Mission Statement & History

CAELi is a gathering place for book lovers and scholars alike. Committed to the diligently curious, CAELi offers curated collections, vibrant conversations, innovative speakers, and workspaces for scholarly endeavors. We serve the region’s innovative community by being an incubator for new ideas. 

Located in the ancestral land of the Coast Salish people, the Nisqually and Cowlitz tribes, CAELi was founded as a member-supported library in 2021. Seated in the historical district of Tumwater, WA, our building is a landmarked craftsman with a main reading room and many workspaces. 

Inspired by the German model of the hand bibliotek, where books remain in the library to be used by all members, CAELi provides on-site access to over 5,000 volumes of editions that can only be found in a handful of locations throughout the world. Our members have full access to our entire catalog and are encouraged to explore new realms of Celestial Arts research.

Independent libraries have long provided access to private book collections and workrooms for discussion, debate, and research on important issues. Bringing an active and inclusive 21st-century vision to such member-supported libraries, the founders of CAELi are creating an inviting, intimate home for “the community of the stars” while also producing and hosting educational programs for the entire community.

Dr. Jenn Zahrt, founder of CAELi

Founder: Dr. Jenn Zahrt

Jenn Zahrt, PhD has been an astrologer for over two decades. In addition to seeing clients and teaching classes, she serves the community through her publishing houses (Sophia Centre Press, Revelore Press), as well as non-profit service (Association for Young Astrologers). Dr. Zahrt also holds an MA in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology from the Sophia Centre at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, and is an Honorary Research Fellow there (2017-2022). She uses traditional and modern techniques to help people find their radiant spark.

Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Celestial Arts Education Library recognizes that our community is enriched and enhanced when diverse perspectives are recognized, respected, and represented, and when we create an environment that is open, equitable and inclusive. To that end, we seek to:

  • Collect and provide access to resources that represent diverse voices, promote equity and inclusion, and champion social justice.
  • Seek out and preserve archives and special collections from historically underrepresented portions of our community.
  • Design, maintain, and advocate for systems and structures that eliminate bias and racism.
  • Provide spaces that are safe, accessible, and inclusive.
  • Offer services, exhibits, and programs that educate, stimulate, and inspire.
  • Further the well-being of all our community members — especially students — by acting with patience, understanding and compassion.
  • Use our purchasing power to support BIPOC-owned businesses whenever possible.
  • Cultivate self-awareness and empathy and provide ongoing training and support for all library staff in developing cultural competencies.