BOULDER LIBRARY GALA

September 18, 2025

BOULDER LIBRARY GALA

September 18, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Shelby Van Pelt, world-renowned author of “Remarkably Bright Creatures,” will headline:

“The 2025 Boulder Library Gala: Remarkable Night Creatures”

September 18, 2025 at the Boulder Main Library

The evening party on the south end of the Main Library will include a reception with great food, plentiful beverages and author signings. Then join us for dessert, wine and a seated program in the second-floor atrium, featuring Shelby Van Pelt and the stories of lives forever changed by the Boulder Public Library.

Tables of 10 are available now and cost $1,250 to $10,000. They can be purchased online, or by calling 720-551-8385, or emailing info@boulderlibraryfoundation.org. A limited number of tables are available at each level. The more you pay, the closer you’ll be to the stage, and the more visibly you or your company will be appreciated in marketing before, during and after the event. Review our Gala Sponsor Guide and purchase your table today!

Individual tickets will go on sale in May and are expected to sell out.

BUY A TABLE

About the Book

“Remarkably Bright Creatures” was one of the top three digital titles borrowed from the Boulder Public Library in 2024. The exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope traces a widow’s unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus. The novel is being turned into a Netflix film starring two-time Academy Award winner Sally Field. Van Pelt’s debut novel is a gentle reminder that sometimes taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible. Her book, appearance and empowering message provides a perfect backdrop to celebrate a library and foundation on the rise.

Looking back at our 50 Year Gala on September 26, 2024

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

(Pictured on right)

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 and created a Transformation Lab during the event – exploring and showcasing the chemistry of food.

Bonnie Garmus

(Pictured on left)

“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.

Fundraising Goals

Last 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.

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