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.
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Baby & Me Yoga*
- When: Thu., Sept. 23 at 10:30 a.m.
- Where: Library 21c
- Click here to register. Registration opens Mon., Aug. 30.
A gentle class taught by a registered yoga teacher for caregivers and infants they love (4 weeks to crawling).
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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!
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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.
Roxanne Lingle, The Maker in Residence for September/October 2019, is a mixed media artist and teacher. She has been teaching for many years and loves to inspire her students and see them “come alive” when they realize they can do something they never thought possible. She loves mixed media art and all its variety of color, texture, and amazing avenues for creativity. Roxanne has taught many types of mixed media classes in the Pikes Peak region as well as across the United States.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
Pikes Peak Library District is pleased to announce the winners of the 2019 Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest for Children:
Colin Bevan - "Bahamas"
Mayah Bolenbaugh - "The Essence of Warmth"
Eva Goroski - "Bioluminescent Beach at Night"
Brody Karr - "Papayalulu Paradise"
Sally Peterson - "The Mystical Land"
Jana Yuschalk - "Darkling Dwabidisador"
Bahamas
By Colin Bevan
Fisherman rip tonight’s dinner from the ocean
Bloody hands filet the dead fish
Smells of fresh fish turns my head
Salt fills the air rusting old boats
Charcoal beach fires cook todays catch
Warm water surrounds my feet
Small birds run from the waves
Boats dot the horizon for miles
Paradise, I hope I never leave
The Essence of Warmth
By Mayah Bolenbaugh
Firewood receives the spark
Steam rises from the bread, fresh from the oven
Soft snuggle from a purring kitten
Sip a large mug of cider under a changing tree in the fall
Enter a cabin to kick off winter’s freeze
Submerge in hot springs as the snowflakes dance
Comfort and serenity, as the shower pours through your hair
Earth is nourished by the elements
Now the sand takes in the sun
The day’s last hour bathed in dark orange sunshine on a summer’s day
Bioluminescent Beach at Night
By Eva Goroski
Twilight creeps up the coast
Waiting for the moon to come with a gleam
Shells adorn the beach like jewels
Stars twinkle and glimmer like diamonds
Tide pools shine with a radiant beam
The ocean has an eerie glow
Bioluminescent dinoflagellates show off in a chain of lights
Papayalulu Paradise
By Brody Karr
I dream of a land called Papayalulu
It’s a tasty paradise for me and you-you
It’s hard to get to - this is true-true
First you must make a papaya canoe-noe
Row your canoe-noe to the end of the sea
And soon Papayalulu you will see
As papaya trees sway in the papayamint breeze
You can paddle down to the Papaya Juice River with ease
You can even lean over and take a sip
But better take care - your canoe-noe might tip
Look out! What’s that I hear?
It’s Papaya Juice Falls - better stay clear!
Safe at last upon the shore
What’s that sound I cant ignore?
It’s the singing papaya birds high in the trees
A song so sweet my ears it does please
I think I’ll stay a while in this land
Papayalulu is oh so grand!
The Mystical Land
By Sally Peterson
I know a place, not far away
It glistens and it gleams.
I go there every time I sleep
It’s called the “Land of Dreams.”
So when I sleep I don’t count sheep
Or toss and turn in vain.
I just fly to the “Land of Dreams”
In my one-man twinbed plane.
Each night I fly right out the door
And pass the moon and sun.
I’m going to the “Land of Dreams”
To have some dream like fun.
And when I land on snow white sand
A lovely sight I see.
A wondrous civilization is
Stretched out in front of me.
A mountain looms above you
If you look to the west.
On the east there is a river
And a town where you can rest.
There are bubbles in the air
That are floating in the breeze.
You can smell the scent of honey,
And hear the rustling trees.
Then my views were interrupted
By a woman clad in white.
She was the noble Queen
Of this land of truth and right.
“Welcome” she said. “Welcome
Won’t you come to my estate”
And she pointed to a castle
With a shiny marble gate.
“Of course” I said, “how gracious,
How could I refuse?”
We started towards the castle
And she told me all the news.
We walked into the town
Where the buildings stand so tall.
Everything is vibrant
From the big to really small.
The people there wear brilliant robes
Of many different hues.
There are feathers on their hats
And feathers on their shoes.
Aromas that are new
Are wafting towards my face.
I wonder what the food is like
In this amazing place.
We came to a kiosk
Where a man was selling food.
The food was shaped like balls
Some were red and some were blue.
They tasted sweet and juicy,
And suddenly I knew!
They were little berries,
And in the fields they grew.
A woman selling flowers
Gave me a bouquet.
It smelled just like sweet roses
In my wildflower spray.
The red flowers were the largest.
The blue flowers were large, too.
The yellow flowers were tiny.
My favorites were the blue.
We entered a cute clothes shop
Filled with rows of silk,
They were soft and they were comfy,
And smooth and cool like milk.
I chose a robe with red, blue, and yellow
For they would match my blooms.
I got nice shoes and a fine new hat
With fluffy little plumes.
Next we went to a pet shop
And saw a little dog.
He was not like mine at all, though.
My dog is brown like a log.
But this dog had new colors.
This dog was so bright!
So were all the other dogs.
It was a crazy sight!
I thought the cats were normal
Until I heard them speak.
They spoke such perfect English
I fought the urge to shriek!
A bird screeched in the background
And I turned in surprise.
The bird that was behind me
Had creepy human eyes.
The castle was our last stop
And it was getting late.
I was getting pretty tired
When I walked up to the gate.
The gates were swiftly opened.
We ran to a bench and sat.
It was nice to calmly sit there
And hear the robins chat.
Said the Queen “Oh heaven help us.
The feasts about to start”
We raced inside the castle
And I couldn't calm my heart.
I changed my clothes and entered
The room of the great feast.
There were many fruits and veggies
And for meat they had roast beast.
Many fancy people
Were invited here to dine.
Some were very famous.
All were very fine.
They all told me hello
Then sat and ate and ate.
I listened to their stories
As I cleaned off my plate.
A toast was to be done.
I lifted my cup.
Then “beep” went my alarm clock
And quickly I woke up.
Darkling Dwabidisador
By Jana Yuschalk
To bed I went on that ordinary night,
Not knowing in the morning what I may fight.
I woke up on a pile of hay,
Wondering what would fill my day.
Surprised and frightened, I immediately felt.
Suddenly, I wished I could just melt.
It seemed so sunny without any rain.
Smells of sweat hovered over the plain,
From jumping creatures who seemed insane.
The so-called “Dwabis” had a mane.
No animals were there.
Not even a bear.
I was informed, this was Dwabidisador.
Wow, I really need to study by geography more!
The Dwabi’s legs were awfully long.
They jumped then fell, I am not wrong.
The sound of jumping pounded the ground.
Their favorite hobby was jumping. That I found.
The language they spoke was also Dwabidisador.
At least I don’t need to study my languages much more!
“Dwabi fell down,” they said over and over again.
“English without pronouns,” I thought. Until then,
A young Dwabi who was probably only four,
Came up and said, “Why don’t you enter that door.”
I did as he commanded only to find,
A Dwabi whose name was Filabind.
He bought me a cupcake with sprinkles on top,
The smell was so sweet I thought I would pop!
All that was better than the taste, was the smell.
It looked and smelled like sweet caramel.
The taste was Dwabilicious.
Red velvet without mush.
After I finished my delectable cupcake,
I was sure Dwabidisador wasn't fake.
Then we departed and walked a long ways.
We entered a place called “Dwabi’s Good Maze”.
Since Filabind was my guide, he led me through,
A portal that said, “How do you do?”
Filled with wonder and awe, I heard a loud, “MOO!”
Before I knew it, I was back home on our farm.
Lying in my bed was my noisy alarm,
Trying to wake me up from my-dream?
What it was, it filled me with gleam!
Pikes Peak Library District sparks development, opportunity, and inspiration for everyone across El Paso County. Whether you've got a young one who's learning to read, or you're a lifelong learner looking for a new skill, the Library has something for you.
We are excited to share stories of how the Library positively impacts the lives of our patrons.
To tell your story, click here to take our short survey or use the hashtag #shareyourspark on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
INSPIRATION
PPLD sparks inspiration. In this video, hear Price Strobidge's story about how the Library helped him become Poet Laureate of the Pikes Peak Region.
OPPORTUNITY
PPLD sparks your opportunity. In this video, hear Allan's story about how the Library helped him improve his English language skills and provide him with GED test preparation. Read more about Allan's personal growth and development through the Library in this article from The Gazette.
DEVELOPMENT
PPLD sparks your development. In this video, learn about how our children's areas are free, safe places that encourage development and growth.
Stay tuned to learn how PPLD can spark your opportunity and your inspiration.
Shirley Dale, PPLD's Maker in Residence for March/April 2019, has been creating in one way or another since childhood, applying this creativity in many different endeavors and careers. The joy of creating and the belief that everyone has the ability to create art have been constants throughout her life. Shirley has worked with many different mediums as a teacher and artist, always finding exciting, creative possibilities with whatever art materials are at hand. She is currently working with acrylics for monotype prints as finished pieces, and also for use in mixed media collage pieces.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this 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.
Overdue books? Fear not. Pikes Peak Library District will no longer charge you for being a little bit late on your returns.
The library will officially eliminate overdue fines Fri., Feb. 1, just in time for a county-wide celebration of Library Lover’s Month. Patrons will no longer be financially penalized for books that are late in returning to the library.
“Our mission as an organization is to eliminate barriers to information and resources, not create them,” said Director of Library Services Tim Blevins. “We had a trial run of eliminating overdue fines and didn’t see longer hold times for patrons, but did see a positive impact on borrowing. It makes perfect sense for us to permanently eliminate these fines.”
Fines, Blevins says, are particularly prohibitive for the community’s most vulnerable families. Plus, overdue fines accounted for less than one percent of the Library’s overall revenue in 2017.
There will still be fees assessed for lost or damaged materials. Materials are considered lost if they are 21 days overdue.
Additionally, Pikes Peak Library District will roll out automatic renewals later on in Library Lover’s Month. The day before books are due, the library’s system will automatically renew them up to two times, so long as no other patron placed a hold on the material.
There are some exceptions to the materials that can be automatically renewed, like rapid reads, eMaterials, and equipment checkouts.
“What we’ve seen here, and in library facilities across the country, is that by taking these steps to increase ease of access to materials, use of library resources and checkouts is positively impacted,” Blevins said. “We’re here to help people access the resources they need to achieve their goals. This is just one more way for us to do a better job of achieving that mission.”
We want to celebrate your successes! Pikes Peak Library District is looking for stories about how our resources and staff have helped enrich minds, fuel learning and growth, spark imagination and ideas, build community and connections, and/or achieve goals.
For the 27th year in a row, Pikes Peak Library District is being recognized for excellent financial transparency.
The Government Finance Officers Association awarded Pikes Peak Library District the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting this month, the association’s highest award.
“The attainment of this award represents significant accomplishment by a government and its management,” the Government Finance Officers Association said in a press release. “This is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting.”
Each year, the association judges government organizations through an impartial panel. According to the association’s website, the program was designed to motivate government agencies to “go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles,” with the goal of encouraging financial transparency by those agencies.
Earning this award illustrates an organization’s commitment to good stewardship of public dollars.
“This award is one of the highest honors a government organization can hope to achieve,” said Pikes Peak Library District Chief Financial Officer Michael Varnet. “To receive an award of this caliber so many years in a row is a testament not only to the finance team, but to the Library District as a whole. The group of people I work with each day truly has dedication to transparency and honorable financial reporting, and I am very proud to be part of such a team.”
The president of the Pikes Peak Library District Board of Trustees attended her last board meeting after ten years of service to the library.
Kathleen Owings will retire from the board as of Dec. 31, 2018. Owings first joined the board on Jan. 1, 2009, and was board president from 2012-2014 and in 2018.
Her fellow board members, library employees, and library leaders alike reminisced fondly on Owings’ contributions to the Library District and the community during her final board meeting on Dec. 11, 2018.
“While we are saddened to see Kathleen go, we feel very fortunate to have benefited from her leadership over the last ten years,” said PPLD Chief Librarian and CEO John Spears. “Her direction over the last decade has carried the library forward in such a positive way. Kathleen has put us on a path that will help us best serve all of our patrons across El Paso County for years to come.”
Owings is a Principal and Financial Advisor with Westbilt Financial Group. She is also a current and past member of several boards throughout the Pikes Peak Region, including the Children’s Literacy Center, Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, Colorado Springs Leadership Institute, and the local chapter of the West Point Alumni Association.
The new president of the PPLD Board of Trustees, Wayne Vanderschuere, will take over the role on Jan. 1, 2019. Terms on the board are five years, and board leadership changes annually.
PPLD Maker in Residence for January/February 2019, Linda Riley learned to knit when she was a young girl, taught by her granny when growing up the Chicago suburbs. She continually grew her skills and eventually began creating her own unique patterns. Her original designs have been published in both print and online outlets. Her project portfolio ranges from simple items such as hats and scarfs all the way to full size afghans and cable knit sweaters. Mittens are her favorite item to knit!
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
Alyssa Rail is one of two Pikes Peak Library District interns through the Inclusive Internship Initiative, a program run by the Public Library Association (PLA) whose goal it is to introduce high school juniors and seniors of diverse backgrounds to librarianship. This year, the internships were funded by donations to the Pikes Peak Library District Foundations. For Alyssa, this was an opportunity to spend more time in one of her favorite places and have an impact on her community.
“I love how the library has always been a second home to me. It's welcoming and even if you're just picking up a hold and leaving, you still can enjoy your time there. I love that I could stay for hours and always find something to do.
"Getting to host my LGBT roundtable in August was the best thing I think I've ever done with my life. Getting to help my community like that was awesome. I've loved being able to teach people about the library, and getting to connect with teenagers from all across the country was incredible (PLA). I learned a lot about myself this summer, and I believe I'm a better person because of it!”
During her internship, Alyssa discovered just how important libraries are to everyone.
“Libraries are integral to a community. They're a place of learning and safety. From basic computer questions to books to the resources for those in need, there really isn't anywhere else like the library. (Plus, the first time I saw the yellow sign saying "safe space" I almost cried. Being the queer teenager I am, I really appreciate it.)”
How can you impact the lives of people like Alyssa?
Give: Make a donation! Big or small - every contribution helps our community.
Share: Share your library experiences with friends and family. Post your story on Facebook, tweet on Twitter, send an email, or share the link above any way you like!
Participate: You can be a part of Pikes Peak Library District and our community by participating in library programs and events!
Ana Bojorquez was beginning to think she would never earn a high school diploma, no matter what she did. She bought preparation books, enrolled in classes and more, but nothing panned out.
“I’ve been trying to get my diploma for years, ever since I was forced to leave high school,” Bojorquez said. “I was trying everything to do it on my own.”
But then Bojorquez noticed an advertisement for a free program through Pikes Peak Library District that helps participants earn accredited high school diplomas online.
“The fact that it was free, that it was online, those were a big deal for me,” she said. “The GED class schedules just didn’t work for me.”
Bojorquez was brought to the United States from El Salvador as a very small child, and adopted. Her adoptive mother, for reasons unknown, changed Bojorquez’s age on a lot of her documents and in the school system.
“They weren’t a very good family, so I ended up back in the foster system,” Bojorquez said.
After being placed in foster care and re-enrolled into the school system, the school district made a startling discovery.
“The school saw my birth certificate, and they said, ‘Why are you in the 9th grade when you are 17 years old?’”
The district took her out of high school, even though she begged to stay. Bojorquez was enrolled in a GED class at a community college instead.
At the same time, her social workers knew that her eighteenth birthday was approaching; Bojorquez would no longer be eligible for support from the foster care system and needed a job to survive.
“They did provide me with transitional housing at the time, but I had no food, so I had to work. I just did not have time to finish high school.”
After experiencing success as a realtor’s assistant, the thought of a high school diploma faded from her mind until she met her future husband who was determined to support her in achieving her dreams. He finally convinced her to focus on studying full-time for a diploma.
“For a long time, I said no when he told me to leave my job,” Bojorquez said. “I was so used to taking care of myself. Finally I gave into it, and I quit my job. Within a week of me finally deciding to leave my job, he got fired.”
The couple relocated from California to Colorado Springs in search of work, had children, and once again her hopes for a diploma were dashed.
That’s when she saw the advertisement on PPLD’s website for Career Online High School. For Bojorquez, who does custodial work for her church and volunteers at the school her two boys attend, an online program without a huge financial burden was an enticing option.
She applied in March of 2017 and received her scholarship soon after. She then began to work tirelessly toward the goal she had for more than a decade. Less than two years later, Bojorquez celebrated a huge educational milestone. She completed the Career Online High School program and was the proud recipient of an accredited high school diploma at a graduation celebrated on Oct. 10 at East Library in Colorado Springs.
“I am very grateful to the Pikes Peak Library District. I wouldn’t have graduated high school, something I’ve wanted to do for years now, without the library’s help.”
How can you impact the lives of people like Ana?
Give: Make a donation! Big or small - every contribution helps our community. Make your gift today.
Share: Share your library experiences with friends and family. Post your story on Facebook, tweet on Twitter, send an email, or share the links above any way you like!
Participate: You can be a part of Pikes Peak Library District and our community by participating in library programs and events!
Andi Sperry has been a Cheyenne Mountain Library patron for so long that it has become one of her favorite places to spend time with her husband. In her own words, Sperry tells us the library’s impact on her life.
“I participated in the 2018 Winter Adult Reading Program because I love reading and enjoyed the incentives; chocolate, popcorn, and a beautiful coffee mug commemorating the event. My husband and I have also taken several classes for card making, guitar lessons, pasta making, herb and succulent gardening. We enjoy doing these programs because it’s fun to spend quality time together while creating something beautiful!
"Besides the wonderful programs, resources, and patron experiences we’ve received, the library has inspired me to pursue a career in Library Science!”
Sperry hopes to have the same impact on others that the library has had on her. She truly believes that libraries are what help communities grow.
“It is important to support libraries because they are the glue that holds our community together. They offer an evolving environment that celebrates diversity and learning through programs designed for all ages and abilities. Libraries provide resources that may otherwise be inaccessible to patrons and they inspire people, like me, to pursue their lifelong dreams.”
How can you impact the lives of people like Andi and have a hand in the next generation of librarians?
Give: Make a donation! Big or small - every contribution helps our community. There are various ways you can make your gift.
- Donate Now – click here to make your contribution today!
- #GivingTuesday – schedule your gift for November 27, #GivingTuesday, click on the link and hit save to put it on your calendar.
- Colorado Gives Day – Click on the link to schedule your gift for Colorado Gives Day, Tuesday, December 4.
Share: Share your library experiences with friends and family. Post your story on Facebook, tweet on Twitter, send an email, or share the links above any way you like!
Participate: You can be a part of Pikes Peak Library District and our community by participating in library programs and events!
Beau Buren, a Career Online High School graduate hopes his new diploma will help him excel at a higher level in his career. Buren, a Colorado Springs native, finished the program in less than eight months. He set aside time after almost every full day of work and completed nearly six hours of coursework per day on the weekends.
“I feel good about finishing,” Buren said. “I’m really proud of how hard I worked at this.”
Buren has his sights set on college now that he has received his diploma. Buren is hoping to bask in the glow of his achievement until the end of the year, then reassess his goals and consider going back to school for a business management degree.
“The library was definitely there to help me,” Buren said. “Lacey (PPLD Instructional Designer) was really great. I really appreciated the tuition help, too, because otherwise, I may not have been able to do the program at all.”
How can you impact the lives of people like Beau?
Give: Make a donation! Big or small - every contribution helps our community. There are various ways you can make your gift.
- Donate Now – click here to make your contribution today!
- #GivingTuesday – schedule your gift for November 27, #GivingTuesday, click on the link and hit save to put it on your calendar.
- Colorado Gives Day – Click on the link to schedule your gift for Colorado Gives Day, Tuesday, December 4.
Share: Share your library experiences with friends and family. Post your story on Facebook, tweet on Twitter, send an email, or share the links above any way you like!
Participate: You can be a part of Pikes Peak Library District and our community by participating in library programs and events!
Laurie Frydendall and her family have turned trips to the library into a tradition. Her daughters have grown up at the library and are learning the many ways that libraries can help you in life.
“We started attending library programming when my girls were toddlers and we would come to Storytime each week. It was important to me to instill a love of learning at a very early age and the library was just the place to do that! It was a rite of passage at our house to receive your very own library card when you turned five. As the girls got older we participated in the summer reading program. We have also attended many other special programs offered to kids and families.”
It’s not just with her family that the library makes a difference for Laurie, it’s in her job as well.
“In addition to using the library for unlimited access to personal reading, my family finds that the library helps us in many other ways. I use it as a resource for my work, not only do my teens use the library for research but they also learn HOW to research…”
The opportunities Laurie has found at the library have inspired her to see the library as more than just a place for books.
“The library helps to create and support our community at large. It is an invaluable resource that offers knowledge, technology, and creativity to everyone regardless of age, income level, or background.”
How can you impact the lives of people like Laurie?
Give: Make a donation! Big or small - every contribution helps our community. There are various ways you can make your gift.
- Donate Now – click here to make your contribution today!
- #GivingTuesday – schedule your gift for November 27, #GivingTuesday, click on the link and hit save to put it on your calendar.
- Colorado Gives Day – Click on the link to schedule your gift for Colorado Gives Day, Tuesday, December 4.
Share: Share your library experiences with friends and family. Post your story on Facebook, tweet on Twitter, send an email, or share the links above any way you like!
Participate: You can be a part of Pikes Peak Library District and our community by participating in library programs and events!
Download the new Pikes Peak Library District app! Our brand new app is fast and easy to use. It offers streamlined management of your library card account, and access to all the online resources your library card has to offer! You can:
- Place holds
- Track checkouts
- Manage your account
- Access ebooks, music, and other online resources
- Access PPLD research databases
- and so much more!
Download now at:
PPLD's Maker in Residence for October/November 2018 was Gay Houghtaling. A decade ago, she saw an art exhibit made up entirely of suitcases filled with found objects. This exhibit introduced her to the art of assemblage, the art of displaying a collection of objects in a way that expresses a meaning or idea. Gay works with Who Gives a Scrap, a local creative reuse store, to provide craft swaps and classes through the Pikes Peak Library District. Gay has an eclectic teaching background that includes Kindergarten in an overseas classroom, language acquisition and cultural studies for children moving overseas, fourth grade art, and reentry programs for tweens and teens. She currently homeschools her 12 year old grandson.
She taught classes throughout Pikes Peak Library District and hosted open studio hours at Library 21c.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
IN RESPONSE TO KOAA ARTICLE DATED 8/27/2018:
While many libraries across the U.S. do offer “Drag Queen Storytime,” Pikes Peak Library District does not provide it as a library-sponsored program. If ever offered or sponsored, the program would be part of a larger exploration of diversity as well as contextualized for children and families in a broad frame of respect for individuality and difference.
The “Drag Queen Story Hour” by Sarah Bellum, which is taking place at Penrose Library on September 1, is sponsored by Club Q. This program is offered by a member of the community under the auspices of another organization and is not sponsored by the library.
We make our meeting rooms available to the public, and all community members are allowed to use them for any purpose as long as it does not violate our Meeting Room Policy. This use does not violate our policy in any way.
PPLD's Makers in Residence for September/October 2018 were The Reminders (Big Samir and Aja Black), a rare and remarkable musical duo, blending soulful sounds and roots music with insightful messages and thoughtful lyrics. Releasing their debut album Recollect in 2008 and their latest Born Champions in 2012, The Reminders have been recognized and applauded for their work both nationally internationally through concerts, tours, music awards, and television and radio appearances. The duo is constantly and actively engaged with community organizations, schools, universities, delivering workshops, talks, and specially catered performances.
They taught songwriting classes throughout Pikes Peak Library District and hosted open studio hours at Sand Creek Library and Library 21c.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
Family Place Libraries™ is a network of children’s libraries nationwide who believe that literacy begins at birth and that libraries can help build healthy communities by nourishing healthy families. Family Place Libraries feature:
- Specially designed spaces
- Programs for ages 0 - 5
- Materials and resources for parents
- Family support services
Our Family Place Libraries also offer extensive collections of toys that are developmentally appropriate for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Research shows that play fosters a variety of skills that children need: social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional. Through play, children express feelings, communicate, build imagination and vocabulary, and develop eye-and-hand coordination; all vital steps in their journey toward reading and writing.
Family Place Toy Library
The Toy Library is now available! To learn what toys are available and how to check one out, please click here.
Upcoming 2024 Family Place Playgroup Series (registration required):
For parents and caregivers with children 1 - 3 years old. Hosted at PPLD's Family Place Libraries, please join us for an enjoyable 5-week playgroup, where you spend time together, play, make friends, and speak one-on-one with specialists in child development, nutrition, and more.
Cheyenne Mountain Library – Contact: Brittany McNeil: bmcneil@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6205
- March 1, 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- March 8, 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- March 15, 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- March 22, 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
- March 29, 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
East Library – Contact: Janina Goodwin: jgoodwin@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6013
- Fri., March 22, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
- Fri., March 29, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
- Fri., April 5, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
- Fri., April 12, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
- Fri., April 19, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Fountain Library – Contact Melody Philbrick: mphilbrick@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6089
- Thurs., April 4, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., April 11, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., April 18, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., April 25, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., May 2, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., Aug. 2, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., Aug. 9, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., Aug. 16, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., Aug. 23, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
- Thurs., Aug. 30, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Library 21c – Contact: SarahEllen Hickle: shickle@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6335
- Thu., Feb. 1, 10-11:15 a.m.
- Thu., Feb. 8, 10-11:15 a.m.
- Thu., Feb. 15, 10-11:15 a.m.
- Thu., Feb. 22, 10-11:15 a.m.
- Thu., Feb. 29, 10-11:15 a.m.
Penrose Library – Contact: Rachel Martin: rmartin@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6121
- More information coming soon
Sand Creek Library – Contact: Johana Pacheco: jpacheco@ppld.org, (719) 531-6333, x6207
- Fri., Feb. 2, 10:30 a.m. - noon
- Fri., Feb. 9, 10:30 a.m. - noon
- Fri., Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m. - noon
- Fri., Feb. 23, 10:30 a.m. - noon
- Fri., March 1st, 10:30 a.m. - noon
All PPLD Family Place Libraries
- Cheyenne Mountain Library, (719) 531-6333, x7001, 1785 South 8th Street, Suite 100
- East Library, (719) 531-6333, x7014, 5550 N. Union Blvd.
- Fountain Library, (719) 382-5347, 230 S. Main St.
- Library 21c, (719) 531-6333, x1527, 1175 Chapel Hills Dr.
- Penrose Library, (719) 531-6333, x7015, 20 N. Cascade Ave.
- Sand Creek Library, (719) 597-7070, 1821 S. Academy Blvd.
Congratulations to the winners of All Pikes Peak Writes, PPLD's adult fiction writing contest. PPLD received over 60 submissions this year. The five winning stories were announced at an award ceremony on Saturday, May 5.
You can read the winning entries by clicking here.
First Place
“In the Shadow of the Mountain” by Leisel Hufford
Second Place
“A Rational List” by Sandra Hendricks
Third Place
“Hungry” by Davyne DeSye
Honorable Mention
“Checkmate” by Molly Bailey
“Friends Aside” by Ann Amicucci
PPLD's Maker in Residence for July/August 2018 was paper crafting instructor Monique Santos, a Colorado native and enjoys all things “Colorado”! A perfect day would be a morning hike with a friend, cup of coffee, afternoon of playing with the girls and dinner with the family. When she is not busy as a wife and stay at home mom of two daughters 6 & 4 she enjoys being a part of the Colorado Springs community. Whether it be at her daughters school, community centers, crafting events or the library she is passionate about sharing her love for creating.
She taught classes throughout Pikes Peak Library District, as well as hosted open studio hours at Library 21c.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
PPLD's Makers in Residence for May/June 2018 were Charles and Tauni Orndorff. The Colorado Springs natives have been making costumes and props for over 15 years. Their skills include sewing, fabrication, 3D design, and much more. They are currently instructors at the Pikes Peak Makerspace where they teach resin casting, silicon molding, and vac-forming.
They taught Resin Casting with Silicon Molds classes throughout Pikes Peak Library District, as well as hosted open studio hours at Library 21c.
Visit PPLD's Maker/Artist in Residence page for more information about this program.
The Teen Art Contest is for teens and by teens. Teens create the art, and teens determine the winners.
The theme for our 2018 Teen Art Contest was "Hidden Beauty." Teens were encouraged to show us where they have found hidden beauty in the ordinary, everyday world.
All of the artwork will be displayed at either Penrose Library, East Library, or Library 21c during the month of April.
Here are the winners!
Best In Show
Clear by Isabella Huhn
High School - First Place
Letting Go by Celine Hanlon
High School - Second Place
Masked by Elizabeth Ward
Middle School - First Place
Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder by Connor Murdock
Middle School - Second Place
Beauty of the Mountain by Adyline Poirson
Coordinator’s Choice - High School
Color through Clutter by Rebecca Gearhart
Coordinator’s Choice - Middle School
A Shoe by Adia Byron
You can view the winners here:
