Saturday, May 25, 2013
Expansive literature
Manitou unveils first-ever Author Fest, for library's benefit
by Kerry A. Bennett
Jean Gabardi says that when the famous Carnegie family put up the money for the Manitou Springs Public Library in 1910, it was with two conditions.
"That it was built out of materials that would not burn," she says, "and that there was room for expansion."
With that second condition in mind, Gabardi, the president of Manitou Springs Public Library Friends, has helped launch the first-ever Author Fest of the Rockies. Thirty published Colorado authors, including former Gov. Richard Lamm, will raise money toward the $2 million target for restoring and expanding the historic building on Manitou Avenue.
Beginning with registration at 8:30 a.m., and running throughout the day, events will take place at six venues around Manitou Springs. Authors will hold workshops on everything from crafting picture books and e-books to marketing and publishing. They'll also visit Manitou schools to share views on writing and publishing with students.
From 4 to 6 p.m. at the Business of Art Center, a free author showcase will allow the public to meet participating writers and have their books signed. It also will include poetry readings, as well as The Mineral Springs Foundation's presentation of samples and information on waters from the mineral springs around Manitou.
The evening ends with a dinner at 6 at the Briarhurst Manor, where keynote speaker Lamm will address the audience on community, diversity and togetherness. There will be a Q&A session with the authors, and photographer Robert Castellino will present a slide show of his Colorado photography.
Capsule
Author Fest of the Rockies
Various venues, Manitou Springs
Thursday, Nov. 2, 8:30 a.m. registration
For more information on prices, tickets and times, call 578-3005 or 685-2432.
