Contact: 

Amy Gillentine, Director of PR Marketing & Promotions (719) 482-5422 | agillentine@ppld.org 

Piper Vaughn, Social Media & PR Manager (719) 412-2646 | pvaughn@ppld.org 

JULY EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS 

Pikes Peak Library District’s Call for Rising Voices Presenters, Summer Adventure Reaches Halfway Mark, Manitou Springs Library Holds Annual Lawn Concert Series, Maker Camps in July, Summer Concert Celebrations, and Pickleball for a Cause

 Colorado Springs, Colo. — Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is highlighting several upcoming events and happenings in July, including a call for presenters and entertainers for a cultural celebration event, the ongoing Summer Adventure reading program, Summer Maker Camps for teens, the Manitou Springs Library Summer Lawn Concert Series, and PPLD Foundation’s annual Pickleball tournament. 

Pikes Peak Library District is seeking presenters, creators, dancers, artists, and teachers to showcase all the cultures of the Pikes Peak region during their Rising Voices event. Applications are open until July 31 for Rising Voices, an annual event that celebrates the rich blend of cultures that make up Colorado Springs and El Paso County. 

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive. 

  • Applications will be accepted through July 31.
  • Selections will be made by August 21. 
  • PPLD will notify accepted performers, presenters, and exhibits no later than September 1. 

More information is available at ppld.org/rising-voices Summer Adventure Reading Program Ends July 31.

Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is halfway through its reading program, Summer Adventure presented by Friends of the Pikes Peak Library District, and more than 16,000 people have registered to read, create, and explore this summer. 

Through the end of July, El Paso County residents are invited to Unearth a Story™ to win prizes and keep skills sharp for students’ return to school. The program encourages participants of all ages — from young children to adults — to engage in reading and a variety of hands-on activities. By completing 30 days of activities during the program, participants can earn prizes and entries into grand prize drawings, including an overnight stay for two at The Broadmoor Cloud Camp for adults and a VIP Pass for children and teens that offers free and significantly reduced admissions to Pikes Peak Region Attractions. Other prizes are available just for signing up and for completing the program. Activities may include traditional reading, attending Library events, crafting, cooking, or exploring the outdoors. 

There is still time to log reading and activities since June 1. Go to ppld.org/summer for more information. 

The Library Connects the Community with Live Music. Pikes Peak Library District is continuing a summer favorite – the Manitou Springs Library Lawn Concert Series. Concerts will take place at 6 p.m. on the front lawn of Manitou Springs Library every Wednesday until July 22. There is no cost to attend these performances. 

The lineup includes: 

  • Wednesday, July 1 – Patchwork Jack 
  • Wednesday, July 8 – Academy Jazz Ensemble 
  • Wednesday, July 15 – Jeremy Facknitz 
  • Wednesday, July 22 – Grapefruit Moon

Teen Maker Camps Continue in July. PPLD is inviting teens to explore and design at Maker Camp. This immersive weeklong program allows teens to build foundational skills while using makerspace equipment. This program bridges the gap during the summer months, otherwise known as the “summer slide” by allowing participants to continue learning and exploring. During the week, teens will gain practical experience in 3D printing, sewing, laser cutting, and designing custom 3D models using online CAD software. By the end of the program, participants will complete a comprehensive final project that showcases their newly developed skills. 

Maker Camp inspires creativity while introducing teens to emerging technologies that are shaping the world around them. In addition to building technical skills, participants will gain valuable experience that can enhance resumes and college applications. 

Each location below has a week set aside for Maker Camp in July: 

  • Library 21c: July 6 – 10, 1 – 4 p.m. 
  • East Library: July 20 – 24, 1 – 4 p.m. 

For more information, visit https://ppld.org/maker-camp.

PPLD's Hosts End of Summer Concert Celebrations. Join Pikes Peak Library District's free Summer Adventure 2026 concert series. Presented by the Friends of the Pikes Peak Library District, these interactive performances offer colorful, high-energy opportunities for children and caregivers to sing, dance, and celebrate the joy of summer reading. Media are invited to attend and capture these engaging community events taking place throughout July. 

Concert dates and locations include: 

  • Friday, July 10, 6 – 7 p.m. at Palmer Lake Library 
  • Friday, July 17, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. – noon at Fountain Library 
  • Wednesday, July 29, 6 – 7 p.m. at Manitou Springs Library 

PPLD Foundation Hosts Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser. PPLD Foundation is hosting its Second Annual Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser on Saturday, September 12 at Springs Pickleball – East, located at 2975 N. New Center Point. Players of all skill levels are welcome to enjoy a day of friendly competition while supporting Pikes Peak Library District. Participants can choose from Casual Open Play, Family Fun Court Time, or a non-ranked Tournament, with each team guaranteed at least six games. 

Prizes will be awarded across all levels, giving beginners and experienced players alike a chance to win. Equipment will be available for those who do not have their own paddle. Proceeds from the event benefit Pikes Peak Library District programs and services. For more information, visit ppld.org/pickleball.

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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 14 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, Colo. Learn more at ppld.org