100 Authors Share Their Stories

By Brenda Thomson, Community Relations Coordinator

April 7, 2010

What do libraries mean to you? That is the question NCPL staff has asked hundreds of authors over the past year, in an effort to get 100 authors involved in the library’s 100th anniversary celebration to be held this May. We contacted our own favorite authors, local and national favorites, and authors suggested by library patrons.

The question, not surprisingly, elicited some very well-written comments about the value of libraries from authors such as Terry Brooks, Faye Kellerman, Michael McGarrity, Zig Ziglar, comedian Dave Barry and Governor Dave Freudenthal.

Several authors remembered their early years when the books they took home were thinner but no less exciting than those they read now. Margaret Coel, a mystery author whose recent works include “Blood Memory” and “Silent Spirit” captures the excitement and possibilities many of us experienced as children visiting the library:

“Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of visiting the neighborhood library with my mother. Even as a small child, I had a sense that the library was a special place. It was filled with books, and books were filled with stories. The whole world, it seemed to me, was available in the library. All the interesting people in history, all the exotic, wonderful places – they were on the shelves within the covers of books. Each time I step into a library . . . I know I am about to learn something brand new, find something extraordinary, encounter amazing people who actually lived, as well as memorable characters who live only in books. I am never disappointed. As a writer, I can imagine many things. But I cannot imagine a world without libraries.”

For other authors, the library has served as an inspiration not only for the imagination, but for their careers. Local artist and author Chris Navarro has such a story, beginning at our very own library in downtown Casper:

“It was 28 years ago when I walked into the Natrona County Public Library. I told the librarian in charge that I wanted to be a sculptor and she helped me find the books I would need to start learning and begin my career as an artist. It was at our library that I learned the real power and knowledge contained in books. The NCPL is a gem in our community. The library serves everyone and anyone. There is no better investment than in our children’s minds and our community’s future.”

Christian suspense author Terri Blackstock, whose new book “Predator” will be released May 25, wrote: “Congratulations on your 100th anniversary, and for serving your community in such an important way for so long. You are not only encouraging literacy in Wyoming, but you are providing hours of entertainment, escape, encouragement, information, education, imagination and companionship for the people in your area.”

The 100 Authors display featuring signed photos, well wishes and quotes about libraries will be available for viewing on the library’s main floor throughout the month of May.

All citizens are invited to participate in the 100th anniversary. To find out more, visit www.natronacountylibrary.org, call 577-READ or stop by any library branch.

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