stay, consider booking a room at the nearby St Julien Hotel & Spa! They are generously offering a discount on a select number of rooms for gala guests. Call them at 720.406.9696 to reserve and mention this offer.
Bring your ID if you plan on enjoying our signature cocktail or other adult beverage!
Seating: Table sponsors and their guests will have assigned 10 top tables. Individual ticket holders will seat themselves at one of the high top options. If you are unable to sit at a high top stool, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate.
Parking spaces for persons with disabilities are located by the main (Arapahoe) entrance. There is an elevator accessible from this entrance and ramp access as well.
Thank you gala sponsors
“Event” Sponsor
“Author” Sponsors
Sharon Bloom
Kitty deKieffer
Nancy & Lawrence Wojcik
“Book” Sponsors
Nancy & Gordon Goodman
Emily & Doug Hamilton
Julie Hass in Honor of Doris E. Hass, BLF Founder
Andy Sayler
“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:
In-Kind Sponsors
Interested in monetary or in-kind sponsorship opportunities?
Contact us at info@boulderlibraryfoundation.org or 720-551-8385.
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