The Library Book by Susan Orlean

On April 29, 1986, a fire raged through the main Los Angeles Library.  Million of books were lost and arson was suspected but no one paid much attention because at about the same time Chernobyl and a stock market crash took up all of the media space. Finally Oleans takes a look.  She does explore the life of the suspected arsonist but those anticipating a crime mystery will be disappointed.  This is a total homage to libraries and librarians.  It is also a fascinating look as the library as a social institution from preservers of rare histories to a shelter for the cities poorest residents.  If you love libraries - you will love this book.