Denver Public Library, a cornerstone of the Mile-High City's cultural and educational landscape, stands as a beacon of knowledge and community engagement. Nestled in the vibrant Golden Triangle district of Downtown Denver, this iconic institution is more than just a repository of books; it is a dynamic hub of learning, history, and innovation that has been serving the residents of Denver since its humble beginnings in 1859.
The story of the Denver Public Library begins under a tree with a simple carpenter's bench, courtesy of Arthur Pierce, a pioneer during the gold rush era. This modest start evolved into a more structured collection in 1878 when books were donated to the city's board of education and housed in East Denver High School. The official establishment of the Denver Public Library came in 1889, under the stewardship of John Cotton Dana, the first chief librarian.
In 1910, the library moved into its own Greek revival building in Civic Center Park, thanks to the philanthropy of Andrew Carnegie. This building, however, was repurposed over the years, and the library's central operations moved to a new location designed by the architectural firm Fisher & Fisher and designer Burnham Hoyt in the 1950s. This new Central Library, completed in 1956, was a testament to the city's growth and its commitment to public knowledge.
The Denver Central Library, as it stands today, is a captivating architectural masterpiece. Expanded in the 1990s with a design by Michael Graves and the Denver firm Klipp Colussy Jenks DuBois, the library boasts a striking seven-story structure adorned with limestone, pre-cast concrete, and copper accents. The interior is equally impressive, featuring murals by Edward Ruscha and fossils embedded in the floor of Schlessman Hall, creating a blend of art, history, and modern design.
The Denver Public Library's collection is a treasure trove of over 2 million items, including books, reference materials, movies, music, and photographs. Among these, the Western History and Genealogy Department stands out with its extensive archives. Housing 600,000 photographs, 3,700 manuscript archives, and a vast array of books, pamphlets, maps, and microfilm titles, this department is a goldmine for historians and genealogists alike.
The library's Western fine art collection rivals that of the nearby Denver Art Museum, featuring works by renowned artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Remington, and Charles Marion Russell. The photography collection, including the Otto Perry collection of railroad photographs, offers a visual journey through North America's history.
A significant part of the Denver Public Library system is the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, which opened in 2003. This branch serves as a cultural and educational resource, focusing on the history, literature, art, music, religion, and politics of African Americans in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain West. The library houses a full-service branch, research archives, and the Western Legacies Museum, which includes rotating exhibits and a replica of the office of Denver Mayor Wellington E. Webb.
The Denver Public Library is not just about books; it is a modern institution offering a range of services to meet the needs of today's patrons. All locations provide access to public computers with internet service, Microsoft Office, copying, printing, and scanning facilities. Free WiFi is available for all visitors, ensuring that everyone can stay connected.
The library also offers an innovative Library of Things, allowing cardholders to check out a variety of equipment and experiences. From bicycle repair kits and State Park Passes to GoPro cameras and WiFi hotspots, the library provides tools and resources to enrich the lives of its users.
The Denver Public Library system includes ideaLABs, makerspaces where patrons can explore technology and creativity. These spaces offer access to tools and equipment for projects ranging from 3D printing to digital media production, fostering a spirit of innovation and hands-on learning.
Additionally, the library offers free passes to local museums and cultural institutions, including the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Denver Zoo, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver. These passes provide an opportunity for cardholders to explore the rich cultural landscape of Denver at no cost.
The Denver Public Library system extends beyond the Central Library, with 25 branch locations and two bookmobiles serving the diverse neighborhoods of Denver. Each branch offers unique programs and services tailored to the needs of its community, ensuring that the library's resources are accessible to all residents.
In conclusion, the Denver Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it is a cornerstone of the community, offering a wealth of resources, programs, and services that enrich the lives of Denver's residents. Whether you are a history buff, a tech enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet place to read, the Denver Public Library has something to offer everyone. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and commitment to innovation make it a must-visit destination in the heart of Denver.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
