What's New!

Library District announces new vision, mission, and core values

From a small reading room established 136 years ago, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of our sprawling community. Our service area covers 2,070 square miles of El Paso County with population of about 700,000 – people of all ages and backgrounds with varying views and interests. Thanks to taxpayer funding, we provide residents 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. We strive to make our physical and digital spaces safe and respectful for diverse voices, perspectives, and pursuit; to foster community dialogue and connections; and to help people achieve their goals and dreams in life.

Beginning in January 2022, we initiated a process to revisit PPLD’s mission statement and develop a vision statement and organizational values that reflect our public library system and growing community. Having such clearly defined statements and values also will allow us to prepare for the next stage – working on a new strategic plan that we hope to release later this fall.

In partnership with a local third-party vendor, Library leadership engaged all staff in a design thinking process to gather individual input and collectively see which themes emerged – and it resulted in much alignment from frontline staff to management. With such rich qualitative data, PPLD’s Board of Trustees and leadership team were able to craft new statements and values that capture our core purpose and aspirations for a public institution that’s here for everyone.

We are excited to share them with you, our Library cardholders and patrons.

VISION

Access to resources and opportunities leads to thriving people and connected communities.

MISSION

Cultivate spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities.

VALUES

Access: We ensure all people feel safe to connect with services, resources, and experiences.
Service: We remove barriers to provide access for all to pursue their interests, needs, and goals.
Freedom: We ensure the right of community members to interact with and experience library services as they choose.
Accountability: We responsibly steward resources with integrity and transparent practices.
Creativity: We foster imagination and resolve problems in new ways.
Community: We bring people together.

You will see these new statements in many places going forward, and they are already featured on our About Us page. We look forward to fulfilling our new mission, upholding our new values, and aiming to achieve our vision for this great community.

D49 students can now enjoy PowerPass!

The new partnership between Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) and the fastest growing school district in El Paso County, District 49 now places the Library’s numerous digital resources at the fingertips of more than 77,300 El Paso County students.

As of Mon., April 25, each of the 12,899 students in D49 will have a PowerPass, a digital PPLD library card just for students. D49 is the fifth school district in El Paso County to provide this access to its students, joining Colorado Springs School District 11, Harrison School District 2, Academy School District 20, and Calhan School District.

PowerPass grants access to PPLD’s digital resources, like databases, eBooks, and song and movie downloads, all available at ppld.org. Each PowerPass holder can also check out five physical items at a time from any of the 16 PPLD locations or mobile library services.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with PPLD to provide access to Library resources with PowerPass for all D49 students. As a district, we are committed to engaging with parents and the community in literacy improvement efforts. This access will broaden opportunities and eliminate barriers for student learning,” said Stacey Franklin, Coordinator of Literacy Performance for District 49.

Students can also use PowerPass for online access to live tutors and foreign language courses, get help with homework and projects, and to access audiobooks and digital education resources. High school and middle school students can also prepare for their future with practice driving and SAT tests.

“With the addition of D49 to PowerPass, PPLD is now serving more than 10 percent of El Paso County’s population with PowerPass,” said Joanna Nelson Rendon, PPLD’s Director of Young Adult Services. “Our goal is to serve as many students as we can with this program. We look forward to partnering with more public, charter, and private schools over the next few years as PowerPass is an effective way to lay the foundation for a lifelong relationship with the people in our communities.”

Learn more at ppld.org/PowerPass.

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.

Standing firm with the Library and First Amendment rights

Several current and former Trustees respond to recent criticism by editorial board

You may have seen the The Gazette editorial board’s recent criticism of our Library District on Wed., March 30. Several current and former members on our Board of Trustees decided to come together and submit a collective response on Mon., April 4. The daily newspaper published an abridged version of the letter, but these Trustees wanted to share their full response with you, our Library cardholders and patrons.

As current and former Trustees for Pikes Peak Library District, we felt compelled to respond to The Gazette editorial board’s recent criticism of the library system that was peppered with inaccuracies (March 30). PPLD is a public institution that’s here for everyone, valuing intellectual freedom and unrestricted access to all points of views. That’s what enticed many of us to volunteer and serve on their Board. While each of us has varying political and religious affiliations, we collectively stand firm that PPLD should be a bastion for democracy that protects First Amendment rights for all.

From a small reading room established 136 years ago, PPLD has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of our sprawling community. Their service area covers 2,070 square miles of El Paso County and a population of about 700,000, including the top 10 best-performing city of Colorado Springs. It’s essential for PPLD to provide a wide array of resources and services that reflect our region’s continuous growth and changes. Everyone – regardless of origin, age, background, or views – should have the ability to access the information they seek, even if others do not agree with the subject matter.

PPLD’s 16 facilities and three mobile library services provide safe, respectful spaces for diverse voices and perspectives, fostering community dialogue and connections. Though described as canceled, Monument Library still hosts Socrates Café that welcomes freedom of thought and expression. It also means that PPLD makes meeting rooms available to all individuals and groups at no cost; they can be used for any purpose so long as it doesn’t violate the Board-approved Meeting Room Policy. Denying this service to the community group who hosted Drag Queen Story Hour in 2018 would have been a violation of the First Amendment.

Library staff continuously evaluate what’s offered to ensure they’re serving people of all ages, interests, and zip codes. As part of this, a team of trained professionals develop and maintain physical and digital collections that are as diverse as our county’s population. There are nearly 245,000 children’s options available, covering countless genres, topics, and parenting styles like children’s Bibles, science books, and homeschooling materials to name a few. It’s also worth noting that some of the mentioned books in the editorial are not even included in PPLD’s collection, and none are actively promoted. We welcome everyone to visit their local library to browse the collection, where parents and caregivers can make selections without inhibiting another parent’s right to choose what’s best for their own family’s circumstances, views, and educational goals.

PPLD did hire a third-party vendor to conduct an audit in 2020 that examined its staffing, resources, and services through the lens of equity, diversity, and inclusion to better serve and reflect our changing community. While the editorial only focused on race, this assessment and following efforts extended well beyond that – encompassing a broader view and focus on EDI that only expends about 0.5 percent of the Library’s annual operating budget.

With a new EDI public service and dedicated staff, PPLD can ensure their spaces and programs are welcoming and accessible for every resident. This includes those with disabilities, members of the military and their families, older adults, those of different faiths, people of color, immigrants, LBGTQIA+ individuals, those who live in more rural parts, and many other identities within our county. Some of the Library’s recent work includes improving accessibility and making accommodations for those with disabilities, expanding services for veterans, working with Focus on the Family to develop book lists for teens and children of the Christian faith, and collaborating with other entities to ensure anyone seeking support can access what they need.

As a public institution that’s funded by taxpayers, PPLD makes decisions in the best interests of all residents and directly reinvests back into our region by creating physical and digital spaces for belonging, personal growth, and stronger communities. That’s why we all stand with PPLD and the values of public libraries to uphold intellectual freedom. No one can thrive if the Library is exclusive and impeding people’s rights instead of being inclusive and welcoming to all.

Dr. Ned Stoll (PPLD Board president), Scott Taylor (vice president), Dora Gonzales (secretary & treasurer), and Debbie English (past president), along with former Trustees, Judith Casey, Cathy Grossman, Tom Herd, JoAnn Orsborn, and Kathleen Owings

April is Earth Month: Recycle Art

Happy Earth Month!
Does your family recycle? There are tons of companies in town that recycle. Maybe you could encourage your family to join in this simple process but yes, it's does cost something. Try cleaning and saving some plastics with caps and cardboard and other stuff. Make a Trash Art creation!

Did you know you can't just recycle anything? According to one recycle business in town, here's what you can/cannot recycle:

Do Recycle:
CLEAN glass jars and metal lids (but not all companies accept glass)
CLEAN plastic bottles and containers. Look for the recycle symbol with a #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7.
Flattened cardboard cereal and other dry food boxes, shoe boxes, tissue boxes, moving boxes, soda cartons, TP/paper rolls
CLEAN aluminum, steel, or tin cans and lids
Newspaper, scrap paper, paper bags, index cards, envelopes

Do NOT recycle:
Styrofoam
dirty cardboard like pizza boxes
electronic devices and monitors
yard waste
shredded paper
plastic bags
plastic caps unless there is a recycle symbol on it
food
dishes
paint cans
motor oil containers

Tween Make: No Sew Dog Toy

Supplies and Directions:

Supplies:

All you need is three long strips of fleece and scissors.

Directions:

Trim your pieces of fleece so you have three pieces that are each 2 in. wide by 2 ft. long.
Take your three pieces of fleece and tie them together at one end.
Braid the three pieces together.
Tie them together in a knot at the other end.

Make Art: Leftover Art Sculpture

Do you have some leftover art pieces sitting around? Make new art by cutting past art into pieces and creating new art.

Supplies and Directions:

Past art that can be cut into pieces (get permission first)
Cereal box cut into pieces or index cards
Glue

Cut art and glue onto index card or piece of cereal box cardboard. (Watercolor paper is strong enough to stand on its own). Let glued pieces dry.
Using one art piece as the base of your sculpture, plan how you'd like to arrange the other pieces sitting on top of the base art piece.
With an adult's help, if needed, cut slits into the art pieces and arrange into a sculpture. You may have to glue some corners and sides for strength, it's up to you.
Get creative and show off your new leftover art sculpture!

National Poetry Month

April is National Poetry Month! Check out these programs at Knights of Columbus Hall:

Sat., April 9 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. - Pikes Peak Poetry Summit - The Pikes Peak Poetry Summit is a one-day event dedicated to the uplifting and honoring of poetry in our region. April is National Poetry Month and this summit will be the perfect way to celebrate whether you are a seasoned poet, exploring the art form, or just a lover of poetry. Get inspired, improve your craft, share your words, and learn more about poetry locally and across the region. Engage with our dynamic writing and performance workshops, learn from our poet speaker panels, and hear phenomenal poets. The poetic experience in the Pikes Peak Region is vibrant and far-reaching and we can't wait for you to add your voice to this art community.

Sat., April 16, at 10:30 a.m. at Carnegie Garden (outside KCH) - Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest Awards Ceremony - Help celebrate the winners of Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest, who wrote on this year's theme: "Unexpected Gardens: Poems on Everyday Bravery." Please RSVP to Christa Funke, cfunke@ppld.org, by April 12.

Sat., April 30 from 1 to 3 p.m. - Youth Poet Laureate Inauguration - Please join us for a celebration of youth poetry in the Pikes Peak Region! The program will feature readings from winners of the Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest, Poetry Out Loud Colorado, Pikes Peak Poet Laureate Ashley Cornelius, guest poets, and applicants of the Youth Poet Laureate Project. The event will culminate with the inauguration of the first Pikes Peak Youth Poet Laureate! The Pikes Peak Youth Poet Laureate Project is a program of Hear Here Poetry in community partnership with the Pikes Peak Library District and championed by Urban Word, NYC. Hear Here Poetry exists to activate and amplify youth voices through events and education, encouraging everyone to listen, write, and share.

STEM Take and Make: Wind Sock

Take and Makes for this project will be available at area PPLD libraries, beginning Friday, March 11, 2022.

Materials and Directions

Materials we provide:

Colored Paper
Stickers
Ribbon or yarn

Materials you provide:

Tape or stapler
Crayons or markers

Directions:

Color one side of your paper if desired. Apply stickers to the same side.
Roll the paper into a tube with your decorations facing the outside.
Use tape or a stapler to fasten the short edges of your tube together.
One end of the tube has multiple holes punched in it. Tie ribbons or yarn through each of the holes.
The other end of the tube has just 2 holes. Tie one ribbon through those holes to allow it to hang.

Women's History Month Books for Kids: Inspiring Girls

PPLD celebrates Women's History Month with a booklist that aims to inspire girls in 2022!

Makerspace Open Houses

Spring Open Houses!

Drop by the makerspaces to create some fun spring crafts and explore what the spaces have to offer! Experiment with cardmaking, laser cutting, flowerpot painting, and other projects to give as a gift or keep for yourself. All ages welcome and all materials provided.

When: Fri., April 29 at 1 - 4 p.m.
Where: East Library
Click here for more information.

When: Sat., April 30 at 1 - 4 p.m.
Where: Sand Creek Library
Click here for more information.

When: Sat., April 30 at 1 - 4 p.m.
Where: Library 21c
Click here for more information.

Projects:

Cardmaking
Precut laser designs for Mother’s Day gifts
Paper flowers
Mini flowerpots and seed packets
At Sand Creek Library, explore Studio916 and test out their instruments

Pikes Peak Children’s Museum and Denver Museum of Nature & Science join PPLD Culture Pass

In PPLD’s efforts to continually provide resources and opportunities that impact individual lives, we’re excited to announce two new additions to the Pikes Peak Culture Pass. The Pikes Peak Culture Pass is a museum pass program that lets patrons explore attractions at no cost by making an electronic reservation similar to checking out an eBook or other digital resource.

Pikes Peak Children’s Museum is a community-built, hands-on educational destination that engages ALL children and their grown-ups by sparking creativity and a passion for life-long learning through purposeful play. Patrons can explore exhibits like outer space, simple machines, and farm to fork. Pass allows for admission for one adult and one child, additional children under 2 years old are free.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science encourages exploration of world-class wildlife displays that take you to Earth’s wildest places, huge dinosaurs that transport you back in time, interactive space exhibits that make your mind wonder, and personalized health science fun that puts your body to the test. Pass allows for admission for up to 7 guests and additional children under 3 years old.

These organizations join existing Culture Pass partners: Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, Glen Eyrie, The Money Museum, ProRodeo Hall of Fame, Rock Ledge Ranch Historical Site, Space Foundation Discovery Center, and the Western Museum of Mining and Industry.

Food Industry Training

Start a new career path today!

Pikes Peak Library District is offering Food Industry Training, a five-week training program that gives you the entry-level skills you need to find or advance in employment as a qualified prep cook or line cook. The program will help you learn basic culinary fundamentals, practice professionalism, explore career opportunities in the culinary industry, and earn your ServSafe Food Handler certification. Gain vital skills to help revitalize the Colorado Springs hospitality workforce and join an industry with unlimited possibilities! Starting pay rates in the Colorado Springs area range from $13 - 14 per hour depending on the position.

No previous experience is required and there is no cost to participate. Participants must intend to pursue a career in the culinary industry. Food Industry Training will be offered multiple times each year. Check back for future dates or contact us to be notified of future dates.

Students must be:

Able to attend the scheduled program
Eligible to work in the U.S.
Pursuing a career in the culinary industry
17 and older

Class Dates: Mon., Oct. 10 - Fri., Nov. 11

Time: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Library 21c
Address: 1175 Chapel Hills, Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Apply here. Applications will open on Mon., Aug. 22 and close on Sun., Sep. 25. Applicants will be contacted for a phone interview. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance on Mon., Oct. 3.
Applicants must attend an informational meeting and pre-test before they are officially admitted to the program. This test is purely to determine what additional in-classroom support may be needed. Test results have no impact on whether or not you will be accepted to the program. Please register for one of the following sessions:
If you are officially accepted into this training program, orientation information will be sent to you.

What you’ll learn:

Recipe reading and conversion
Proper food handling
Product identification
Basic stocks, sauces and mother sauces
Proper Cooking Methods, from different products to different techniques

Appropriate temperatures as related to the industry
Professional appearance
Resume building
Team building

More About the Food Industry:

Wondering if this class is right for you? Learn more about the careers this training will prepare you for:

What does a food preparation worker do? This short video walks you through what the job looks like on a day-to-day basis.
What does a cook do? This short video walks you through what the job looks like on a day-to-day basis.
Read about the wide variety of jobs in the culinary industry in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. It covers training, wages, and duties.
The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program estimates that the mean hourly wage for Food Preparation and Serving Related in Colorado in 2021 was $16.46. Average employment in 2021 was 223,030.

Any questions, please contact the Adult Education Department at (719) 531-6333, x7225 or clayton@ppld.org.

Junior Ranger Packs

The Junior Ranger Nature pack provides self-guided activities to encourages children and their families to get out, explore, observe, describe, and engage the senses any time during the year. Designed for ages 7-13, and align with Colorado Academic Standards for Science and Social Science. Provided and in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Parks, Trails & Open Spaces.

Click here for more information about the Junior Ranger Nature packs.

Bring your completed Junior Ranger Book to a swearing-in ceremony to take your Junior Ranger pledge and receive your Park Expert sticker/Junior Ranger badge! The ceremony will be followed by a Ranger-Guided hike.

2022 Schedule

July 2: Red Rocks Canyon Open Space (picnic area) - 3550 W. High St.
Aug. 6: Stratton Open Space (Ridgeway parking Lot) - 1602 Ridgeway Ave.
Sept. 3: Bluestem Prairie Open Space (picnic area) - 6254 Goldfield Dr.
Nov. 5: Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center - 1805 N. 30th St.

2023 Schedule

Mar. 4: Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center - 1805 N. 30th St.
June 3: Ute Valley Open Space - Ute Valley Trail (HP lot)
Jul. 1: Red Rocks Canyon Open Space (picnic area) - 3550 W. High St.
Aug. 5: Stratton Open Space (Ridgeway parking Lot) - 1602 Ridgeway Ave.
Sept. 2: Bluestem Prairie Open Space (picnic area) - 6254 Goldfield Dr.

STEM: Rain Inside a Jar

Try this easy experiment with the help of an adult.

Supplies and Directions:

Supplies:

Bowl
Large glass jar
Plate
12 ice cubes
Water
Microwave

Directions:

Fill the bowl with water and heat it up in the microwave for about 3 minutes. It doesn’t have to boil. CAREFUL – the bowl will be hot.
Pour the water into the large glass jar and cover it with a dinner plate.
Let the plate-covered jar sit about a minute, then put 12 ice cubes onto the plate.
Watch what happens. It will rain inside the jar!

Chief librarian departing Pikes Peak Library District

Pikes Peak Library District’s Chief Librarian and CEO John Spears announced his upcoming departure for a new opportunity after more than six years of service to El Paso County residents. He will become head of the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library with 36 locations in western New York, beginning in mid-April.

Spears has directed Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) – a library system of 16 locations, three mobile library services and a large online hub of resources, all provided through more than 400 staff and 550 volunteers – since 2016. During his tenure, PPLD eliminated overdue fines for most Library materials, opened Calhan Library to expand access in rural parts of the service area, established a co-location partnership between Manitou Springs Library and the Manitou Art Center, and revived Knights of Columbus Hall as a community space in downtown Colorado Springs.

In addition to those notable successes for El Paso County, the Library District also launched a new food industry training program and student-access partnerships with local school districts. Two new public services were introduced to better serve the community as well. The Library added a social worker on staff to help patrons navigate community resources during difficult times, as well as a new service that broadly focuses on equity, diversity and inclusion to ensure all feel welcome using the Library, including those with disabilities, older adults, people of color and different faiths, and military service members, families, and veterans.

“It’s been a great honor to lead PPLD and its dedicated staff through times of uncertainty, change, growth and opportunity,” said Spears. “With those serving on the Board of Trustees and PPLD’s leadership team, I’m confident there will be a smooth transition and staff will continue to connect people with what they need to improve their lives and the Pikes Peak region.”

Spears also led PPLD through the on-going pandemic, with District-wide efforts ranging from a full closure to reopening all services inside Library facilities, along with launching virtual programs and curbside services. His numerous accomplishments supported PPLD in receiving the prestigious four-star rating from the Library Journal for several years, in addition to being awarded “District of the Year” by the Special District Association of Colorado in 2019.

“The Board of Trustees is beyond grateful to John for his leadership, commitment and achievements during his tenure with our Library District,” shared Dr. Ned Stoll, president of PPLD’s Board of Trustees. “John has positioned us for continued success in the future, where all residents of El Paso County can access information, resources, services and opportunities. We wish him all the best in his new state, city and role.”

Spears’ last day will be Fri., April 1. PPLD’s Board of Trustees will appoint Teona Shainidze-Krebs as interim Chief Librarian & CEO. She currently serves as the Library’s Chief Public Services Officer & Deputy Chief Librarian.

Artists of the Knight

Artist of the Knight is a virtual program presented by Pikes Peak Library District, highlighting creatives who work in a variety of media in the Pikes Peak Region. Each episode focuses on an individual creative and displays examples of their work, as well as a conversational interview with the intent to explore the artist’s creative process. Watch the video anytime after they premiere! Watch here:

Be sure to follow us on Facebook for updates and more! Some videos and galleries contain nudity as part of visual art pieces, and may only be considered appropriate for ages 18+. Viewer discretion advised.

Interested in being featured on Artists of the Knight? Click here!

This week: Debra Callan, Visual Artist

Previous artists

Season 1:

Season 2:

Click here to learn more about KCH.

KidsMake Favorite: Truffula Tree Pencil

Watch this project from a year ago at https://youtu.be/nNIaTK7sFgA?list=PLMEg2Dd0dSFctLfDQxsL5SmuE8zkwQFmu

Supplies and Directions:

Supplies:

A bendy pencil or a straight one will do
Feathers
A Mad Lib (there is a Mad Lib example seen on the video link above, or make up your own)
Glue (preferably a liquid glue like Elmer's)
Pencil sharpener

Directions:

Glue your feathers to the erasure side of the pencil.
Add a little pressure to the feathers around the pencil. This will help keep them in place.
Wait for the glue to dry
Use your Truffula Tree pencil to create a silly story using the Mad Lib! Try not to read the story until you've filled out all the blank spaces. You might need help from a grownup with this.

Maker in Residence: Native American Beading with Ela Diel

Native American Beading culture crosses many tribes and has significant meaning in who we are in our tribes as well as what we believe in within ourselves. Join Ela Diel, a Cherokee native, as she shares with you pieces of her culture. Help keep some native traditions alive through beading art.

Seed-Beaded Bracelets
In seed-beaded bracelets we’ll cover designs and two different ways to string the beads. Come make something with me that you can wear on any occasion with pride as you make what resonates with your spirit.
Seed-Beaded Rosettes
In seed-beaded rosettes we will learn a way to meditate in beading in the round to make beautiful centerpieces that can be made into centerpieces, wall décor, pendants and more.
Seed-Beaded Earrings
In seed-beaded earrings we’ll be making beautiful pieces that will compliment any outfit and share our native art with all who admire them.

Community Project

Drop in for open hours helping Maker in Residence Ela Diel create a community-based project in Native American Beadwork!

Ela will guide you on how to contribute beads to a community canvas that will be displayed in the Library in the future.

Artist Biography

Hello! I'm Ela. I'm Tsalagi (Cherokee) native. My Tsalagi name is Unega-Waya, which means Happy Wolf. This is my heritage: My grandmother grew up in Appalachia in what is modernly known as North Carolina. My grandmother moved away from the tribe to marry my grandfather, an Irish-American to live in New York where they had four sons. She passed away when I was only two, however my father passed on our culture and traditions, and I have since reconnected with the tribe. I love art and beading is a great way to express art and keep my family's culture alive. I am autistic, so if I don't look you in the eye or stutter a little please forgive me. Outside of that, let's have some fun, bead and celebrate the Tsalagi culture together! A'ho!

Take and Make: Straw Propeller

Take and Makes for this project, for ages 5-12, will be available beginning Friday, Feb. 11, 2022. Learn about air pressure with this simple experiment! You can also find more step-by-step pictures in the pdf link provided below.

Supplies and Directions:

Materials we provide:

2 large straws
1 skinny straw

Materials you provide:

Scissors
Tape

Directions:

Use the scissors to cut 2 diamond shaped holes in your skinny straw. Do this by folding the straw in 2 separate places and cutting a triangle. The holes should be in a line on the straw.
Tape one end of the skinny straw closed so that no air will escape when you blow into it.
Bend one of the large straws in half and cut a diagonal hole on each side of the straw.
Squeeze this straw flat and tape the ends closed. The hole should line up with your work surface. If you hold your straw up to look through the holes, the taped ends should be up and down.
Cut notches in the ends of the large straw. The cut should be at the top of one end and at the bottom of the other.
Slide your skinny straw through the holes in the large straw. You might want to place a piece of tape to keep the straw in place over a hole in the skinny straw while still allowing it to rotate freely.
Repeat the process with the other large straw.
Blow into the open end of the skinny straw and watch things twirl. If your straws don’t twirl freely, you might need to adjust the size of the holes.

Cupboard Crafts & Experiments: Egg Carton Catapult

STEM Favorite: Egg Carton Catapult

Supplies:

Half a cardboard egg carton
Scrap pieces of newspaper or other paper
Tape: masking tape, or painter's tape, or scotch tape
7 rubber bands
Plastic spoon
Pompoms or cotton balls or mini marshmallows
Various clean containers

Directions:

Stuff each section of the egg carton with balled up newspaper.
Close the lid and secure with 2 rubber bands, placed around the body of the carton.
Wrap 2 more rubber bands horizontally around the carton, just below where the lid closes.
Tape a rubber band to the handle of the spoon by attaching a long piece of tape to one side of the handle and inserting a rubber band before attaching the tape to the back of the spoon.
Tuck the handle of the spoon under the rubber bands that were attached horizontally around the carton. The scoop part of the spoon should be facing away from the egg carton.
Stretch the rubber band that's attached to the spoon up and over the spoon and around the back of the carton.
Wrap 2 more rubber bands around the body of the carton so there are 4 rubber bands around the carton helping to keep it closed.
Place a cotton ball in the spoon and shoot!. Place clean containers where you can aim your cotton ball.

To watch the project, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4o4eC5E_Qs

Black History Month Books for Kids

February is Black History Month. Here is the link to PPLD programming going on in February: https://ppld.org/blackhistorymonth The Harriet Tubman Herself presentation looks really cool and is available all month!
Also, check out these additional resources:
Black Voices booklist for Kids
Storytime @ Home: Black Joy!

Our Response to COVID-19

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:

Browse the physical collection of books, movies, and more.
Use self-checkout machines and service desks.
Use a computer.
Fax, scan, and/or copy documents without staff assistance.
Charge your devices.
Use a meeting or study room by reservation; more spaces are reopening for public use at libraries across the District!
Use a makerspace at one of three libraries.
Check out Studio equipment from one of two libraries.
Use Studio21c or Studio916 by reservation, available at two locations.
Take advantage of 3D print drop-off services, available at three locations.
Use the Educational Resource Center at East Library.
Access Special Collections in the 1905 Carnegie Library.

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:

Curbside services allow you to pick up Library materials, wireless print jobs, and take and make kits without having to go inside any location. All open libraries now offer a park and text option, making it even easier! You also can use our 24/7 book drops to return Library materials at any time.
Have a question? Ask a librarian! You can connect with PPLD staff by phone, live chat, or email. Or, book an appointment with one of our specialized librarians.
Take advantage of our large digital collection, extensive hub of online resources, and many virtual programs available for all ages and interests. Browse our online Catalog, conduct research, or participate in a Library event from almost anywhere, anytime. Get started using our Library remotely!
Need WiFi when our libraries are closed? It should be accessible outside most library facilities for anyone to use, day or night.

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:

Pikes Peak Library District: COVID-19 Emergency Aid and Resources Guide and Health & Medicine Guide
El Paso County Public Health: COVID-19 web page and fact sheet
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: COVID-19 web page
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Frequently Asked Questions & Answers on COVID-19
Colorado Health Emergency Line for the Public (CO HELP): Get answers in English, Spanish (Español), Mandarin, and more at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911, or email COHELP@RMPDC.org.

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:

State: Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
National: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Microwave Puffy Paint

Supplies and Directions

1 cup flour
2-4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Water
Food coloring
Ziploc bags

Mix 1 cup flour, 3-4 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and enough water to make a dough the consistency of pancake batter.
Divide your dough into ziploc bags. (Snack sized ones are ideal!)
Add food coloring to each bag and squish to make the color you like. Squish carefully as to not pop the bag. The mixing could take several minutes.
Snip a tiny piece of the corner and squeeze the paint out the bag through the hole to paint on a piece of paper.
After painting, pop the paper in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. The paints will set and become more solid.

Top Titles of 2021

Check out these stats and our top title of 2021 below.

Physical material checkouts: 3,813,688
Additions to physical collection: 21,349 titles and 67,400 items, plus 14,525 magazines
OverDrive checkouts: 2,541,010
Freegal:
- Song Downloads: 66,333
- Songs Streamed: 222,405
Kanopy: 61,738 videos streamed
Hoopla: 38,028 checkouts, movies and television mostly
New cardholders during 2021: 17,165 patrons and 36,158 students with PowerPass.

PPLD donated over 4,100 items to 20 organizations, including several schools, nine assisted living facilities, the Salvation Army shelter, Girl Scouts, Greccio Housing, and the Community Justice Center.