Swetnam is a retired Idaho State University professor who spent more than 20 years researching and writing the book that describes the origins of Carnegie public libraries in the intermountain West.
Book Award Chairwoman Ruth Funabiki called it “a remarkable work of scholarship” that “serves to remind us all that community members working together can move forward in the face of political and economic turmoil.”
The association awarded Honorable Mention recognition to two books with regional ties. “Anything Worth Doing” by Jo Deurbrouck, is the true story of whitewater raft guides Clancy Reece and Jon Barker. “Be Brave, Tah-hy!” by Jack R. Williams, tells the story of the Nez Perce War of 1877 through the eyes of Chief Joseph’s 12-year-old daughter. It features illustrations by Clarkston artist Jo Proferes.
