HSFF Reading Room Book List ‘25

As Research Historian at HSFF, Giulia Caporuscio, presents her 2025 reading list from our library.

After earning two master’s degrees in history and historic preservation from the University of New Mexico, I apply my expertise to support the foundation’s programs, including the Register of Properties Worthy of Preservation, preservation easements, archives, and educational initiatives. Since completing my degrees, one of my goals has been to rediscover my love for reading. Being a history major meant reading an average of 12-15 books per week, which meant speed reading and skimming. Now I am learning how to read nonfiction books leisurely and for enjoyment. To satisfy my curiosity, I have chosen five books from Historic Santa Fe Foundation’s collection to write about, with the aim of inspiring discussion and curiosity in others.

A Dictionary of New Mexico and Southern Colorado Spanish

By Rubén Cobos, Museum of New Mexico Press, 1983

It is a little strange to read a dictionary cover to cover, yet this is an exception. I am fascinated by linguistic differences of Spanish and need to build my vocabulary.

Mayordomo: Chronicle of an Acequia in Northern New Mexico

By Stanley Crawford, University of New Mexico Press,1998

This book was chosen to represent the entire shelf of acequia books in the reading room. I enjoy Crawford’s writing and found myself reaching for his book first.

Flowers of the Southwest Deserts

By Natt Dodge, Southwestern Monuments Association, 1952

I picked this book on a cold day while dreaming of spring.

Respectful Rehabilitation: Answers to Your Questions about Old Buildings

By the National Park Service, The Preservation Press, 1982

As a preservationist by trade, there needed to be at least one preservation book. This book drew me in with its beautiful architectural details.

Stranger in New Mexico: A Doctor’s Journey, 1951-1986

By Peter J. Voute, University of New Mexico Press, 1987

This publication presents some intriguing medical history as told by a transplant doctor to New Mexico from the Netherlands.