The Restored & Reimagined St. Louis Public Library

Those of you who are new to St. Louis may not be aware that our public library system is one of the best in the country. For the past three years the St. Louis Public Library has earned a runner-up spot (second place in 2011) in the Library Category of  2011 America's Most Literate Cities according to a study by Central Connecticut State University. Additionally, 2011 was the 7th straight year the Library has ranked as one of the top 4 urban libraries in the U.S.

After a two-year restoration and renovation project (see 2010 post here), Central Library, as the main library located at 13th & Olive is known, will celebrate with a gala benefit tomorrow evening. The benefit sold out almost as soon as the elegant invitations (see above) were mailed. The event benefits the St. Louis Public Library Foundation's capital campaign which is helping fund the renovation and restoration.   

CWEnder George
Nikolajavich is a design principal in Cannon Design which is responsible for the renovation of the architectural landmark, which was originally funded by Andrew Carnegie and designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert. The handsome new entry to Central Library now fronts Locust Street, above and below.

For the past one hundred years the main entrance was on Olive Street, above.

I love this shot of the original facade at the east end with a quotation on libraries by John Bright and the steeple of Christ Church Cathedral in the background.

The last photo shows a series of party tents that are set-up on Locust, which is closed for tomorrow night's gala.

The St. Louis Public Library has always held a special place in my heart. In 1985, Alice Sherwood and I were co-chairs of a benefit for the newly-formed Friends of the St. Louis Public Library. We were both novices in the benefit world, but with CWEnder Annie Schlafly as Chairman of the Friends Board, and many other friends on the hard-working committee, most of whom lived in the CWE, we somehow pulled it off. Twenty-five years later the Library is stronger than ever. I am grateful to have played a small part in those early days.

On Sunday, December 2, there is a tour of the newly-renovated Central Library for Friends of the St. Louis Public Library and donors. It isn't too late to become a Friend (membership starts at $50 & includes a discount at Left Bank Books!). Perhaps I'll see you there! Central Library officially reopens December 9.