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Staff Picks

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  • Current: Staff Picks
May 2025
Cover of “Downriver” by Heather Hansman. Features a scenic desert landscape with red cliffs, a river, and blue sky. Text overlays describe it as exploring water's future in the West. Cover of "Night Magic" by Leigh Ann Henion features an owl, salamander, moth, and glowworm amidst vibrant foliage and flowers on a dark background, evoking mystery. Cover of "The Ghosts of Denver: Capitol Hill" by Phil Goodstein. Features a drawing of a spooky old house with barren trees, setting a mysterious tone.

Trailblazing & Stargazing

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

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Cover of “Downriver” by Heather Hansman. Features a scenic desert landscape with red cliffs, a river, and blue sky. Text overlays describe it as exploring water's future in the West.

Trailblazing & Stargazing | May 2025

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

Even though ski season is coming to an end, you can still get outside this summer and explore Colorado!

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Apr 2025
 A diverse group of children and teens engaging in reading and writing activities, showcasing their literacy development. A workshop scene showing early childhood teachers learning effective literacy strategies for young learners A collection of bookbindings, showcasing both old and new styles, reflecting the passion of a book lover.

For the Love of Reading

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

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 A diverse group of children and teens engaging in reading and writing activities, showcasing their literacy development.

For the Love of Reading | Apr 2025

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

Let's celebrate libraries and reading during the month of April! 

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Mar 2025
A serene river scene representing the concept of time, inspired by Courteney Newland's artistic vision Project Hail Mary: A Novel book cover image A misty landscape shrouded in fog, hinting at the presence of ethereal figures, evoking a sense of ghostly uncertainty.

Sci-Fi Explorers

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

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A serene river scene representing the concept of time, inspired by Courteney Newland's artistic vision

Sci-Fi Explorers | Mar 2025

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

Calling all explorers! These Sci-Fi stories chart courses through uncharted territories. From deep space mysteries to undiscovered worlds, each book is a new expedition waiting to begin. What will…

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Feb 2025
A portrait of Julia Chinn, the vice president's wife, showcasing her elegance and historical significance in American politics. Cover of "Control Chaos" by Phunk, featuring vibrant colors and dynamic abstract designs that evoke a sense of energy A collage depicting modern history stories of women and nonbinary individuals, showcasing their achievements and struggles.

Missed Connections

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

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A portrait of Julia Chinn, the vice president's wife, showcasing her elegance and historical significance in American politics.

Missed Connections | Feb 2025

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

What connects these books is that they're just waiting to connect with you. We puzzle over why some of these titles have never been checked out-maybe they were shelved in unexpected places, or…

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Jan 2025
Cover of "The Myth of Closure" by Pauline Boss, featuring a thoughtful design that reflects themes of grief and loss. Cover of "Triggers" by Marshall Goldsmith featuring a bold title and engaging design, reflecting themes of personal development.  Cover of "Good Habits, Bad Habits" by Wendy Wood, featuring a minimalist design with bold typography and vibrant colors

New Year, New Habits

Curated by: Kaylie Longley

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Cover of "The Myth of Closure" by Pauline Boss, featuring a thoughtful design that reflects themes of grief and loss.

New Year, New Habits | Jan 2025

Curated by: Kaylie Longley

2025 brings many changes, how are you feeling? Whether you want to learn something new, hope to end a habit, or discover why we make resolutions, check out these resources to prepare for the new year!

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Dec 2024
Cover of the book "Dictatorship," featuring bold typography and a striking design that conveys themes of power and control. Cover of "Parable of the Sower" by Octavia E. Butler, featuring a dystopian landscape and a determined young woman. An illustration depicting women leading revolutionary movements, highlighting their hidden historical contributions.

Illustrating Diverse Voices

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

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Cover of the book "Dictatorship," featuring bold typography and a striking design that conveys themes of power and control.

Illustrating Diverse Voices | Dec 2024

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

Auraria Library received an Inclusive Excellence grant from CU Denver to build a diverse graphic novel collection.

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Nov 2024
Guidelines for effective election management, ensuring transparency and integrity in the electoral process. Image depicting Nelson, Paul, and Wildy discussing presidential election strategies in American politics. A visual representation of the dynamics and strategies involved in congressional elections and their political implications.

The Electoral Process

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

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Guidelines for effective election management, ensuring transparency and integrity in the electoral process.

The Electoral Process | Nov 2024

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

It's election season in the United States with many local, state, and federal seats up for grabs. Elections can make a big difference in not only your community, state, or country, but also in your…

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Oct 2024
Book cover of "The Majority in the Minority," featuring a thought-provoking design that highlights diverse perspectives. Cover art for an audiobook focused on Asian American education, highlighting cultural elements and an inviting visual style. Cover of "The Routledge Companion to Asian American and Pacific Islander Literature," featuring diverse literary themes and authors.

Love Your Library!

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

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Book cover of "The Majority in the Minority," featuring a thought-provoking design that highlights diverse perspectives.

Love Your Library! | Oct 2024

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

The Auraria Library is a vibrant space where knowledge and ideas come to life, serving as a key resource for faculty, students, and the wider community. To celebrate the Love Your Library!

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Sep 2024
Gender queer: a memoir Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You mage of a product sold by Patricia McCormick, showcasing quality and craftsmanship in a professional setting.

Explore Banned Books

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

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Gender queer: a memoir

Explore Banned Books | Sep 2024

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

"Banned or challenged books" refers to written works that have faced restrictions or censorship. Throughout history, books have been banned, challenged, and even burned for controversial, political,…

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Aug 2024
The new politics of leisure and pleasure cover image Amateurs, professionals and serious leisure cover image Porn & Pong: How Grand Theft Auto, Tomb Raider and other Sexy Games Changed Our Culture cover image

Taking Play Seriously

Curated by: Kaylie Longley

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The new politics of leisure and pleasure cover image

Taking Play Seriously | Aug 2024

Curated by: Kaylie Longley

We learn through play. Free time for games, toys, and other recreation supports independence, relationship building, and skill-building. But entertainment has costs. Is there such a thing as too much…

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Jul 2024
Project Hail Mary: A Novel book cover image 2001: A Space Odyssey cover image Treasure Island book cover image

A Summer Reading Odyssey

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

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Project Hail Mary: A Novel book cover image

A Summer Reading Odyssey | Jul 2024

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

Welcome to "A Summer Reading Odyssey," where the pages of our books lead you on extraordinary adventures! This summer, immerse yourself in tales that transport you to different eras, exotic locales,…

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Jun 2024
Cyber war and cyber peace: digital conflict in the Middle East cover image The heart of Lebanon: brief excursions into our mountains and history cover image Modernism on the Nile: art in Egypt between the Islamic and the contemporary cover

Stories from the Middle East

Curated by: Cate Johnson, Charles Elbert

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Cyber war and cyber peace: digital conflict in the Middle East cover image

Stories from the Middle East | Jun 2024

Curated by: Cate Johnson, Charles Elbert

Learn more about the history, culture, art, science, and politics of the Middle East.

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Jun 2024
Ecosocialism: A Radical Alternative to Capitalist Catastrophe Parable of the Sower The Left Hand of Darkness: 50th Anniversary Edition

Solarpunk Futures

Curated by: Jacque Composanto

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Ecosocialism: A Radical Alternative to Capitalist Catastrophe

Solarpunk Futures | Jun 2024

Curated by: Jacque Composanto

Solarpunk: Art & activism envisioning ecologically balanced future. Criticized as 'utopic', yet vital in shaping desired futures through imagination.

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Apr 2024
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Quilting Pin loom weaving to go: 30 projects for portable weaving Handbook of Wool Knitting and Crochet

No Loose Ends: Fiber Crafts!

Curated by: Cate Johnson

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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Quilting

No Loose Ends: Fiber Crafts! | Apr 2024

Curated by: Cate Johnson

Unlock your creativity with these fiber craft books! Learn to knit, stitch, crochet, and more with these free resources available through the library.

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Mar 2024
Maus: a survivor's tale Gender queer: a memoir Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands

Ink-spiring Tales: Graphic…

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

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Maus: a survivor's tale

Ink-spiring Tales: Graphic Novels | Mar 2024

Curated by: Teresa McGinley

Welcome to the world of graphic novels! Graphic novels are narrative books where stories are conveyed through a combination of text and illustrations.

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Feb 2024
Girl between two worlds Salahuddin McKloskey Brown Boy: A Memoir

Readers' Roulette

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

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Girl between two worlds

Readers' Roulette | Feb 2024

Curated by: Salahuddin McKloskey

Explore our Readers Roulette display for your next read! Wrapped books across genres with hints on covers. Let serendipity lead you to your new favorite book!

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Jan 2024
An anthropology of puzzles: the role of puzzles in the origins and evolution of mind and culture The History of Video Games Calligraphy & lettering: a maker's guide

New Hobbies for the New Year

Curated by: Mari Prestigiacomo, Cate Johnson

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An anthropology of puzzles: the role of puzzles in the origins and evolution of mind and culture

New Hobbies for the New Year | Jan 2024

Curated by: Mari Prestigiacomo, Cate Johnson

Want a new hobby for the new year? Find inspiration from our library staff's favorite hobbies and interests through recommended books in our collection!

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Jan 2024
Life in the cold : an introduction to winter ecology Sustainable winter fodder : production, challenges, and prospects Cabin stories : the best of Dark winter nights : true stories from Alaska

Winter

Curated by: Vanessa De Los Reyes

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Life in the cold : an introduction to winter ecology

Winter | Jan 2024

Curated by: Vanessa De Los Reyes

Embrace winter's delights—snow fun, nature's beauty, and cozy reading. Dive into the season's wonders this month!

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Nov 2023
The Last Laugh: Folk Humor, Celebrity Culture, and Mass-Mediated Disasters in the Digital Age (Folklore Studies in a Multicultural World) South Asian Folklore: An Encyclopedia Folklore and Social Media

Folklore

Curated by: Vanessa De Los Reyes, Cate Johnson

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The Last Laugh: Folk Humor, Celebrity Culture, and Mass-Mediated Disasters in the Digital Age (Folklore Studies in a Multicultural World)

Folklore | Nov 2023

Curated by: Vanessa De Los Reyes, Cate Johnson

This month we are exploring fairy tales, myths, legends, fables, and tall tales from around the world.

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Oct 2023
Lawn boy: a novel Anne Frank's diary: the graphic adaptation All boys aren't blue: a memoir-manifesto

Read A Banned Book

Curated by: Vanessa de los Reyes, Cate Johnson

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Lawn boy: a novel

Read A Banned Book | Oct 2023

Curated by: Vanessa de los Reyes, Cate Johnson

Banned Books Week celebrates our First Amendment freedoms and raises awareness of the persistent threats against free expression in literature and the arts.

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Sep 2023
The Botany of Beer: An Illustrated Guide to More Than 500 Plants Used in Brewing (Arts and Traditions of the Table: Perspectives on Culinary History) Beer and Brewing in Medieval Culture and Contemporary Medievalism (The New Middle Ages) A Woman's Place Is in the Brewhouse: A Forgotten History of Alewives, Brewsters, Witches, and CEOs

Cheers to Beers: Fermentation…

Curated by: Teresa McGinley, Vanessa de los Reyes

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The Botany of Beer: An Illustrated Guide to More Than 500 Plants Used in Brewing (Arts and Traditions of the Table: Perspectives on Culinary History)

Cheers to Beers: Fermentation Fasci | Sep 2023

Curated by: Teresa McGinley, Vanessa de los Reyes

Breweries have called Colorado home since the late 1800's, but In the last few decades, the craft beer industry has exploded.

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Aug 2023
Practical Stress Management: A Comprehensive Workbook cover with lady meditating on a cliff looking at sunrise Unraveling faculty burnout: pathways to reckoning and renewal cover book Leaf Your Troubles Behind cover with plants in pots

Stress Less This Semester

Curated by: Cate Johnson

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Practical Stress Management: A Comprehensive Workbook cover with lady meditating on a cliff looking at sunrise

Stress Less This Semester | Aug 2023

Curated by: Cate Johnson

Fall semester kickoff brings campus alive! Reconnect with peers, dive into new classes, and engage in campus activities. Exciting times ahead!

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Jul 2023
Spirit Deep: Recovering the Sacred in Black Women's Travel How a Global Pandemic Changed the Way We Travel The Psychology of Travel

Footprints and Passport…

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

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Spirit Deep: Recovering the Sacred in Black Women's Travel

Footprints and Passport Stamps | Jul 2023

Curated by: Mariana Prestigiacomo

Traveling, the movement from one place to another, changes depending on the person. People travel for vacation, work, adventure, a better life, and survival.

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Jun 2023
Indigenous peoples, national parks, and protected areas: a new paradigm linking conservation, culture, and rights Transcendent summits: one climber's route to self-discovery Desert Portraits: Tales from the Altiplano

Explore the Great Outdoors!

Curated by: Vanessa de los Reyes

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Indigenous peoples, national parks, and protected areas: a new paradigm linking conservation, culture, and rights

Explore the Great Outdoors! | Jun 2023

Curated by: Vanessa de los Reyes

June is National Great Outdoors Month and the library has resources to help you get outdoors and enjoy the trees, the sand, the water,

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May 2023
The Art of Cooking with Cannabis: CBD and THC-Infused Recipes from Across America ilittibaaimpa': Let's Eat Together! A Chickasaw Cookbook The Good Berry Cookbook: Harvesting and Cooking Wild Rice and Other Wild Foods

Cookbooks!

Curated by: Katy DiVittorio

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The Art of Cooking with Cannabis: CBD and THC-Infused Recipes from Across America

Cookbooks! | May 2023

Curated by: Katy DiVittorio

Check out our cookbook collection and make something new to celebrate the end of the semester!

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Apr 2023
Reclaiming Literacies as Meaning Making: Manifestations of Values, Identities, Relationships, and Knowledge The Small Shall Be Strong: A History of Lake Tahoe's Washoe Indians How to Make Maps: An Introduction to Theory and Practice of Cartography

Faculty Book Authors

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

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Reclaiming Literacies as Meaning Making: Manifestations of Values, Identities, Relationships, and Knowledge

Faculty Book Authors | Apr 2023

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

Auraria campus faculty and staff have written and edited many books over the years across all disciplines. We highlight some of their recent books for April.

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Mar 2023
Stellaluna cover book The princess and the goblin cover book Hatchet cover book

Memories of Childhood

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

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Stellaluna cover book

Memories of Childhood | Mar 2023

Curated by: Kelly A. McCusker

Did you know that Auraria Library has a collection of children's and young adult literature? The section includes thousands of books on a variety of topics,

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