The Teen Art Contest returns in Spring 2026. More details are coming soon. Check back starting in December for contest theme, rules, and entry requirements. 

The Regional History & Genealogy collection at Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) houses pieces of our region’s rich history. Researchers and PPLD staff know about the many stories told by the city record logs, letters written by residents, local newspapers, regional history books, and thousands of digitized photos and documents in the collection. With the launch of a new series, you will too!

Join us for the inaugural event of the Peak Legacies series and learn about local photographer Myron Wood. Each entry in the Peak Legacies series will highlight individuals with a prominent place in PPLD’s archives and in Colorado history.

Myron Wood
Sat., Sept. 20 from 3 – 5 p.m.
Library 21c: Venue
Registration required 

India Wood, daughter of renowned local photographer Myron Wood, shares stories and insights from her trek across Colorado—literally corner to corner—and how the journey deepened her understanding of her father’s life and his work in the state. The discussion is part of PPLD’s Regional History department’s new series Peak Legacies, which highlights individuals with a prominent place in our archives and in Colorado history. A concurrent display at Library 21c will feature a selection of Myron Wood’s photographs. 

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

In September, join us on Wed., Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. for a conversation with Hannah Nicole Maehrer, creator of the New York Times bestselling Assistant to the Villain series. Evie Sage didn’t mean to become the right-hand woman to the kingdom’s most terrifying villain. One minute, she was applying for an entry-level position that promised “light paperwork and occasional beheadings,” and the next, she was knee-deep in magical mayhem, murder plots, and an entirely inappropriate crush on her brooding, sharp-jawed, walking-disaster of a boss. Full of humor and heart, this magical office comedy about a sunshine assistant and her grumpy evil boss is one you won’t want to miss out on. Register for the access link.

Tune in on Wed., Sept. 10 at noon to refine your communication skills with author Jefferson Fisher who will discuss his book The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More. No matter who you are talking to, The Next Conversation gives you immediately actionable strategies and phrases that will forever change how you communicate. Jefferson Fisher, trial lawyer and one of the leading voices on real-world communication, offers a tried-and-true framework that will show you how to transform your life and your relationships by improving your next conversation. Register for the access link.

For the last Virtual Author Visit of September, settle in on Wed., Sept. 17 at noon and enjoy a conversation with author Gabe Henry about his book enough is enuf: Our Failed Attempts to Make English Eezier to Spell. Have you ever wondered why the English spelling of words is sometimes… well… just weird? Come on a surprisingly hilarious journey with us and author Gabe Henry through the history of the English language, while we discuss troublemakers like Mark Twain who broke all the rules. In his book, Gabe Henry humorously traces the “simplified spelling movement” from medieval England to Revolutionary America. Register for the access link.

Learn more and see upcoming authors on our Virtual Author Visits page or check out past Virtual Author Visits!   

More Upcoming Virtual Author Visits

• Thu., Oct. 2 at noon: Nuestra América: Stories of 30 Inspiring Latinas/Latinos Who Have Shaped the United States with Smithsonian Educators
• Thu., Oct. 9 at 5 p.m.: 10 Years of Daring Heists and Loveable Outcasts in young adult (YA) Fantasy with Leigh Bardugo
• Wed., Oct. 29 at noon: Courtly Intrigue and Whispers as Weapons with Historical Fiction Queen Philippa Gregory

During its August 20 Board meeting, Pikes Peak Library District’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to enter contracts to purchase the Ruth Holley and Ute Pass library properties. With these purchases, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) will now own 10 of its 14 Library locations. Cheyenne Mountain, Monument, Palmer Lake, and Manitou Springs libraries are still under active leases.

A financial investment of a $1 million donation from the PPLD Foundation, a $200,000 donation from a private entity, $1 million from the fund balance reserves, $400,000 from the capital funds contingency, and $48,000 from Colorado Trust interest made it possible for PPLD to purchase both Ruth Holley and Ute Pass libraries for a total of $2.65 million.

“Owning these properties will ensure long-term sustainability in these communities and allow PPLD to offer library services to residents in ways that best fit their lifestyles,” said Board of Trustees President Julie Smyth. “Focusing on literacy in the southeast region and working toward extended hours of service for our patrons in the more rural areas strengthens PPLD’s commitment to providing access to everyone.”

Property ownership was a recommendation presented in the 2024 Facilities Master Plan for the Library District as it reduces debt from the Library District’s annual operations budget.

Over the next several months Library Leadership will finalize plans and present them to the community via town hall meetings to inform the residents of what PPLD has in store for their library location and an approximate timeline for implementation.

In alignment with the Board’s priorities to provide services for the Library District’s entire legal service area, PPLD will continue to consider creative approaches to serving the public, funds permitting, and having a presence in as many communities as possible, using mobile library services, hybrid facilities, kiosks, or holds lockers.

Your library card gives you access to a world of possibilities at Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD). In addition to a wide selection of physical and digital items you can check out, you also have access to a variety of online resources and databases. This month, take a closer look at cookbooks at the Library and the PowerPass program which connects students with Library resources through their schools. 

Cookbook Collection

If you have ever scoured the internet for a quality recipe or purchased a cookbook you never use, you know that it takes trial and error to find the right recipes. Save time, money, and ingredients with your library card to unlock a collection of physical and digital cookbooks to explore.

First, let’s take a look at the basics: food type. PPLD’s cookbook collection offers a wide range of books with a variety of different foods for the well-rounded table. This includes specialty books focused on desserts, barbecue, sugar-free, slow cooker, cast iron, cake decorating, yogurt, pickles, allergy-free, bread, and other specialized topics. If fast and easy is on the menu, you can also find books on simple microwave recipes, budget-friendly options, easy gourmet choices, and other topics. There are cookbooks for most occasions as well, from holidays and birthdays to seasonal changes and even camping. 

Explore the rich culinary landscape of cultures around the world - your own or someone else’s. Journey through Italy, Germany, North Africa, and Malaysia, discover the world of Mexican keto cooking, find yourself at home on the range, or travel back to medieval Europe. Or take a staycation right here in Colorado. 

If you enjoy watching TV or reading, you might enjoy pop culture, parody (yes, there are cookbooks for that), and celebrity cookbooks. Dive into the worlds of your favorites from Game of Thrones and The Nightmare Before Christmas to Marvel’s Black Panther, and beyond. Or you can geek out with celebrity cookbooks by Gordon Ramsey, Stanley Tucci, Betty Crocker, and others.

No look into PPLD’s cookbook collection would be complete without a shoutout to cookbooks for kids! Parents and caregivers can find recipe books to help them come up with playful, nutritious recipes that their children will love. Or feed kids’ creativity and help them build kitchen skills of their own with cookbooks designed for children to use. Help them develop confidence in the kitchen with books on general cooking, desserts, vegan recipes, and international favorites. There are also fun cookbooks from popular titles such as Bluey, Pokémon, and National Geographic Kids.

One more place where you can find intriguing recipes is the Junior Worldmark Encyclopedia of Foods and Recipes of the World, available online with your PPLD library card.

History fun-fact:

The Library's Regional History & Genealogy collection includes historic cookbooks from the Pikes Peak region. These include Cooking with the Colorado Springs Art Guild (1995-99), Falcon Favorite Recipes (1965-69), Prize Recipes of Colorado Springs (1972), Appetizer Recipes (1978), and others. These historic books are reference copies only and not available for checkout, but you can visit the Regional History & Genealogy Department at Penrose Library to view them.

PowerPass

Pikes Peak Library District strives to provide access to resources and opportunities to help people thrive and keep communities connected. We partner with local schools through the PowerPass program to provide students with access to tools for academic success. PowerPass is a just-for-students library card that grants access to PPLD’s online resources like databases, homework help tools, eBooks, music streaming, and more.

We currently partner with six school districts in our community to provide reliable resources for students, including D2, D11, D20, D49, Calhan School District, and Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8. Students in these districts can access trusted homework help and educational resources, build lifelong healthy reading habits to support brain health and positive learning outcomes, and find quality research resources for school projects.

Having access to curated homework tools and databases helps students move through the school year with confidence. Whether they are learning how to conduct online research or need homework or test prep help, they can use their PowerPass to access reliable information and study guides.

These tools can help students take deeper dives into their school subjects as well. Using eLibrary resources like Hoopla and Kanopy, students can find documentaries on subjects they are studying in school. They can also check out eBooks and eAudiobooks to explore a wide range of topics, to continue building on their reading skills, or for book projects. It’s not all work all the time, though. Students can check out books to relax with throughout the semester using eLibrary resources like Libby, TumbleBook Library, and Hoopla as studies have linked reading with stress reduction. With PowerPass, students can unlock their potential and thrive throughout the school year. 

Parents and caregivers can customize their students’ experiences by using parental control options in their students’ Libby, OverDrive, Hoopla, and Kanopy accounts.  

PPLD Update - As of Aug. 4, 2025

Published Mon., Aug. 4, 2025

Final Decision in the Baker , et al. vs. PPLD, et al. Lawsuit

On Mon., Aug. 4, the District Court of El Paso County granted Pikes Peak Library District’s (PPLD) Motion for Summary Judgment on the one remaining claim in Case No. 24CV32336, specifically PPLD’s alleged violation of the Open Meetings Law.

Earlier this year on May 7, the District Court judge granted PPLD’s Motion to Dismiss all claims except for the Open Meetings Law claim, requesting that the parties provide additional information before he would rule on it. In granting the Motion for Summary Judgment on this claim, the judge found that he did not have subject matter jurisdiction to review the Board decision not to renew the Rockrimmon Library lease, and that the undisputed evidence showed that PPLD had not violated the Open Meetings Law with respect to the October 2024 Board meeting where the decision was made. As such, the judge dismissed the claims with prejudice against all parties, including the individually-named defendants, who had been improperly named. The Court now considers the matter closed.
 

PPLD Updates - As of May 14, 2025

Published Wed., May 14, 2025

Update on PPLD's Motion to Dismiss Amended Complaint in Baker, et al. v. PPLD, et al.

Below is an update concerning the lawsuit filed against Pikes Peak Library District and others regarding the non-renewal of the Rockrimmon Library lease:

On Wednesday, May 7th, the District Court of El Paso County granted Pikes Peak Library District’s (PPLD) Motion to Dismiss (Case No. 24CV32336) on all claims, except for one which remains pending. Due to the pending issue, PPLD will not be able to provide further comment.

Statement regarding COS Reads' New Library

PPLD previously raised concerns regarding potential confusion as to the library established by COS Reads. We’re pleased that steps are now being taken to address those concerns. As we said in our previous communication to PPLD cardholders, our intent is not to discourage new library initiatives, but PPLD has a responsibility to ensure that the public is not confused as to the source of those library services. We welcome the opportunity to move forward, and we remain committed to serving the Rockrimmon community.
 
 

PPLD Updates Regarding the Library in the Rockrimmon Area

Published Sun., April 27, 2025

Below is a letter that PPLD's attorney sent to the attorney for COS Reads on Thu., April 24.

View the PDF version of this letter

Page 2 of letter

Page 3 of letter

 
 

April 25, 2025: PPLD Updates Regarding the Library in the Rockrimmon Area

Published Fri., April 25, 2025

In the coming weeks, a new library will officially open in the Rockrimmon area. This library was created by COS Reads, the nonprofit organization spearheading the Save the Rockrimmon Library movement (the “COS Library”). These entities and the COS Library are completely independent of Pikes Peak Library District (“PPLD”). 

PPLD is made up of 14 locations and Mobile Library Services (“MLS”) that have been serving the growing needs of El Paso County residents for more than 60 years. These locations operate in compliance with the Colorado Library Laws that lay out the rights and responsibilities of public libraries and their Board of Trustees, as well as govern library operations. PPLD’s adherence to these laws ensures that all patrons receive safe access to all the services, materials, resources, and equipment that the 14 official PPLD locations and MLS stops offer. Therefore, it is important that the District helps the public to understand that only its official locations offer these assurances, and that the COS Library is not affiliated with Pikes Peak Library District. 

Some of the statements being made by these groups and the name that has been chosen for the COS Library are causing a bit of confusion for the public; books are being returned to the wrong locations; and the COS Library’s programs are bearing the same names as PPLD programs – Toddler Time and Paws to Read – giving the community the expectation of receiving the same quality service received at PPLD branches.

Please know that:

• For all PPLD programs that involve children, the staff presenting the programs are required to go through a nationally-accredited early children’s literacy training, along with a specific early literacy training. These trainings ensure that staff are knowledgeable on the developmental ages and stages of children, on how to use supplemental educational materials (such as, puppets or music) in the programs, and in “classroom” management techniques, etc.
• For all PPLD Paws to Read programs, the dogs are required to be therapy certified to ensure they can provide emotional support in diverse public settings. PPLD requires interviews for the handlers and assessments for the dogs. PPLD’s early literacy staff trains the handlers to work with young children, and the handlers must also complete the PPLD program expectations training. The handlers are provided with a Paws to Read Handbook, which they are required to read, acknowledge and agree to follow prior to hosting a program.
• All PPLD staff and volunteers must pass criminal background checks before they can be involved in any PPLD program or event. 

Moreover, PPLD is bound by Colorado and federal laws that provide a legal framework for library operations and responsibilities. By way of example, PPLD safeguards the privacy of its patrons’ library records (C.R.S. § 24-90-119), has a statutory obligation to provide access to library resources that express all points of view (C.R.S. § 24-90-122), and uses Internet filters to restrict access to visual depictions of obscene materials, pornography, and/or any other material harmful to minors as required under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

Because the COS Library is privately operated, it is unclear whether it is required to comply with these laws – and it is even more uncertain whether patrons of the COS Library will understand that they do not have the same legal protections that they would have from PPLD. Therefore, PPLD wanted to inform the public that the COS Library is not affiliated with PPLD, that the COS Library is not an extension of PPLD, and that the COS Library is not bound by the same staff/volunteer training standards, background check requirements, or legal obligations as PPLD.

As these libraries are unaffiliated, PPLD patrons should know that any items checked out from one of its 14 locations or MLS stops must be returned to one of those locations or stops. They cannot be returned to the COS Library location. And items received from the COS Library cannot be returned to any PPLD locations; they will not be transferred to COS Library.

Know that PPLD is continuing to work for all its patrons throughout El Paso County, offering the quality and fulfilling services it has provided for decades. The Library District is thriving as the use of its amenities and participation in its programs, promotional campaigns, and donations continue to increase.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Pikes Peak Library District

Formerly Latina Voices, Rising Voices is a series of programs that celebrate the accomplishments, successes, and cultural riches of the diverse people of the Pikes Peak region – sharing the varied voices and experiences of our community. This year’s program consists of two events: a Panel Discussion and a Celebration. The Panel Discussion will feature members of our community, including Luisa Graff, owner of Luisa Graff Jewelers, and Peter Choi, reporter at KOAA. The Celebration will provide opportunities to enjoy foods, performances, and crafts from many cultures represented in our region.

Rising Voices: A Panel Discussion 

East Library: Wed., Aug. 20 from 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Join us for a compelling conversation featuring local leaders and changemakers as they share their journeys, challenges, and visions for a bright future for all.

Peter W. Choi
Reporter at KOAA News 5

Peter W. Choi joined the KOAA News 5 team as a multimedia journalist in July 2024. Choi’s career began at Arirang TV in South Korea, where he was a bilingual reporter covering the Korean peninsula and international news. His multicultural background brings a unique perspective to his reporting. After two years in Seoul, Choi pursued local journalism at KXLY 4 News Now in Spokane, Washington, covering two devastating wildfires, homelessness, and regional and state legislatures.

Choi was born and raised in South Korea and graduated from Seattle Pacific University, where he studied communication. When Choi is not in the newsroom, you can catch him beatboxing and singing.

Luisa Graff
Owner of Luisa Graff Jewelers

Born in Lima to an American father and a Peruvian mother, Luisa Graff escaped the country by herself at age 12 when the government was overthrown and all major industries nationalized by then-dictator Juan Velasco.

Her father was originally from Colorado, and she made her way to Colorado Springs – joining her older sister and an elderly aunt to start a new life. It would be years until the family was reunited. Speaking only a few words of English, but in need of money, Graff smiled her way into part-time work at a local jewelry store.

A springboard diving scholarship enabled her to attend college, and not long after, she earned honors as the first female gemologist in the western United States certified by the Gemological Institute of America. Gaining valuable experience as a minority shareholder at the same store where she worked as a young girl, Graff struck out on her own in 1999 and established Luisa Graff Jewelers.

Luisa Graff Jewelers grew rapidly, attracting national attention for sales success and yielding many invitations for Graff to speak at national forums. The store ranks among the top independent jewelry retailers in the country, with a single location in Colorado Springs.

A self-described “science nerd,” Graff believes in knowing and teaching the gemology behind the jewelry as a basis for assessing quality and value. She travels all over the world to find high-quality items for her customers. Supported by a knowledgeable staff of 29 professionals she considers family, her goal is to deliver on the promise made to every customer of “Helping You Be Unforgettable!”

Rising Voices: A Celebration 

Library 21c: Sat., Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Join us for a fun-filled festival featuring entertainment, food, and crafts for all to enjoy. Celebrate the many communities and cultures that make up the Pikes Peak region alongside friends, family, and neighbors. Enjoy performances, food, crafts, and entertainment that showcases a tapestry of cultures. Highlights include:

• Traditional Native American dance performed by Seven Falls Indian Dancers
• Irish dance performances by Rose Courtney Academy of Irish Dance
• Dance lessons on two traditional Indian dance styles with Bharatnatyam and Kathak
• Performances by The Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale.

Wrap up another joyful summer with live outdoor music! Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is proud to present the 2025 Palmer Lake Library Concert Series! Join us for three Friday evening concerts from 6 – 7 p.m. on Aug. 29, Sept. 5, and Sept. 12, all at no cost.

This season's concert series will be held outdoors at the Palmer Lake Village Green & Gazebo, next to Palmer Lake Library at 66 Lower Glenway Street. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the music of this summer concert series. Everyone is welcome.

In the event of inclement weather, concerts may either be relocated to the Palmer Lake Town Hall or canceled. 

• Fri., Aug. 29 – Peak Big Band, a dynamic ensemble known for performing a variety of big band music from Duke Ellington to rock legends Guns and Roses.
• Fri., Sept. 5 – Ricky Sweum, an award-winning musician, composer, educator, and music producer known for many things, including jazz performances.
• Fri., Sept. 12 – Some Sweet Day, an acoustic band playing “rockin’ mountain music, fiery old time/bluegrass fiddle from Appalachia, song and ballads mixed with some modern folk, and country music.” 

The Shivers Concert Series presents its next concert – An Evening of Inspirational Word and Song – on Sun., Aug. 31, at 4 p.m. at Colorado College’s Packard Hall (5 W. Cache La Poudre St.).

While concerts in the Shivers Concert Series are usually ticketed fundraising events, there is no cost to attend this Shivers Concert Series concert. Donations are welcome and appreciated.

The Shivers Concert Series has been raising funds to support local culture and arts for 32 years. These concerts benefit the Shivers Fund at PPLD started by Peggy and Clarence Shivers, which contributes to the African American collection at Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD), awards grants and scholarships to students, and encourages young people to pursue their interests in the arts.

The concert features storyteller and reenactor Becky Stone, soprano vocalist Ciera Bowens, and the Sankey Sisters Quartet.

After the concert, there will be a book signing of I Wanted to be a Pilot: The Making of a Tuskegee Airman and Red Tail, A Tuskegee Airman’s Rendezvous with Destiny, as well as a reception sponsored by Tiemens Foundation. 

If you are unable to attend but would like to donate to the Shivers Fund, visit the Shivers Fund donation page.

The PPLD Foundation invites you to participate in their first ever Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser at Springs Pickleball – West (780 Vondelpark Dr.) on Fri., Aug. 1. Have a blast and connect with your community at this friendly competition. Choose from Casual Open Play, Family Fun Court Time, or a non-ranked Tournament where each team is guaranteed at least six games. Proceeds support Pikes Peak Library District. 

Schedule of events:

• Casual Open Play (5 – 6 p.m.) – $15 per person  
• Family Fun Court Time (5 – 9 p.m.) – $15 per person  
• Tournament Night Entry (6 – 9 p.m.) – $45 per person 

Register today to secure your spot! 

There will be prizes for all levels – whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, everyone has a chance to win. No paddle? No problem! The PPLD Foundation will have equipment available for those who want to join and support the cause.

If you are interested in sponsoring a court or prizes, please reach out to Marcie McNulty at mamcnutly@ppld.org or (719) 531-6333, x6325. 

Can’t attend? You can still support the Library with a donation to the PPLD Foundation.