Join us to discuss THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN by Marie Benedict. For a copy of the book, contact Marianne Charles at mcharles@cooklib.org. DROP IN
The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go-for the protection of her family and her legacy-to preserve her carefully crafted white identity in the racist world in which she lives. Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Library. Belle becomes a fixture on the New York society scene and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world. But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. Belle's complexion isn't dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white-her complexion is dark because she is African American.
The Cook Memorial Public Library District serves communities in northern Lake County, Illinois: Libertyville, Green Oaks, Vernon Hills, Indian Creek, Mettawa, and parts of Mundelein.
Mission
Through dedicated personal service, we connect our diverse community to resources that educate, enrich and inspire.