Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) provides everyone with access to resources and opportunities so people can thrive and connect. The Library cultivates spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities via 16 facilities, mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources. It is an internationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of nearly 700,000 across 2,070 square miles in El Paso County, Colorado.
Multicultural Outreach & Accessibility (MCOA) focuses on several areas for our PPLD staff and El Paso County patrons. The MCOA office is based at Library 21c and serves people throughout the district and at local community events for outreach and community engagement.
MCOA also encompasses the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II and provides support for Library Explorers, Library Adventurers, and the Older Adults 55+ program area.
See our guides on Multicultural Outreach & Accessibility and Disability Resources for more information.
The Library’s Multicultural Outreach & Accessibility department covers a variety of topics:
- Accessibility, including Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Title II accommodations and assistive technology
- Opportunities available for people of all abilities
- Resources and services for military service members and their families, along with veterans
- Religion and spirituality resources
- Services and resources for the LGBTQIA+ community
- Heritage, culture, inclusion, and ethnicity resources and programs
Deaf History Month
Deaf History Month is an annual event that occurs in the month of April. While National Deaf History Month lacks federal recognition as a holiday, it serves as an opportunity to enhance societal understanding regarding the deaf community and the challenges they face. Additionally, the month is dedicated to commemorating the significant contributions made by those who are deaf and the deaf community to our nation. Throughout this month, we have the opportunity to get further knowledge about the continuous advocacy efforts undertaken by numerous groups to enhance the quality of life and promote inclusivity for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
Month of the Military Child
In recognition of the significant contribution made by children within the military community, the month of April is officially recognized as the Month of the Military Child. Schools across the country actively take part in the "Purple Up For Military Kids" initiative, where they partake in various events that pay tribute to the sacrifices made by the children of military personnel. The 37th anniversary of Month of the Military Child, established by former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger in 1986, is being commemorated this year. The color purple is employed due to its symbolic representation of the branches of the military. The theme for the April 2024 observance is "Military Youth and Children: Brave, Fearless and Resilient."
Earth Month
Earth Month is an annual event that occurs in the month of April. Now is the opportune moment to promote environmental consciousness and generate knowledge regarding the challenges that impact the natural world amidst this period of crisis. In April, global leaders and environmental activists collaborate to promote sustainable development and propose climate solutions, with the aim of reducing our carbon emissions and safeguarding the Earth's natural resources.
Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month, which is an opportune moment to acknowledge that autism has reached a critical juncture. This juncture is characterized by the significance of the language we employ, the choices we make, and the policies we support, as they will profoundly shape the future of the autism community for future generations.
National Arab American Heritage Month
In the month of April, the commemoration of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM) takes place. The present moment calls for the formal acknowledgment of the accomplishments of Arab Americans and the commemoration of their abundant cultural legacy and multifaceted societal contributions. Nationwide, many entities such as cultural institutions, school districts, municipalities, state legislatures, public servants, and non-profit organizations actively participate in commemorating the Arab American community by issuing proclamations and organizing special events.
April was formally designated as Arab American Heritage Month in the United States by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. in the year 2024. This acknowledgment underscores the tenacity and variety of Arab Americans and their substantial influence in several domains, such as commerce, politics, education, and others.
You can get your FREE library card from any Pikes Peak Library District location and use it to check out items. Full privileges include full access to PPLD's collection of:
- Books, DVDs, magazines, video games, and more
- eBooks, eAudios, eVideos, eMusic, and eMagazines
- Databases, including LinkedIn Learning, Mango Languages, Data Axle, Regional History and Genealogy resources, and more
- Computers, Laptops, and Hotspots
- Makerspaces and Studios