By G.E.S. Gazette Staff
The Denver Public Library’s Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library closed May 28 for renovations and is expected to reopen in early 2023.
Blair-Caldwell’s archives are available for research at the Central Library during regular open hours, which are currently Sunday- Thursday from 1-5 p.m. Holds that were placed at the branch prior to the closure can be picked up at the Ford-Warren Branch Library, according to DPL.
“We know how important Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is to the community and that customers rely on our materials for research,” City Librarian Michelle Jeske said. “We’re pleased that we are able to make Blair-Caldwell’s archives accessible at Central Library during the branch closure.”
The $2.8 million budget renovation will include improvements to the first floor and upgrades to the existing heating and ventilation systems. The first floor renovation will incorporate a new teen space, reimagined children’s area, new study rooms with amenities, a new front book drop, and the relocation of the circulation desk, among other changes to the space.
New public art will also be installed on the first floor, which will feature the work of Denver artist Sam McNeil. Renovation redesign was done by Denver based architecture and planning firm Handprint Architecture. Opened in 2003, this is the first renovation of the building and is part of the Elevate Denver Bond that was passed by voters in 2017.
The Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is a full service branch library with a unique focus to collect and preserve the history and culture of African Americans in Colorado and throughout the Rocky Mountain West. The library is nationally recognized for its museum, collection archives, research, and gallery.
To learn more about Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, visit history. denverlibrary.org/about-blair.
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