Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library

In 2001, Mayor Wellington Webb decided to build a project as his legacy to the City of Denver. A new Denver Public Library branch located in historic Five Points would honor the history of African Americans in the Rocky Mountain West. This historic commission had several goals: create a culturally important building that would be of its time, fit comfortably yet respectfully into a historic context, serve as a gateway to the redeveloping Five Points neighborhood, and integrate art seamlessly into its design. The result: a nationally recognized, award-winning building that has become an icon for the region’s African American community and a highly popular event venue, generating much-needed funds for the Denver Public Library.

This Library’s unique service model combines a public library, a research library with space for a visiting Fellow, art gallery, museum and event/community center. The galleries, used for display as well as circulation, lead to a dramatic staircase ascending three stories with beautiful views of downtown Denver, signifying the achievements of African Americans in the Denver community and beyond.