From Andrew Carnegie to Michael Graves: Tom Noel on local library history

Where do our libraries come from? Beginning at the turn of the last century, there was a building boom across the nation, thanks to the deep pockets of philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. In Denver alone, nine Carnegie libraries were built early in the twentieth century -- five of which still operate...

By Susan Froyd

April 10, 2012

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Where do our libraries come from? Beginning at the turn of the last century, there was a building boom across the nation, thanks to the deep pockets of philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. In Denver alone, nine Carnegie libraries were built early in the twentieth century -- five of which still operate as public book-lenders. But that's just a snippet of local library lore. For a deeper chunk of the narrative, you need to turn to "Dr. Colorado" Tom Noel, the beloved arbiter of Colorado state history, who always seems to have the inside story.

Noel will give the backstory on his favorite Colorado literary landmarks, with visuals, during Confessions of a Biblioholic, tonight from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Bemis Public Library in Littleton. He'll also sell and sign copies of his most recent books at the free event, which is part of Bemis's community observance of National Library Week. After an hour or so with Noel, you'll never look at your neighborhood library in quite the same way. For details, visit the Bemis Library online or call 303-795-3961.

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Susan Froyd started writing for Westword as the "Thrills" editor in 1992 and never quite left the fold. These days she still freelances for the paper in addition to walking her dogs, enjoying cheap ethnic food and reading voraciously. Sometimes she writes poetry.

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