The incredible amount of research that Susan Orlean , did for The Library Book is mind-boggling.

I imagine her sitting in her writing room surrounded by pile-upon-pile (up to the ceiling, running out the door) of articles, published papers, books, interview notes, newspaper clippings, paraphernalia, odds and ends.

As much as this picture amuses me, it is more likely that she stored it all in hundreds-upon-hundreds of folders on her lap top.

Be-that-as-it-may, the point is: The book is investigative journalism at its best. But it is not just that. It is, also, a mesmerizing, beautifully written spellbinder about the mysterious fire of April 29, 1986 that destroyed the Los Angeles Public Library.

Orlean is investigating the question: Did someone purposely set fire to the library -- and, if so, who?

Through her immersion journalism and her brilliant writing she brings to life each library department and a unforgettable cast of characters who have run the library -- past and present.

Most poignantly, "she reminds us that, perhaps especially in the digital era, they [libraries} are more necessary than ever."

The bright fire-red cover of The Library Book shines on my book shelf. It's a keeper. I treasure it.