By Rob Stansbury
Library Staff, Library Facilities
Last weekend, Fort Collins lost a true Library pioneer and former Library Director who was responsible for the foundation of the Library system we enjoy today. On Sunday, February 16, 2025, former Fort Collins Library Director Larry Webber peacefully passed away in Fort Collins.
From the beginning of his career, Larry was a dedicated and passionate supporter of Libraries and the rights for freedom of information and free access of information for all.
Larry started working for the Fort Collins Library on July 1, 1966, and was the Library Director from 1966-1982. He was the driving force behind the planning and creation of the Peterson Street Library in what was then known as Lincoln Park but later renamed Library Park.
In 1974, Larry navigated a contentious political climate regarding the location for the new Library. The City Council wanted the new Library to be built in Washington Park (City Hall block) and many citizens wanted it to be located in Lincoln Park behind the Carnegie Library. On December 12, 1974, following a two and a half hour public hearing with almost 30 people talking on both sides of the issue, City Council voted 4 to 3 to locate the new library in Washington Park.
The reactions of citizens were overwhelming. After weeks of many debates, emphatic comments, and every media outlet expressing feelings on the location, it was decided to place the item on the ballot for the public to decide. Voters chose Lincoln Park, soon to be called Library Park, for the new building with an opening date of October 18, 1976 at a cost of $1.4 million for the building and $400,000 for furniture, books, landscaping and fees. Larry oversaw the new library which featured 108,000 volumes, a media section for tapes, records and films, public spaces, a meeting room, and a fully integrated children’s library.
He later became the head of the Audio/Visual department of the Library, lending out phonograph records, framed art prints, cassette tapes, and eventually, educational computer programs and VHS videotapes.
In 1995, with a rapidly growing population, Larry was responsible for creating a library in the southern part of the city. A new “Mini-Library”, located at 132 W. Troutman Parkway was opened and was an instant success. However, the needs of south Fort Collins continued to grow beyond the abilities of the “Mini-Library” and Larry helped implement the plan for the creation of the Harmony Library with Front Range Community College which opened on Jan. 31, 1998.
During his time with the Library, Larry was a staunch supporter of human and equal rights for all regardless of gender, faith, nationality, physical ability or economic status and was a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights. His support of EDI (equity, diversity, and inclusion) issues (before the term “EDI” came about) helped the future growth of these vital efforts.
When I started working at the Library in 1987, Larry was one of the first managers in my career who actively demonstrated a kind, caring, and effective management style. Larry was a manager who lived his life in the manner of a true gentle man.
Looking back at his years with the Library, Larry stated, “Many times it became more than a job. It’s a calling. I was a librarian 24/7.” Fort Collins Mayor Doug Hutchison presented Larry with certificate of appreciation for his dedication to the library, and former Library Director Brenda Carns said, “So much of what people enjoy in this library system is because of Larry.”
After retiring Larry couldn’t leave the library behind. He served as president of the Friends of the Library, volunteered for the Friends book sales, and was the leader of the Books for Kids committee. After the formation of the Library District in 2006, Larry would often attend the Library Board of Trustee Meetings and share how happy he was for the direction of the Library District and success of the branch libraries. He would frequently visit each library and let staff know how well they were doing with serving the public and the community.
Larry left a lasting legacy that has had a tremendous impact on the quality of life in our city and community. Larry loved the work he did and all that the Library District stands for. Now we can honor his legacy by continuing to work for fairness, equality, and justice for all even in times where these concepts are often challenged.
Thank you, Larry Webber, for all you have done. It is with gratitude that we are able to continue the work that you have laid the foundation for us to do.
