District Discovery - Summer 2024

Learn About a Gold Medalist’s Summer Reading Experience p. 6

Letter from the Chief Librarian and CEO

Everyone loves games. And here in Colorado Springs (a.k.a. Olympic City USA), we really love games.

Paralympic gold medalist Kendall Gretsch has dedicated years of hard work and training to become the best in the world at her sport. She also grew up doing summer reading programs through her local library. You can read more about her journey in these pages.

Our 2024 Summer Adventure presented by Children's Hospital Colorado makes a game out of learning. Kids and teens can earn prizes while reading, exploring, or creating!

Library 21c has two video gaming areas, and board and lawn games available. It's hard to believe that Library 21c is celebrating its 10th anniversary this summer!

I hope this edition of District Discovery encourages you to play, and that you find the perfect game for you at PPLD!

Teona Shainidze-Krebs Chief Librarian and CEO Pikes Peak Library District

By Jeremiah Walter

Ever since Briargate was annexed by the City of Colorado Springs in 1982, it has seen continual growth, and that growth has surged recently. The area in northeast Colorado Springs has experienced a 154% population increase so far this century.

In 2005, Briargate Library opened at 9475 Briar Village Point and its 8,627 square feet quickly became one of the busiest in Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD). By 2008, it saw the highest number of visitors and circulated items of any location except Penrose and East libraries.

In 2011, after determining a need for more space and more forward-thinking library services, PPLD purchased a former MCI call center that had been sitting empty for eight years near Chapel Hills Mall.

Using money raised in a capital campaign, including a $750,000 matching grant from the El Pomar Foundation, the 112,883-square-foot building was renovated into a state-ofthe-art library facility.

It was named Library 21c, reflecting the aspirations for this newest addition to PPLD. It would be a library for the 21st century. The first library of its kind in the nation, it contains makerspaces, a recording and video production studio, a large event venue, and a business and entrepreneurial center alongside more traditional library materials.

Library 21c opened to the public 10 years ago this summer.

Sherri Hendrich was one of the Briargate Library staff members who made the exodus to Library 21c. “June 21, 2014 was a very busy and exciting day,” the senior library assistant recalls about Library 21c’s grand opening.

After speeches from Colorado Lt. Governor Joe Garcia and Benjamin Franklin (portrayed by Christopher Lowell), a group of Star Wars stormtroopers conducted a 21 confetti cannon salute, and a robot made by Coronado High School students cut a ribbon to commemorate the opening of the new library.

“Opening in the middle of [the] summer reading

Kowell. “The large number of meeting rooms has always been a major draw for the community and it did not take long before our meeting spaces were consistently booked solid.”

In the decade since, the many services of Library 21c have continued to see heavy use.

“Library 21c houses two makerspaces, Studio21c, and a Family Place Library,” says Library 21c Supervisor Melissa Schloesser. “All are unique and popular services that bring patrons from all over El Paso County and beyond. Each space provides programming, as well, so patrons can learn these services.”

“The children’s play area and programs are important for families with young children,” says Library Associate Robin Misciagna. “It provides a place for play and socializing for both the kids and the adults. It is a safe place to pass the time.”

“We try to have something for everyone,” says Kowell. “The 3D printers have been catching people’s attention since we opened, and the laser cutter is easily our most popular machine. Beyond that, we have things for sewists, painters, paper makers, and wood workers in the makerspaces. We also have the Studio and Venue for musicians, educators, and business owners.”

“Library 21c is more of a community center than a library,” says Schloesser. “Yes, we house lots of physical material for patrons to browse and check out just like traditional libraries, but we also have so many other unique services, and the large open spaces provide many opportunities for the Library and the public to host community events.”

By far the best resource at Library 21c is its staff.

“The staff at Library 21c is wonderful! They are a group of very intelligent individuals who all bring unique backgrounds and perspectives,” says Schloesser. “They help serve our diverse community, make decisions for our Library location, and provide all of the services we have.”

Of course, the staff does get some assistance from modern technology.

“For the first month after our grand opening, staff returned material by hand,” says Hendrich. “Over the next month, our automated materials handling system, a.k.a. Rosie, was installed. Since July of 2014, Rosie has returned over 5.8 million items!”

Just inside the lower entrance at Library 21c, patrons can look through a window to see Rosie hard at work alongside a large collection of rubber ducks.

“At Briargate Library, we had a small collection of rubber ducks in the workroom,“ explains Hendrich. “When we moved to Library 21c, we had a great place to display the ducks so that both staff and our patrons were able to enjoy them. And over time, the collection has increased with additions from both staff and patrons.”

And that is just one way in which Library 21c staff and patrons connect.

“Everyone serves the community in a different way, and we are all dedicated to doing so to the best of our abilities,” says Kowell. “Whether it’s helping patrons use digital books for the first time, entertaining kids during Storytime, or helping them with in-depth research projects, we know how much what we do can help patrons in their lives.”

By Jeanne Davant

In her limited free time, one of the things four-time Paralympic gold medalist Kendall Gretsch likes to do is read.

“I'm not a super-fast reader,” says Gretsch, who maintains a rigorous daily training schedule for the upcoming 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. “But ever since COVID[19], I really have tried to make it a goal of reading at least one book a month. I will do it in between my workouts or if I'm eating a meal by myself.”

Having a Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) library card makes it easy for Gretsch to download eBooks to her phone‚ her favorite way of reading. She’s encouraging Library users of all ages, especially young people, to develop a love of reading the way she did — by joining a summer reading program. This year, PPLD’s 2024 Summer Adventure presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado leads up to the Paris 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Games, reflected by a fun sporty theme as participants strive for their personalized goals and earn prizes. Gretsch, who grew up in Downers Grove, Illinois, remembers participating in summer reading programs in her hometown, where her mom was a librarian.

“That was one of my highlights from the summer,” she says. “It was like a little card that you filled out, and you put in all the books that you read, and you got different prizes depending on the books that you read.”

Gretsch was born with spina bifida and has been active in sports from a young age. She loved swimming and competed on her high school swim team. She continued the sport while in college at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

According to her Team USA biography, she was introduced to triathlon when she was encouraged, during swim practice, to join a local paratriathlon club. From there, she fell in love with the sport.

“I didn’t really know about the Paralympics until I was in college,” she says. “I read an article about someone that was training for the London Paralympics. I was like, 'I think this is something that I can do.' That first summer, I tried [a] paratriathlon for the first time.”

Gretsch concentrated on her studies while in college and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical/ medical engineering in 2014. But after graduation, she was ready to explore the world of competitive sports, and she quickly joined the ranks of elite paratriathletes. She was named USA Triathlon Female Paratriathlete of the Year in 2014 and was nominated for a 2015 Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly Award (ESPY) for Best Female Athlete with a Disability.

But triathlon is not the only sport in which she excels. A couple of years after becoming involved in triathlon, Gretsch was invited to a Nordic skiing camp.

Go for Gold!

Summer Adventure presented by Children's Hospital Colorado

Get your game card on the back cover. Visit ppld.org/summer for more details. May 31 - July 31 Register today!

“I’ve been doing both sports since then,” she says.

When she first started skiing, Gretsch found mastering the sport to be a challenge, but that was what excited her.

“Now that I've been doing it for quite some time, it's fun to look back and think about how much progress I've made. Little turns or downhills that I used to think were really scary are now like, ‘that's no problem,’” she says.

Gretsch won her first two gold medals during her Paralympic debut at the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games — one each in Nordic skiing and biathlon.

Since then, Gretsch has racked up numerous awards in both sports, including a gold medal in paratriathlon at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, and a gold, silver, and bronze at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games.

Gretsch moved to Colorado Springs in 2019 to train for the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo.

Spectators who watched the Tokyo Games may recall that Gretsch was featured in one of the most dramatic races of the Games, which pitted her against her rival, Lauren Parker of Australia. Gretsch had finished second to Parker at the 2019 International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland. In Tokyo, Gretsch made up more than a minute of time during the bike portion of the race but was 26 seconds behind Parker as she entered the final 5K. She was positioned to win a silver medal, but Gretsch put on an incredible final push and crossed the finish line less than one second ahead of Parker.

“Being a Paralympic athlete has been, first of all, about the community of people that I’ve met,” she says. “I have made so many connections — teammates here in the U.S., but I’ve also had the opportunity to make friends with so many people from around the world in different countries. And I think that part of it is what will stick with me even when I'm not competing.”

Gretsch likely will meet more new friends when she competes this summer at the Paris Paralympic Games.

“It’s going to be a really exciting Games,” she says. “My event, the triathlon, is going to be right in the heart of downtown Paris. We’re going to be right among all of these iconic features — in the background, you're going to be able to see the Eiffel Tower.”

Gretsch’s daily schedule is demanding, filled with two or three workouts, plus meetings with supporting personnel such as sports psychologists and dietitians. But downtime is essential, too, and this summer, Gretsch says she plans to participate in PPLD’s Summer Adventure program.

The program began as a way to help support kids up to age 18 while they’re out of school by encouraging them to read, explore, and create throughout the summer. Research has found that reading and educational activities during summer break can help students retain more of what they’ve learned during the school year.

For this year’s 50th anniversary of the program, PPLD is opening Summer Adventure to readers of all ages so that everyone has an opportunity to exercise their reading muscles and win rewards. The program, PPLD’s largest, with more than 14,000 annual participants, runs from May 31 to July 31 this year.

For more information about Summer Adventure and to register, visit ppld.org/summer or stop by your local Library location.

Photo courtesy of teamusa.com

By Carla Bamesberger

Denver-based author Adrian Miller didn’t initially set his sights on a career as a food historian and writer. He started in politics, and after completing his time as part of the White House during the Clinton Administration, Miller planned to come back and enter the Colorado political landscape. Things don’t always go according to plan, though. A combination of cultural and economic factors created a tough, tight job market and Miller found himself in D.C. much longer than planned.

During this time, Miller happened to pick up a book on Southern cuisine by John Egerton. The book mentioned that up to that point, nobody had written a tribute to Black achievement in American cooking. This statement stood out to Miller, who reached out to Egerton to find out if anyone had changed this in the 14 years since the book came out.

Miller recalls Egerton writing back to say nobody had filled that gap, and that “’there’s always room for another voice, so why not yours?’” These words inspired Miller, and he set out to do just that.

Today, Miller has published three books exploring the history and culture surrounding African American culinary traditions. He reports that he has more research projects in progress or on the horizon that he intends to publish.

“My books have two big missions, I would say,” Miller explains of his published works. “One is to educate or inform my readers on African American food ways. The second thing is to show what we all have in common besides the fact that we all eat. Once you start really looking closely at these food traditions, you see that cooking techniques and ingredients often play out similarly in other cultures. Or there’s a common ingredient and they’re just using it differently.”

Food, as well as its history, is a cornerstone of the many cultures that make up the United States. “We have fewer spaces where we come together,” Miller explains. “The table is one of those spaces and food is one of the things that really breaks down barriers and I think makes people more open to have conversations.”

Miller hasn’t forgotten the words that set him on his current career path and understands the impact of encouragement. “When people approach me about their writing journey or ask me questions, I try to be available and affirm them. We get so many negative messages, especially about our dreams, that I think we just need more people to be affirming.”

When it comes to culinary and history writing, one person’s work is just a part of the bigger story. Miller expresses looking forward to more voices joining the conversation, saying, “I always think of my books as an appetizer in that in some sense, somebody down the road who's going to have more access to more information than I do is going to be able to say, ‘Oh, okay, let me build on what Adrian has done.’”

Adrian Miller will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Mountain of Authors on Sat., June 22 at Library 21c. Mountain of Authors celebrates writers from across the Colorado Front Range with in-person and virtual showcases of local authors. It is a great opportunity for our community to meet local authors, explore the world of writing and publishing, and discover new books to enjoy.

Mountain of Authors

June 22 | Library 21c

By PPLD's Regional History & Genealogy Department

Launched in 2004 as a day-long celebration of local history, the Pikes Peak Regional History Symposium is a pivotal event that explores history in the Pikes Peak region. The Symposium has evolved over time to match shifting resources and community needs, and now showcases local history through a compelling three-part series over three days. It starts with engaging short documentaries, followed by traditional in-person presentations, and concludes with a "virtual symposium," which was introduced during the 2020 pandemic lockdown.

As the premier annual gathering for our region's history, it unites experts, writers, filmmakers, and students to explore the Pikes Peak region's past, focusing on a unique theme each year. From the vibrant history of art in the region to the pivotal role of the military, and now celebrating its twentieth anniversary with a look at the major turning points in our area's history, the symposium offers a unique opportunity to delve into the narratives that have shaped our region. This unique event serves as a platform for history enthusiasts and newcomers alike, providing a welcoming space to discover the story that created the Pikes Peak region we know today. The Symposium is sponsored by the Helen and James McCaffrey Fund for Regional History, The Friends of PPLD, and the PPLD Foundation.

Join our Regional History & Genealogy Department in celebrating 20 years of this annual program. This year’s theme is “Turning Points in Pikes Peak Regional History.” Don’t miss this year’s film festival; day-long, in-person symposium; and virtual symposium on the following dates:

Sat., June 1

2 - 4 p.m.

Sat., June 8 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Mon., June 10 7 - 9 p.m.

*Register at tiny.ppld.org/v-symposium

Please visit ppld.org/history-symposium for more details.

Regional History Symposiums through the Years:

2024 – Turning Points in Pikes Peak Regional History

2023 – Art, Artists, & Entertainers

2022 – Resilience, Resistance, & Restoration

2021 – Nice, Naughty, & Notable

2020 – Iron Rails, Wagon Trails, & Snail Mail

2019 – Poets, Professors, & Provocateurs of the Pikes Peak Region

2018 – Remarkable Rascals, Despicable Dudes, & Hidden Heroes

2017 – Enduring Legacies & Forgotten Landmarks: The Built Environment of the Pikes Peak Region

2016 – Myths and Mysteries of the Rocky Mountain West

2015 – Military Matters: Defense, Development, and Dissent in the Pikes Peak Region

2014 – Bigwigs and Benefactors of the Pikes Peak Region

2013 – Massacres of the Mountain West

2012 – Disasters of the Pikes Peak Region

2011 – Film and Photography on the Front Range

2010 – Enterprise and Innovation in the Pikes Peak Region

2009 – Rush to the Rockies! The 1895 Pikes Peak or Bust Gold Rush

2008 – Doctors, Disease, & Dying

2007 – Extraordinary Women of the Pikes Peak Region

2006 – “To Spare No Pains,” Zebulon Montgomery Pike and His 1806 - 1807 Expedition

2005 – Legends, Labors, & Loves of William Jackson Palmer

2004 – Colorado Labor Wars

By Drew Cerino

"Today a reader, tomorrow a leader." W. Fusselman.

Here’s a little secret librarians have always known … storytime is one of the most beneficial things you can do with your child. Most parents instinctively know that taking the time to read to their child is positive, but it might surprise you how beneficial it is. Many scientific studies have shown that storytime is beneficial for literacy development, emotional growth, family bonding, learning, and more. Here are some of the positive outcomes of reading with the kids in your life:

Cognition

Being read to stimulates attention, memory, and comprehension skills. Kids learn to ask questions, think critically, understand cause and effect relationships, make predictions, and draw inferences as they listen. It also builds language skills including vocabulary, syntax, and grammar.

Imagination

Storytime sparks creativity, sending young minds on adventures into other worlds to meet fascinating characters and challenges. Children can explore new ideas and viewpoints, create their own stories, and visualize new solutions to challenges through imagination.

Emotional Regulation

Stories help children build a toolkit for social, emotional, and character development. Through relatable examples, they learn how to express feelings and control their behavior when faced with challenges. Children can develop empathy and broaden their worldview as they learn about other cultures and perspectives, and parents can make real-life situations more relatable.

Bonding

Reading with your child creates magical moments that strengthen your relationship through conversation, laughter, and a sharing of emotions. The simple act of reading together presents an opportunity to set the day’s frustrations aside and can have a calming effect on parent and child alike.

Love of Reading

Reading as a part of everyday life sets a child up for success in school and in life. There is always something new to learn, new perspectives to consider, and new opportunities for growth.

Tips for Parents:

• Establish a storytime routine and be consistent

• Check in and make sure your child is following the story

• Be silly and make it fun! Try out funny voices, accents, and sound effects

• Ask thought-provoking questions and encourage discussion

• Relate characters and stories to real-life situations

• Use PPLD’s extensive book lists to find the best reads (ppld.org/kids/read/reading-lists)

• Visit PPLD’s numerous Storytime offerings and children’s programs

• Help your kids sign up for PPLD’s Summer Adventure reading program (and sign up with them!) Visit ppld.org/summer

REGIONAL HISTORY & GENEALOGY PROGRAMS

Discover more at ppld.org/regional-history-and-genealogy

FEATURED PROGRAM

The 20th Anniversary Pikes Peak Regional History Symposium

Sat., June 1 | Short Film Festival

Sat., June 8 | In-person Symposium

Mon., June 10 | Virtual Symposium

This year’s theme celebrates 20 years of symposiums by examining the turning points in our region's history. Registration is required.

Explore This Month's Displays at the Helen McCaffery Exhibit

Visit the original 1905 Carnegie Library building in downtown Colorado Springs, where the Helen McCaffery Exhibit showcases a new initiative for our department: a robust rotation of displays highlighting unique pieces of our regional history. Each month features new and captivating exhibits — make sure not to miss a new selection each month! While exploring the exhibit, we invite you to take a tour of the Regional History & Genealogy section and discover the extensive resources Pikes Peak Library District offers for your historical research. Join us and immerse yourself in history!

VIRTUAL CLASSES

We offer numerous virtual classes. To view the full calendar, visit tinyurl.com/ppldgenclasses

Explore Your Ancestry with Our Free Online Genealogy Classes!

Discover the layers of your family history through our engaging online classes, ranging from fundamental concepts to in-depth research techniques. We offer three virtual genealogy classes each month, each covering a different topic to help you refine your research.

Don't want to wait?!

Find class handouts, databases, and other genealogy resources at tinyurl.com/ppldgendb

Four-Part Medicare Series

The Four-Part Medicare Series goes beyond the basics of Medicare and retirement. You will receive information to guide and support you as you make important health care decisions that affect the rest of your life.

Magic Mud - Ceramic Arts for Older Adults

Inspire a sense of community, creativity, and fun! Learn basic clay processes as you create two completed ceramic pieces by the end of the three-week session. Join local contemporary sculptor and ceramics instructor Brenda Jones and Think 360 Arts for three weeks of ceramic art creation. Registration is required. All supplies will be provided. Must be able to attend all three classes in the session.

Senior Lunch and a Movie

You bring your lunch and PPLD will bring the movie! Join us and other patrons as we enjoy a monthly movie during lunch. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Registration is not required but is encouraged.

Veteran Resource Panel: PPAAA Retirement Series

Fri., Aug. 23

1 - 2 p.m. | Library 21c

Join representatives from Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging, the Veteran Service Office, Home Front Military Network, and others at this panel discussion about local veteran and military services. Get answers to your questions and concerns about veteran benefits, healthcare, and much more.

The Puzzle of Caregiving: PPAAA Retirement Series

It’s not easy figuring out what resources are available to help care for an older family member. Internet information is confusing and conflicting. It’s hard to know what to believe. This presentation will help you better understand how to assemble the pieces in a manner that reduces your caregiving stress. Registration is required.

Aging Happy and Healthy

Health and happiness are the keys to a fulfilling life. As we age, it’s “normal” to worry about our health declining. But what if there was a way to enhance your well-being and happiness at any stage of life? You will learn the latest research on how to make simple changes to your body and lifestyle that can have a profound impact on your health, happiness, and quality of life. Registration is required.

Aging Well without Injury

Falls are the most common injury for people of all ages. This two-part workshop covers what increases your risk of falling and being injured, and how to keep yourself safe and injury-free. Our goal is to prevent injuries so you can continue the active lifestyle you enjoy. Please join Christy from CommonSpirit Health for fun, learning, and fellowship. Registration is required.

End of Life Conversations

Compassion & Choices is the nation’s oldest, largest, and most active nonprofit organization committed to improving care and expanding choices for planning end-of-life care. Learn more about advanced care planning, medical aid in dying, and the full breadth of end-of-life options. Attend in-person or virtually with registration.

Estate Planning Basics: Making Sure Your Assets

Pass on to the Right People

If you own any assets, property, or possessions, estate planning is essential. The principles covered in this class are things you can do on your OWN to ensure your assets are transferred to the right individuals. Registration is required.

18th Annual Mountain of Authors

Join us for the 2024 Mountain of Authors program, featuring keynote speaker Adrian Miller, author of Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue. Local authors will be available for meet and greets, book signings, and book sales. Please bring a variety of payment methods (cash, check, credit card) if you are interested in purchasing books. For more information, visit ppld.org/moa.

Free-For-All: 2Gents

Theatre happens anywhere intrepid audiences and actors meet! Join us as we welcome actors from Theatreworks Colorado Springs for a performance of Shakespeare. Theatreworks' joyful, mobile production of 2GENTS is a 70-minute abridged Two Gentlemen of Verona in which two best friends fall for the same person — who then takes them on a romping adventure to prove that all's fair in love and war. Packed full of dogs, enchanted forests, and Shakespearean hijinks, this show is appropriate for the oldest to the youngest, and everyone in between.

Ice Cream Social

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream. Celebrate summer with a pre-packaged ice cream treat. While supplies last.

Virtual Prenatal Series

Are you expecting and have so many questions? Join Pikes Peak Library District and Nurse-Family Partnership for a six-week series of prenatal classes. Each week we will explore a different topic followed by a Q&A session.

Easy Yarn Art

Create a cardboard template of a word or shape and then wrap it in colorful yarn to create a bold art statement.

Palmer Lake Library Village Green Concert Series

Celebrate summer with a live three concert series of music at the Palmer Lake Village Green! Everyone is welcome to attend these no-cost concerts. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy these one-hour performances. Village Green and Gazebo are located next to Palmer Lake Library, 66 Lower Glenway Street.

CD Music Swap

Come swap music CDs with your community! Bring a new or gently used CD and take home some new-toyou music. Learn about Library music resources (Freegal and our two studios - Studio916 and Studio21c) and learn to make a "mixtape" for your friends and family.

Portable Sewing Kits

Make a pin cushion and a small sewing kit for on-the-go-mending.

3D Pennant Flags

Celebrate the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics by making a pennant flag for your favorite events, countries, or cultures.

Book Page Wreaths

Celebrate summer with a cheerful wreath made from book pages and colorful ribbon.

Farmers Market Tote Bag

Decorate a tote bag with farmers market inspired stencils or use your own art ideas and inspiration to design your bag. One tote bag per person. Registration is required.

Budgeting Basics: A Blueprint for Smart Spending

Six out of ten Americans lack sufficient emergency savings or budgeting knowledge. Learn about a comprehensive approach to budget creation, income and expense tracking, personalized spending plans, future savings, and cultivating a mindset for sustained financial success. Registration is required.

Art for Older Adults

Art for Older Adults inspires a sense of self-reliance for older adults, even when the participant is somewhat reliant on a partner to help with materials use. Each month seniors can produce high-quality art projects that respect their wealth of life experiences, skills, and innate capacity to create. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.

FAMILY & CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS

EARLY LITERACY

French Music Lingua

Join Madame Barbara from Springs French Music Lingua for a unique program that teaches French and sign language to children ages 8 and under using a fun mix of music, movement, art, drama, and storytelling. Due to the popularity of this class, please limit your family to one class per month.

Inspirational Art

Inspire yourself with an original inspirational painting. For ages 5 - 12.  If your group has more than 10 children, please call the Library you plan to attend in advance of your visit or program participation

Family Place Playgroups

Parents and caregivers of children ages 1 - 3 are invited to join us at our Family Place Library locations for an enjoyable five-week playgroup. Spend time together, play, make friends, and speak one-on-one with specialists in child development, nutrition, and more. Registration is required.

Bilingual Storytime

Join us at Sand Creek Library the first Wednesday of every month for a bilingual storytime in English and Spanish. For children ages 3+ with a favorite adult. El primer miércoles de cada mes tendremos una hora del cuento bilingüe en español y ingles a Sand Creek Library. Para niños de 3+ años con su adulto favorito.

IDEA LAB

LEGO Build

Engineer your best LEGO creation, complete LEGO challenges, produce LEGO Art, and explore endless creative possibilities at this open-ended LEGO program using PPLD’s LEGO resources. Join us for the fun! For ages 5 - 12.

Makedo Cardboard Building

Use Makedo child-safe tools and recycled cardboard to create amazing recycled creations. Work individually or with others. For ages 5 - 12. If your group has more than 10 children, please call the Library you plan to attend in advance of your visit or program participation.

Summer Games

Celebrate the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics with a variety of activities that might include creating the Eiffel Tower out of newspaper tubes, designing flags, building a ring toss game, producing your own shot put and/or table soccer activity, and more. For ages 5 - 12. If your group has more than 10 children, please call the Library you plan to attend in advance of your visit or program participation.

HOMESCHOOL

Homeschool Curriculum Swap

Fri., June 14 | 11 a.m. - noon East Library

Looking for new curriculum and educational materials? Have curriculum you don’t need? Homeschoolers can bring curriculum, educational materials, books, and more to give away to other homeschoolers at this once-ayear event. No selling. All sharing. Everything is free! You do not have to bring an item to participate. Registration needed only if you plan on bringing items to give away so we can have a table ready for you. Questions? Email Joy at jfleishhacker@ppld.org.

Paws to Read

Young readers can practice reading aloud and improve fluency by sharing a story with one of our lovable Paws to Read therapy dogs. If your child might benefit from sensory accommodations such as fidgets or noise-reducing headphones, please request a Sensory Accommodations kit at the staff desk.

TWEEN

I Survived in the Library

Experience the I Survived book series in real life! You will recreate the sinking of the Titanic with aluminum foil boats, build your own Pompeii volcanoes, use science to inflate balloons like the Hindenburg Blimp, and go on a D-Day themed scavenger hunt. For ages 9 – 12.

Recycled Games

Compete against your friends to win at table tennis, marshmallow archery, mini golf, and more. For ages 9 - 12.

A Fine-Feathered Adventure

Magic Dave embarks on a birdwatching adventure to discover some incredible birds! Unfortunately, Platy the Platypus has other plans, as he attempts to disrupt the adventure in this fun-filled show with magic, puppets, and comedy! Based on the book A Backyard Birding Adventure: What’s in Your Yard?

By Kermit Cummings. For ages 0 - 12.

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

Join the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center to learn more about these amazing creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago!

For ages 0 - 12.

Cool Science

Join educators from Cool Science to learn about and experience the science of super-cold temperatures of dry ice and liquid nitrogen and enjoy a super-cold treat! For ages 0 - 12.

Children's

If your group has more than 10 children, please call the Library location you plan to attend in advance of your visit or program participation.

LocoMotionThe Science & Circus Arts Show National Juggling Champion and kinetic comedian Peter Davison performs amazing juggling, balancing, unicycle riding, clowning, and more. He also explains the science behind the artistry. This show is packed with audience participation, education, and entertainment! For ages 0 - 12.

Katherine Dines

Join Katherine Dines and her Hunk-TaBunk-Ta® Music on a summer reading adventure. Experience traditional and original songs from her 13 award-winning albums, Sign Language, LOTS of movement, and zany props from around the globe.

For ages 0 - 12.

West African Storytelling, Drumming and Percussion

Join Dr. Wanda and Ron Cousar to learn the origins of cultural norms from the 16th century to the present through stories for children and families. Engage with the songs, dances, and instruments portrayed in ceremonies in Africa in the village and court traditions. Experience the authentic village setting that brings the community together ending with reflections in the community circle. For ages 0 - 12.

Wishing Star Farm

Come to the Library to meet some friendly animals from Wishing Star Farm. These programs are held outdoors. For ages 0 - 12.

Steve Weeks

Join Steve Weeks for an interactive family romp filled with music, humor, and games as he performs his hit songs as part of Summer Adventure. Come prepared to laugh and sing... and bring those dancing shoes! For ages 0 - 12.

Ann Lincoln's Awesome Adventures

Ann leads the adventure, but the audience creates the plot twists along the way leading up to a live bunny appearance grand finale. After the show, the kids will get a chance to pet the rabbit and ask any burning questions. For ages 0 - 12.

Turning Pointe Dance

Join Turning Pointe Dance and get those wiggles out! Bring your dancing shoes and come ready to play as teachers show you some cool new ways to move your body! For ages 0 - 12.

Teens'

All programs are for ages 12 - 18 unless otherwise noted. Use the URL below or the QR code to learn more!

Learn more at ppld.org/teens

Galaxy Spray Painting

Create an out-of-this-world art project using stencils and spray paint! Be sure to wear clothing that you are okay with getting messy. For ages 12 – 18.

Escape Room: Olympic Dreams

Can you solve the clues with your team and break into the box in this escape room-like challenge? For ages 12 – 18.

We've got a special limited-edition branded library card from the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum just in time for 2024 Summer Adventure presented by Children's Hospital Colorado and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games! Everyone is welcome to apply as this card is for all ages. Supplies are limited. Get your card today!

SPECIAL BONUS! Patrons may present the limited-edition library card at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum between May 31 – July 31 to receive one free children's admission (12 years and younger) with a paying adult!

Murder in Space!

Fri., June 21 | 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Cheyenne Mountain Library

In this Among Us themed murder mystery party, you'll talk to folks and use clues to try to figure out "who done it!" For ages 12 – 18.

Camp Half-Blood Trivia

Are you a Percy Jackson superfan? Test your knowledge in this trivia competition!

Introduction to AI Camp

Want to learn more about how artificial intelligence (AI) works? Curious about the future of this new field of technology? Learn more through this project-based learning course that introduces the fundamentals of AI through engaging lessons. Recommended for grades 9 – 12.

Laser Tag

Come play laser tag at the Library!

Games!

Can you gather all of the supplies?

You’ve got a magic pen. What can it do and how will you use it?

Calhan Library

600 Bank St., Calhan, CO 80808 (719) 531-6333, x7013

Cheyenne Mountain Library

1785 S. 8th St. #100, Colo. Spgs., CO 80905 (719) 531-6333, x7001

East Library

5550 N. Union Blvd., Colo. Spgs., CO 80918 (719) 531-6333, x7014

Fountain Library

230 S. Main St., Fountain, CO 80817 (719) 531-6333, x7002

High Prairie Library

7035 Old Meridian Rd., Peyton, CO 80831 (719) 531-6333, x7003

Library 21c

1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colo. Spgs., CO 80920 (719) 531-6333, x7012

Manitou Springs Library

515 Manitou Ave., Manitou Spgs., CO 80829 (719) 531-6333, x7004

Mobile Library Services (719) 531-6333, x7702

District Discovery

Summer 2024 | Volume 6 | Issue 3

Executive Editor Denise M. Abbott

Managing Editor Carla Bamesberger

Proofing/Editing Jeremiah Walter,

Jennifer Flatland, Nawal Shahril, and Kim Melchor

Graphic Designer Alyssa Scaduto

Photography Drew Cerino

Pikes Peak Library District Board of Trustees

President Dora Gonzales

Vice President Scott Taylor

Secretary/Treasurer Erin Bents

Angela Dougan

Debbie English

Aaron Salt

Julie Smyth

Monument Library

1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr., Monument, CO 80132 (719) 531-6333, x7005

Old Colorado City Library 2418 W. Pikes Peak Ave., Colo. Spgs., CO 80904 (719) 531-6333, x7006

Palmer Lake Library

66 Lower Glenway St., Palmer Lake, CO 80133 (719) 531-6333, x7007

Penrose Library

20 N. Cascade Ave., Colo. Spgs., CO 80903 (719) 531-6333, x7015

Rockrimmon Library

832 Village Center Dr., Colo. Spgs., CO 80919 (719) 531-6333, x7008

Ruth Holley Library

685 N. Murray Blvd., Colo. Spgs., CO 80915 (719) 531-6333, x7009

Sand Creek Library

1821 S. Academy Blvd., Colo. Spgs., CO 80916 (719) 531-6333, x7018

Ute Pass Library

8010 Severy Rd., Cascade, CO 80809 (719) 531-6333, x7011

Pikes Peak Library District provides everyone with access to resources and opportunities so people can thrive and connect. The Library cultivates spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities via 16 facilities, mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources. It is an internationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of nearly 700,000 across 2,070 square miles in El Paso County, Colorado. Learn more at ppld.org.

510 MIN. Ages 03

30+ MIN. Ages 12+

2030 MIN. Ages 811 1020 MIN. Ages 47

ACTIVITY CHART Count one activity per day.

READ Read or listen to a book in any form. Reading to someone else counts!

EXPLORE Move, play, hike, find someplace new, or explore a new book, genre, or hobby!

CREATE Write, craft, draw, build, or make something –your imagination is the limit!

Fill in a spot for each day you complete an activity.

HOW TO PLAY Register on Beanstack at ppld.org/summer , on the app, or in person at a Library location! Complete 30 days of activities (either Read , Explore , or Create ) from Fri., May 31Wed., July 31. Track your progress by filling in a spot on the tracker or log a day in Beanstack for each day you complete an activity. Complete the program after 30 days of activities and challenge yourself to complete the bonus round! Keep reading to earn additional entries into the grand prize drawing. Receive one extra entry (up to four) for each additional five days of activities you complete.

Download the Beanstack app!