On April 22, 1970, millions of Americans participated in the first Earth Day to increase awareness about environmental issues around the world. That movement has grown into Earth Month throughout all of April to continue spreading awareness locally and internationally. Learn about Earth Month, environmental issues, and ways to make your life more environmentally friendly through upcycling and recycling with the resources on this page.

Booklists

Adult Books for Earth Month
Earth Month Books for Kids

Resources

• Earth Month Displays at the Library  
  Colorado Springs Utilities is sharing information about wise water usage and conservation with informative displays at several Library locations. You’ll find information about utilities, energy rebates, water-wise planting, water and energy usage tips, and more! Stop by East, Cheyenne, Monument, Old Colorado City, Penrose, and Rockrimmon libraries, as well as Library 21c to learn more.  
• Green Living 
  A curated guide of resources to help you adapt to living a greener lifestyle.
• Learn to Make Reusable Bags at PPLD 
  Struggling with Colorado’s new single-use bag fee? This video has instructions on how to upcycle a t-shirt into a reusable shopping bag. (All ages)
• Create: Bee Gardens
  Learn some techniques to start your very own bee-friendly garden, including planting native wildflowers that attract pollinators, and making a bee bath out of polymer clay. (All ages)
• Create: Visible Mending
  Ripped shirt... throw it away? No way! In this video, you'll learn about visible mending, a technique for fixing up damaged clothes with a little extra flair. (All ages)

Recommended Websites 

• Earth Day – National Archives (all ages)
  A collection of Earth Day resources from the National Archives
• Earth Day - Smithsonian (All ages)
  Learn about Earth Day Founder Gaylord Nelson and explore exhibitions, resources, and Podcasts that highlight Smithsonian efforts to advance sustainability. 

Nonprofits make a difference in their communities. If you are involved in a nonprofit or are considering starting one, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) has a variety of helpful resources available to support your efforts.

We have many resources available through the Robert Hilbert Nonprofit Resource Center located at Penrose Library. Here, you will find our nonprofit collection with a variety of helpful books and materials to support your nonprofit. Our strategic services librarian is also available to help connect you with helpful information.

Your PPLD library card also gets you access to several databases to support your research and grant writing efforts. Use the Colorado Grants Guide for information and assistance for nonprofit grant writing or explore Foundation Directory Professional (available at Library 21c) for trusted tools from a national nonprofit service.

For more resources, you can visit our Nonprofit Subject Guides and find information about education and training, grant writing, financial sponsorship, getting started, and more. Each guide offers useful insight to help you reach your nonprofit goals.  

Arab American Heritage Month highlights and celebrates the rich culture and achievements of Arab Americans and Arab-speaking Americans throughout U.S. history. In 2017, Arab America and the Arab America Foundation launched the National Arab American Heritage Month initiative, which Congress recognized as a National Initiative in 2022. Celebrate by exploring the booklists and web resources on this page!

Booklists

• Children’s Arab American Month Booklist 2023
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Booklist
• Arab Americans (Hoopla)
• Overdrive
• Scroll to the bottom of this page for the Children’s, Adult Fiction, and Adult Nonfiction booklists 

Website Links

• Arab American Heritage Month (History Channel)
  Commemorate Arab American heritage with the History Channel and take a look at historic Arab immigration to the U.S., as well as information about things you can do to celebrate.
• Arab American National Museum
  The first and only museum dedicated to telling the Arab American story.
• Celebrate American Heritage Month (PBS)
  Watch documentaries and programs that celebrate the diversity and history of Arab American communities. 
• Arab American Foundation 
  Learn the history of National Arab American Heritage Month being established as a nationally recognized heritage month. 
• Flags of Arabic Nations for Kids
  A printable graphic for learning the flags of Arabic nations.
• Arab American History and Culture (The Smithsonian) 
  Explore photos and articles in the Smithsonian archives to learn more about Arab American history and culture.  
• Arab American Institute (AAI) 
  The AAI supports programs that promote greater awareness of Arab Americans in the United States, demographic research, and international outreach.

For anyone considering a major purchase such as a new vehicle, a comfortable mattress upgrade, or new appliances, a subscription to the Consumer Reports database is a good place to start. You will find unbiased ratings and reviews, performance scores, shopping advice, how-to videos, and the latest product news, among other helpful information. Consumer Reports can help you save money, shop smartly, and live better.

With your PPLD library card, you don’t need a subscription to access Consumer Reports. This database is available at any Library location. El Paso County residents (with a library card that starts with a 4) can use their library card to access this database from home.

If you aren’t quite sure what products to consider such as what mattress or crib to purchase, peruse articles reporting on the best of that type of product. If you already have several possibilities in mind, you can search them in the database to find and compare product specifications, rating, safety, and cost information to help find the best product for your needs. This database goes beyond product information with articles exploring ways to keep your home up-to-date, travel tips, things to consider for insurance, starting a college savings plan, getting better sleep, and more.

If you’re on a hunt for a new vehicle, visit the Cars section to find exclusive test results and survey findings to help you choose the best vehicle for you. You can explore by vehicle type, make, model, and year if you already have some options to consider, or peruse lists of the most reliable or cost-effective vehicles to find a good starting point. Road tests, overall scores, features lists, and pricing breakdowns offer key insights.

In addition to product information for items you are considering, you will find interesting articles with tips for updating and improving different areas of your home. Browse the Home & Garden section for a wide variety of products, including bed and bath, home improvement, kitchen, lawn and garden, and tools and power equipment. Learn how to furnish your bedroom for a more restful sleep, get expert tips on staining decks, read up on the Right to Repair movement, and more. 

There are even sections with information you can use beyond making purchasing decisions. The Babies section, for example, supports parents making safer and smarter choices for new family members. Explore articles about electronics and internet safety, financial planning, travel tips, and much more. You will even find articles on using privacy features of popular social media apps like Facebook. With more sections to explore, there is a lot more to discover in Consumer Reports.  

Explore diverse, varied experiences across the autism community with Pikes Peak Library District during Autism Acceptance Month this April. Below, you will find related booklists, resources, and websites.

Booklists

• Scroll to the bottom of the page for the Adult Nonfiction and Adult Fiction booklists
• Childrens booklist

Resources

• Library Sensory Tour videos
  Get a sensory-friendly preview of each of our Library locations, complete with information about sensory accommodations available at each.

Websites

• Autism Acceptance Month (Autism Society)
  Read about Autism Acceptance Month and learn more about the autistic community.
• Autism Society Colorado
  Discover a wide range of resources in Colorado and nationally, and learn about the autistic community.
• Autism Resources (Colorado Department of Education)
  Learn about resources and strategies for adapting and thriving on the autism spectrum.
• World Health Organization
  Find key facts about autism and find news and stories centering around the autistic community. 

Transition can be hard for our military families and their children. Moving multiple times for military service can be challenging for the children of military families, who often face the disruption of starting over at a new school and with new friends multiple times. This April, Pikes Peak Library District honors the Military Children in our community by celebrating their unique experiences.

Booklists: 

• Month of the Military Booklist

Resources

• Military & Veterans Resource Guide  
  PPLD provides military, veterans, and their families with access to free resources such as books, audiobooks, eBooks, and online databases, as well as events, workshops, and classes tailored to their unique needs and interests.

Website Links

• Sesame Street For Military Families 
  Sesame Street for Military Families is a free, bilingual (English and Spanish) website where families can find information and multimedia resources on the topics of military deployments, multiple deployments, homecomings, injuries, grief, and self-expression.
• Babies on the Homefront 
  Babies on the Homefront provides military and veteran parents ideas for enhancing everyday moments with their baby or toddler.
• Veteran Training – VA Resources 
  The VA's parenting program provides resources and support for military and veteran parents, including information on child development, parenting skills, and managing the challenges of military life.
• MCEC – Military Child Education Coalition 
  MCEC supports all military-connected children by educating, advocating, and collaborating to resolve education challenges associated with the military lifestyle.
• U.S. Department of Defense
  While military members serve around the world, we often forget the challenges faced by their children. Each year, the Department of Defense (DoD) joins national, state, and local government, schools, military serving organizations, companies, and private citizens in celebrating military children and the sacrifices they make.
• Military OneSource
  The Month of the Military Child recognizes the unique challenges children in military families face —such as long separations and frequent moves — and honors their service to the military community. Use these free resources to support your children, youth, and teens and power up your parenting. 

With a Pikes Peak Culture Pass, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) cardholders can get no-cost entry passes to the ProRodeo Museum and Hall of Fame. It is only museum dedicated to both the history of professional rodeo and the ProRodeo Clown Association, as well as western heritage in the Pikes Peak region. 

A unique and popular summer exhibit brings to life the spirit of the rodeo through a livestock exhibition, bucking rodeo horses, and even the occasional bull! Few museums have live animals that guests can visit and learn about first-hand. While there, guests can stroll around a beautiful pond and waterfall as they take in the incredible statuary that captures the spirit of the west. This hidden gem has even served as a beautiful backdrop for weddings and special events. 

Forty-five years ago, the ProRodeo Museum and Hall of Fame made Colorado Springs its permanent home after relocating here from Denver. The City of Colorado Springs reached out to the organization in 1978 and worked with them to help them secure the current property where the museum sits today just west of I-25 at Rockrimmon Boulevard. The building opened in August 1979 and has grown with the museum. Later additions, including a pavilion, make up the Hall of Fame as it is today. 

To celebrate its 45th anniversary, the museum will host several activities in August 2024 with a rodeo clown reunion, demonstrations, and fun activities culminating with an open house celebration on Fri., Aug. 10. 

The ProRodeo Museum and Hall of Fame is one of the original Culture Pass partners to invite PPLD patrons to be a “tourist in their own backyard,” connecting more with our local community and providing educational programs. Since then, the museum has partnered with PPLD to offer discounted admission during Summer Discount Days in 2023 and has hosted our mobile library to connect museum visitors with Library offerings.

Learn more about the museum on their website, or check out a Pikes Peak Culture Pass and enjoy your time exploring this cultural attraction in-person.

PPLD cardholders have made great use of the Culture Pass program, checking out 3,192 no-cost passes in 2023 alone! The ProRodeo Museum and Hall of Fame is one of 12 Culture Pass partners that you can explore. Use your library card to check out a pass today!

Do you know everything your Library has to offer? Visit one of our Library Open Houses during National Library Week from April 7 – 13 and discover everything you have access to with your library card!

We will have Open Houses at eight of our libraries where you can take a tour, enjoy local refreshments, participate in family fun activities, and win prizes. Enjoy a scavenger hunt and self-guided tour to help you explore what the Library has to offer. Each location will also offer unique prizes and activities for all ages, so feel free to join us for multiple Open Houses and get to know more libraries around the District.

After seeing all the great offerings of your Library District you’ll want to make sure to get a library card before you leave. The Friends of PPLD have cool swag for the first 25 people who sign up for a library card at each open house location. 

Open House Schedules

• East Library – Mon., April 8 from 10 a.m. - noon
• High Prairie Library – Mon., April 8 from 4 – 6 p.m. 
• Monument Library – Tue., April 9 from 6 – 8 p.m.
• Penrose Library – Wed., April 10 from 4 – 6 p.m. 
• Cheyenne Mountain Library – Thu., April 11 from 5 – 7 p.m.
• Sand Creek Library – Sat., April 13 from 10 a.m. - noon
• Fountain Library – Sat., April 13 from 2 – 4 p.m.
• Library 21c – Sat., April 13 from noon – 2 p.m. 

Details about each open house are listed below!

East Library

Mon., April 8 from 10 a.m. - noon
Located at 5550 N. Union Blvd. (Colorado Springs, CO) 

East Library is notably one of the best locations for working, studying, and reading with a view. Grand floor-to-ceiling windows in the reading bay provide a stunning view of Pikes Peak. This location also offers access to a park right behind the building that you are welcome to enjoy during your visit. Among this library’s features are a makerspace, a teen center, the Education Resource Center (ERC), meeting rooms, two computer labs, and a large children’s area. Near the entrance, you will find the Donald Stratton exhibit honoring U.S. Army service members, and one of the Friends of PPLD’s Library bookstores.

As one of our Family Place Libraries, East Library has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library.

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performance by Mountain Harmony in the reading bay
• Eclipse Viewing Party (11 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
• Guided and self-guided tours
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD), scavenger hunt (win a prize!), bookmark craft
• Children’s Area: Children’s scavenger hunt, passive art activity, Family Place play area,
• Homeschool Art Show (on display)
• Teen Center: Video games - Mario Kart/Super Smash Brothers on projector, Blue Spruce Award voting
• Makerspace: Button-making activity, laser engraver, and 3D printer in action
• Reading Bay: Puzzles, board games, bookmobile coloring sheet, PPLD Foundation, and popcorn!

Complete our scavenger hunt for a chance to win great prizes including a $100 family four-pack movie pass complete with popcorn and arcade games at Roadhouse Cinemas or one of three $50 gift cards at Muse Comics + Games.

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High Prairie Library

Mon., April 8 from 4 – 6 p.m. 
Located at 7035 Old Meridian Rd. (Peyton, CO)

High Prairie Library is a cornerstone of its community that connects people to the resources they need for work, school, and fun. Thanks to an environmental grant, there are geothermal tubes in the ground behind the building that heat and cool the building efficiently. A convenient drive-through window located on the south side of the building makes curbside pickup and book drop-off a breeze. This location also offers ample outdoor space for patrons to enjoy. Stop by and discover the meeting rooms, seed library, computers, and other resources this location has to offer.  

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performance by Falcon High School Jazz Band
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Refreshments
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• Self-guided tour
• Community art activity
• Seed Library display
• Library of Things and Discovery Kit display
• Friends of PPLD book sale
• Bookmark craft
• Children’s area: Rainbow scratch art, children’s scavenger hunt

Drawing for a chance to win a $30 gift card to La Mission Restaurant.

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Monument Library

Tue., April 9 from 6 – 8 p.m.
Located at 1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr. (Monument, CO)

Monument Library, nestled on the north side of the Woodmoor Center shopping mall, offers literacy and resources where there used to be a hardware store. Inside, the library’s Madagascar Day Gecko named Ruby is ready to greet visitors alongside Library staff. Despite its smaller size, this location often lands third or fourth for overall checkouts among all Library locations. On good weather days, people enjoy stepping out behind the building to visit the geese and ducks in Serenity Pond. This location offers a meeting room, computers, art exhibits, and other resources. 

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performance by the Rose County Academy of Irish Dance
• Scavenger hunt (win prizes!)
  Button-making activity
• Board games for all ages
• Palmer Divide Quiltmakers Quilt tour
• Self-guided tour
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Paws to Read activity
• Bookmark craft
• Behind the Bookdrop: Processing holds
• Backdoor: Duck feeding station, sidewalk chalk
• Children’s area: Children's scavenger hunt, process art, bookmobile coloring sheet

Complete the scavenger hunt for a chance to win a Dave & Busters Family Four-Pack of game cards totaling $100. 

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Penrose Library

Wed., April 10 from 4 – 6 p.m. 
Located at 20 N. Cascade Ave. (Colorado Springs, CO)(There is paid parking. Library cardholders can get two hours of free parking in the parking lot by scanning their library cards at the parking kiosk.)

Penrose Library was recently closed for two months while we shortened and reconfigured the bookshelves. The Open House will include remarks from Library leadership commemorating its reopening. This library, located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, features a computer lab, study rooms, a teen center, a large children’s area, and a Law Collection. The attached historic Carnegie Library houses our Regional History & Genealogy department, as well as the Herbert Hilbert Nonprofit Resource Center with resources for small businesses and nonprofits.

As one of our Family Place Libraries, Penrose Library has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library.

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performances by Pikes Peak Region Poet Laureate Ashley Cornelius and Colorado Springs Conservatory
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• Community art project
• Mini-golf course
• Green screen photo activity
• Bookmark craft
• Teen Area: Coloring activity, Blue Spruce Award voting, Mario Kart video game (teen only)
• Children’s Area: Family Place toys, face painting, Name the Dragon activity
• Upper Parking Lot: Mobile Library Services, bookmobile coloring sheet

Complete our scavenger hunt for a chance to win great prizes including a $100 family four-pack movie pass complete with popcorn and arcade games at Roadhouse Cinemas or a $50 gift card to spend at Downtown Colorado Springs businesses.

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Cheyenne Mountain Library

Thu., April 11 from 5 – 7 p.m.
Located at 1785 South 8th St., Suite 100 (Colorado Springs, CO) 

Cheyenne Mountain Library is one of our shopping complex libraries. It is beloved by its patrons, who know that what it lacks in size, it makes up for with cozy vibes and friendly and knowledgeable staff. Stop by to learn about the meeting room, computers, art exhibits, and other resources that this location has to offer.  

As one of our Family Place Libraries, Cheyenne Mountain Library has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library.

Enjoy refreshments, visit our staff table where staff will tell you about our various programs and offerings, and the following activities:

• Performance by the Free Time Quartet
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Life-size Candy Land game
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• Self-guided tour
• Bookmark craft activity
• Nintendo Switch video games (all ages)
• Friends of PPLD mini book sale
• Children’s area: Family Place toys, bookmobile coloring sheet

Complete the scavenger hunt for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Caffeinated Cow. 

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Sand Creek Library

Sat., April 13 from 10 a.m. - noon
Located at 1821 South Academy Blvd. (Colorado Springs, CO)

We often hear people say that Sand Creek Library is much larger on the inside than it looks on the outside. This location is home to our state-of-the-art audio recording studio and one of PPLD’s three makerspaces. It also has a teen center, children’s area, meeting rooms, and a computer lab.

As one of our Family Place Libraries, Sand Creek Library has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library. 

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performance by Ballet Folklórico de la Raza at 10 a.m.
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• Self-guided tour
• Bookmark craft
• Art Aloud art display
• Community resources info and Friends of PPLD info table
• Makerspace: 3D printer and laser engraver observations, lasered watercolor pages
• Studio 916: Karaoke, playing with instruments, experimenting with various equipment, and listening to music samples from Studio916 patrons
• Teen Zone: Comic book crafts, superhero trivia, LEGO activity
• Children's Area: Harrison School District 2 student art show, bookmobile coloring sheet
• Meeting Room A: Giant Connect 4, coloring and craft,  giant Lincoln Logs

Complete our scavenger hunt for a chance to win a $100 family four-pack movie pass complete with popcorn and arcade games at Roadhouse Cinemas.

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Fountain Library

Sat., April 13 from 2 – 4 p.m.
Located at 230 South Main St. (Fountain, CO)

Fountain Library’s building was designed by Elizabeth Wright Ingraham, a well-known Colorado Springs architect and granddaughter of Frank Lloyd Wright. The History Wall inside offers a panoramic look at Fountain’s history dating back to its founding. Fountain Library also offers the only Community Room in the entire Library District that patrons can reserve before and after library hours. This location offers a children’s area, a meeting room, a teen center, art exhibits, computers, and other resources. 

As one of our Family Place Libraries, Fountain Library has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library.

Enjoy refreshments and the following activities:

• Performance by Ballet Folklórico de la Raza at 2:15 p.m.
• Library card sign-ups (The first 25 will receive special prizes)
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• Self-guided tour
• Friends of PPLD
• Reading Area: Refreshments, puzzles, chess
• Teen Area: Mario Kart Game (all ages), button-making activity
• Children's Area: Toy Library test-drive, window activities, bookmobile coloring sheet
• Display: Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 art display
• Patio: Birdwatching, Library backpacks display

Complete the scavenger hunt for a chance to win great prizes including a $50 Walmart gift card or a portable Bluetooth speaker from SCHEELS.

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Library 21c 

Sat., April 13 from noon – 2 p.m. 
Located at 1175 Chapel Hills Dr. (Colorado Springs, CO)

Library 21c offers plenty of space for patrons to work and relax with a beautiful view of the Front Range, including Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain. This location is home to a large event venue and PPLD’s test kitchen classroom. Its gallery hosts different exhibits each month. Library 21c also has the Library’s audio-video studio, a makerspace, and an edit bay for video projects. Stop by to discover the large computer lab, teen center, large children’s area, meeting rooms, gaming room, and other resources. (Check out a virtual tour of Library 21c on our website!) Right now, Library 21c is undergoing a process to replace the turf grass in an effort to create a lawn with more sustainable, water-friendly native grasses.

As one of our Family Place Libraries, Library 21c has developmental toys in the children’s area, Family Place Play Group programs, materials and resources for parents, and family support services, as well as access to our Family Place Toy Library. 

Enjoy refreshments made by the students of the Food Industry Training program and the following activities:

• Performance by students from Victoria’s School of Harp
• Library card sign-ups (the first 25 will receive a special swag from the Friends of PPLD)
• Staff guided tours
• Scavenger hunt (win a prize!)
• PPLD Foundation info table
• Friends of PPLD
• Bookmark craft
• Family fun video games
• Cornhole lawn game
• Western Window Bay: Coloring and craft activities
• Teen Area: Board games
• Children’s Area: LEGO build, bookmobile coloring sheet
• Kitchen: Adult Education info
• Studio 21c: Green screen activity
• Make 1: Button-making activity
• Make 2: Watch the makerspace in action!

Complete the scavenger hunt for a chance to win a Dave & Busters Family Four-Pack of game cards totaling $100 or a board game.

A big thank you to our sponsors!

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

In April, virtually step into the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History with Curator Paula Johnson as she discusses the book Smithsonian American Table: The Foods, People, and Innovations That Feed Us. Takes place Tue., April 2 at noon. Register for the access link.

Next, you are invited for a one-of-a-kind conversation with National Book Award-winner Colum McCann as he is joined by Diane Foley, the inspiration behind the heartrending book American Mother. Takes place Tue., April 9 at noon. Register for the access link.

At the end of April, please join us for a chat with award-winning and bestselling author Xochitl Gonzalez about her newest novel Anita de Monte Laughs Last. Takes place Wed., April 17 at 6 p.m. Register for the access link. 

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

More Upcoming Virtual Author Visits 

• Wed., May 1 at 1 p.m.: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I - An Author Talk with Douglas Brunt 
• Wed., May 8 at 5 p.m.: A Murder Mystery, Family Story, & Love Letter to Strong Women Everywhere: Author Talk w/ Nina Simon 
• Tue., May 21 at 5 p.m.: Asian American Representation in Literature: An Author Talk with Rebecca F. Kuang

Volunteer experience looks good on college applications and can make a job application stand out to potential employers as well. Pikes Peak region teens looking for volunteer hours won’t want to miss out on one of the most fun volunteer experiences of the year: Summer Adventure!

Our 2024 Summer Adventure Program presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado is our annual summer reading program where participants complete reading and activities to earn prizes. The program is packed with a wide variety of special summer events and programs for participants to enjoy as well. 

Teen volunteers are an essential part of our summer program. They help people register for the program, pass out prizes, support programs, and complete other volunteer duties as needed. And yes, volunteers can register for the program as well!

Volunteer applications are open now through Wed., May 1. Learn about our teen volunteer requirements and submit your application on our teen volunteer page. 

Deaf History Month in April recognizes the contributions of people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing in the U.S. now and throughout history and recognizes the achievements of the Deaf community in a variety of fields. Originally, the American Library Association (ALA) and National Association of the Deaf (NAD) designated March 13 to April 15 of every year as Deaf history Month. In 2022, NAD changed Deaf History Month to the full month of April. Celebrate this history through the resources and websites on this page. 

Resources

• Kanopy: Search “deaf” to find a selection of documentaries exploring Deaf history
• Accessibility at PPLD

Biographies

Explore Deaf history through these biographies featuring several well-known deaf people in the Biographies in Context and U.S. History in Context databases. (Must have a library card that starts with a 4 to access this resource outside of the Library.)

• U.S. History in Context — Gallaudet University: Explore journals, biographies, articles, recordings, news stories, and more about Gallaudet University, the only higher education institution in the world where all programs and services are designed with the needs of the Deaf community in mind.
• Biography in Context database — Marlee Matlin: Read about actor Marlee Matlin, who lost her hearing at age 18 and went on to win an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1987.
• Biography in Context database — King Jordan: Learn about the history of the first deaf president of Gallaudet University.
• Biography in Context database — Nyle DiMarco: Discover biographies, magazine articles, and more exploring the life of Nyle DiMarco, an actor, model, and activist known for being the first deaf person to win America’s Next Top Model
• Biography in Context database — Lauren Ridloff: Delve into the life of deaf Black Latina actress Lauren Ridloft through an archive of magazine and newspaper articles.
• Biography in Context —  Thomas Edison: Explore the life of prolific inventor Thomas Edison, who lost much of his hearing at age 12.  

Websites

• National Association of the Deaf
• World Federation of the Deaf
• Deaf Historical Resources page from Gallaudet University’s National Deaf Life Museum website
• Schuchman Deaf Documentary Center from Gallaudet University
• Deaf Women in History
• The Daily Moth Deaf news briefs

Learn American Sign Language (ASL)

• Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind ASL signs of the month: Learn a few signs in American Sign Language with videos from the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. They also offer paid classes that you can register for.  
• American Sign Language University YouTube: Bill Vicars is a university ASL Instructor in California and has a robust YouTube playlist of his classes from beginner to advanced.
• Handspeak: An ASL Visual Dictionary run by Jolanta Lapiak. 

Penrose Library will be completing the first stage of updates planned for 2024 and reopening to the public on Wed., April 10 at 4 p.m. This is the only stage that requires closing the building to complete, as all other updates are expected to proceed while the Library is open.

During National Library Week, April 7 – 13, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) will be hosting open houses throughout the Library District to celebrate libraries and what they bring to our communities. When Penrose Library reopens at 4 p.m. on April 10, this will serve as that location’s Open House and everyone is invited.

Penrose closing for security updates starting February 2024

Published Jan., 8^th, 2024

Updates are coming to Penrose Library in early 2024. In a concerted effort to increase the safety and security of Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) patrons and staff, Library leadership has determined that a significant investment in the systems, structures/facilities, and resources in use at Penrose Library is paramount. Staff and community members have asked that the Library District address this location specifically, and leadership has listened to that feedback. After careful evaluation, the Library District determined the most efficient updates that are financially feasible for PPLD and that provide the biggest return on time and funds invested. 

Although Penrose Library will not need to be closed for the majority of the plan implementation (predicted to take most of 2024 to complete), the beginning stages of the plan do require closing the facility. Penrose Library will be closed for approximately two months starting Thu., Feb. 1 in order to complete this stage of updates. During the closure, bookshelves will be shortened and reconfigured to increase shelf space, brighten the area, and increase visibility and accessibility. This process requires removing all of the books, disassembling the shelving units, sending them out for modification, and then reassembling them in their new configuration before reshelving the books. Only this stage will require closing the building, as all other updates are expected to proceed while the building is open. Other elements of this project will require the closure of smaller sections of Penrose Library for shorter periods of time in the coming months. Here are the planned changes that will not require a building closure to complete:

• Moving the lockers currently located along the wall near our Regional History & Genealogy department to the west entrance and installing another set of lockers at the east entrance for patrons to store belongings during their visit.
• Installation of boulders in the outdoor areas around the windows of the Children’s section.
• Interior stairwell fencing installed below the main and west stairwells.
• A visually appealing steel fence (resembling the one around the Carnegie Garden next to Penrose Library) installed around the premises.
• Creation of a permanent structure in the back parking lot in which people with large belongings may store their items short-term during their visit.
• Remodel of the computer lab.
• Replacing existing tables and chairs with more functional furniture.
• Removal of outlets and installation of a charging station near the front entrance.
• Repositioning staff desks to strategic locations throughout the building.
• Sectioning off the Children’s area to make it its own distinct room.
• Updating all security hardware throughout the building, including the installation of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant speakers.

PPLD is excited to update Penrose Library to improve safety and security for all patrons and staff. Penrose is a strong part of the downtown Colorado Springs area, and the Library is proud to continue to be a contributing part of this thriving community. Ensuring a safe and secure environment for all to access the Library’s resources and spaces has been and will continue to be at the foundation of Pikes Peak Library District. We thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Accessing Regional History & Genealogy

While Penrose Library is closed, limited Regional History & Genealogy resources will be available.

Virtual assistance

When needed, patrons can schedule a virtual meeting with Regional History & Genealogy staff for one-on-one help to address specific research needs.

Microfilm

While Penrose Library is closed, Microfilm may be requested from Regional History & Genealogy, in advance, to be sent and viewed at East Library. Patrons will need to give four-days’ notice before the film will be available to them. East Library staff will contact patrons when their film is ready to view. Patrons must view the film at East Library (items do not circulate outside of the library). Microfilm requests from Interlibrary Loan during this time will also be available from East Library.

Database Access

Certain PPLD databases that are only available at Penrose Library are currently available at other locations while Penrose Library is closed.

• Westlaw: Available at East Library
• Foundation Directory Professional: Available at Library 21c

Call for art! It's time to get creative! 

Homeschoolers can submit one artwork (drawing, painting, sculpture, needlework, etc.) for this non-juried exhibit. Drop off your entry at the East Library Children's Department from Mon., March 18 – Thu., March 28, 2024. 

Artwork will be displayed throughout the month of April. Grades K - 12. Contact jfleishhacker@ppld.org for more information.

Click here for more event details

The Library supports homeschoolers and homeschool families throughout El Paso County in a variety of ways. We offer homeschool programs for enriched learning, provide access to books and research materials, and create spaces for homeschoolers to get out of the house. Right now, we’re preparing for one of our biggest events for families new to homeschooling or considering homeschooling: the Homeschool Resource Fair. 

Our annual Homeschool Resource Fair connects both current and interested homeschool families with resources and information. This event features a wide variety of local exhibitors offering educational and extracurricular opportunities for homeschooling families. Stop by and chat with representatives from organizations and businesses that offer homeschooling services and support, including arts and science activities, sports groups, enrichment programs, tutoring, support groups, and more.  

There will also be fun, hands-on activities for kids to enjoy in the atrium.  

• Library 21c: Fri., April 12 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Click here to see the 2024 Homeschool Resource Fair Vendor Information

Dive into the many free online resources that PPLD offers homeschoolers, including a curated guide presenting basic homeschool information and local organizations, online homework help, curriculum-supporting databases, and the eLibrary. Discover an array of valuable resources appropriate for students in Pre-K - high school (and beyond).

Homeschooling: Where to Begin

Are you considering homeschooling your students? Have you decided to homeschool and need some tips for getting started? Join Theresa Klinitski, Homeschool Consultant, to find out about the basics and learn from a panel of current homeschool parents about different styles of homeschooling. In addition, find out about the numerous tools and resources PPLD has to offer.

Homeschool Curriculum Swap!

Applications to share your makes at All Pikes Peak Makes are now open! Please use the form below to submit your idea. We can't wait to hear from you! 

When:  Sat., April 27, 2024 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Library 21c

A maker is someone who creates – to be innovative, to solve problems, to bring something beautiful into the world, or simply to have fun. They have an idea and they bring it to life. Making can encompass just about anything, from high tech to low tech to no tech, from art to fabrication to artistic fabrication, from needles to table saws to software.

Join us for this event as we spend the day celebrating ingenuity in the Pikes Peak Region – by tinkering, thinking, and, of course, making! Past experiences include:

• Paper rockets
• Lego builds
• Local makerspaces
• Cosplay
• Whittling
• Cardboard creations
• 3D printing
• And so much more

Want to share what you make?
The application for exhibitors is now open. 

Submit your application here

If you have any questions, please email us at APPM@ppld.org.

This April, celebrate National Poetry Month during the annual Pikes Peak Poetry Summit and open yourself to new ideas through powerful artistry. The summit got its start in 2022 and has proved to be a rousing success. Pikes Peak Library District is honored to host the summit for its third year in a row. This year’s theme is “Thriving Artists” and talents from across Colorado have been invited to share and celebrate this creative form. Join us for a day of exploring poetry and celebrating creativity with our community. 

This year’s Pikes Peak Poetry Summit is on Sat., April 13 from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at The Hall at PPLD (20 W. Pikes Peak Ave.). 

The summit offers a unique opportunity to celebrate writing and self-expression whether you are a seasoned poet, embarking on your exploration of this diverse art form, or just a lover of poetry. You will be inspired, improve your craft, share your words, and learn more about poetry locally and across the state. Engage with our poetry workshops, learn how to slam, and experience amazing poetry and dance performances. 

We look forward to celebrating poetry with our community. Let poetry guide you across the bridge to new perspectives. All ages are welcome. Find all workshop descriptions and a schedule of the day in our program calendar. 

Workshops are provided at no cost and include: 

• How to Slam 101
• Stop Making Sense: The Exquisite Corpse and Other Surrealist Games
• Let's Make Poetry Zines!
• Shaping Your Story: Writing a Performance Art Piece 
• Poetic Resilience
• Spontaneous Overflow
• Self-Care through Poetry

Wed., April 3 is the sixth annual Library Giving Day! On that date, people across the country — including El Paso County — will come together as part of a movement to strengthen and support our local libraries. 

Where else but Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) can you find unlimited access to information, lifelong learning, programs, and resources that transcend physical limitations, geographic barriers, ethnicity, age, and education? In just one trip, you might find books to keep you entertained, make custom gifts in our makerspaces, and enjoy Storytime with your child. We provide essential resources for our community such as tax prep information and services, language learning and job prep classes and resources, eLibrary resources, research and regional history databases, homework help, activities and events that enrich our community, and more.
 

Support your Local library by making a donation

With you by our side, the PPLD Foundation can continue to fuel life-changing spaces, programs, and services. This means fewer barriers to success and increased opportunities of all kinds for members of our community. Your gift today will make a difference in our ability to serve everyone in 2024 and beyond. 

Pikes Peak Library District is excited to open author applications for the 2024 Mountain of Authors Local Author Showcase! Local authors can apply to be part of this year’s in-person or virtual author showcase. The event will be held on Sat., June 22 at Library 21c, and feature Keynote Speaker Adrian Miller. This is an exciting afternoon of networking and connecting with other authors and the public.

A limited number of applicants will be invited to be part of the in-person author showcase. In-person authors will have a table at the event for networking opportunities and book sales. Authors will be responsible for their own book sales and transactions. Authors not selected for the in-person showcase can be part of our Virtual Author Showcase, where authors will create videos promoting their books to be part of the virtual event.

Applications are due by 11 p.m. on Fri., March 22.

Learn more and apply through our 2024 Mountain of Authors Showcase Author Application.  

Interested in seeing some amazing experiments from up-and-coming scientists? Visit our annual Homeschool Science Fair to browse and chat with project creators. Kids can fill out a "What I learned" and receive a prize! Come and discover something new, or be inspired for next year!

• When: Between March 18 - March 28, 2024
• Where: The Venue at Library 21c

Our annual Homeschool Science Fair is open to grades K-12! Homeschool students are invited to demonstrate a science project for other families. There are no rules or guidelines for this non-competitive event, and planning is left up to individual families.

Registration required. Students will arrive by 9:15 a.m., and the event will be open to the public from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Need help planning your project? Download our Science Fair How-Tos Document!

Stay busy and engaged over spring break with children's and teen's programs from PPLD!

Don't forget about our eLibrary for ebooks, movies, tv, and more over the break and get and stay ahead with eLearning resources too!

Children's Programs

• Bricks and Minifigs 

  Join Bricks and Minifigs for a Spring Break Challenge! What amazing creation will you build next? Registration required. Ages 3 - 12 

  • Calhan Library: Mon., March 25 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
  • Monument Library: Tue., March 26 from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
  • Ute Pass Library: Thu., March 28 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 

• The Bark Bunch 

  Learn about safety around dogs, dog care and visit with the loveable dogs from the National Mill Dog Rescue in Colorado Springs.

  This is an informative and interactive program for children ages 2 - 12 and their caregivers. 

  • Cheyenne Mountain Library: Mon., March 25 from 1 – 2:30 p.m.
  • High Prairie Library: Thu., March 28 from 3 – 3:45 p.m.
  • Ruth Holley Library: Fri., March 29 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 

• Who Ya Gonna Call?

  Come meet the Ghostbusters and see their truck up close and personal. Where? Where it all started, at the library of course! Ages 2 – 12. 

  • Old Colorado City Library: Mon., March 25 from 2 – 3 p.m.
  • Library 21c: Thu., March 28 from 10 – 10:45 a.m. and 11 – 11:45 a.m. 

• Meet the Go Team 

  What is a therapy dog? How are they different from services dogs and pets? Come meet the dogs from The Go Team and their handlers to find out the answers to these and other questions. Ages 2 - 12 

  • Fountain Library: Tue., March 26 from 10:30 – 11 a.m.
  • Manitou Springs Library: Wed., March 27 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
  • Rockrimmon Library: Fri., March 29 from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. 

• Dance a Jig! 

  Join us for an Irish celebration with Turning Pointe Dance! Watch a demonstration of traditional Irish dances like the jig, reel, and hornpipe, then give it a try with a fun family Ceili! Learn the steps and immerse yourself in this unique culture with an experience that’s fun for the whole family. Ages 3 – 12. 

  • Library 21c: Fri., March 29 at 10:30 a.m.
  • East Library: Sat., March 30 at 11 a.m. and 1p.m. 

We know there are all kinds of kids with all kinds of needs, so if your child might benefit from some sensory accommodations like fidget items or noise-reducing headphones while in the Library or at a program, ask at the Children’s Desk for our Sensory Accommodations Kit.

Did you know that we have America’s largest museum dedicated to money right here in our own backyard? The Money Museum, which is one of our Pikes Peak Culture Pass partners, is America’s largest museum dedicated to numismatics (the study of money). Money is a culturally significant item found throughout history from ancient to modern times. Visitors to the Money Museum can see currency come to life in new ways as they explore how money is connected to art, history, science, and more. The museum includes exhibits in three main galleries, where visitors can find spectacular rarities and learn about the history of our nation and the world as seen through money. 

Located adjacent to the campus of Colorado College, the Money Museum has something for everyone. Explore history, geography, trade, art, world cultures, and more as you enjoy the exhibits. What better way to learn about money than by doing and playing? The museum also offers fun activities, interactive exhibits, and free classes that help children learn a variety of topics from the basics of how to make change to understanding monetary systems.

Visit the Money Museum to learn about the evolution of currency and how modern notions of money came to be; view the museum’s Mini Mint and learn how coins were made from the early 1500s to 1800s; or explore the famous Bebee Collection of U.S. paper money. 

The Money Museum was one of the original Pikes Peak Culture Pass partners and has collaborated with Pikes Peak Library District throughout the years. In summer 2023, the museum offered free admission to more than 100 library cardholders during the Library’s Culture Pass Summer Discount Days promotion that highlighted cultural attractions in our region. 

A new exhibition will make its way to the Money Museum in late March highlighting the rarities of American numismatics, including some rare coins and uncut paper money sheets as part of the Americana Galleria. You can explore this new exhibition with no-cost entry through the Library’s Pikes Peak Culture Pass program. Children under the age of 12 are always free. 

Community parks provide outdoor greenspaces where people of all ages can relax and enjoy the fresh air, and children can play. This Earth Day, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is teaming up with the Trinity Community Park in Monument to plant trees.

Trinity Community Park brings inclusivity and diversity to outdoor spaces with an accessible playground suitable for all abilities. The play equipment design takes a wide variety of different abilities into consideration and facilitates engagement between people with and without disabilities. The park offers adaptive swings, a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, sensory panels, a wheelchair-accessible trampoline, and other adaptive equipment, making it a space where all children can go to have fun outdoors.  

With accessible play equipment installed and plenty of green space to enjoy, it is now time to plant trees! To support this effort, anyone who signs up for a new library card at Monument Library from Mon., Feb. 26 through Fri., March 15 will be able to register for a free tree sapling to plant at the park during Earth Week. Saplings will be planted during two community planting days, on Sun., April 21 from 11 a.m. - noon and Mon., April 22 from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Together, we can help this community park continue to grow.  

Pikes Peak Library District is expanding service hours at several libraries starting on Fri., March 1. Hours are determined by multiple factors, including community need and staffing availability. After careful evaluation, we determined that the open hours at Cheyenne Mountain, Manitou Springs, Monument, Old Colorado City, Ruth Holley, and Ute Pass libraries should be expanded.  

As part of the hours extension, Cheyenne Mountain Library, Monument Library, and Old Colorado City Library have an additional open day in their weekly schedules.  

Here are our new hours at each location: 

Cheyenne Mountain Library

• Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed 

Manitou Springs Library

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday – Thursday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed 

Monument Library

• Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed 

Old Colorado City Library

• Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed 

Ruth Holley Library

• Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Ute Pass Library

• Monday: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 – 6 p.m. (closed for lunch from 1 – 2 p.m.)
• Tuesday and Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 – 6 p.m. (closed for lunch from 1 – 2 p.m.)
• Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 – 5 p.m. (closed for lunch from 1 – 2 p.m.) 

On Mon., April 8, a solar eclipse will be partially visible from Colorado Springs. To help you get ready, the Library is teaming up with the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society to provide learning opportunities this February and March. Beginning on Fri., March 1, solar eclipse viewing glasses will be available at the following programs and will also be available for pick up from any Library location (while supplies last, limit 2 pairs per family).

Programs are for all ages. No registration required. 

Events

The Great American Solar Eclipse in April 2024 

• Wed., Feb. 21 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. – Calendar
  Rockrimmon Library
• Mon., March 4 at 6 p.m. – Calendar
  East Library

Mobile Libraries, hosted at Black Forest Community Church 

• Sat., March 9 | 1:30 p.m. – Calendar

  This talk will discuss the historical and modern cultural context of the solar eclipse in society, what solar eclipses are, the basic science of why eclipses occur, and where to see one of these exciting celestial events. We will also demonstrate safe observing practices using common household objects. The Colorado Springs Astronomical Society will have 100 solar eclipse viewers to hand out at the conclusion of this presentation.

  **Weather permitting, we will also have solar telescopes set up to provide safe, amazing views of the Sun on March 9. 

Viewing Party with PPLD

• Mon., Apr. 8, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. – Calendar     
  Calhan, East, and Rockrimmon libraries 

  Join the Pikes Peak Library District as we view the Great American Eclipse from the beauty of the Calhan, East, and Rockrimmon Library outdoor spaces! We will have games and activities throughout the morning and a limited number of eclipse viewing glasses to give away. Light refreshments will be served just behind East Library.  

  Bring your viewing glasses and join us as we experience the solar eclipse together! 

  ---

Resources

• Eclipse America 2024
  Explore the information and resources provided by the American Astronomical Society.
   
• How to View a Solar Eclipse Safely
  Learn how to safely view solar eclipses with information provided by the American Astronomical Society. 
   
• Download the How to Safely View the October 14, 2023 Annular Eclipse guide here
   
• Eclipse Simulator
  Search for a city to see detailed eclipse path information and see what time it will pass over Colorado Springs and how it will look when it passes over. 
   
• Colorado Springs Astronomical Society
  Find out more about our local Colorado Springs Astronomical Society, including exciting astronomical events happening in Colorado Springs. 
   
• The 2023 and 2024 Solar Eclipses: Map and Data, from NASA 

Colorado Springs Astronomical Society