Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli

The Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli, nestled in the charming city of Lecco, Italy, is a treasure trove of knowledge and history. Known locally as Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli di Lecco, this public library has been a beacon of learning and cultural enrichment for the community since its inception. Located in the historic Villa Locatelli on Via Bovara, with an additional branch at Villa Gomes in Maggianico, the library is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for literature, history, and architecture.

The Birth and Evolution of the Library

The foundation of the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli can be traced back to 1866 when Professor Pasquale Carretto, a school inspector in the Lecco district, gathered a collection of books. The official establishment of the library came in 1867, thanks to the Provincial Committee for the Education of the Countryside of Como. Initially named the Popular Circulating Library of the Lecco District, it was housed in the Technical School, with premises and furniture provided by the Municipality of Lecco.

In its early days, the library boasted a modest collection of around 300 volumes. Despite the limited number of readers due to accessibility issues, the library's distribution of books to the public began on May 16, 1870. The Municipality of Lecco supported the library by funding book purchases and the librarian's salary. Over the years, the library grew, thanks to donations from the Mutual Aid Association among Lecco workers and private individuals.

From Circulating Library to Civic Library

The journey from a circulating library to a civic institution was marked by several significant milestones. In 1907, the Municipality of Lecco organized a competition to replace Professor Michele Franchi, a Technical School teacher, with a municipal librarian. This move solidified the library's status as a municipal property in 1908. By then, the library was open on Sundays from 9 AM to 12 PM.

Throughout the 20th century, the library underwent various relocations and reorganizations. It moved from the school building on Via Antonio Ghislanzoni to Palazzo Belgiojoso, and later to the municipal building in Piazzale Armando Diaz. In 1931, the library found a new home in the municipal building, and the position of Municipal Librarian was created, with Attilio Polvara taking on the role. The library's hours were expanded, and it continued to evolve under different leaderships and locations until it finally settled in Villa Locatelli in 1982.

Villa Locatelli: The Library's Current Home

Villa Locatelli, also known as Casa del Governatore, is a historical gem that dates back to the late 16th century. Originally built as the residence of the Spanish governor, the villa has undergone several transformations over the centuries. It was expanded in the 17th and 18th centuries and later owned by the Serponti and Redaelli noble families. In 1811, Pompeo Redaelli commissioned a significant restoration by Giuseppe Bovara. The villa eventually became the property of the Locatelli family in the early 20th century, earning its current name. Today, it stands as a beautifully restored building, serving as the main branch of the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli.

The library's collection is spread across three floors, each catering to different needs. The ground floor houses the Periodicals Section, where visitors can peruse newspapers and magazines. The first floor is dedicated to the Adult Section, featuring open-shelf books and a section of documents of local interest. The second floor is home to the Children's Section, interlibrary loan services, and administrative offices. The library's rich heritage is reflected in its architecture, with remnants of ancient buildings, such as a 14th-century column, preserved within its walls.

Villa Gomes: The Musical Branch

In addition to its main location, the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli has a branch at Villa Gomes in Maggianico. This branch is dedicated to the library's Musical Section, housing a collection of materials donated by Maestro Giorgio Gaslini and music-related items from Lecco journalist Giacomo De Santis. Villa Gomes itself is a picturesque setting, perfect for those who appreciate the harmonious blend of music and literature.

A Modern Library with Historical Roots

Since 2003, the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli has been part of the National Library Service, and in 2016, it became the Central System Library of the Lecco Library System. The library has embraced the digital age, making significant portions of its historical periodicals and local interest collections available online through the Lombard Digital Library project. This initiative ensures that the library's valuable resources are accessible to a broader audience, preserving its rich heritage for future generations.

Visiting the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli is not just about exploring a library; it's about stepping into a living piece of history. The library's journey from a small collection of books to a modern civic institution reflects the growth and evolution of Lecco itself. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply looking for a quiet place to read, the Biblioteca civica Uberto Pozzoli offers a unique and enriching experience. So, the next time you find yourself in Lecco, be sure to visit this remarkable library and immerse yourself in its storied past and vibrant present.