San Luis Obispo – Cal Poly's Graphic Communication Institute has published a new book – "75 SLO City Sites," a self-guided tour book that aims to encourage readers to learn about San Luis Obispo's history and develop a greater appreciation of its early residents.

The book, released this month, is written by Patti Taylor and Suzette Lees and contains many vintage photos collected and organized by local photographer Verena von Engel (including some from her personal collection).

"The book is more than a picture book," Taylor said. "It provides a healthy discussion of the architectural details and histories of building owners and their contributions to the community – and how their interrelationships can be relevant to the community's survival."

Steve Owens, publisher of SLO Journal Plus magazine, said, " '75 SLO City Sites' will give a greater appreciation of the early citizens inhabiting and developing San Luis Obispo. The book is a wonderful addition to anyone's library and would be a great resource for local citizens, visiting guests and our future generations."

The book is yet another example of how Cal Poly's "learn by doing" educational approach can benefit the community, said Harvey Levenson, director of the Graphic Communication Institute and head of Cal Poly Graphic Communication Department.

"While the book was published by the Graphic Communication Institute," Levenson said, "all files were prepared and the book was printed by Cal Poly's experiential, student-run, faculty advised, printing and publishing company, University Graphic Systems. UGS provides students with real world opportunities and provides a head start on developing career skills."