High Prairie Library (HI)

High Prairie Library

Address:
7035 Old Meridian Rd. - map it!
Peyton, CO 80831

Phone: (719) 531-6333, x7003
Curbside Pickup Phone Number: (719) 260-3650
Contact Us

Hours:
Monday - Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Wednesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Window Hours:
Monday - Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Holiday Hours and Closures

Curbside Services Retrieve your materials simply by driving, walking, or biking up to our pickup window during curbside service hours. You will be asked to provide your Library account information.

  • High Prairie Library Facebook

 

Library Location Address

7035 Old Meridian Rd. Peyton
CO 80831, CO 80831
United States

What's New!

Image
All Pikes Peak Makes

Applications to share your makes at All Pikes Peak Makes are now open! Please use the form below to submit your idea. We can't wait to hear from you! 

When:  Sat., April 27, 2024 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Library 21c

A maker is someone who creates – to be innovative, to solve problems, to bring something beautiful into the world, or simply to have fun. They have an idea and they bring it to life. Making can encompass just about anything, from high tech to low tech to no tech, from art to fabrication to artistic fabrication, from needles to table saws to software.

Join us for this event as we spend the day celebrating ingenuity in the Pikes Peak Region – by tinkering, thinking, and, of course, making! Past experiences include:

  • Paper rockets
  • Lego builds
  • Local makerspaces
  • Cosplay
  • Whittling
  • Cardboard creations
  • 3D printing
  • And so much more

Want to share what you make?
The application for exhibitors is now open. 

Submit your application here

If you have any questions, please email us at APPM@ppld.org.

Image
Spring Break!

Stay busy and engaged over spring break with children's and teen's programs from PPLD!

Don't forget about our eLibrary for ebooks, movies, tv, and more over the break and get and stay ahead with eLearning resources too!

Children's Programs

  • Bricks and Minifigs 

    Join Bricks and Minifigs for a Spring Break Challenge! What amazing creation will you build next? Registration required. Ages 3 - 12 

    • Calhan Library: Mon., March 25 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
    • Monument Library: Tue., March 26 from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
    • Ute Pass Library: Thu., March 28 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 
  • The Bark Bunch 

    Learn about safety around dogs, dog care and visit with the loveable dogs from the National Mill Dog Rescue in Colorado Springs.

    This is an informative and interactive program for children ages 2 - 12 and their caregivers. 

    • Cheyenne Mountain Library: Mon., March 25 from 1 – 2:30 p.m.
    • High Prairie Library: Thu., March 28 from 3 – 3:45 p.m.
    • Ruth Holley Library: Fri., March 29 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 
  • Who Ya Gonna Call?

    Come meet the Ghostbusters and see their truck up close and personal. Where? Where it all started, at the library of course! Ages 2 – 12. 

    • Old Colorado City Library: Mon., March 25 from 2 – 3 p.m.
    • Library 21c: Thu., March 28 from 10 – 10:45 a.m. and 11 – 11:45 a.m. 
  • Meet the Go Team 

    What is a therapy dog? How are they different from services dogs and pets? Come meet the dogs from The Go Team and their handlers to find out the answers to these and other questions. Ages 2 - 12 

    • Fountain Library: Tue., March 26 from 10:30 – 11 a.m.
    • Manitou Springs Library: Wed., March 27 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
    • Rockrimmon Library: Fri., March 29 from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. 
  • Dance a Jig! 

    Join us for an Irish celebration with Turning Pointe Dance! Watch a demonstration of traditional Irish dances like the jig, reel, and hornpipe, then give it a try with a fun family Ceili! Learn the steps and immerse yourself in this unique culture with an experience that’s fun for the whole family. Ages 3 – 12. 

    • Library 21c: Fri., March 29 at 10:30 a.m.
    • East Library: Sat., March 30 at 11 a.m. and 1p.m. 

We know there are all kinds of kids with all kinds of needs, so if your child might benefit from some sensory accommodations like fidget items or noise-reducing headphones while in the Library or at a program, ask at the Children’s Desk for our Sensory Accommodations Kit.

Image
Food Industry Training

Food industry careers are rewarding and challenging but can be difficult to break into without prior experience or training. Pikes Peak Library District offers Food Industry Training that is perfect for anyone wanting to enter the food industry or advance their career. We offer this training multiple times per year. Registration is currently open for the next session that runs from March 25 - April 26.

The Food Industry Training is a five-week training program at the Library that teaches participants the entry-level skills they need to find or advance in employment as a qualified prep cook or line cook. The program helps them learn basic culinary fundamentals, practice professionalism, explore career opportunities in the culinary industry, and earn their ServSafe Food Handler certification.  

Participants learn proper food handling, recipe reading, product identification, team building in a food industry setting, cooking methods and techniques, and other essential skills.  

No prior experience is necessary, and there is no cost to participate. Participants must be eligible to work in the U.S., be able to attend the scheduled classes, be pursuing a career in the culinary industry, and be age 18 or older. Applications for this session close on Thu., March 7.

Image
Who Gives A Scrap – A program by PPLD

In collaboration with Who Gives a SCRAP Creative Reuse Center, we are hosting an arts, crafts, and hobby material exchange! Bring in your new, clean/gently used, and unwanted craft materials and exchange them for "tickets" to exchange for new-to-you craft supplies!

Please refrain from bringing items that can be recycled (plastic food containers), bedding, and building waste. Check the Who Gives a Scrap Donation Guidelines for a full list of items that can and cannot be donated.

We will also have a fun up-cycling craft going on, so you can take your time and check for new inventory! No registration required. 

For more information about each event, check our events calendar

  • Sat., March 16 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Sand Creek Library – Calendar
  • Sat., April. 27 from 1 - 4 p.m. at High Prairie Library – Calendar
  • Sat., May 11 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Manitou Springs Library – Calendar
  • Sat., June 15 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Library 21c – Calendar
  • Sat., July 20 from 1 - 4 p.m. at East Library – Calendar
  • Sat., Aug. 31 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Rockrimmon Library – Calendar
  • Sat., Sep. 14 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Old Colorado City Library – Calendar
  • Sat., Oct. 19 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Monument Library – Calendar
  • Sat., Nov. 2 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Banning Lewis Ranch – Calendar

 

 

Image
Adult Winter Reading Program at the Pikes Peak Library District

Adventure Begins at your Library with the 2024 Winter Adult Reading Program!

Log 30 days of activities from Thu., Feb. 1 - Sun., March 31 to earn prizes! Activities such as attending Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) activities listed below and reading for 30 minutes or more a day. 

To register, sign up for Beanstack or stop by the Library to register in-person (curbside services available). When you register in-person or at curbside, you will receive a Winter Adult Reading Program tote bag (while supplies last). 
 

Click here to sign up for Beanstack.

Winter Adult Reading Program Game Card

You can also use the Beanstack app, available for Android and Iphone.


 

Winter Adult Reading Program Registration Kick-Off!

Join us as we kick off the 2024 Winter Adult Reading Program on Thu., Feb. 1. Register beginning on Feb. 1 and pick up a limited-edition registration tote bag while supplies last. Bags will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.  

Prizes

Log 30 days of activities from Feb. 1 – March 31 to earn the annual limited edition Winter Adult Reading Program mug, a certificate for a free piece of chocolate from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and an entry into the grand prize drawing. Activities include reading for 30 minutes or more a day, attending a PPLD program, or any of the activities listed below. You can complete the program through a combination of activities and reading.  

Handwashing is recommended for the mug to preserve the logo.  

Grand Prize Drawing.

Complete your challenge for an entry into the Grand Prize Drawing to receive one of five Colorado Springs Downtown Partnership Gift Cards! Take an adventure in Colorado Springs and explore over 170 Downtown shops, restaurants, salons, and venues where the Downtown Partnership Gift Card is accepted. Click here to see a list of participating locations.  

For every additional five days of reading or activities you log, you will receive one additional entry into the Grand Prize Drawing for a total of up to six additional entries. 

PPLD employees are not eligible for the grand prize.  


Programs

Adventure Begins at Your Library with one of the following fun and informational programs. Each program is being offered as a part of the Winter Adult Reading Program.

Birds of the Pikes Peak Region 

Join wildlife biologist and author Joe LaFleur for an audio-visual presentation about how to identify local raptors, hawks, and owls by sight and sound. After the presentation, Joe will have his books and DVDs available for purchase.  

The Great American Solar Eclipse in 2024 

This talk will discuss the historical and modern cultural context of the solar eclipse in society, what solar eclipses are, the basic science of why eclipses occur, and where to see one of these exciting celestial events. We will also demonstrate safe observing practices using common household objects. The Colorado Springs Astronomical Society  will have 100 solar eclipse viewers to hand out at the conclusion of this presentation. Weather permitting, we will also have solar telescopes set up to provide safe, amazing views of the Sun.  

The Astronomer's Guide to the Universe 

Join the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society for an introduction to astronomy and what we can see in the night sky.    

Preserving the Night Sky 

Join the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society to learn more about why the stars in the night sky seem to be disappearing. The cause of this phenomenon is also affecting both wildlife and human behavior. This talk presents the challenges of light pollution, what they're doing about it, and how the community can help.

The Search for Extraterrestrials: The Real-Life Search for Life Elsewhere in our Solar System 

Everywhere on Earth that we look, even in the most extreme environments, we find life. Join the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society for a talk that explores how we’re using our understanding of life on Earth to help us in our search for life on other worlds. We’ll also discuss the Drake Equation and Fermi’s Paradox and how they factor into the possibility of life out there.  

How Telescopes Changed our Understanding of the Universe 

Join the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society to learn how telescopes have helped us understand more about the mysteries of the universe.

DIY Book Nook

Every book is an adventure; make your bookshelf an invitation to adventure with this DIY Book Nook! Use materials and LED string lights to create a work of art to add to your personal bookshelves.

Handmade Adventure Journals

Make a fabric-covered journal to take on your next adventure. You will learn some basic sewing ideas too!


Activities

Need some suggestions for activities? We’re here to help! 


Reading Resources 

Pick up your copy of the winter 2024 issue of the Library’s District Discovery magazine to track your progress, read stories, and more!  


Have Questions? 

Check out our FAQ for more information on our Adult Winter Reading Program

 

Image
Homeschool Science Fair

Interested in seeing some amazing experiments from up-and-coming scientists? Visit our annual Homeschool Science Fair to browse and chat with project creators. Kids can fill out a "What I learned" and receive a prize! Come and discover something new, or be inspired for next year!

Our annual Homeschool Science Fair is open to grades K-12! Homeschool students are invited to demonstrate a science project for other families. There are no rules or guidelines for this non-competitive event, and planning is left up to individual families.

Registration required. Students will arrive by 9:15 a.m., and the event will be open to the public from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Need help planning your project? Download our Science Fair How-Tos Document!

Image
17th Annual Teen Art Contest

Our theme for this year's Teen Art Contest is Balance.

Balance can be a physical skill or how we approach all the demands of our life. Can you balance on a tight rope or balance beam? Maybe you balance on a skateboard or ski board. Balance could be how you handle all the different responsibilities in your life - including your own needs and wants with school, family, and friends. Create a piece inspired by the theme that shares your thoughts on Balance or expresses what Balance means to you and enter it to win a prize!

Entries are judged by other teens, along with one award that is judged by Library staff. 


Important Dates

  • Sign up online between Thu., Dec. 1 – Tues., Feb. 13
  • Drop off your artwork from Fri., Feb. 9 – Tue., Feb. 13
  • Awards Ceremony on Tues., March 19th, at 6 p.m. at East Library Community Room
  • Art on display throughout April
  • Art pick up the first week of May

How to enter

Make sure you qualify:

  • Must be ages 12 - 19 at time of submission.
  • Must be an El Paso County resident.

Create your art following these guidelines:

  • Create something that is a 2D form of art!
    • Artwork can be any type of two-dimensional art form, as long as we can safely hang it on the wall.
      • Including but not limited to: Photography, Digital Art, Painting, Drawing, Mixed Media/Collage, prints, crochet, etc.
      • There are no formal size requirements, but it needs to be something we can hang on the wall and also transport in a regular passenger car.

Prepare your art:

  • We highly recommend mattes or foamboard for artwork on paper. This helps protect it during transportation and helps with hanging.
    • Submitting art plain or in a frame is fine, just not preferred.
    • Pieces on canvas don’t need additional protection.
  • Your submission should be able to support being hung in our galley hanging wire system.
    • Ideally this means there is a hanging wire or a spot we can attach a hanging wire to.
    • There are several free or low-cost ways to attach a hook or D-Ring.
    • PPLD will supply hanging wire and attach hooks upon receiving submissions if needed.

Complete the entry forms:

Drop off your submission:

Other Entry guidelines:

  • Only one entry per person
  • Library Staff reserve the right to decline inappropriate entries

Award Categories

Award categories include: 

  • One overall Best in Show
  • Middle School Division: First Place, Second Place, and Coordinator's Choice
  • High School Division: First Place, Second Place, and Coordinator's Choice for High School

Winning participants will be notified via letter in mid-March, with specific awards announced at the awards ceremony on Tues., March 19th, at 6 p.m. at East Library. All entries accepted into the show will be on display in April at East Library, Penrose Library, or Library 21c.


FAQs

  • Can I submit a photograph/digital art/other type of 2D art?
    Any type of 2D art piece is accepted as long as we can hang it on the wall and it can be transported between libraries. We’ve had digital pieces, photography, crochet, painting, drawing, photographs of sculptures, collage, charcoal, and more!
     
  • Do you have size requirements for pieces?
    Nothing formal – we have to be able to transport pieces between libraries, so the upper limit on size is something that will fit in a vehicle and will be able to be hung up on a wall.
     
  • When will I know if I have won?
    We will notify award winners by mid-March. All participants and their friends and family are invited to the Awards Ceremony on Tue., March 19 at 6 p.m. in the East Library Community Room regardless of winning an award.
     
  • Will my artwork be displayed?
    Yes! You can choose from one of three locations to have your artwork displayed during the month of April. Locations are Penrose Library, East Library, or Library 21c.
     
  • When and where can I pick up my artwork?
    The first week of May at the library you selected to have it displayed. An email will be sent in April with specific details.
     
  • What are the prizes?
    We award prizes for Coordinator’s Choice, First place, and Second place for the high school and middle school age groups. We also award a prize for Best in Show, which is the piece that received the highest score out of both the middle and high school categories. In the past, winners received a drawing mannequin and gift card to Meininger’s Art Supply store.
     
  • What can I do to improve my chances of winning?
    Work with the theme—It doesn’t have to be a literal interpretation, but we do look for pieces that have been inspired by the theme in some way. Your paragraph describing your piece can have a big impact on this.

    Stand out! Whether through subject matter or having an unusual take on the theme, we notice unique entries more. For example, we tend to get a lot of close-ups on eyes, so they tend to not stand out as much.

    Have fun! Don’t view it as an assignment or chore. We can tell when someone submits a piece they are passionate about – so do something that you love!
     
  • Do I have to have a matte?
    No, but we highly encourage it. Pieces are not judged on having a matte or not, but mattes help protect your artwork during storage and transportation and make it easier to hang your piece. Frames are also accepted, but mattes are preferred.
     
  • I'm a teacher with an amazing class, can I enter them?
    Yes! If you are a teacher who would like to enter a class of students, you can fill out the Excel Spreadsheet linked here to complete one entry form for all of your students. You will be responsible for communicating with participants about the award ceremony and art pick-up.
     
  • My question wasn’t answered here.
    Email Becca at rphilipsen@ppld.org
     
Image
Winter Holidays Instagram Graphic

December is packed with festive celebrations, including Hannukah, winter solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and others. It’s a busy time when you may find yourself decorating, planning or prepping meals and treats, making or shopping for gifts, visiting friends and family, and attending community celebrations. Pikes Peak Library District has all the programs, tools, and resources you need to make the best of the holiday season, including cookbooks and classes, DIY gifts, holiday book lists, and more!

Resources

  • New recipes from a vast array of new-to-you cookbooks for all occasions 
  • Movies, music, books, and even a collection of Hallmark movies on Hoopla
  • Audio and video studio equipment for DIY memories 
  • CultureGrams to learn about holiday celebrations from around the world (must have a library card that starts with a 4 to access outside the Library) 
  • Reviews, shopping guides, and more for your holiday shopping experience with Consumer Reports (must have a library card that starts with a 4 to access outside the Library)
  • A wide assortment of holiday films and documentaries on Kanopy
  • Christmas music on Freegal

 


DIY Gifts


 


Websites


Friends of PPLD Bookstore

Get gifts for your family while supporting your Library! The Friends of PPLD sponsors and supports numerous programs and events to further the enjoyment of reading and love for books by all individuals. They are best known for their volunteerism, their bookstores in each library (you never know what you will find in the ever-changing inventory of previously-read books and magazines) and, of course, the two Big Book Sales each year. 

Stop by the Friends store at the Library and find books, CDs, movies, magazines, and more from $0.25 to $3. Or shop for specialty items online! Purchases made through the Friends of PPLD support library programming and materials. 

Do you love books, reading, and libraries? Have you considered becoming involved in your community? One easy step covers it all! Get involved with the Friends and support your community, one book at a time. 


Programs



Image
Homeschool Book Blast Graphic

Homeschoolers, get ready to tell the world about your favorite book! Prepare a creative book report at home and present it informally to other families in a science fair-style format. What you create to represent your book is up to you. Build a diorama, design a game based on the plot and characters, or make a poster for the movie version. Or you might create a book in a bag project, make a clothes hanger mobile, or draw the story in a comic book format. The possibilities are endless! For homeschool students in grades K – 8. 

Register here to be a book presenter. Registration opens on Fri., Nov. 3 at 10 a.m. and closes on Thu., Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. Please make sure that each participating student registers separately.

If you aren’t ready to present a book report yourself, drop by to support other homeschoolers by browsing the projects and discover your next favorite book!

When: Fri., Dec. 8 from 1 - 2 p.m.
Where: East Library

Need ideas to help you get started? Take a look at our idea file

Image
Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest 2024

Poetry creates opportunities for children to explore a variety of topics and emotions through writing, and Pikes Peak Library District’s annual Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest engages 4th and 5th grade writers. Submissions are open from Fri., Dec. 1 – Fri., March 1. This year’s theme is Lost & Found: Poems of Importance. Young poets can reflect on something they have lost or found in the last few years as they work with poetic devices like imagery, form, meter, and rich vocabulary to create an original poem for a chance to win a prize. This contest continues Jean Ciavonne’s legacy of connecting children with poetry and writing.  

Lost & Found: Poems of Importance

What have you lost AND what have you found in the past few years? What makes them important?

Questions to ask yourself as you write your poem:

  1. Can we see, smell, hear, and taste the imagery in your poem?
  2. Have you used rich vocabulary that tells us a story or paints a picture?
  3. Does your poem reflect the theme?

Prizes: Six winners will receive a book and $50 each! The contest is open to all 4th and 5th graders in the Pikes Peak Region.


Eligibility

Open to all 4th and 5th graders in the Pikes Peak Region.


Contest Rules

  1. One entry per student. Teachers are urged to review poems and submit no more than five per class.
  2. Each poem must be the original work of the contestant. 
  3. Poems will be judged on originality, including poem title and adherence to the theme. 
  4. Submit two typed, double-spaced copies of each poem on 8 ½” x 11” paper (no handwritten submissions or illustrations will be accepted.) Include ON A SEPARATE PIECE OF PAPER: name, telephone number, home address, school name and address, and teacher and principal’s names. Poems will not be returned. Please keep a copy. 
  5. Entries must be postmarked by Fri., March 1, 2024. Submission of a poem constitutes full permission to exhibit, use and publish the poem for any purpose – printed or electronic media – and to publish the name, school, and photographs and/or video of the student without compensation. 
  6. Winners will be celebrated at an Awards Ceremony where they will be given the opportunity to read their poem to the audience. 

Entries may be mailed to: 

The Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest
c/o Christa Funke 
Pikes Peak Library District 
P.O. Box 1579 
Colorado Springs, CO 80901-1579 
Or email entries, following guidelines above to: cfunke@ppld.org 

The awards will be announced in April. 


Jean Ciavonne Remembered from PPLD TV on Vimeo.


Congratulations to our 2023 winners!

  • Justin Beasley, 5th grade, Bear Creek Elementary School - "The Ultimate Cure"
  • Emma Briggeman, 4th Grade, The Classical Academy Central - "The World Needs"
  • Piper Gaulke, 4th grade, Mountain Song Community School - “My Gift
  • Taylor Hannan, The Classical Academy Central, 5th Grade - “Would you do it for the world
  • Clara Pavri, Colorado International Language Academy, 4th Grade  - “Marble”  
  • Megan Thorn, 5th grade, Pikes Peak School of Expeditionary Learning - “The Sender Defender” 

 

Image
National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Graphic

In November, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) joins with people and organizations across the nation to draw attention to hunger and homelessness through education, programs, and events.

Pikes Peak Library District Collects to Share is once again putting out the call to collect hand-crafted items for our community shelters. Starting in November, as part of Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, we will be accepting donations every month for a year. If you have knitted items such as hats, scarves, socks, and blankets that you would like to donate, please bring them to the public desk at any Library location and let staff know that they are for PPLD Collects to Share. Through your hard work and creative generosity, we donated over 120 hand-crafted items to those in need in our community since November 2022. Thank you!


Programs


Resources

  • Helping Hands Community Resource 
    The Helping Hands El Paso County Community Resources guide is a list of services available in El Paso County.  
  • PPLD Community Resource Officers
    Pikes Peak Library District offers community resources across the District. Our Community Resources Specialists are here to help you navigate and connect with services by providing referrals and information to get the help you need for your specific situation.

Website Links

  • Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week
    Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is sponsored by the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness.
Image
Give Campaign – Make a Difference in your Community, suppor the Library during the 2023 Give! Campaign

Few institutions are charged with serving people of all ages and walks of life with relevant and entertaining programs, community spaces, and materials as is your public library. We are a lifeline to technology, entertainment, online resources for employment, enrichment for all ages, and continuing education for everyone in the Pikes Peak region. Throughout November, make a difference in our community by donating to the PPLD Foundation during the 2023 Give! Campaign. Your contributions will help us continue to serve the unique needs of our growing community in 2024. 

The PPLD Foundation has supported Pikes Peak Library District since 2003, helping to fund programs, projects, equipment, and materials for our community through charitable donations. As they participate in this campaign for the 4th consecutive year, the foundation is honored to be among the 63 worthy organizations in this year’s campaign. The PPLD Foundation invites you to show your continued support of the Library and thank you for your kind donation.

Donate

To make a charitable contribution through the 2023 Give! Campaign, please visit the Foundation’s Give! Campaign page

Image
Veterans Day Graphic 2023

Join Pikes Peak Library District this Veterans Day in celebrating our veterans and their families.


Programs

Veterans Day Storytime

Meet some of the veterans in our community as they make Storytime guest appearances in the days leading up to Veterans Day. For ages 3 – 7 and their families and guardians.  

  • Fri., Nov. 3 at 10:30 a.m. – Cheyenne Mountain Library
  • Tue., Nov. 7 at 10:30 a.m. – Monument Library
  • Tue., Nov. 7 at 9 a.m. – Rockrimmon Library
  • Tue., Nov. 7 at 10:30 a.m. – Ruth Holley Library
  • Thu., Nov. 9 at 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. – East Library
  • Thu., Nov. 9 at 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. – High Prairie Library
  • Fri., Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m. – Library 21c
  • Fri., Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m. – Palmer Lake Library 

Patriotism in America Past and Present 

Will America ever have another "Greatest Generation?" In her book Unintended Hero, local author Becky Van Vleet explores the question of whether America will have another “Greatest Generation.” Her book delves into her father's up-close and personal battles on the USS Denver in World War II in the Pacific Theater. Join Becky for an interactive book talk about patriotism from the Greatest Generation in World War II to present day.  Ages 16 and up. Registration recommended. 

Veterans Day Poppy Painting 

Learn more about the palette knife painting technique and try it for yourself by creating beautiful poppy designs in honor of Veterans Day. Registration required.

Patrons of Influence: Military Veterans in El Paso County

Celebrate local veterans and hear from a panel of military veterans who are providing positive influences in culture, leadership, and business in the Pikes Peak region. Panelists will discuss their shared interest and experience on how diversity strengthens organizations and communities. There will be a Livestream option for anyone who wishes to attend virtually. A Question-and-Answer session will follow the discussion. Registration is recommended to attend in-person, and required for the Livestream


Booklists


Resources

  • Military & Veterans LibGuide
    • This guide offers local information and general resources for Colorado-based military and veterans.
  • Freegal
    • This guide offers local information and general resources for Colorado-based military and veterans.
  • Freegal
  • Gale Ebooks
    • Search this database using the key word “Veterans” for further reading and information. (Note that this resource is available at the Library or you can access it remotely with a library card that starts with a 4 and your PIN.)

Websites

  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
    Learn more about VA resources, the PACT Act, healthcare for veterans, life insurance, memorials, and other crucial information for veterans. 
  • Veterans Day 2023
    Familiarize yourself with Veterans Day history, including why Veterans Day moved from October to November, what Armistice Day was, and why schools close in recognition of this federal holiday. 
  • Veterans Day 2023
    Includes information on the importance, history, and the traditions of Veterans Day
  • Veterans Day
    Read about the history and traditions of Veterans Day.

Family websites for active military and veterans 

  • Sesame Street for Military Families
    Find bilingual (Spanish and English) information and multimedia resources on the topics of military deployments, multiple deployments, homecomings, injuries, grief, and self-expression.
  • Babies on the Homefront
    Military and veteran parents will find ideas for enhancing everyday moments with their baby or toddler.
  • Parenting for Veterans
    Discover parenting help when you need it, on any device with access to the internet.
Image
Hispanic Heritage month Graphic

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Fri., Sept. 15 - Sun., Oct. 15, recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The Library offers several opportunities to learn and celebrate. Scroll down to explore resources celebrating Hispanic heritage.


Hispanic Heritage Month Recipe Cards

Learn about favorite foods and make recipes from some of the cultures celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month. Available at all locations starting Fri., Sept. 15.


Resources

May 31- July 31, 2024

Read and explore all summer and earn prizes! More information on our 2024 Summer Adventure program will be coming soon.


Be in the know: Sign up!

Receive a reminder email at the start of Summer Adventure and throughout June and July for summer programs, activities, and more. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Image
EDI A Mighty Long Way

Join Pikes Peak Library District in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and welcome Carlotta Walls LaNier as she takes us through her journey as one of the Little Rock Nine. In 1957, at age 14, Mrs. LaNier and eight other students integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. This act of courage became the catalyst for change in the American educational system. The Little Rock Nine, as they would eventually be called, became ‘foot soldiers’ for freedom. In 1999, members of Congress and former President Bill Clinton bestowed upon Mrs. LaNier and the other members of the Little Rock Nine the nation’s highest civilian award, the Congressional Gold Medal, for their sacrifice and contribution to the cause of equality. 

Mrs. LaNier will share her story with us at the upcoming presentation, A Mighty Long Way, and introduce her new book A Mighty Long Way, My Journey to Justice, at Little Rock Central High. Please join us in-person or on the livestream. Registration is encouraged.  

When: 

Library 21c: Tue., Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. - noon 

Image
Winter Adult Reading Program

Chilly winter days are perfect for curling up with a good book or entertaining yourself with new experiences. Join Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) for this year’s Winter Adult Reading Program! Participants log 30 days of activities from Wed., Feb. 1 - Fri., March 31 to earn prizes. To participate, you can log 30 minutes or more of reading time each day or do activities like join a PPLD Book Group, stop by a Little Free Library in your area, read a new author or genre, explore the NOAA website, and more. You can also choose to attend selected PPLD events, which include fun activities like handmade hand warmers, bleach textile art, and card making.

Participants who log 30 days of activities during the challenge will earn the annual Winter Adult Reading Program mug, a chocolate bar from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and an entry into the grand prize drawing.

Registration opens on Wed., Feb. 1. Register in person or at curbside and receive a tote bag with everything you need to help you participate in the reading program. Bags will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

To learn more and to find out how to register, click here

Image
Teona Chief Librarian

Reflecting on 2022 and looking ahead

As we welcome 2023 and what’s to come, I want to take a moment and reflect on the past year for Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD).  

The Library has been a staple in our community for more than 130 years, evolving to become a public institution that offers physical and digital spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities. Thanks to the investment from El Paso County taxpayers, we can provide residents like you with access to 16 facilities, three mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources and services that are inclusive and welcoming to all.

Because of you, we were able to do so much for the community this past year. PPLD connected hundreds of thousands of people with services, resources, and spaces to help them achieve their goals. Many patrons visited one of our libraries, whether to browse our collection and check out an item, attend a program, use a meeting or study room, create something in a makerspace or recording studio, or use a computer, copier, scanner, or something else they needed. Library cardholders checked out more than 4 million physical items, and we surpassed more than 2 million digital checkouts via OverDrive and Libby by the end of September 2022.

We hosted another year of successful programs that strive to improve literacy like the Winter Adult Reading Program, Summer Adventure for kids and teens, and All Pikes Peak Reads this past fall. PPLD expanded the PowerPass partnership program to include Calhan School District and Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8, providing more students with access to Library resources and services to help further their success in and out of the classroom. And we also added a few new museums and attractions to the Pikes Peak Culture Pass, meaning individuals and families can check out even more cultural experiences right here in our community and beyond.

In the spring of 2022, PPLD also announced its new vision, mission, and values. This became the starting point to develop a three-year strategic plan, which was publicly released in December and officially kicks off this month.

The plan for 2023 - 2025 was informed by staff and public input. Last summer, our team hosted multiple opportunities for Library patrons and other community members to engage with us as part of the planning process, and nearly 1,200 participated, whether online or in-person at one of our libraries. With rich qualitative data from the public and 400-plus staff, we uncovered several common themes – and those helped guide a strategic planning committee of staff, Board, and community representatives in identifying PPLD’s six areas of focus. If you want to find out more and see where, why, and how the Library District will reinvest taxpayer dollars back into the community through 2025, please visit ppld.org/strategicplan.  

It's because of the community’s continued support for PPLD that we have been able to do all of this in 2022 and what we’re planning for 2023. Your investment, trust, and patronage truly are an investment into improving the Pikes Peak region for everyone.  

We look forward to serving you throughout this new year – and using our new strategic plan to fulfill our mission, uphold our values, and aim to achieve our vision for this great community!

 

Teona Shainidze Krebs 
Chief Librarian & CEO 
Pikes Peak Library District 

Image
Comm_USOPM_IG

Get ready for a weekend of epic sports history! PPLD and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum have teamed up to offer a discount weekend at the museum for library cardholders. Share your library card (or card number) to enjoy interactive exhibits and an immersive and accessible look into the journey of Team USA’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes.   

When:  

  • Sat., Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.  
  • Sun., Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m

Present your library card at the museum for $10 admission. The PPLD Bookmobile will be on-site for library card registration and will also put on a special Storytime Saturday morning at 9 a.m. 

Bookmobile on-site: 

  • Sat., Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. – noon  
  • Sun., Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. – noon 
Image
A photo of Colorado Springs with text over it that reads "2023 - 2025 Strategic Plan."

From a small reading room established 136 years ago, PPLD continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our sprawling community. Our service area covers 2,070 square miles of El Paso County with a population of nearly 700,000 – people of all ages and backgrounds with varying views and interests.

Thanks to taxpayer funding, we can continue to provide residents with access to 16 facilities, three mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources and services, all of which are inclusive and welcoming to everyone. The Library team strives to make its physical and digital spaces safe and respectful for diverse voices, perspectives, and pursuits; to foster community dialogue and connections; and to help people achieve their goals and dreams in life.

Overview and Process

In the winter and spring of 2022, our Board of Trustees and staff revisited PPLD’s mission statement and developed a vision statement and organizational values that best reflect our public library system and growing community in El Paso County.

This became our starting point to develop our new strategic plan for 2023 - 2025. After months of input from the public through surveys and in-person meetings, PPLD staff, Library patrons, and other community members and government officials, PPLD used the rich qualitative data it received from more than 1,600 responses to develop a new strategic plan for 2023 - 2025. Below are the six areas of focus the team identified that became the foundation of the plan.

Strategic Plan: Areas of Focus

    Access

    PPLD is an access point for everyone to engage with resources, services, and spaces as they choose.

    Accountability

    PPLD is accountable to all stakeholders through fiscal responsibility, continuous evaluation, and by sharing findings with the public.

    Communications

    PPLD invests in and elevates community awareness of its resources, services, and spaces.

    Community Connections

    PPLD builds community through relationships and partnerships to connect people to relevant resources, services, and spaces.

    Physical and Virtual Spaces

    PPLD provides equitable access to physical and virtual spaces in safe and inclusive environments.

    Staff

    PPLD values, trusts, and invests in staff.

 

PPLD publicly released this plan in detail on Dec. 6, 2022, so everyone could see where, why, and how PPLD will reinvest taxpayer dollars back into the community through 2025. We look forward to using our new strategic plan to fulfill our mission, uphold our values, and aim to achieve our vision for this great community.

 

View the complete plan here:

Image
A microphone graphic with text that reads "Virtual Author Visits."

Pikes Peak Library District is excited to bring you Virtual Author Visits in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. Join us and hear from bestselling authors and thought leaders on a range of topics, from puzzling science to epic fantasy to decluttering your home. Whether you are an avid or occasional reader, there is nothing quite like listening to insightful talks by authors you have read or plan to read soon. You never know what will catch your interest. Attend these events at no cost from the comfort of home.

In January join us for an action-packed online conversation with Namina Forna, New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Ones Series in a discussion about her second installment in the series, The Merciless Ones.

Next, you are invited to start your new year calm and collected by learning how to become better organized and clutter-free with Dana K. White, creator of the popular podcast and blog, A Slob Comes Clean, as she imparts tips from her books Organizing for the Rest of Us and Decluttering at the Speed of Life.

At the end of January, please join us for what is sure to be the most fun-filled hour of your day as we chat online with Randall Munroe about his new book What If? 2: Additional Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions.

Learn more and see upcoming authors at libraryc.org/ppld


Upcoming author visits

  • Sat., Jan. 7 at noon: The Gilded Ones Series: Author Talk with Namina Forna
  • Tue., Jan 17 at noon: Decluttering to Start Your New Year: Author Talk with Dana K. White
  • Tue., Jan. 31 at noon: xkcd Webcomic and What if? Series Creator: Author Talk with Randall Munroe
  • Thu., Feb. 9 at 5 p.m.: Back in a Spell: Author Talk with Lana Harper
  • Image
    A photo of Colorado Springs with the Club Q memorial ribbon and text that reads "we are here for everyone"

    The shooting at Club Q on Sat., Nov. 19 was a senseless act of violence against the LGBTQ+ community that claimed the lives of 5 individuals, physically injured 18 others, and impacted many more. Our hearts go out to those lost and injured in the shooting, as well as those of our community who have lost friends and family. Our community, like others across the nation, is hurting following this tragedy.

    Our mission is to cultivate spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities, and our values include bringing people together. We understand that diversity, inclusivity, and equity are pillars of a strong and thriving community and we strive to support our entire community. PPLD joins the efforts of all whose interests are focused on building a strong community free of hatred and intolerance.


    Below are resources you can access for more information and support.

    Resources

  • Crisis and LGBTQ+ Resources LibGuide: A list of resources curated by PPLD librarians.

    Websites

    • Colorado Crisis Services hotline: Call (844)493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255 to speak with a trained counselor or professional. Counselors are also available at walk-in locations or online to chat between 4 p.m. and 12 a.m. Colorado Crisis Services is the statewide behavioral health crisis response system offering residents mental health, substance use or emotional crisis help, information and referrals. Its mission is to strengthen Colorado’s mental health system by providing Coloradans with greater access to crisis services wherever they are at 24/7/365 regardless of ability to pay. They offer walk-in, text, and call-in services for people in crisis.
    • Colorado State Government Behavioral Health resources: Mental health resources from the Behavioral Health Administration of Colorado.
    • Colorado Springs resource page: Community resources posted by Colorado Springs in support of the community following the shooting at Club Q.
    • Colorado Public Radio: Resources and information on finding help and helping following the Club Q shooting.
    • Colorado 211: A confidential and multilingual service connecting people to vital resources across the state. No matter where you live in Colorado, you can find information about resources in your local community.
    • Diversus Health: Offers a 24/7 walk-in crisis center for crisis services and counseling for all ages, regardless of ability to pay. You can request an appointment online or visit 115 S. Parkside Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80910.
    • Inside Out Youth Services: Provides support and resources for LGBTQ youth and are coordinating vigils for people to gather.
    • Medicaid support services: Medicaid-insured members have access to behavioral health services or other supports, and we want them to get the care they need during this time. Call (719)598-1540 to contact them directly, or refer to care coordination via the online referral form.
    • Mental health provider resources: A list of mental health providers offering therapy for those impacted. Many are providing sessions free or at a reduced charge.
    • One Colorado: One Colorado is the state’s leading advocacy organization dedicated to advancing equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) Coloradans and their families. They effectively advocate for LGBTQ Coloradans and their families by lobbying the General Assembly, the executive branch, and local governments on issues like safe schools, transgender equality, relationship recognition, and LGBTQ health and human services.
    • The Trevor Project: A resource and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ+ young people. The Trevor Project offers crisis services, peer support, and other services.
    • Peak View Behavioral Health Assessment team: Individualized help for mental health treatment and other services. Visit them online or call (719)444-8484.
  • Image
    A bridge stretches into the distance. Text reads "We have a story: Homeless in Colorado Springs."

    What does our city look like through the lens of someone experiencing homelessness? Come find out at the "We Have a Story" exhibit.


    We Have a Story

    “We Have a Story: Homeless in Colorado Springs” is a documentary project completed in 2022 by people experiencing homelessness. This project captures the unique experiences of these individuals through photos and stories. The four individuals who participated in the project present their distinctive perspectives of this complex and diverse community, which is not easy to define.

    Participants took pictures over the course of a month in the spring of 2022. They met as a group with a professional photographer to discuss and critique their photographs. Participants also sat with a historian to conduct an oral history interview. At the end of the project, they each selected three images and wrote an accompanying artist story. The photos and narratives will be displayed throughout Pikes Peak Library District.

    The photos, narratives, and oral histories will also be accessible online through Special Collections at Penrose Library, which preserves the stories and records of the Pikes Peak region. “We Have a Story: Homeless in Colorado Springs” contributes to the region’s history by documenting the stories of contemporary residents who are typically overlooked in a community’s historical record.

    Exhibit Schedule:

    • 2022
      • November - Penrose Library
      • December - Manitou Springs Library/Manitou Arts Center
    • 2023
      • January - Cheyenne Mountain Library and Rockrimmon Library
      • February - Library 21c
      • March - East Library
    Image
    The cover of the book Military Matters is visible beside the silhouette of two soldiers. Text reads "Military Matters: Book release and panel discussion"

    Join Pikes Peak Library District’s Regional History and Genealogy (RH&G) department as they release the latest book in their Regional History Series: Military Matters: Defense, Development, & Dissent in the Pikes Peak Region.
    There will be a presentation by the RH&G staff members about the multitude of ways the military has shaped, contributed to, and transformed the Pikes Peak region.

    This will be followed by a panel discussion with three retired veterans living in the region:

      William Thomas, Retired Army Chief Warrant Officer
      Terrance D. McWilliams, Retired 7th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Command Sergeant Major
      Christine Martinez, Retired U.S. Army Flight Medical Aidman and Air Force Reserves

    When and Where

    The book release and panel discussion will be on Thu., Nov. 17 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. at Penrose Library. Military Matters: Defense, Development & Dissent in the Pikes Peak Region will be for sale to all attendees at a discount.

    Image
    Arts Month 2022

    This October, arts and culture takes center stage across the Pikes Peak region as our community celebrates Arts Month! And you’re encouraged to have one new cultural experience with family or friends sometime this month.

    Art is for everyone, and we’re offering opportunities for people of all ages and skill levels! To kick off the month, we will be offering Take and Make kits at participating Library locations that you can pick up and enjoy doing at home (while supplies last).

    There are also several Library programs happening throughout October like workshops and open paint nights. Come celebrate Arts Month with us this October.

    Here are a few options:


    Bad Art Night – For Adults 
    Multiple dates starting Wed., Oct. 5

     

    All of the fun of making art with none of the pressure! Join us to create the most ridiculous pieces of art you can think of - from painting to collage to sculpture - while enjoying snacks and refreshments. At the end of the night, there will be awards for the most over-the-top bad artwork! All supplies will be provided. Come celebrate Arts Month with us in a judgment-free and glitter-heavy zone!


    Mini Pumpkin Decorating – For Tweens 
    Multiple dates starting Thu., Oct. 6

     

    Transform a mini pumpkin into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece! We will have everything you need to decorate a pumpkin for fall. For ages 9 - 12. Registration required.


    Pikes Peak Live! – For Teens and Adults 
    Sat., Oct. 22 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. at The Hall at PPLD (formerly known as Knights of Columbus Hall)

     

    Pikes Peak Live! is an all-day event that consists of performing art workshops that will conclude with a talent show by the participants for the public. The day will start with a series of workshops where participants can choose to attend either poetry, music, or comedy workshops. Participants then will come together to present their works (panel style) where they’ll learn some tips and tricks on performing on stage. The day will conclude with a talent showcase where participants can take part and test the water by performing in front of an audience. The showcase is open to public viewing.


    View all Library programs and activities during Arts Month.

     

    To find out what else is happening around the region, check out the calendar of events at ArtsOctober.com.

    We partner with the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region throughout the year to encourage residents of El Paso County to engage with their community through arts, culture, and other programs and experiences. PPLD is a proud partner of #ArtsOctober and PeakRadar.com.

    Image
    Show Your Library Love

    PPLD's “Show Your Library Love” bumper sticker campaign and contest welcomes all library lovers to participate. Just stop by one of the 17 PPLD locations (including Mobile Library Services), and ask for your favorite of the three stickers at the Service desk. (Only one sticker per person while supplies last.)

    We hope to see stickers throughout El Paso County and to encourage others to seek out PPLD and discover the “Library Love” for themselves!

    We’d love for you to post it where everyone can see it: your car, your window, your water bottle, wherever! Take a photo of where you put it, then either share that photo on social media with the hashtag #ILOVEPPLD or email it to Communications@ppld.org to win one of 10 engraved water bottles. One winner will be selected each week.

    Image
    An abstract tree is illustrated against a calm background. Text reads "Fall 2022 Dinner Concert: The Shivers Concert Series"

    On Fri., Nov. 18, the Shivers Concert Series at Pikes Peak Library District presents “Fall Dinner Concert”.

    The evening’s musical guests include:

    • Veronica Williams

    • Icy Monroe

    • Marcus King

    • Terri Pederson and the Tidal Breeze Quartet

    • Linda Weise and Adam Haas

    • Susan Grace

    Schedule

      6:30 p.m. – Social hour

      7 p.m. – Dinner

      8 p.m. – Concert

    Location

    This event will be at the City Auditorium (221 E. Kiowa)

    Tickets

    Tickets for this event are $70 per person.

    To purchase tickets online, click here.

    You may also mail checks to PPLD Foundation (1175 Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920), or pay by phone at (719) 531-6333 x5154.

    Please RSVP at your earliest convenience.

    Musical Workshop

    There will be a free Musical Workshop for Students on Sat., Nov 19. at 2 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall. Please note that this free workshop is only open to students.

    Last updated June 6, 2022

    Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is here to serve you, regardless of the circumstances! You’re welcome inside all of our libraries, now with almost all services, resources, and spaces available to you again. Open hours and specific services may vary by Library location, so please check in advance. PPLD continues to prioritize the health and safety of our patrons, staff, and greater community during the ongoing pandemic while making our resources and services accessible to everyone. PPLD has lifted its mask requirements, following CDC and State of Colorado guidance for fully vaccinated individuals. Face coverings (including masks and shields) are now optional inside all of our libraries, but strongly encouraged for those 11 years and older who are not fully vaccinated. (If you need an accommodation, please contact your local Library directly.) Get vaccinated at a Library-hosted clinic in partnership with Governor Polis’ Vaccines for All plan!


    What can I expect when visiting the Library inside?

    During your Library visit, you can do the following:

    Here’s what to expect during your Library visit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

    • Face coverings (including masks and shields) are now optional inside all of our libraries, but strongly encouraged for those 11 years and older who are not fully vaccinated. (If you need an accommodation, please contact your local library directly.)
    • Self-service cleaning stations are available at locations, in which patrons can use supplies to wipe down furniture and equipment before or after use if wanted. Staff will no longer clean such surfaces between patron use. There are sanitation protocols for equipment checkouts, along with public-use areas like makerspaces, studios, and meeting rooms. PPLD’s contracted cleaning service regularly cleans each facility using enhanced flu season protocol.
    • Other areas and items that remain temporarily unavailable with plans to resume soon: Some computers and children’s play area.

    Please remember that open hours and specific services may vary by Library location, so please check in advance.


    What else can I expect from PPLD?

    In addition to services offered inside our libraries, we also offer:

    Here’s an overview of what is available – and not available – to our Library cardholders and patrons at this time:
     

    • Want to return items and pick-up holds? Curbside services are available at all libraries! Use the link to find out more and access your library’s service hours and pickup instructions.
    • There are so many ways to use the Library remotely! Browse our Online Catalog. Stream and download books, audiobooks, comics, magazines, music, and videos. Use our databases to conduct research, access ample resources for kids and teens, and more from your couch.
    • Check out our virtual programs! Our librarians are bringing their services to you, anywhere and anytime.
    • Have a question? Ask a librarian! Our staff are available to help you by phone, live chat, and email. You also can book an appointment with a specialized librarian.
    • Checked out items: Please check your PPLD accounts either through our Catalog or on the PPLD mobile app for return dates, which will be listed by item. (Returns are accepted outside of all libraries as part of curbside services and will no longer be held in quarantine effective Mon., April 5.)
    • Fines & fees: We officially went fine-free for most Library materials in early 2019, as long as they are not lost or damaged. (See above regarding checked out items.)
    • OverDrive: Cardholders can have 20 checkouts for a total of 21 days each with a total hold limit of 30. PPLD will continue to add copies of digital materials to our collection as our budget allows. Some digital checkouts can be returned early so others have opportunity for access. (Instructions for checking out and returning are available here.)
    • Use of meeting & study rooms: Meeting and study spaces are reopening at full capacity across the Library District, with the exception of the community room at East Library, the venue at Library 21c, and the Columbine room at Penrose Library. View what’s available and make a reservation online.
    • Library programs & events: The Library continues to host programs virtually as well as provide at-home options like take and make kits, discovery kits, and Dial-a-Story and TeleGram by phone. Now there are drive-in, outdoor, and indoor options at libraries and other community locations (like Storytime)! View our event calendar for all opportunities right now. More in-person activities hosted by PPLD and held inside of our facilities will continue to be reintroduced safely.
    • Use of creative spaces & services: Cardholders can take advantage of 3D print drop-off services, plus plus check out Studio equipment. Our makerspaces and studios are open, too. These services are only available at select libraries and hours may vary by location.
    • Use of family & children’s spaces: The Educational Resource Center at East Library reopened for public reservation on Wed., April 7. Other children’s play areas remain temporarily closed with plans to reopen soon.
    • Library card signup: Register online and start using your card immediately! If you sign up online during this time, your temporary account will be available for 90 days (instead of the usual 12-day limit), giving you immediate access to OverDrive and other digital resources from home. Bring your ID and proof of address to your nearest Library and they can activate your full privilege account inside or via curbside!
    • Account expirations & renewals: Library card/account expirations will be extended, including accounts that expired in the past 24 months.
    • Interlibrary loans: Due to staffing restrictions based on guidance from local public health officials, maintaining the current number of requests is not feasible. Therefore, we are decreasing the number of Interlibrary Loans requests to three per library card. We expect requests to take longer to fulfill (borrowing or purchasing), with a potential wait time of four to eight weeks.
    • WiFi access: All Library facilities continue to provide open WiFi access, which should be also available outside of most PPLD buildings.
    • Friends of PPLD and book donations: PPLD Friends Bookstores have reopened their bookstores inside of our libraries. Online sales continue with curbside pickup at East Library. Shop our collection now! Have donations for us? Complete the form here to request an appointment to donate your materials.

    Our team also continues to work with community organizations, school districts, and other partners to support El Paso County residents with many different needs during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.


    Information About COVID-19

    Vaccinations Vaccines are now available to all Colorado residents 12 years and older! State and local public health officials encourage you to get vaccinated. It’s free, safe, and effective in protecting you against COVID-19; no ID or insurance required. Learn more and find a local provider to book your appointment in El Paso County. You also can call 2-1-1 or text “vaccine” to 667873. Get vaccinated at a Library-hosted clinic! As part of Governor Polis’ Vaccines for All plan, PPLD has been selected to host vaccine equity clinics. Learn more about participating locations, dates, and registration! Have questions about the novel coronavirus? We understand that people may be concerned about COVID-19 and how it may affect them. Please check out the following public resources for more information:

    What should I do? To help stop the spread of germs and any contagious illness, local and national public health experts recommend that everyone should take everyday preventive actions and practice good hygiene. Here are some tips from the CDC specific to the COVID-19 pandemic and particularly for those who are not fully vaccinated:

    • Put distance between yourself and other people; at least 6 feet apart.
    • Stay home if you’re sick.
    • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover whenever inside public settings, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, medical facilities, and other crowded spaces.
    • Frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, if you cannot wash your hands.
    • Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth; avoid touching with unwashed hands.
    • Cover your mouth with tissue when coughing or sneezing, and then properly wash your hands.
    • Clean surfaces and personal items, such as cell phones, using household disinfecting products.

    What is COVID-19? There is a global pandemic situation involving a respiratory illness named COVID-19, which is caused by a new coronavirus that spreads through coughing or sneezing, much like influenza (also known as the flu). Vaccines have been approved and are being distributed. For current information and updates on the pandemic:

     

    Image
    All Pikes Peak Writes

    Congratulations to our last year's winners.

    Check out the anthology of last year's winners of Pikes Peak Writes.


    Pikes Peak Library District is excited to announce the call for submissions for All Pikes Peak Writes! All Pikes Peak Writes is PPLD’s annual fiction writing contest for ages 12+, and seeks to highlight writers in our community through one contest. This year’s contest will have three categories: Middle School and High School (ages 12 - 18), Young Adult (ages 19 - 24), and Adult (ages 25+). Please see the guidelines, rules for entry, and submission form for each category below.

    Submissions will be accepted Mon., June 12, through 9 p.m. on Sun., July 23.

    Middle School and High School Entry (ages 12 - 18)  
    Young Adults Entry (ages 19 - 24)  
    Adults Entry (ages 25+)


    Eligibility:

    All Pikes Peak Writes is open to El Paso County residents ages 12+.

    Judging: 

    Entries will be judged on quality of writing, use of language, plot development and resolution, believable characters, and correct punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

    Awards: 

    Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place entries in each category. Winners will be announced in late August.  

    Please contact hbuljung@ppld.org or lpowers@ppld.org for questions or more information.
     


    Middle School and High School (ages 12 - 18)

    The Challenge:

    Write a story, up to 2,500 words, starting with the opening line: “The train screeched to a halt.” 

    Submit your story

    Guidelines:

    • Must be ages 12 to 18.
    • Must be an El Paso County resident.
    • Word count must not exceed 2,500 words. Word count will be established by using Microsoft Word. Points will be automatically deducted from the total score of the piece if the word count exceeds 2,500 words. 
    • Pieces must include a title page with the title and author’s name. The author’s name should not appear anywhere else on the document. 
    • Pieces must be double-spaced and in 12-point Times New Roman or Calibri font with the title and page number in the upper right-hand corner.
    • Only one entry per person. 
    • Participants must fill out the form and submit your story below by Sun., July 23 at 9 p.m. The file format should be PDF, .doc, or.docx. If you need to convert a file, please visit a library location. 
    • Failure to follow the guidelines will result in disqualification.

    FAQs

    When will I know if I have won?

    • We will notify participants in late August if they have won an award. 

    Are you publishing the anthology again?

    • Yes! We will be publishing the top three stories in all categories (Middle School/High School, 19 - 24, and 25+).

    Will I get feedback for my work?

    • Yes! You will receive a copy of the judges’ comments after the contest concludes.

    Do I have to turn in my story online?

    • Yes. To better facilitate the process, we are requiring all stories be turned in digitally. You can stop by any PPLD location to use one of our computers for this purpose. 

    Young Adult (ages 19 - 24)

    The Challenge:

    Write a story, up to 3,500 words, starting with the opening line: “The train screeched to a halt.”

    Submit your story

    Guidelines:

    • Must be ages 19 - 24.
    • Must be an El Paso County resident.
    • Word count must not exceed 3,500 words. Word count will be established by using Microsoft Word 2016. Points will be automatically deducted from the total score of the piece if the word count exceeds 3,500 words. 
    • Pieces must include a title page with title and author’s name. The author’s name should not appear anywhere else on the document. 
    • Pieces must be double-spaced and in 12-point Times New Roman or Calibri font with the title and page number in the upper right-hand corner.
    • Only one entry per person. 
    • Participants must fill out the form and submit your story below by Sun., July 23 at 9 p.m. The file format should be PDF, .doc, or.docx. If you need to convert a file, please visit a library location. 
    • Failure to follow the guidelines will result in disqualification.

    FAQs

    When will I know if I have won?

    • We will notify participants in late August if they have won an award. 

    Are you publishing the anthology again?

    • Yes! We will be publishing the top three stories in all categories (Middle School/High School, 19 - 24, and 25+).

    Will I get feedback for my work?

    • Yes! You will receive a copy of the judges’ comments after the contest concludes.

    Do I have to turn in my story online?

    • Yes. To better facilitate the process, we are requiring all stories be turned in digitally. You can stop by any PPLD location to use one of our computers for this purpose. 

    Adults (ages 25+)

    The Challenge:

    Write an original fiction story of up to 3,500 words. 

    Submit your story

    Guidelines for entry:

    • Must be ages 25+.
    • Must be an El Paso County resident.
    • One story may be submitted per entrant.
    • Qualifying stories are: original, previously unpublished, and no longer than 3,500 words.
    • Word count will be established by using Microsoft Word 2016. 
    • Stories must be double-spaced and typed in 12-point Times New Roman or Calibri font.
    • Submission must include title page with title and author’s name. The author’s name should not appear anywhere else on the document. 
    • The title of the story should appear on the upper right-hand corner of each page followed by the page number.
    • Entries must be received by Sun., July 23 at 9 p.m. 
    • The file format should be PDF, .doc, or.docx. If you need to convert a file, please visit a library location. 
    • Failure to follow the guidelines will result in disqualification.

    FAQs

    When will I know if I have won?

    • We will notify participants in August if they have won an award.

    Are you publishing the anthology again?

    • Yes! We will be publishing the top three stories in all categories (Middle School/High School, 19 - 24, and 25+).

    Will I get feedback for my work?

    • Yes! You will receive a copy of the judges’ comments after the awards ceremony.

    Do I have to turn in my story online?

    • Yes. To better facilitate the process, we are requiring all stories be turned in digitally. You can stop by any PPLD location to use one of our computers for this purpose.   
       

    Image
    A photo of East Library with the HIRE Vets gold medallion in front. The medallion features an abstract eagle.

    The HIRE Vets Medallion Program has awarded Pikes Peak Library District the 2022 Gold HIRE Vets Medallion Award in honor of our investment in employing and retaining Veterans. This national program is part of the 2017 Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act, which established rules for recognizing employers who hire Veterans. In order to be eligible for the gold medallion, an employer of PPLD’s size must have at least 7% of their workforce be Veterans, and retain more than 75% of their newly hired Veterans over 12 months. We are proud to have achieved this in 2021.

    Our Library district achieved this in 2021 by having 28 Veteran employees, and hiring 3 Veterans in 2021 with a 100% retention rate. We are the only Colorado library district to receive this distinction in 2022. We are proud to work alongside these honored individuals as they continue to serve the community.

    Pikes Peak Library District, like many other organizations and companies across the Pikes Peak Region and nation, has experienced staffing shortages over the past year. Presently we do not have enough employees to maintain our current service hours at all Library locations, which is why we’re having to adjust open hours at several libraries across El Paso County.

    Here’s what Library patrons can expect: Beginning the week of Oct. 3, Ruth Holley Library and The Hall at PPLD (formerly known as Knights of Columbus Hall) will be closed on Mondays, Sand Creek Library will be closed on Fridays, and Monument Library, Rockrimmon Library, and Library 21c will be open one hour later, until 6 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays. Then, starting the week of Oct. 10, Cheyenne Mountain Library will be closed on Wednesdays, Old Colorado City Library will be closed on Tuesdays, and Monument Library will be closed on Thursdays. Our locations continue to remain closed on Sundays.

    Earlier during the COVID-19 pandemic, Library leadership had to made the difficult decision to close all locations on Sundays due to similar reasons. Due to continued staffing shortages, we’ll now have to close some locations another day of the week. Before selecting which days of the week, our team did review Library location visits and considered which days and hours had fewer visitors so the community impact would be minimized. We also factored in feedback from Library patrons about preferred days and hours, which was provided during a Library patron survey conducted in the Spring of 2021.

    Pikes Peak Library District is here to connect families and individuals with the Library resources, services, and spaces that can help them thrive, and we want to be able to provide service hours that match community needs. We hope as the economy rebounds from the ongoing pandemic that our team will be able to hire more employees and we can resume pre-pandemic Library service hours in the near future.

    Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us. “I’m offended”….”How can I explain this to my kid?”….”This isn’t what I believe”….The idea that books that present these challenges should be taken off of the shelves, and the opposing assertion that all knowledge should be available to everyone, is the foundation of librarians’ favorite holiday week: Banned Books Week, Sat., Sept. 26 - Sat., Oct. 2.


    Programs and PPLD Resources

    Teens Eat: Book-tasting Get ready to sample books and snacks! You will be introduced to four different Banned Books that will each be paired with a related snack. Child and Young Adult Reading List


    Banned Books

    When you read a book or watch a movie, ever think to yourself “I’m offended” or ”How can I explain this to my kid?” or ”This isn’t what I believe”? Those thoughts are common and every library has something that offends someone. Banned Books Week is about keeping materials available for all – even if they offend someone. The American Library Association honors this tradition by taking the time to educate us all on intellectual freedom. Banned Books Week launched in the 1980s after a rise in challenging and banning controversial materials (including Hop on Pop, by Dr. Seuss).), In short, this is your right to read whatever you want, whether someone else agrees with it or not. So this Banned Books Week, go out and explore without limitations! Read the books that you want to read and find the information that you want to know whether it’s offensive, different, scary, magical, or anywhere in between!


    The Top 10 National List The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom tracked 156 challenges to library, school, and university materials and services in 2020. Of the 273 books that were targeted, here are the most challenged, along with the reasons cited for censoring the books:

    1. George by Alex Gino
      • Reasons: Challenged, banned, and restricted for LGBTQIA+ content, conflicting with a religious viewpoint, and not reflecting “the values of our community”
    2. Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged because of author’s public statements, and because of claims that the book contains “selective storytelling incidents” and does not encompass racism against all people
    3. All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged for profanity, drug use, and alcoholism, and because it was thought to promote anti-police views, contain divisive topics, and be “too much of a sensitive matter right now”
    4. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
      • Reasons: Banned, challenged, and restricted because it was thought to contain a political viewpoint and it was claimed to be biased against male students, and for the novel’s inclusion of rape and profanity
    5. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged for profanity, sexual references, and allegations of sexual misconduct by the author
    6. Something Happened in Our Town: A Child’s Story About Racial Injustice by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard, illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin
      • Reasons: Challenged for “divisive language” and because it was thought to promote anti-police views
    7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged for racial slurs and their negative effect on students, featuring a “white savior” character, and its perception of the Black experience
    8. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged for racial slurs and racist stereotypes, and their negative effect on students
    9. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
      • Reasons: Banned and challenged because it was considered sexually explicit and depicts child sexual abuse
    10. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
      • Reasons: Challenged for profanity, and it was thought to promote an anti-police message

    Check out challenged titles at PPLD.


    Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) believes in freedom of information for all and does not practice censorship. The selection of Library materials is predicated on the patron's right to read and freedom from censorship by others. Library materials may be controversial and any given item may offend some person. Selections for the Library are made solely on the merits of the material, in relation to the development of a collection that serves the needs and interests of a diverse population. Community members are always welcome to submit a reconsideration request form for Library materials. Please see our Challenge Materials Policy for more information.

    Come dance under the sea with us! Twirl, jump, and jam out with family and friends as we celebrate our underwater friends - you might even see an octopus!

    Costumes and dressing up are encouraged.

    East Library*

    Mobile Library Services

    Library 21c*

    Penrose Library*

    Mobile Library Services

    High Prairie Library

    Rockrimmon Library*

    Cheyenne Mountain Library

    *Registration required.

    Enter your creations in our PPLD Challenges! Randomly selected entries will be featured on PPLD’s websites and social media accounts and one randomly drawn entry will receive a gift certificate and prize pack of curated craft books from the Friends of the Library.

    Love Letters to the Library

    February is Library Lover's Month! Show us your love by writing us a love letter or note. Post a photo of your note on Facebook or Instagram any time from Mon., Feb. 15 - 28 and make sure to include the hashtag #ppldchallenge and tag @ppld to be eligible to win. Alternatively, you can send your photo to ppldchallenge@ppld.org and we will post it to social media for you! Want to post anonymously? Use the webform here.

    Rules for participation:
    1. Please participate in good faith.
    2. Keep competitions civil and fun!
    3. PPLD reserves the right to remove inappropriate content, including but not limited to obscene or offensive statements or personal attacks. Learn more about our policies here.

    Gardening in the high prairie can be difficult, so the staff at High Prairie Library have created this handy year-long guide to making the most out of your gardening efforts!

    Click here to download yours today!

    Check out these stats and our top title of 2020 below. 

    • Physical material checkouts: 1,845,866
    • Additions to physical collection:18,000 titles and 58,000 items, plus 15,570 magazines
    • OverDrive:
      • Checkouts: 2,430,575
      • Patrons: 61,278 patrons; an increase of 22%
    • Freegal:
      • Song Downloads: 76,007
      • Songs Streamed: 248,986
    • Kanopy: 58,201 videos streamed
    • Hoopla: 40,813 checkouts, movies and television mostly
    • New cardholders during 2020: 26,215

    Top 10 Adult Titles


    Top 10 Young Adult Titles


    Top 10 Children's Titles

    In honor of our annual cookie competition and as part of our anniversary, High Prairie Library is compiling an online cookbook: Harvest of Recipes - A Collection From the Falcon Community. We will be collecting YOUR recipes for our very own cookbook! Click here to submit your recipe and (optional) photo!

    At Pikes Peak Library District, you can do anything you set your mind to. We, of course, offer books at each of our libraries. But did you know you can also get help with at-home education, do virtual yoga, learn a new language, discover your family tree, stream music, watch movies, and more? PPLD offers so many exciting things, it’s hard to capture them all! Learn more about what all you can access with your library card below. Thanks to the public’s investment and taxpayer support, Pikes Peak Library District can provide Library resources and services to all cardholders for free. You can learn more about PPLD's budget and expenditures here.

    My Library: Kids and Teens Edition!


    Getting your Library Card

    Click here to learn more about library cards.


    My Account

    From managing your holds, Interlibrary Loans, set notification preferences, and more! Click here to learn more about My Account.


    Download the App


    The Catalog

    Find books, eBooks, audiobooks, music, movies, video games, board games, and more! Click here for instructions on using the Catalog.


    Programs

    Click here to see our full calendar of events.


    Meeting and Study Rooms

    From a study room for one, to a venue space for large events and productions, we have a space to suit your needs.


    eBooks


    Audiobooks


    Movies & TV Shows


    Music


    Magazines & Newspapers


    Makerspaces

    PPLD’s makerspaces offer access to tools, materials, and machines to help bring your creative vision to life. In these spaces, you’ll find equipment such as 3D printers, laser engraving & cutting machines, sewing machines, and assorted handicraft and art tools. Reservations are recommended for makerspace equipment. Find out what's available and plan your project. We also have a partnership with the Manitou Art Center allowing patrons to use their makerspace equipment. Go to the MAC page to find out more.


    Studios

    PPLD’s studios offer access to equipment and tools to help bring your recording desires to life. In these spaces, you’ll find items such as DSLR cameras, audio mixers, isolated sound booths, microphones, musical instruments, professional-grade video cameras and lighting, and even a green screen. Learn more about the studios by selecting a location below. Explore Studio equipment that’s available for reservation and checkout.


    eLearning

    Find help and support for your at-home learning endeavors at ppld.org/eLearning.


    Languages

    Mango Languages


    Genealogy Research


    Homework & Homeschool Help


    Personal & Professional Development


    Databases

    Research Guides

    And More...

    The 2020 school year will look different for all of us, regardless what learning method your family has chosen for your students. Pikes Peak Library District has tools and resources to support you in your education journey this year!

    Homework Resources Guide

    First stop: get your card.

    • Either stop by a PPLD facility to sign up, or print out an application ahead of time to bring with you (located here).
    • OR
    • Apply for a card online!
      •  
        • You must live within the PPLD service area
        • You will need proof of your current address and a photo ID
        • If you're 15-years-old or younger, you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.


    Learn more about the Library's response to Covid-19.


    Brainfuse

    Live homework help and skills building online with expert tutors in math, science, social studies, and English, plus writing and reading assistance.


    Peterson's Test Prep

    Study Guides and Practice Tests:

    This database provides study guides and timed practice exams for all major college entrance exams and standardized tests, plus college planning, scholarship search, and career exploration tools.


    Databases

    These platforms provide high-quality educational content and are fun to explore! Access is free with a valid library card and pin number. Databases include:

    • Academic Search Premier: Contains full text for more than 2,000 journals, including more than 1,550 peer-reviewed titles. This multi-disciplinary database covers virtually every area of academic study.
    • Consumer Health Complete:A comprehensive full-text resource for consumer-oriented health content covering all areas of health and wellness from mainstream medicine to the many perspectives of complementary, holistic and integrated medicine.
    • CultureGrams: Includes over 200 reports on countries and cultures and state reports outlining the diversity and history of each U.S. state and the District of Columbia. Designed for upper elementary-aged children
    • Gale Virtual Reference Library: Searches our entire collection of Gale eBooks on a variety of subjects, including history, science, government, and more.
    • CustomGuide: Interactive online training for Microsoft Office software. Includes Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Windows and Word. New users will need to create an account.
    • LinkedIn Learning: Formerly Lynda.com, LinkedIn Learning offers online video tutorials to help you learn software, creative, and business skills.
    • Opposing Viewpoints in Context: Explore current events and controversial issues by researching multiple sides of a topic. This database aids students in writing argumentative essays and developing analytical thinking skills.
    • Science Reference Center: Provides easy access to a multitude of full-text, science-oriented content. Designed to meet every student researcher's needs, Science Reference Center contains full text for 732+ science encyclopedias and reference books, 195 periodicals, 519 science videos and other sources.

    Online Resource Guides

    Librarian-Approved Info on Tons of Topics!

    Your source for research assistance, subject guides, and library resources.


    Mango Languages

    Ready to expand your horizons by learning a new language? Mango Languages features 70 language options, including 21 options for those learning English as a second language. Explore languages from Irish to Punjabi in the comfort of your own home, or download the app to learn on the go! Students can go at their own pace. The courses have been created by expert linguists and native-speaking instructors to ensure that the content is grammatically and conversationally correct, as well as culturally relevant.


    Workforce Readiness Training

    Get ready to get a job or go to college! Work your way through modules focused on professionalism, communication, social skills, and goal setting to prepare yourself for the next big step in your life. Folks below age 15 should focus on the “basic” training while older youth might find the “intermediate” training more appropriate. Complete the training and pass an assessment to earn 10 hours of volunteer credit!


    The Homeschool Hub

    The PPLD Homeschool Hub has a wealth of resources and tools to support your learning at home efforts. You can also sign up for their newsletter here. Click on “Resources” to find information on getting started; Colorado homeschool law, online courses, concurrent enrollment, and enrichment programs; tutoring; extracurricular activities; support organizations; and more.
    Featured Homeschool Resources Whether you are homeschooling full- or part-time, or simply looking for ways to enrich your child’s education, the online resources featured in this issue provide a variety of elucidating and engaging possibilities.

    • Learning Heroes This site provides parents with a picture of their child’s learning needs along with tools to bolster their academic, social, and emotional development. A “Readiness Check” with short questions about reading or math for grades K - 8 will show you where your student stands. You’ll also find learning aids by subject and grade level, ways to identify a child’s character strengths and areas for development, an idea-packed “Anti-Racism Resources Directory,” and more. It’s also accessible in Spanish!
    • GreatSchools This resource helps with developing “Emotional Smarts,” learning issues, building character, college prep, and more. A “What Your Child Should Have Learned” section outlines key academic and social benchmarks typical for grades K - 8 along with specific subject check-ins aligned with Common Core State Standards. Short “Milestones” videos clarify grade level expectations by demonstrating what success looks like in reading, writing, and math in grades K - 12. Parents can also access learning activities, vocab words, worksheets, and more by grade level. It’s also accessible in Spanish!
    • Khan Academy This site provides free standards-aligned video tutorials and interactive exercises in math, science, and the humanities from kindergarten through the early years of college. The self-paced lessons are organized to build knowledge one concept at a time. Create a free account to track a student’s progress, chart subject mastery, and support their learning needs. Use Khan Academy to tackle new coursework, fill in gaps for subjects already learned, homework help, or as a fun activity. It’s accessible in numerous languages!
    • Understood Understood is aimed at supporting kids with learning and thinking differences, like dyslexia and ADHD, by offering customized, accessible resources and a compassionate community. The “For Families” section organizes articles and resources into general topics: understanding and navigating learning and thinking differences; school and learning issues; socio-emotional development; community, including blogs and discussion groups; and “Through Your Child’s Eyes,” interactive simulations to help parents better understand their child’s world. It’s also accessible in Spanish!
    • Wide Open School This site offers engaging, high-quality online learning experiences for kids pre-K - 12. Parents can access the content by subject, or plan a full school day by grade level. Other sections are dedicated to virtual field trips, art and music, physical activity, emotional well-being, English-language learners, learning differences, and more.

    For Fun AND Learning!

    eLibrary: More than Books!

    This is the place to go for thousands of free digital materials. First, you'll need to create an account using your library card number and pin. Some services in the eLibrary include OverDrive (eBooks, eAudios, eVideos), Hoopla ( eMusic, eVideos, eComics, eBooks, eAudios), AudioBookCloud (eAudios), Freading (eBooks), Freegal (eMusic), Kanopy (eVideos), and more.


    PPLD Kids

    You can find plenty of PPLD resources here! Explore:

    • Homework (search by subject to find databases, recommended websites, and more),
    • Read (access booklists by grade level, genre, online resources, and more),
    • Create (hands-on activities and websites),
    • or Parents & Educators (curated information source for adults).

    PPLD Teens

    Get homework help, book recommendations, virtual programs, research resources, and more!


    Tumble Book Library

    eBooks for Kids!

    This curated database of children’s eBooks offers over 1000 titles for kids in grades K - 6. Included are animated talking picture books, read-along chapter books, National Geographic videos, non-fiction books, literacy puzzles and games, books in Spanish and French, and graphic novels (a fan favorite!). Younger kids will enjoy listening to the stories while perusing the illustrations, while older or more accomplished readers can choose from the collection of read-along books featuring narration, sentence highlighting, and automatic page-turning. Each book is accompanied by a reading level, Lexile level, and grade information, plus an optional quiz. There are no limited check-out times or wait lists, so every item is always available to everyone.

    Celebrating Our Home, the Pikes Peak Region

    Early in 2020, Makers Liz Kettle and Ruth Chandler of Textiles West set out to teach community members how to create fabric collages to celebrate the beauty of our Pikes Peak Region and share stories of our home and community. A week into the Spring Residency, everything came to a halt due to COVID-19.

    Rather than stop the Textile Art Project altogether, Liz and Ruth transformed it into a virtual format, so that our community could be creative and stay connected even while sheltering at home. In many ways, the finished compilations are a record of our community and our shared experience during this unprecedented time. We’ve compiled all the finished pieces submitted by local community members into a Flickr album, which you can explore here.

    MIR Collage

    You can also see the pieces in person as part of a rotating display by visiting the following libraries during the months listed below. At the end of the display rotation, the piece will live at Monument Library.

    Even though the Spring/Summer Textile Art Residency has come to an end, you can still create your very own collage! This project is traditionally a textile (fabric) project, but Liz and Ruth have adapted the project to use just about any materials you have at home. Get started by looking through the various PDF project patterns (see below) and reading through this tutorial PDF. This will give you a basic idea of the project and let you know what supplies you’ll need to get started.
    Then, watch the video below to see Liz explain how to get creative and pull it all together! (Please note the video cuts off at the end, but all important content is included.) Links to supplementary videos examining various stitch types are also available below.


    Patterns

    Supplementary Videos

    The Makers


    Textiles West's teachers are all experts who know the power of creating and understand that for many, textiles are a much more accessible art form than traditional art forms.

    Liz Kettle

    Liz KettleThrough her work, Liz Kettle tells tales that are personal as well as those that speak of relationship, humanity, and the earth. She chooses a nontraditional palette of fabric and stitch because she believes they connect us and draw us closer in a way that cannot be achieved with traditional art materials alone. Liz uses a variety of techniques drawing from the deep wells of quilting, mixed media collage, and paint to tell and support each unique story.

    Liz is the co-founder and Director of Textiles West, a Textile Art Center that aims to inspire widespread awareness, participation, and appreciation of textile and fiber arts.

    Liz is passionate about teaching and is a co-author of two books; Fabric Embellishing: The Basics and Beyond and Threads: The Basics and Beyond. She is also the solo author of First Time Beading on Fabric, Layered and Stitched and Know Your Needles. Liz has articles published in Quilters Home, Quilting Arts, Quilting Arts In Stitches and Cloth Paper Scissors Studios, and has appeared in the PBS show Quilting Arts TV.

    Ruth Chandler

    Ruth ChandlerRuth Chandler grew up in Japan where the vibrant color and texture of Japanese fabric, combined with the simplicity of Japanese design, caught Ruth’s attention. Ruth learned basic Sashiko from an elderly neighbor and at the age of four, and began to create and sew her own clothes at the age of ten which became an outlet for her imagination and creativity.

    She made her first quilt in 1990, a queen size, hand-appliquéd and hand-quilted Hawaiian pineapple quilt, and she has never looked back. In her own unique style she loves to use new techniques mingled with the old and her work usually shows the influence of her years spent in Japan. Shibori, Boro, Sashiko, and indigo dying are her love, however she also teaches garment sewing and other classes to children and adults.

    Ruth teaches locally at Textiles West in Colorado Springs, and nationally at Art and Soul Retreats. Ruth has written several articles for Quilting Arts magazine, blog posts for Havels’ Sewing, and has work published in several books. Additionally, Ruth is one of the co-authors of the best-selling book, Fabric Embellishing: The Basics and Beyond, and is the solo author of Modern Hand Stitching.

    Ruth may be contacted for nationwide classes at ruthachandler@comcast.net

    Pikes Peak Library District is collecting stories about the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents of the Pikes Peak Region are invited to share their stories and experiences. People can submit written stories, photographs, or videos depicting their response to the pandemic and its impact on their lives.

    Any observations are welcome. Submissions can include dealing with illness, quarantine, sheltering in-home, social distancing, employment, working from home, working in health care, schooling, travel, and other general observations.

    Click here to submit your story.


    Learn more about using the Library remotely.

    The Library is here to serve you, regardless of the circumstances! While you’re welcome back inside of PPLD locations, you can still take advantage of curbside services, with a new park and text option! Our Libraries and Mobile Library Services make it easy for you to return materials and safely pickup items on holds, wireless print jobs, and take and make kits – limiting any direct contact with Library staff or other patrons. Also, don’t forget that you can still use the Library remotely and connect with a librarian by phone, live chat, or email. Learn more about our response to COVID-19 and what you can expect from the Library during the ongoing pandemic.

     


     

    Returns

    Book drops or return bins are available 24/7 outside of all libraries, so you’re welcome to return books, movies, and other physical items anytime that’s convenient for you.


    Holds

    Ready to pick-up an item on hold, wireless print job, or take and make kits? Locations are now offering a park and text option to make it even easier for you! Simply drive, bike, or walk up, and have your library card number and PIN ready. Upon arrival, you’ll want to follow the available instructions like park and text, drive-thru, or walk up to the table. (Curbside hours and instructions vary by location, so please check below or by phone.) Then you’ll be on your way to enjoy a new book, movie, or other finds! Click on your Library location below to see their curbside service hours, phone numbers, and pickup instructions:

     

    Homebound patrons can designate another person to pick up their holds. Please call your Library for more information and to schedule such a pickup. For new items, place your hold in the Catalog or mobile app and select your preferred location for pickup. Once you receive your email or text notification (if opted in), check your Library’s curbside schedule and procedures for pickup. For curbside pickup, Library patrons are encouraged to follow public health guidance, including staying 6 feet apart from others.


    Wireless Printing

    We also offer wireless printing at our libraries! Submit your print job here, then follow curbside service instructions for your pickup location during their open hours. Hours and pickup instructions can be found through the links above. For Mobile Library Services, please call ahead for such pickups.

    Pikes Peak Library District staff has shown dedication to the Library’s mission and tireless efforts to serve the community in many ways. We will continue to explore how PPLD can help people and organizations across the Pikes Peak region—well beyond our Library resources and services. Here are some ways that the Library has responded to community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic:

    • We donated 400 surgical masks and 6,000 gloves to the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management.


    • A makerspace at Library 21c was used for training on 3D printers to make face shields

    • Our team loaned out 3D printers to support Colorado’s Make4Covid initiative, which connects “makers” with equipment to produce protective gear for local healthcare workers.

    • We’re partnering with school districts and local businesses to provide individuals with reading material while they pickup food and beverages. (Thank you to the Friends of the Pikes Peak Library District for making this possible!)

    • Sand Creek Library serves a donation site for the Southeast Supply Drive, helping collect common household items needed by individuals and families in the area.

    • Community partners are borrowing PPLD laptops and hotspots, so more residents can apply for unemployment and other benefits, as well as search for jobs.


    • PPLD Facilities staff installs water stations at Penrose Library

    • Penrose Library has made drinking water available outside of their building, so anyone can fill containers whenever needed. (Thanks to Olson Plumbing & Heating, Rampart Supply, and Colorado Sheet Metal for donating the supplies!)

    • We provided books, DVDs, and laptops to the City Auditorium’s isolation shelter, setup for those experiencing homelessness who have symptoms of COVID-19.

    No matter the circumstances, we remain steadfast in providing Library resources and services that impact lives and build community across El Paso County. Thank you for entrusting us to be responsive to community needs and serve residents in new ways and virtual spaces, now and into the future.

    Updated July 1, 2021

    Enjoy our entertaining and educational programs from home! We offer a variety of virtual services and programs for people of ages and interests. Plus, you can use the Library remotely in other ways, anywhere and anytime, and connect with a librarian by phone, live chat, or email! Visit our virtual calendar of events for all scheduled programs and activities. Can’t participate live? No worries! Many of the videos are featured on our YouTube channel and playlists, so you can watch whenever it’s convenient for you. Here’s a handy overview of some virtual opportunities that our team created for you to experience:

    FOR EVERYONE:

    • Live Virtual Programs From homeschool programs to tours of local institutions, PPLD has you covered.
    • Take and Make Library Crafts Missing your Library's programs? Exhausted your home crafting ideas? PPLD has you covered! Presenting.. Take and Make programs! Your Library will now have crafts available to TAKE home and either follow a virtual class or included instructions to MAKE! Kits are available for all ages.

     


     

     

    FOR ADULTS:

    • Virtual Yoga Local instructor Svetlana Nudelman guides practitioners through beginner and intermediate-level yoga poses.
    • Virtual Book Club
    • Genealogy with PPLD Are you interested in learning more about how PPLD can support your genealogical research? Learn research strategies including getting started, organizing research, selecting and searching for records, and more!

    FOR TEENS:

    Click here to see all teen virtual programming.

    Teens programs are available for viewing anytime on the PPLDTV YouTube Channel.


     

    Family & Children's Services Virtual Programs

    Videos are available for viewing anytime on the PPLDTV YouTube channel.

    • Baby Time Children’s Staff from around the district invite babies from 0 - 12 months, with a favorite adult, to enjoy music, rhymes, and a book together!
    • Children's Performers Performers can be viewed anytime on PPLDTV!
    • Homeschool Programs Whether you've been homeschooling for years or are just getting started with eLearning, our homeschool programs are here to help!
    • KidsMake Children’s staff from around the district lead an art or make project for kids ages 5 - 12.
    • STEM Children’s staff from around the district lead a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) based project for kids ages 5 - 12.
    • Storytime Children’s Staff from around the district invite you to join in a sing-along and then read a children’s book.
    • Toddler Time Children’s Staff from around the district invite 1 and 2-year-old children, with a favorite adult, to enjoy rhymes, music and movement, and a few short books!
    • Tween Twist
    • LENA Start A 11-week program where parents learn how to increase conversational turns with their babies and toddlers.
    • Prenatal Series Are you expecting and have so many questions? Join Pikes Peak Library District and Nurse Family Partnership for a series of prenatal classes.
    • Storytime @ Home Our Family and Children's Services librarians are creating Storytime at Home materials for you and you family to enjoy. Every themed Storytime includes top literary picks with easy links to our online Catalog, music, crafting, and literacy tips.
    • Stroll-a-Story and Math Strolls Walk together and enjoy the benefits of some physical activity.
    • Reassuring Reads for Kids This always-available list presents reading options (available in electronic formats) that can provide comfort during tough times for kids and parents. The recommended books cover themes of encouragement, hope, and love while offering tools for emotional awareness and ways to deal with anxiety.
    • Kid-Friendly Music Playlist Our staff selected and compiled more than four hours of children's music on Freegal, PPLD’s streaming service for songs, albums, and more. (Pro tip: Browse other playlists, or create your own!)

     


    Don’t see anything that interests you right now? Bookmark this page for frequent updates, or visit our calendar of virtual events for new additions each week. Stay tuned for more updates from PPLD! Our team continues to explore and expand virtual opportunities that we can bring to you, wherever you may be.

    Last updated July 1, 2021 En español Thanks to the public’s investment and taxpayer support, we deliver access to information and opportunities that impact lives and build community across El Paso County. You can use the Library remotely, with many resources available 24/7!

     
    • Check out our new virtual services! Our librarians are bringing their services to you, anywhere and anytime. Watch a virtual storytime with your kids, participate in a virtual book club, try a digital escape room, join us for a community movie discussion, do an at-home craft or experiment, and more. (Looking for something else to do? Bookmark the web page and check back often for new updates!)
    • Ask a librarian! You can also ask one of our reference librarian questions by phone, live chat, and email.
    • Download our mobile app to view your account, browse and download from our collection, and more. (Pro tip: There are also apps for Libby, OverDrive, Freegal, Kanopy, RBdigital, and more.)
    • Stream and/or download from our digital collection! There are so many options – digital books, audiobooks, comics, magazines, music, and videos – that you can access from almost anywhere.
    • Use our databases to conduct research for businesses, nonprofits, legal matters, and more. You also can learn a new language, plan your next adventure, and do genealogy research.
    • Have kids or teens in your home? We have ample resources for children and teenagers, including homework help, reading, games, creating, planning for the future, and more. (Also, see above for new virtual services!)
    • Dig into some regional history and genealogy. For example, our digital collection features historic photographs, pamphlets, manuscripts, maps, oral histories, films and more that highlight the rich history of the Pikes Peak area.
    • Find a good book! Check out recommendations, reading lists, and more.
    • Don’t have a library card? Get started and gain online access today.

    That’s not all! Our Library staff also assembled and vetted a growing list of free online resources for all ages; no library card needed. Resources include live streaming, virtual tours, activities, and much more. Topics cover arts and culture, kids and teens, learning and reading for adults, professional support and development, and science and nature. Our team continues to explore and expand virtual opportunities that we can bring to you. Right now, we’re adding to our digital collection, as budget allows, and creating new virtual experiences that will launch in the coming days and weeks. Stay tuned for more updates from PPLD. We’re here to serve you now and into the future.

    The 2020 Census is here and it’s not too late to complete it! It is important to fill it out so that local agencies (PPLD included!) have accurate information to use when designing community services. It's safe, easy, and required for all citizens to fill out.


    COMPLETE YOUR CENSUS NOW.


    In March, homes across the country received invitations to complete the 2020 Census with instructions for responding to the census online, in the mail, or over the phone.

    Remember that April 1 is a reference date, not a deadline to respond. When you respond online, by phone, or by mail, count everyone living in your home as of April 1, 2020.

    Beginning in August 2020, households that haven't responded yet may receive an in-person visit or call from a Census Bureau employee to help make sure everyone is counted.


    As of June 11, El Paso County’s self-response rate, is now at 68.6%, which is higher than Colorado’s self-response rate of 63.4%! We are ranked number 18 in response rates by state, and higher than the national self-response rate of 60.8%!


    Here’s a quick refresher of what it is and why it’s essential that everyone is counted.

    • Everyone counts: The census counts every person living in the United States once, only once, and in the right place.
    • It’s about fair representation: Every 10 years, the results of the census are used to reapportion the House of Representatives, determining how many seats each state gets.
    • It’s in the Constitution: The U.S. Constitution mandates that everyone in the country be counted every 10 years. The first census was in 1790.
    • It’s about $675 billion: The distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funds, grants, and support to states, counties, and communities are based on census data. That money is spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other vital programs (like libraries!).
    • It’s about redistricting: After each decade’s census, state officials redraw the boundaries of the congressional and state legislative districts in their states to account for population shifts.
    • Taking part is your civic duty: Completing the census is mandatory: it’s a way to participate in our democracy and say “I COUNT!”

    Census data are being used all around you:

    • Residents use the census to support community initiatives involving legislation, quality-of-life, and consumer advocacy.
    • Businesses use census data to decide where to build factories, offices, and stores, which create jobs.
    • Local governments use the census for public safety and emergency preparedness.
    • Real estate developers use the census to build new homes and revitalize old neighborhoods.

    Your privacy is protected.
    It’s against the law for the Census Bureau to publicly release your responses in any way that could identify you or your household. By law, your responses cannot be used against you and can only be used to produce statistics.

    The Census Bureau uses a different method to count people in group living situations, called “group quarters,” such as college student housing, prisons, military barracks, and nursing homes. People experiencing homelessness (and who are not staying in a household) will be counted at the places where they receive services, such as shelters and soup kitchens.

    2020 will be easier than ever.
    In 2020, you will be able to respond to the census online. The online questionnaire will be available in 13 languages.


    Click here to learn more!

    The top 10 of 2019 are here! Learn more about what the Pikes Peak Region read in 2019 and add any you missed to your 2020 reading list!


    Adult Books
    1. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
    2. Becoming by Michelle Obama
    3. The Reckoning by John Grisham
    4. Educated: a Memoir by Tara Westover
    5. Wolf Pack by C.J. Box
    6. TransAtlantic: a Novel by Colum McCann
    7. Redemption by David Baldacci
    8. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty
    9. Unsolved by James Patterson
    10. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

    Teen Books
    1. Nowhere Boy by Katherine Marsh
    2. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K Rowling
    3. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
    4. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
    5. Turtles All the Way Down by John Green
    6. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
    7. The Giver by Lois Lowry
    8. On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
    9. To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han
    10. Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth

    Children's Books
    1. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
    2. Harry Potter and the Socerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
    3. Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin
    4. Nowhere Boy by Katherine Marsh
    5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown by Jeff Kinney
    6. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
    7. A Long Walk to Water: a Novel by Linda Sue Park
    8. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
    9. Warriors in Winter by Mary Pope Osborne
    10. The False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen

    eBooks
    1. A Dangerous Act of Kindness by LP Fergusson
    2. Redemption: Amos Decker Series, Book 5 by David Baldacci
    3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
    4. Wolf Pack by C.J. Box
    5. After the Flood: A Novel by Kassandra Montag
    6. An Anonymous Girl: A Novel by Greer Hendricks
    7. Run Away by Harlan Coben
    8. Connections in Death by J.D. Robb
    9. The 18th Abduction by James Patterson
    10. Neon Prey by John Sandford

    eAudio
    1. The Silent Patient (unabridged) by Alex Michaelide
    2. Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals (unabridged) by Rachel Hollis
    3. Redemption: Amos Decker Series, Book 5 (unabridged) by David Baldacci
    4. The Giver of Stars: A Novel (unabridged) by Jojo Moyes
    5. City of Girls: A Novel (unabridged) by Elizabeth Gilbert
    6. The Dutch House: A Novel (unabridged) by Ann Patchett
    7. The Institute: A Novel (unabridged) by Stephen King
    8. Daisy Jones & the Six: A Novel (unabridged) by Taylor Jenkins Reid
    9. The Turn of the Key (unabridged) by Ruth Ware
    10. The Guardians: A Novel (unabridged) by John Grisham

    Pikes Peak Library District is celebrating babies and new parents the month of September with our 3rd Annual Bumps 'n Babies Resource Fair!

    Babies ages 0-12 months can get a free board book during the month of September, while supplies last. Visit your favorite Library to get yours!


    Live Programs

    *All live programs require registration.

    In-Person Baby Time is Back!

    Click here to find your local library’s calendar for dates and times.

    • Baby & Me Yoga*

      A gentle class taught by a registered yoga teacher for caregivers and infants they love (4 weeks to crawling).

    • Q&A Session: Get Ready For Baby Care, Development, and Sibling Prep*

      • When: Thu., Sept. 9 from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
      • Where: Virtual.
      • Click here to register. Registration opens Sun., Aug. 1.

      Do you have questions about how to care for your baby, how they will grow and change, or how to prepare siblings graduating to “Big” Sister or Brother status? Ask our local community experts in this Zoom program!

    • Q&A Session: Busy Babies: What Can You Do?*

      • When: Thu., Sept. 23 from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
      • Where: Virtual.
      • Click here to register. Registration opens Sun., Aug. 1.

      Are you looking for some fun activities to help your baby learn and grow? Join us for a virtual Zoom Meet ‘n Greet with a variety of local organizations, classes, and groups.


    Virtual Programs

    Check out our Bumps 'n Babies programs on PPLDTV! Videos are available for viewing anytime after they premiere.

    Tummy Time
    Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

    • Tummy Time Basics for Babies
      Fri., Sept. 10
      Why is tummy time important for babies, and how can you get started, even if your baby doesn’t seem to like it?
    • Tummy Time: Talk, Sing, Read, Write, Play!
      Fri., Sept. 17
      What is early literacy for babies, and how can you do it during tummy time? Watch the practices in action!
    • Tummy Time in Action!
      Fri., Sept. 24
      Watch a full tummy time demonstration session with a baby!



    DIY Craft for Babies
    Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
    DIY toys for your baby! Join us each Wednesday in September to learn how you can make a simple educational toy for your baby using items you have around the house.

    • Sept. 1: Touch & Feel Box
    • Sept. 8: Ball Drop
    • Sept. 15: Baby Sensory Play with Ice
    • Sept. 22: Tug & Pull Toy
    • Sept. 29: Sensory Bottle/Bags



    Best Books & Toys
    Fri., Sept. 3 at 10:30 a.m.
    Want to know about some awesome books and toys you can use with your baby? Watch a presentation from librarians SarahEllen and Alanna. They also give tips on how to share books and toys to get your baby off to the start in life!


    Learn more about our LENA Start program.

    Have you heard about auto-renewals? Beginning Mon., Feb. 11, 2019, PPLD will save you the step of renewing your checkouts.

    The day before items are due, the library’s system will automatically renew them if there are no holds and they haven’t already been renewed twice.

    There are some exceptions to the materials that can be automatically renewed, including:

    • Rapid Read, Rapid View
    • eBooks, eAudios
    • Equipment
    • Interlibrary Loans

    Patrons will receive an email notice letting them know what, if anything, was renewed as well as the new due date.

    At an awards ceremony on Mon., Nov. 27, 2017 at the Antlers hotel, Pikes Peak Library District was named Best Workplace by The Gazette in the Extra Large Company (300+ employees) category.

    According to The Gazette, PPLD "ranked high among its employees in social responsibility, providing meaningful work, confidence in leadership, being a place workers would recommend to others for employment and operating with strong values and ethics."

    Here is a video The Gazette created, which was shown at the ceremony.

    Reserve your free State Parks Pass and Backpack today by clicking here! This program is a partnership with the Colorado Department of Education, State Library, local library systems, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. It is meant to encourage Coloradans to visit our State Parks and experience all of the great outdoor recreation that this state has to offer. Each backpack, which checks out for one week, includes:

    Click here for more information about this program. 

    PPLD now has Sorenson videophones and Video Relay Service-equipped laptops available for patron use. VRS allows people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired to communicate using American Sign Language through video equipment. It replaces TTY or Text Telephone.

    Videophones are now available at the East Library and Library 21c.

    VRS-equipped laptops are available at the following PPLD locations: Cheyenne Mountain, High Prairie, Manitou Springs, Monument, Old Colorado City, Ruth Holley, and Sand Creek libraries.

    Beginning Jan. 9, 2017, PPLD will no longer charge fines on overdue children and teen items. Removing overdue fines will provide greater opportunity for children and teens to use the full range of library services. Currently, 15% of children and teen cardholders are blocked from checking out items at the library due to overdue fines.

    Also, overdue fines on DVDs and games will be reduced from 25 cents per day to 10 cents per day.

    PPLD seeks to foster literacy and life-long learning for children and teens. The Library regularly evaluates policies to see what barriers for service exist and evaluates how to eliminate such barriers. The Library’s Board of Trustees approved the new policy at their December meeting.

    Items that will not accrue overdue fines must be designated as “juvenile” or “teen” in the Library catalog. The policy will take effect for any items checked out January 9 or after. Lost item and damage fees will still apply.

    Overdue notices will still be sent as reminders to return Library items. Items not returned within 21 days of the due date will be considered lost, and the full cost of the item will be charged to the patron’s account.

    Click here for more information

    Have you read a really great (or really bad) book lately? Tell us all about it! Just fill out this book review form and your review will be posted in the Book Reviews section of ppld.org.

    Happy reviewing!

    The High Prairie Seed Library officially launched on Saturday, April 25, 2015!

    PPLD is very proud of the hard work that Rhonda Curtis, High Prairie staff member extraordinaire, has put into this 2 year project.

    High Prairie Library kicked off the grand opening with a speech from Rhonda (and tutorial), ribbon cutting, cake (carrot), refreshments, and lots of community engagement! In the process of creating the Seed Library we have made some strong connections to our communities in the area, garden clubs, and independent farmers, including generations of growers in the county extending to Calhan.

    High Prairie Library will conduct a contest for the biggest pumpkin patrons can grow using the giant pumpkin seeds from the Seed Library! The pumpkins will be judged at the 4th Annual Harvest Festival on October 3, 2015.

    A special thanks goes to the High Prairie Friends and staff, who have all contributed both time and resources to help get the Seed Library open.

    The High Prairie Seed Library joins the Manitou Springs Seed Library as PPLD's two seed repositories.

    Click here to visit the High Prairie Seed Library web page.