What's New: General

Pikes Peak Library District is proud to present the 2023 Palmer Lake Library Concert Series! Concerts will be on Fridays in the month of August from 6 – 7 p.m., starting with Aug. 11.
This season's concert series will be held outdoors at the Palmer Lake Village Green & Gazebo, adjacent to Palmer Lake Library. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the music of this summer concert series.

• Fri., Aug. 11 - Tenderfoot Bluegrass Band
• Fri., Aug. 18 – Skean Dubh
• Fri., Aug. 25 - Edie Carey

by Traci Marques

Like many places across the country, the Pikes Peak region is experiencing a labor shortage. Employers have job openings but either don’t receive many applications or there are skill mismatches between applicants and available positions. Colorado’s unemployment rate recently dropped to 4.1 percent – the lowest since February 2020 – and there are about 13,000 jobs to fill in both El Paso and Teller counties. That means the work of the Pikes Peak Workforce Center (PPWFC) to connect vital businesses with work-ready job seekers is more important now than ever.

At PPWFC one of our core values is collaboration. We understand the value of partnering with other entities to enhance the quality and depth of our services for job seekers and employers. In today’s world of workforce challenges, it truly takes a village to ensure we’re aligning the skills in our workforce with the needs of local businesses.

One of our most valued relationships is with the Adult Education team of Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD). PPWFC is a one-stop shop that helps job seekers or individuals looking to make a career transition to access a variety of resources and opportunities like job training or workshops. Like other community partners, PPLD is a mandatory partner under our federal grant, Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA ensures a collaborative approach to workforce programs, knowing that there is no wrong door to access workforce services. PPLD’s Adult Education team often enhances our work by providing résumé building and other programs to job seekers who aren’t quite ready to come directly to PPWFC for services. It’s instrumental in ensuring job seekers who walk through our doors are set up for success.

An industry hit particularly hard during the pandemic is the service and restaurant industry. We’re still seeing such businesses experience challenges finding qualified staff, and that’s one reason why we have proudly partnered with PPLD for food industry training courses. This five-week program is led by a professionally trained chef who helps participants secure a ServSafe Food Handlers certificate and find work in the culinary field as a prep or line cook. The most recent class graduated 12 students with the competencies to step right into back-of-the-house restaurant jobs. PPLD’s next round of classes begin Mon., Oct. 10, with applications accepted from Aug. 22 - Sept. 25.

We’re also proud of another partnership with PPLD and School District 11 Schools on our Talent Accelerator Grant to improve digital literacy, which can often be a tremendous hurdle for individuals trying to navigate online job searches and interview processes. This was a pilot program for all three entities. Through this grant, we worked with PPLD to provide three evening courses to help individuals improve basic skills with computers and email, as well as internet and career searches; D11 provided computer lab space, plus referrals from PPLD. Participants not only gained new digital tools but also registered for Connecting Colorado, a state database to help match employers with ready-to-work job seekers.

PPWFC is committed to building strong community partnerships to solve our complex workforce challenges. We can do this by leveraging the subject-matter expertise and proficiencies of organizations across the region. Our relationship with PPLD is just one example of how strategic partnerships maximize our ability to ensure that local workforce aligns with the needs of our business community.

If you or someone you know is in the market for a job or looking to make a career change, start by contacting the Pikes Peak Workforce Center or visiting your local library. We also welcome businesses to reach out if they’re looking to obtain, retain or reskill their staff. PPWFC can connect you to available resources and opportunities and help everyone take the next step in their career.

Traci Marques is the Executive Director/CEO of the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, the American Job Center serving El Paso and Teller counties. Learn more about the Center’s services for job seekers and employers at ppwfc.org.

We're celebrating our communities through art! During the month of August, patrons participated in PPLD’s Draw Your Community program and submitted a drawing depicting what they love the most about their community/neighborhood.

Several PPLD locations are now displaying their community's drawings throughout the month of September. Artists have been invited to the gallery open houses to talk about their work with the public and to meet other artists.

Join us to celebrate and appreciate the works of local artists from our communities. Each reception will include a meet and greet with artists and light refreshments. No registration required.

An online gallery is also available to browse.

• Thu., Sept. 1 from 4 - 6 p.m., Rockrimmon Library
• Fri., Sept. 2 from 5 - 7 p.m., Manitou Springs Library
• Fri., Sept. 2 from 4 - 6 p.m., Monument Library
• Sat., Sept. 10, from 2 – 3 p.m., Cheyenne Mountain Library
• Fri. Sept. 16 from 4 - 5 p.m., Old Colorado City Library

Need extra food for you and your family? We partner with Care & Share Food Bank to bring their “grocer on wheels” to Library patrons weathering life’s storms. Their Mobile Market ensures people have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as pantry staples, right in their neighborhoods. All food is free of charge and open to the public.

July

• Mon., July 18 from 11 a.m. - noon at Sand Creek Library
• Thu., July 28   from 3 - 4  p.m.  at Ruth Holley Library

 August

• Thu.,  Aug. 4 from 11 a.m. - noon at Ruth Holley Library
• Mon., Aug. 15 from 11 a.m. - noon at Sand Creek Library
• Thu., Aug. 18 from 11 a.m. - noon at Ruth Holley Library
• Mon., Aug. 29 from 4 - 5 p.m. at Sand Creek Library

 September

• Thu., Sept. 1 from 11 - noon at Ruth Holley Library
• Mon., Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. - noon at Sand Creek Library
• Thu., Sept. 22 from 3 - 4 p.m. at Ruth Holley Library

Ten years ago, the Waldo Canyon Fire burned through one neighborhood and forced the evacuation of thousands of people. Less than a year later the Black Forest Fire destroyed hundreds of homes north of Colorado Springs. Each fire ended two lives and disrupted countless others. At the time, both fires became the most destructive in Colorado History. The proximity of the fires, both geographically and chronologically, compelled our community to look at wildfires differently.

Visit Special Collections, located at Penrose Library, to see the new exhibit Wildfire, which presents the story of the Waldo Canyon Fire and the Black Forest Fire. Knowledgeable Regional History and Genealogy team members can also help you explore historic resources including our archival records, photographs, and secondary sources. PPLD collects and preserves these historic materials for the benefit of the community.

Whether you lived through these events or are a newcomer to the region, you will learn something about our community with a visit to see this exhibit. Special Collections is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Pikes Peak Library District recently released its new vision, mission, and values, and now will embark on a strategic planning process for 2023 - 2025.

As part of this, we heard from community members from July 1 - 30. This input will help inform the Library’s direction for the next three years!

In early August, we’ll review and analyze all public and staff input to identify common themes. Then, a planning committee of Library staff, members of PPLD’s Board of Trustees, and community representatives will begin the actual process of developing the strategic plan in August. All collected data will help inform PPLD’s top areas of focus, which will then impact the key strategies and tactics, for 2023-2025.

The Library will release the new strategic plan to the public sometime in October 2022.

Have questions? Contact us!

An interview of PPLD patron Philip Riegert – By Anthony Carlson

When I was growing up in Monument, one of the first things my family did when starting to pack for our annual family trip to the east coast was to visit Pikes Peak Library District's (PPLD) Monument Library. Our family car never needed a DVD player to keep us busy on vacations. The Sisters Grimm, Ranger’s Apprentice, and Harry Potter were just a few of the book series that kept mine and my brother’s minds occupied on the 28-hour road trip to visit family. We’d finish reading our book, then trade with each other to read whatever novel or series the other was finishing up.

,p>PPLD wasn’t just a place we visited seeking entertainment for our family on long trips (and to probably save my parent’s sanity traveling with two young boys!), it was a staple in our lives. My mom and dad moved the family to Monument when I was approximately eight years old. Mom would take us to the Monument Library once a week and we would load up on books, movies, and CDs. It was normal for my brother and I to bring home 30 - 40 books and devour them in a week. Even at a young age, the library catalog system was easy enough that I could check out or put books on hold all on my own. However, access to books wasn’t the only thing that made the library feel like the best place to be. Whether it was puppies visiting the library to play with or craft workshops, there was always something fun and adventurous for a kid to do.

Once I transitioned from elementary to middle school, I found myself at the library daily. It was such a great place to do homework, read a book, and provided a safe place to hang out.

Eventually, I started volunteering at PPLD, helping support my favorite program — the Summer Reading program (now the Summer Adventure program). As a kid who loved reading, there was nothing better than reading a bunch of books and being rewarded for completing the program. The prizes I received as I completed books and worked toward finishing the program really motivated me to keep reading. Frankly, the Summer Reading Program is a big reason why I’m such an avid reader today.

My love of the library has only grown over time. When I was a kid I loved the easy access to books, movies, CDs, and the fun programs the library held for the community. However, today I’ve also grown an appreciation for the impact PPLD has on neighborhoods and families. Books aren’t necessarily the cheapest thing in the world. A new hard-covered book will cost you at least $20. Without the library as a resource, many kids and adults would be deprived of the joy of reading. With its wide range of programs and services, the library makes it easy for families new to town to quickly plug in and integrate into a new community. However, what’s amazing is how accessible our library is today. I have three library-specific apps on my phone and can download books directly to my Kindle. I typically rotate through 15 - 16 books at a time. Our library is accessible to the entire community, regardless of whether you want to travel in person to a location or if you simply want to check out a few books from the convenience of your kitchen table. And this is all available to the public for free!

The library inspired my entire family to grow into avid readers. When I was growing up, it gave me a sense of place and community. If you’re someone just dipping your toes into what PPLD has to offer, I encourage you to start with its summer reading program. There are tracks for kids and adults. After all, we’re never too old to be excited about getting free goodies for completing a few good books!

Click here for more People of the Pikes Peak Region stories!

All you need is your library. But your library needs you, too! Support Pikes Peak Library District by making a charitable gift to the PPLD Foundation. Click here to make your donation today. Thank you!

Kids and teens can enjoy lunch (and books) at no cost this summer!

School District 11 will bring their mobile unit to East Library every weekday beginning Wed., June 1 through Fri., July 28 (no lunch on Tue., July 4). Meal service will be available 11 a.m. - noon, Monday - Friday, along with a basket of age-appropriate books that kids and teens can take with them.

Outside of East Library
5550 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80918 
June 1 - July 28 (every weekday except July 4) 
11 a.m. - noon

The Summer Food Service Program, funded by USDA, provides nutritious meals to all children and teenagers ages 0 - 18. There are no income or registration requirements for participation.

To find other nearby summer meal sites, visit KidsFoodFinder.org. 

¡Aventúrate este verano con la Biblioteca del Distrito de Pikes Peak! Nuestro programa Aventura de verano 2023 presentado por Children’s Hospital Colorado está aquí para ayudar a los niños y adolescentes a mantenerse comprometidos y activos durante los meses de verano. Sabemos que estás buscando ideas atractivas y estimulantes ¡y estamos aquí para ayudarte!

¡Haz clic aquí o descarga la aplicación para registrarte! 

¡Gana premios a través de la lectura, el movimiento y la imaginación! ¡Participa en uno de nuestros programas o pon en práctica una de nuestras ideas de actividades.

Calendario de programas para adolescentes

Aspectos más destacados del programa

• Puntos destacados del programa

• Clase de capacitación para niñeras de la Cruz Roja
• Pistola láser
• Noche de juegos de tamaño real: edición intergeneracional
• ¡Lo lograste! Edición intergeneracional
• Serie de codificación: música
• Pintura del orgullo de la bandera de Colorado
•  Sala de escape: ¡Hablemos de los libros!
• Introducción al aprendizaje automático
• Aprende a tejer: amigurumi del Abominable Hombre de las Nieves/Pie Grande
• Aprende a coser: bolsos con cordón

LEER

• Lee un libro de una de nuestras listas de libros.
• Recibe una recomendación personalizada de un libro de un miembro del personal de la biblioteca.
• Busca un libro utilizando la base de datos de libros NovelList Plus.
• Lee un libro destacado en la página de inicio del Catálogo PPLD.
• Lee un libro revisado previamente por alguien del equipo de revisión.
• Lee un género nuevo para ti (ciencia ficción, no ficción, etc.).
• Lee en un formato nuevo para ti (novela gráfica, audiolibros, manga, etc.).
• Lee un libro ambientado fuera de los EE. UU.
• Lee un libro ambientado en el pasado.
• Lee un libro de o sobre un refugiado o inmigrante (como el libro APPR de 2019, Nowhere Boy).
• Lee un libro sobre una persona con discapacidades.
• Lee un libro ambientado en un mundo de fantasía.
• Lee un libro que a tus padres (u otro adulto de tu agrado) les encantaba cuando eran adolescentes.
• Lee un libro sobre alguien que es diferente a ti.

IMAGINAR

• ¡Dale un vistazo a un juego de mesa al que nunca hayas jugado antes y pruébalo! Busca la lista de juegos de mesa que puedes consultar desde PPLD aquí.
• ¡Participa en el   Todas las lecturas de Pikes Peak!
• Crea algo con materiales que hayas encontrado en o alrededor de tu espacio vital. ¿Qué creaste? 
• ¡Prueba una nueva receta, técnica de horneado o técnica de cocina! Busca el libro de cocina perfecto en nuestra colección.
• ¡Haz una película! Dale un vistazo a un libro sobre cómo escribir guiones. Luego toma una clase o consulta el equipo en Studio 21c, y edita tu proyecto final en nuestras computadoras.
• Dedica al menos una hora para hacer algo (esto podría ser cualquier cosa: comida, obras de arte, proyectos de carpintería, un experimento científico, etc.).¡Consulta nuestro canal de Youtube para obtener ideas de proyectos!
• ¡Crea algo en línea! Utiliza el código de bloques para construir un juego, iniciar un blog sobre algo que te apasione o hacer música.
• Habla con alguien (en persona o de forma virtual) sobre tu historia de vida. Puedes utilizar la aplicación StoryCorps para obtener ayuda para comenzar o formular tus propias preguntas.
• Realiza un acto de bondad al azar para otra persona.
• ¡Disfruta de una actividad de cuidado personal! Consulta los programas virtuales de autocuidado de PPLD.
• ¡Escribe cartas a miembros de las fuerzas armadas! Consulta operationgratitude.com para obtener más información.
• Consulta una atracción local con el pase cultural de Pikes Peak o consulta los días de descuento del pase cultural donde puedes usar tu tarjeta de la biblioteca para obtener una entrada con descuento a una atracción diferente cada semana del 14 de junio al 4 de agosto. Consulta todas las organizaciones participantes y elabora un plan visitando https://ppld.org/culturepass.

MOVER 

• Da un paseo por tu vecindario.
• ¡Baila como si nadie te estuviera viendo! Aprende un baile en línea o simplemente baila en tu casa. Ocho canciones equivalen a alrededor de 30 minutos de ejercicio. ¡Usa Freegal gratis!
• Sal a correr. Tratar de correr durante 30 minutos, pero caminando tanto como sea necesario. Al final del verano, ¡podrás correr durante 30 minutos sin parar!
• Practica yoga. ¿Nuevo en yoga? Dale un vistazo a los excelentes cursos: Yoga en Kanopy, que es gratis con tu tarjeta de la biblioteca.
• Realiza ejercicios deportivos completos: trabaja el regate, el saque, el remate, la espiral o lo que te corresponda.
• Salta la cuerda.
• Aros hula hula.
• Prueba una nueva forma de ejercicio o aprende un deporte que sea nuevo para ti.
• Monta tu bicicleta.
• Sal a la calle, camina o visita un parque cercano.

¡Aventúrate este verano con la Biblioteca del Distrito de Pikes Peak! Nuestro programa Aventura de verano 2023 presentado por Children’s Hospital Colorado está aquí para ayudar a los niños y adolescentes a mantenerse comprometidos y activos durante los meses de verano. Sabemos que estás buscando ideas atractivas y estimulantes ¡y estamos aquí para ayudarte!

¡Haz clic aquí o descarga la aplicación para registrarte!

¡Gana premios a través de la lectura, el movimiento y la imaginación! ¡Participa en uno de nuestros programas o pon en práctica una de nuestras ideas de actividades.

Calendario de programas para niños

Si tu grupo tiene más de 10 niños, llama a la biblioteca a la que planeas asistir antes de tu visita o participación en el programa.

Calendario de programas para preadolescentes

Si tu grupo tiene más de 10 niños, llama a la biblioteca a la que planeas asistir antes de tu visita o participación en el programa.

Aspectos más destacados del programa

Presentaciones divertidas de verano

Si tu grupo tiene más de 10 niños, llama a la biblioteca a la que planeas asistir antes de tu visita o participación en el programa.

• ¡Música clásica en vivo para niños!
• Ciencia divertida: fuerzas fundamentales
• ¡Perros salvajes!
• Baile familiar
• El espectáculo de magia de año nuevo
• Hunk•Ta•Bunk•Ta® MÚSICA de Katherine Dines
• Joshua el ventrílocuo: todos juntos ahora
• LocoMotion: espectáculo de ciencia y artes circenses
• Educadores de la naturaleza: todos juntos ahora
• Cuentos de marionetas: ¡Juntos es mejor!
• Diversión rítmica para todos con Helen, La Dama de la Percusión
• Centro de recursos de dinosaurios de las Montañas Rocosas
• Sorprendentemente simple: así es como todos estamos conectados
• Parque zoológico de mascotas Wishing Star Farm

Arte juntos

• Arte juntos: ¡Espío!
• Arte juntos: ¡Colabora!
• Arte juntos: Manos en el arte comunitario
• Arte juntos: Ciudad reciclada

Programas intergeneracionales

Programas para niños con edades de 0 a 5 años

Aspectos más destacados del programa para preadolescentes

• Campamento de espionaje
• Clubes de dragones y mazmorras
• Consejo de asesores júnior (junior advisory boards, JAB)

LEER

Edades de 0 a 3 años

• Lea un libro juntos. Siga las líneas mientras su hijo pasa las páginas. Hable sobre lo que ven juntos.
• Lea un libro juntos en un lugar nuevo, como debajo de una mesa, en un armario, debajo de un fuerte de mantas o en una caja grande. ¿Qué lugar divertido pueden encontrar para leer juntos?
• Lea un libro con dibujos de personas en él. ¿Qué están haciendo? ¿Cómo se sienten?
• Lea un libro ilustrado interactivo con su hijo en Tumble Books.
• Obtenga Storytime @ Home usando uno de los divertidos storytimes creados por el personal de la Biblioteca.
• Disfrute de los personajes leyendo libros infantiles populares a través de Storyline Online, proporcionado por la Fundación SAG-AFTRA.
• Comparta algunas rimas y canciones infantiles favoritas o busque nuevas ideas en Story Blocks.

Edades de 4 a 7 años

• Lee un libro sin palabras, solo imágenes. ¿Qué historia puedes inventar a partir de las imágenes? ¿Puedes compartirlo con alguien?
• Léele un libro a un animal: a tu mascota, si tienes una, o a tu animal de peluche favorito.
• Lee un libro en un lugar nuevo, como debajo de una mesa, en un armario, debajo de un fuerte de mantas o en una caja grande. ¿Qué lugar divertido puedes encontrar para leer?
• Pídele a alguien que lea un libro ilustrado en voz alta mientras realizas un espectáculo de títeres con las palabras. Cambia de lugar y hazlo de nuevo.
• Busca un nuevo libro para leer o escuchar usando Libby
• Obtén Storytime @ Home usando uno de los divertidos storytimes creados por el personal de la Biblioteca.
• Lee un libro ilustrado interactivo en Tumble Books.
• Disfruta de los personajes leyendo libros infantiles populares a través de Storyline Online, proporcionado por la Fundación SAG-AFTRA.
• Escucha una historia fuera de este mundo leída desde el espacio exterior en Storytime from Space.
• ¿Quieres escuchar a los autores leer sus libros para ti? Dale un vistazo a PBS Books Storytime y Harper Kids.
• Juega un juego de lectura en PBS Kids con tus personajes favoritos de PBS.
• Disfruta de Dan Gutman leyendo sus libros, se encuentran en My Weird Read-A-Loud.

Edades de 8 a 11 años

• Léele un libro a otra persona, ya sea mayor o menor que tú.
• Cuéntale a alguien todo sobre un libro que acabas de terminar de leer. ¿Qué te gustó del libro? ¿Qué no te gustó? Si pudieras cambiar el final, ¿cómo terminaría el libro?
• Buscar un nuevo libro para leer o escuchar usando Libby.
• Lee un libro sobre alguien de un país o cultura diferente a la tuya. Comparte algo nuevo que hayas aprendido con un amigo o familiar.
• Escucha una historia fuera de este mundo leída desde el espacio exterior en Storytime from Space.
• Prueba con un libro de capítulos sobre Tumble Books.
• ¿Eres fan de I Survived (Yo sobreviví)? Dale un vistazo a Lauren Tarshis: I Survived para obtener más información sobre sus libros.
• ¿Quieres escuchar a los autores leer sus libros para ti? Dale un vistazo a PBS Books Storytime
• Disfruta de Dan Gutman leyendo sus libros, que se encuentran en My Weird Read-A-Loud.

IMAGINAR

Edades de 0 a 3 años

• Juega a mímicas de animales. Actúa como un animal y haz los ruidos de ese animal. ¿Pueden otros adivinar quién eres? ¡Continúa hasta que todos estén confundidos!
• Construye algo tan alto como tú usando bloques, recipientes de pañuelos vacíos o almohadas. Derríbalo y construye de nuevo. ¿Qué tan alto puedes construirlo antes que se caiga? Inténtalo de nuevo con un amigo.
• Sumerge un trapo en agua y úsalo para crear diseños divertidos en la acera. Hazlo en un día soleado y caluroso para ver qué tan rápido desaparece la imagen del agua. Inténtalo en la sombra. ¿Qué diseños duran más?
• Busca algunos tesoros en la naturaleza, como hojas, flores o palos, y presiónalos en plastilina. Sácalos y mira las impresiones. ¿Se parecen a los objetos que presionaste en la plastilina?
• Busca algunas hojas y pinta caras en ellas con pintura de dedos.
• Haz un fuerte de mantas haciendo creer que es algo más grandioso. ¿Es un castillo? ¿Una casa en el árbol? Acurrúcate adentro con una historia o un refrigerio.
• Juega al cucú o aplaude y canta una canción o rima favorita.

Edades de 4 a 7 años

• Imagina que eres un animal y haz que otros adivinen qué animal eres. Solo puedes representar los movimientos, ¡sin sonidos ni palabras! ¿Cuántos animales puedes fingir que otros puedan adivinar?
• Piensa en algo agradable que hacer o decirle a otra persona. ¿A cuántas personas puedes hacer sonreír hoy?
• Observa la vida marina en las cámaras Naturescape de Deerfield Beach. ¿Qué ves? ¿Puedes dibujar los animales o inventar una historia sobre ellos?
• Consulta el sitio web del zoológico de Cheyenne Mountain para ver sus cámaras de jirafas. ¿Qué están haciendo las jirafas hoy? ¿Puedes hacer un dibujo o contar una historia sobre lo que ves? ¿Quieres ver más animales del zoológico? Prueba las cámaras en vivo en el zoológico de San Diego o en el zoológico de Memphis.
• Haz un autorretrato en el suelo de afuera usando solo elementos que encuentres en la naturaleza. ¿Qué puedes usar para tu cabello? ¿Nariz? ¿Ojos? ¿Boca?
• Crea un terrario de dinosaurios para tus dinosaurios de juguete favoritos. Usa arena, rocas, plantas, hierba, ¡incluso podrías usar un poco de lodo!
• Pinta rocas para que parezcan animales. ¿Puedes esconderlos afuera para que otros los encuentren?
• Crea una casa para tus animales de peluche con los objetos de tu habitación. Busca una caja sin usar para hacer una casa pequeña o realiza una tienda de campaña con una manta. Cuéntale una historia a tu animal de peluche antes de acostarte.
• Construye un fuerte. Utiliza sillas, mesas, mantas, almohadas, sábanas o cualquier cosa que tengas en la casa para construir tu fuerte. Nombra tu fuerte e invita a alguien adentro a leer contigo.
• Crea un mapa de tu vecindario usando papel y lápices, marcadores o crayones. Decide dónde esconderías el tesoro y márcalo en tu mapa

Edades de 8 a 11 años

• Observa la vida marina en las cámaras Naturescape de Deerfield Beach. ¿Qué ves? ¿Puedes dibujar los animales o inventar una historia sobre ellos? ¿Cómo interactúan los animales?
• Consulta el sitio web del zoológico de Cheyenne Mountain para ver sus cámaras de jirafas. ¿Qué están haciendo las jirafas hoy? ¿Puedes hacer un dibujo o contar una historia sobre lo que ves? ¿Quieres ver más animales del zoológico? Prueba las cámaras en vivo como el zoológico de San Diego o en el zoológico de Memphis.
• Descubre más sobre tu familia. Llama o escríbele una carta a un ser querido. ¿Qué historias sobre sus vidas pueden contarte? ¿Cómo era la vida para ellos a tu edad?
• Imagina una bestia o criatura mítica y elabórala usando cualquier material de arte, adorno o material natural que puedas encontrar.
• Cocina la cena para la familia. ¡Busca una receta, prepara los ingredientes y descubre al chef que llevas dentro! Busca a un adulto para que te ayude o pídele que te muestre cómo hacer el plato favorito de la familia.
• Piensa en algo agradable que hacer o decirle a otra persona. ¿A cuántas personas puedes hacer sonreír hoy?
• Construye un jardín de rocas o de hadas utilizando elementos que se encuentran en la naturaleza.
• Escribe una historia corta sobre un animal con una habilidad increíble. Estas son algunas ideas para comenzar: la medusa inmortal; una cabra montés que puede escalar paredes; un pulpo que combina con los colores de un tablero de ajedrez.
• Intenta llevar un diario en el futuro. ¿Cómo será tu vida dentro de 10... 20... 50 años? ¿Tu perro podrá hablar contigo? ¿Los vehículos volarán? ¿Qué estarás haciendo? Cuida este diario y míralo cuando cumplas esos años.
• Escribe o haz un dibujo sobre un recuerdo familiar especial y compártelo con tu familia.
• Crea una película cuadro por cuadro o stop-motion usando tus figuras de acción, juguetes o animales de peluche. ¿Qué payasadas te imaginas que hacen mientras no estás cerca?
• Elabora letras para colgar en la pared con ramitas e hilo o cordel.

MOVER

Edades de 0 a 3 años

• Realiza un paseo sensorial en el interior. ¿Puedes encontrar algo que sea suave? ¿Duro? ¿Abultado? ¿Suave? ¿Brillante? ¿Frío? Identificar la textura de un artículo aumenta el vocabulario de una manera divertida.
• Elabora dos dados grandes con cajas. En uno, escribe palabras de acción como "saltar, escalar, patear". En el otro, escribe palabras direccionales como “en círculo, como un mono, adelante”. Tira los dados y haz lo que te indiquen. Por ejemplo, “saltar como un mono”.
• Toca tu música favorita y baila con bufandas, cintas o serpentinas de papel. O bien organiza una fiesta de baile para mostrar tus mejores movimientos. Dale un vistazo a nuestra lista de reproducción Freegal solo para niños, donde encontrarás mucha música divertida para bailar.
• Salpica en los charcos después de la lluvia o en la bañera de tu casa. Deja caer juguetes para bañarte o nadar desde diferentes alturas para ver cómo salpican.
• Busca un lugar para observar la vida silvestre. ¿Puedes buscar ardillas, patos, venados o pájaros cantores? Mientras señalas diferentes animales, trata de hacer el sonido del animal.
• Da un paseo por tu vecindario o toma un sendero en el área. Señala cualquier animal que se cruce en el camino.

Edades de 4 a 7 años

• Prueba tu habilidad para saltar la cuerda. ¿Qué rimas puedes repetir mientras saltas?
• Túrnense para esconderse y buscar un juguete especial. ¿Tienes problemas? Proporciona pistas o grita "¡Caliente! ¡Caliente!" a medida que se acercan.
• Camina con tu familia o tu perro por el vecindario. ¿Cuántos animales viste? ¿Puedes hacer un dibujo de los animales que viste?
• Da un paseo al aire libre. Recoge todo lo que quieras en el suelo que provenga de una planta. Cuando llegues a casa, haz un colaje con tu colección.
• ¡Juega al tenis con globos! Elabora tu propia raqueta pegando reglas a platos de papel. ¿Cuánto tiempo puedes mantener tu globo en el aire?
• Crea una pista de carreras con secciones para saltar, saltar en un pie, galopar y caminar de lado. ¿Cuántas vueltas seguidas puedes dar? Practicar pasos como este ayuda a desarrollar la coordinación y la resistencia.

Edades de 8 a 11 años

• Organiza una noche de niños contra adultos con tu familia inmediata. Elije una actividad competitiva: puede ser un juego de mesa, una carrera de obstáculos (¡haz uno con cajas!), o una carrera simple. Divídanse en equipos: adultos contra niños. ¡Que empiecen los juegos!
• Sorprende a los adultos con una habitación limpia, ¡cualquier habitación! Si eliges tu dormitorio, límpialo primero y reorganiza los muebles de una manera fresca y novedosa. ¡Podría inspirar un nuevo pensamiento creativo!
• Crea tu propio baile característico con una canción favorita. Puedes guardarlo para ti o enseñar a tus amigos. ¿Buscas algo de música? Dale un vistazo a nuestra lista de reproducción Freegal solo para niños.
• Da un paseo por tu vecindario o toma un nuevo sendero. ¿Cuáles son algunas de las cosas nuevas que ves a tu alrededor mientras caminas? ¿Puedes invitar a algunos amigos o miembros de tu familia extendida a que te acompañen?
• ¡Toma algunas barras luminosas, toca tus canciones favoritas y organiza una fiesta de baile en la oscuridad!
• Organizar el espectáculo más increíble del verano, ¡todo se vale! Crea una obra de teatro, organiza un espectáculo de animales de peluche, baila con música, lo que quieras. ¡Muéstrale a tu familia lo que puedes hacer!

See english version 
Tarjeta de Juego 

¡Aventúrate este verano con la Biblioteca del Distrito de Pikes Peak! La Aventura de verano 2023 presentada por Children's Hospital Colorado ayuda a los niños y adolescentes a mantenerse comprometidos y activos durante los meses de verano. Sabemos que estás buscando ideas atractivas para actividades ¡y estamos aquí para ayudarte!
Cualquier persona de 0 a 18 años puede participar y ganar premios a través de la lectura, el movimiento y la imaginación. ¡Participa en uno de nuestros programas o pon en práctica una de nuestras ideas de actividades!
 

Entérate: ¡regístrate!

Recibe un correo electrónico de recordatorio al comienzo de la Aventura de verano y durante junio y julio para programas de verano, actividades, y más, para niños de 0 a 18 años. Puedes cancelar la suscripción en cualquier momento. 

Calendarios de eventos

Calendario de programas para niños 
Calendario de programas para preadolescentes
Calendario de programas para adolescentes     

Tarjetas de juego

Puedes realizar un seguimiento de tu progreso en la aplicación Beanstack, recoger una tarjeta de juego en cualquier ubicación de la Biblioteca o hacer clic aquí para ¡descargar e imprimir una tarjeta de juego física desde tu casa!

Cómo jugar

1. Regístrate en Beanstack en ppld.beanstack.org, en la aplicación, o en persona en una biblioteca ¡y recibe un premio!
2. Culmina los 30 días de actividades (ya sea leer, mover o imaginar) a partir del 1.º de junio hasta el 31 de julio.
3. Realiza un seguimiento de tu progreso completando un espacio en la tarjeta del juego o registra un día en Beanstack por cada día de actividad. 
4. Recibe un segundo premio cuando hayas culminado los 30 días de actividades.

Si necesitas ayuda, llama al (719) 531-6333 o visita ppld.org/ask 

Anima tu Zoom u otras conversaciones virtuales con fondos digitales de Aventura de verano: ¡Descárgalos a continuación!

Premios

En el momento de la inscripción, los niños de 0 a 11 años pueden elegir un libro y los de 12 a 18 años pueden seleccionar un libro o una revista como premio de inscripción. Después de registrar 30 días de lectura o actividades, los niños de 0 a 3 años reciben un juguete para el baño, los de 4 a 11 años reciben una medalla de lectura y los de 12 a 18 años reciben un segundo libro o revista.

Encuesta

¿Terminaste con el programa? ¡Toma nuestra encuesta y responde algunas preguntas para mejorar aún más el programa del próximo año!

Encuesta de niños/adolescentes
Encuesta de cuidadores
 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Drop by the makerspaces to create some fun seasonal crafts and explore what the spaces have to offer! Experiment with cardmaking, laser projects, painting, and more. Give what you make as a gift or keep it for yourself. All ages welcome and all materials provided.

No open houses are scheduled currently, but we often hold them in the Spring, Fall, and during the holiday season. Check back here or on our events calendar for updates.

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.

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 $15 - 17 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.

Class Dates: 

Mon., Mar. 25 through Fri., April 26, 2024

Click here to submit your application

• Time: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Location: Library 21c
• Address: 1175 Chapel Hills, Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920
• Applications will open later this year. Please check back for more details
• Applicants must complete a phone interview and in-person interview in order to be eligible for acceptance into the program.
• If you are officially accepted into this training program, orientation information will be sent to you.

Students must be:

• Able to attend the scheduled program
• Eligible to work in the U.S.
• Pursuing a career in the culinary industry
• 18 or older

What you’ll learn:

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 bkegley@ppld.org.

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.

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.

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.

  • Wed., March 30 at 5 p.m. at Old Colorado City Library
  • Thu., April 7 at 5 p.m. at Sand Creek Library
  • Sat., April 30 at 2 p.m. at High Prairie Library
  • Fri., May 6 at 1 p.m. at Monument Library
  • Sat., May 14 at 10:30 a.m. at Cheyenne Mountain Library
  • Wed., May 18 at 11 a.m. at Manitou Springs Library
  • Thu., May 26 at 5 p.m. at Fountain Library
• 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.

  • Wed., March 23 at 5 p.m. at Old Colorado City Library
  • Sat., April 16 at 11 a.m. at Manitou Springs Library
  • Sat., May 28 at 2 p.m. at High Prairie Library
• 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.

  • Sat., April 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Cheyenne Mountain Library
  • Mon., April 11 at 5 p.m. at Fountain Library
  • Tue., May 3 at 5 p.m. at East Library
  • Mon., May 9 at 5 p.m. at Library 21c
  • Fri., May 20 at 2 p.m. at Ruth Holley Library

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.

• Fri., April 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Library 21c
• Fri., April 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Library 21c
• Fri., April 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Library 21c
• Fri., April 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Library 21c
• Fri., May 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Library 21c

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!

On Fri., Nov. 18, the Shivers Concert Series at Pikes Peak Library District presents “Fall Dinner Concert”.

The evening’s musical guests include:

• Veronica Williams

• Icy Monroe

• Marcus King

• Terri Pederson and the Tidal Breeze Quartet

• Linda Weise and Adam Haas

• Susan Grace

Schedule

6:30 p.m. – Social hour

7 p.m. – Dinner

8 p.m. – Concert

Location

This event will be at the City Auditorium (221 E. Kiowa)

Tickets

Tickets for this event are $70 per person.

To purchase tickets online, click here.

You may also mail checks to PPLD Foundation (1175 Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920), or pay by phone at (719) 531-6333 x5154.

Please RSVP at your earliest convenience.

Musical Workshop

There will be a free Musical Workshop for Students on Sat., Nov 19. at 2 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall. Please note that this free workshop is only open to students.

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.

• 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

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.

Top 10 Adult Titles

1. The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
2. Hidden Valley Road : Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker
3. A Time for Mercy by John Grisham
4. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
5. Dark Sky by C.J. Box
6. Daylight by David Baldacci
7. A Gambling Man by David Baldacci
8. The Last Thing He Told Me : a novel by Laura Dave
9. Anxious People : a novel by Fredrik Backman
10. Ocean Prey by John Sandford

Top 10 Young Adult Titles

1. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
2. Midnight Sun by Stephanie Meyer
3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
4. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
5. All the Impossible Things by Lindsay Lackey
6. Eragon by Christopher Paolini
7. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
8. The Giver by Lois Lowry
9. The Hate u Give by Angie Thomas
10. Shadow and Bone Leigh Bardugo

Top 10 Children's Titles

1. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: the Deep End by Jeff Kinney
3. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball by Jeff Kinney
4. Rowley Jefferson's Awesome Friendly Adventure by Jeff Kinney
5. A Long Walk to Water: a Novel Linda Sue Park
6. The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen
7. Camp Time in California by Mary Pope Osborne
8. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown by Jeff Kinney
9. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
10. Indian No More by Charlene Willing McManis

Top 10 Movies

1. Wonder Woman 1984
2. News of the World
3. Soul
4. Tenet
5. The Courier
6. Minari
7. Mulan
8. Black Widow
9. F9, the Fast Saga
10. Godzilla Vs. Kong

Join PPLD in welcoming Mr. Isaac Newton Farris Jr. as he commemorates Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the topic It Starts with Me!

Isaac Newton Farris Jr., nephew of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was born in Atlanta, Georgia and attended his uncle’s alma mater, Morehouse College where he majored in Political Science. Mr. Farris’s background has given him a unique prospective and real life experience on some of the most pressing issues of our times.

Growing up in one of America’s most socially and politically active families has provided him with a front row seat, witnessing how policy is formulated and implemented.

Mr. Farris has worked with political figures such as Walter Mondale, Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young, and the successful County Commissioner election of Martin Luther King III. He’s served as CEO of Clean Air Industries, President and CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, and President and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the organization his uncle Martin Luther King Jr. founded.

Mr. Farris currently serves as Senior Fellow of the King Center where he not only continues to write, research, and lecture on the life, philosophy, and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., but also on how Kingian Non-Violence should guide American society as we confront the social, religious, economic, and war issues of America and of the world today.