District Discovery: Winter Adult Reading 2022 Edition

HAVE AN ADVENTURE

WITH PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT THIS WINTER! The Winter Adult Reading Program is Pikes Peak Library District's (PPLD) winter reading program for adults ages 18+. Log reading and activities to win great prizes!

Winter 2022 • Volume 4, Issue 1 (719) 531-6333

ppld.org

Learn more about the Winter Adult Reading Program throughout this issue of District Discovery, and then visit ppld.org/WinterReading to get started.

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Table of Contents

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JOHN'S LETTER A Note from the Chief Librarian

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THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES...

AND THE MUGS Annual Winter Adult Reading Program Adds Up for This Patron

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A DIVERSE LIFE Shirley Martinez’s Road to Becoming PPLD’s First Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

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EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION 101 With Shirley Martinez, PPLD's Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

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ACTIVITY PAGE Paint by Numbers

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TALKING GAMES - PAST AND PRESENT - WITH RETIRED PARALYMPIAN ALLISON JONES Gold medal winner at the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games PPLD LIBRARY PROGRAMS JANUARY CALENDAR Get Ready for Winter Adult Reading FEBRUARY CALENDAR Start your Winter Adult Reading Program MARCH CALENDAR Don't forget Spring Break with PPLD

Letter from the Chief Librarian The mission of Pikes Peak Library District is to provide resources and opportunities that impact individual lives and build community.

There is not an asterisk on either “individual lives” or “community” that limits our efforts to only a portion of our community or only individuals that belong to certain groups. As we have examined our services through the lenses of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), we have discovered, like many institutions who engage in this work, that we can do better. Our embrace of EDI recognizes that every individual is a part of diversity and that no one should feel that they do not have a place in their library.

Incorporating EDI into everything we do demands that our facilities are welcoming and supportive of the faith community, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, members of the military, the Black community, seniors, persons with disabilities, or people who identify as several of these or none. It demands that we provide services that embrace diversity of thought and that respect the multitude of political and ideological beliefs found in El Paso County. Finally, it demands that our

collection contains items that reflect the full array of human experience, that our services and programs allow people to learn from and about those who are different from them, and that we provide a space for engagement, where people can have difficult conversations around competing values and beliefs.

Diversity does not belong to any one group, and diversity is meaningless if anyone feels excluded from it. At Pikes Peak Library District, our goal is to create an environment where all are welcome, where everyone feels a part of this community, and where everyone can find their place.

Sign up now! ppld.org/ WinterReading

Follow us on social! ppld.org/social-media

Get your winter fun started today.

reading setup photos, and find more winter fun!

Get the latest updates, tag us with your cozy

Kids are incredibly different. They need incredibly different care.

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2020, 2022, 2021 Winter Adult Reading Mugs

Thanks for the Memories...and the Mugs

Annual Winter Adult Reading Program Adds Up for This Patron — Kirsten Akens

Open the cabinet in my kitchen that stores drinkware and on the middle shelf you’ll find a veritable history of Pikes Peak Library

reading programs have existed since at least 1890. Back then,

District’s adult reading program.

according to popular book blog Bookriot, “These programs targeted

The purple 2010 “cozy up with a good book” ceramic coffee

school children who weren’t needed for farm work. Their goal was to

mug sits next to two from 2017 and 2018 that feature the same

encourage students to use their libraries and make reading a habit.” In

design, an open book floating over a mountain peak. (This design

the early 1900s, incentives became a part of reading programs, from

is also displayed on 2015’s mug, though I think mine is still in an

names added to community honor rolls to individual certificates and

unpacked box from a former move.) Scan your eyes along the shelf

bookmarks.

to the right and you’ll also see 2019’s mug, a beautiful speckled deep

Programs specifically for adults took much longer to catch on —

blue, reflecting that year’s theme, “A Universe of Stories,” and 2020’s

about 100 years. Author and librarian Raymond Ranier writes in his

turquoise version, with a book-centered snowflake.

library-centric book Programming for Adults, that just 20% of public

I love a program with giveaways — and freebies I can use, like mugs, are even better. But perhaps, mostly, seeing these all lined up

libraries hosted reading programs for adults in 1997.

“Adults have long been, so to speak, the neglected stepchild

on my shelf first brings back warm memories of summertime as a

of public libraries, despite being responsible for two-thirds of

kid.

circulation and a majority of the funding. Instead, they were viewed

Turning pages for pizza

as chauffeurs for the real patrons: their kids,” Ranier writes. “Get the

As a child of the ’70s and ’80s, I couldn’t wait for our local

children early, the reasoning went, and you had them for life. Not in

library’s summer reading program for kids. A visit to the library

the age of two-minute sound bites, instant gratification, and short

children’s department meant coming home with a haphazard pile of

attention spans, you don’t. Offer them the same old stuff you gave

books I’d checked out on my own card and hours reading late into

mom and dad, grandpa and grandma, and they might be lost for life,

the night with a flashlight under the bedcovers. I was 10 when the

at least after they get out of school.”

incentives for reading a certain number of books started including

Earning ‘a badge of honor’

coupons from Pizza Hut’s Book It program, awarding participants a free personal pan pizza.

Of course, these programs had been in use for many years before

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I made them a habit. Most sources agree that children’s summer

Since signing up for my first PPLD library card 25 years ago as a recent alumna from Colorado College with plans to stay in Colorado Springs, I’ve never felt like a stepchild or a chauffeur. Instead, PPLD

has welcomed me with open arms, stacks of novels and DVDs, and

open a good book,” with an octopus arm holding, what else, a book).

used book sales.

Add in 15 more activities or days of reading to earn the annual mug

And then along came PPLD’s adult reading program. Now known

and be entered to win a grand prize that changes year to year (last

as the Winter Adult Reading Program due to its annual scheduling

year’s was an HP Chromebook laptop). There are even extra grand-

sometime between January and March, it began in 2004. That year,

prize entries for additional reading for the overachievers.

says PPLD Senior Librarian in Adult Services Heidi Buljung, about

I may have been one of those overachievers last year, though I

1,500 people participated and just over half of those folks completed

didn’t win the laptop and that’s OK. My mug from 2021, currently

it. Since then, the numbers have just about doubled — in 2021, she

tucked away in the cabinet with the others, will forever carry its own

says, nearly 3,000 participated, with 1,880 completing the program.

special magic. Not only does it help me recall what books I was

“I’ve been in charge of this program for three or four years, and we have patrons — they are so proud of themselves, and they want to show you, ‘I read this book and this book and this book,’” says

reading then — I was on a Bridgerton series audio binge — but it also opened up a new pandemic door for me.

I picked it up during my first indoor visit to a local library location

Buljung, even though, she notes, the Library doesn’t track which

since before COVID-19 shut everything down and closed PPLD’s

books participants read or activities they participate in and log. People

doors temporarily. Masked and staying a book-cart’s-distance away

appreciate the prizes, but ultimately, she says, completing the program

from other patrons as requested, I quickly realized that I wasn’t the

is more than getting a bit of chocolate and a mug. “It’s like a badge

only one in line to pick up my program prizes. The patrons both in

of honor,” she says. “It’s so great to see that joy of learning.”

front of me and behind were there for the same reason. And though

And really, she adds, that’s what this program is all about:

our faces were all covered up, it was pretty obvious that we all had big

Engaging with patrons, welcoming them back to the library system if

smiles as we chatted with East Library staff, making connections that

they’ve been gone for a while, helping bring back a lust for reading,

were far and few between during those times.

and encouraging lifelong education.

Reading for pleasure and other perks

For $20, plus about $10 shipping and handling, you can purchase one of seven used PPLD adult reading program mugs right now on

In years past, in order to earn prizes through the adult reading

eBay from a seller in Nebraska, including the 10th anniversary edition

program, participants had to read a certain number of books over a

from 2014. Or you could put away your credit card and do as 2016’s

two-month period and log the book titles and authors. More recently,

mug says: “Exercise your brain — read.” Signing up for PPLD’s 2022

much like the change to the children’s program, the Library has

program, logging your books and activities, doing some learning, and

offered an option of a mix of reading and attending activities online

receiving a brand-new mug will feel even more valuable at the asking

or in-person at PPLD.

price of just a little reading.

This year's program, scheduled for Feb. 1 through March 31, will follow the 2021 guidelines: During February and March, log 15 activities or 15 days of reading for 30 minutes or more a day to earn the first level of prizes. Former years’ goodies at this level included Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory chocolate bars, environment-

Sign up now to earn your mug! ppld.org/WinterReading

friendly utensils, and pun-smart enamel pins (like 2020’s “Kraken

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A Diverse Life

Shirley Martinez’s Road to Becoming PPLD’s First Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Shirley Martinez was born in Waycross, Georgia, her father’s hometown. When her dad joined the Air Force, the family embarked

Martinez, and soon Shirley and Paul were married and had a

on a nomadic life, travelling to such locales as Japan, Hawaii,

newborn. Instead of leaving her newborn and accepting a Navy

Delaware, and upstate New York.

assignment on a ship bound for Greece, Martinez followed her

Martinez returned to Georgia in 1967 to live for six months, and that was when she first became aware of the civil rights movement and racial inequality.

husband to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. But Paul was often deployed, and Shirley did not feel safe.

“Me and the other spouses were scared being out there by

“There was marching. They still had restrooms that read ‘colored’

ourselves,” Martinez recalls. “None of us had cars, so we would walk.

and ‘white’,” she recalls. “So I really got an eye-opening, front-seat

There was a road to the local grocery, but it was safer for us to walk

lesson in different racial disparities and in civil rights.”

the railroad tracks. Otherwise, we would get heckled, because we were

The family eventually settled down in rural Washington, although

all women, and we were all minority women.”

her father spent a lot of time overseas as a B-52 mechanic. Martinez

Martinez moved back to Washington to be with her parents and

had what she calls an “average childhood,” visiting nearby lakes and

spent a bit of time selling Avon products. But once her husband left

eventually becoming head cheerleader and captain of the track team

the Marines, she joined the Army and was a journeyman welder for

at her high school. She had plans to go to college and become a nurse

five years, including two summers spent at White Sands Missile Range

until a harrowing experience at the local military hospital, where she

in New Mexico.

and her brother were candy stripers.

“I did maintenance, I could change your transmission for you.

“We worked on the surgical floor and made beds, emptied out

I could cut off the top of your vehicle and replace it. I did body

bed pans. I remember we were making the bed for someone, and

repair,” remembers Martinez, who supervised a platoon at the age of

thought she was sleeping. My brother said, ‘You know what? She's

24 and was the only female out of 300 people in her Combat Support

not moving.’ She had passed away. That totally freaked me out. I was

Group.

like, ‘Okay, nursing’s not for me.’”

While pregnant with her fourth child at Fort Lewis, Washington,

Martinez instead decided to travel, and joining the Navy offered

Martinez joined Judge Advocate General (JAG), the legal branch of

a way to do that. Before long, she was a 19-year-old serving in Naples,

the military. She enjoyed her time with JAG, but once she had her

Italy and was one of the teletype message center operators working at

child, she had to report back to her unit.

Capodichino Air Base during the failed rescue during the Iran hostage crisis in 1980.

“We were ready to deploy for Desert Storm. I'd gotten all my shots, I was packed up, and then I was pulled out of ranks two days

Juneteenth Festival

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Guarding that message center was a Marine named Paul

Free Summer Meals Program

before we were supposed to leave. I had orders to go to court-

Shirley Martinez Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

reporting school. They needed top-secret court reporters. So I had to go tell my husband, ‘I'm not going to Afghanistan. I’m now going to Newport, Rhode Island.’ Just a slight difference…”

Her work as a court reporter, and also chief legal noncommissioned officer, brought her to Germany, then Fort Irwin, California, and finally to Fort Carson and the Colorado Springs area.

Upon leaving the military, Martinez went to work with Colorado Springs Utilities and also got involved with the Colorado Springs Diversity Council.

This diverse set of life experiences made Martinez uniquely qualified to become Pikes Peak Library District’s first-ever Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and working at a library has in some ways brought Martinez full circle.

“I used to be a library girl. I used to sit in the library for days during the summer, when I was a kid, getting my books and reading 10 of them there and then getting 10 more to take with me,” says Martinez. “The library is the community hub, and people respect that.”

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion 101

with Shirley Martinez, PPLD’s Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

What is equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)?

Equity is about making sure individuals are treated equitably, not just in jobs. It could be at the grocery store. It could be at the doctor's office. It could be pay. Diversity is about your story. It's about the

It's about women. It's about LGBT. It's about all the things that make us different.

What goals have you set for EDI initiatives at the Library?

One of them is improved staff perception and giving them

things that make up who you are, your experiences, your education,

meaningful work on how to help the Library move itself into a place

background, where you come from, the things that you do. Inclusion

of being truly inclusive. If we're open to the public, we need to be

is about the action. It's about the things that you do to include people

open to all.

in decisions, programs, marches, art… That's what inclusion is about.

Another way is continued compliance with ADA [Americans with

EDI is about the story that is told and being equitable in order for

Disabilities Act], with Title II [which prohibits discrimination on the

people to feel like they belong.

basis of disability in all services, programs, and activities]. We look at

It's about ensuring that everybody has a seat at the table, that

equipment, our books, our posters, our facilities… Can people use

they have an outlet for their voice. And this doesn't mean that it

our systems with JAWS [a computer screen reader program]? Are

stops anyone else from having a voice. It's about having dialogue and

they able to check out a book at the self checkout?

being able to have courageous conversations and not be offended.

We also want to build and strengthen relationships with our

You don't have to like what somebody says. We're not there to make

patrons and contribute to the Library’s community engagement and

everybody change their minds. We're there to educate and provide

outreach. We need to reach out to the military veteran community

tools. Hopefully, they get something from it.

and the faith-based community.

What are some common misconceptions about EDI? I would say 50% of the people think that EDI is about race and race issues between blacks and whites. But when you dig a little

Also with diversity, we need to look at benchmarking, program measures, and accountability. We need to identify what measures are working.

deeper, you understand that it's also about individuals with disabilities.

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Paint by Numbers

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Are you looking to flex your creative muscles? Using the colors in this key or colors you choose yourself, create a painting masterpiece from the above. Don't forget to take a photo of your artwork and tag @PikesPeakLibraryDistrict on social media!

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WINTER ADULT READING PROGRAMS Participate in any of the programs listed below to earn points toward the Winter Adult Reading Program!

Learn more at ppld.org/WinterReading.

Join Pikes Peak Library District as we kick off the 2022 Winter Adult Reading Program: An Ocean of Possibilities! Register in person or at curbside on Tue., Feb. 1 and receive a tote bag that has everything you need to help you participate in the reading program. Bags will be available on a first come, first served basis, and available only while supplies last.

Presenters and Programs Skype A Scientist

Virtual; Wed., Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. and Sat., March 12 at 11 a.m.

Christopher Jones is a Ph.D. student at the University of California - Riverside studying geobiology, marine geochemistry, and marine geology. Come prepared with your questions about the ocean and Christopher will answer them!

Seeking the "Lord": the Search for the Jarvis Lord Shipwreck Virtual; Sat., Feb. 19 at 1 p.m.

Join shipwreck hunter and author Ross Richardson in exploring the depths of Northern Lake Michigan while looking for lost ships and missing aircraft. Dive down to Lake Michigan’s newest shipwreck discovery and meander through the histories and mysteries of the Manitou Passage, the most dangerous place in Lake Michigan.

Sea Shanties & Stories with Willson and McKee

Virtual; Part One: Feb. 1 - 28, Part Two: March 1 - 31

Join Willson and McKee of The Jigheads for sea shanties and stories.

Take and Makes Under The Sea Breakout Room In-person; February

Solve puzzles, find clues, and race against the clock to open the locked box. This ocean-themed breakout room will feature references to oceanography, ocean mythology, and more.

DIY Candle Holder In-person; February

Cut wood to hold a small candle and paint it with waves, sea creatures, or other designs!

Mānava O Polynesia

FEBRUARY DIY Button Bouquet Using buttons and wire, create an underwater sea scene featuring sea grass or brightly colored sea anemones.

Paper Strip Sea Art Using strips of paper layered under cardstock, make an easy work of ocean art!

MARCH Crochet Squid Learn the basic chain and single crochet stitch to make a fun crochet squid.

In-person; February/March

Felt Underwater Garden

Mānava O Polynesia shares the Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian dances with the community: instilling the passion, heart, pride, and education of the islands.

Using strips of felt, pastel chalk, and rubber bands, make an underwater garden.

Pirate Movie Marathon In-person; March

Ship in a Bottle Keychain Make an origami boat to fit in a portable ship in a bottle!

We'll provide the pirate films; you bring your sense of ARGHventure.

A complete list of Take & Make programs can be found on page 12.

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Talking Games — Past and Present — With Retired Paralympian Allison Jones Gold medal winner at the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games

Allison Jones is a familiar name to many in athletic circles across the world. She’s an eight-time Paralympian, eight-time Paralympic

1998 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships, which were

medalist, and world championship medalist 22 times over — awards

taking place in Colorado Springs. “First thing I saw,” she said in the

she’s acquired not just in one sport but across two: Para-cycling and

interview, “was a dude with no hands and no feet cycling. I literally

Para alpine skiing.

just looked at my mom, ‘Yes, that’s what I want to do.’”

Of course, Jones is also a familiar name to many in Colorado

And that’s what she did. From the following spring on, she was

Springs. Although she moved to Portland, Oregon, in 2018 after

a two-sport athlete. Four years later, her Paralympic journey would

retiring from competitive sports, she spent almost all of her

officially begin at the 2002 Paralympic Games in Salt Lake City, where

childhood and most of her adult years here in the shadow of Pikes

she landed her first medal: a silver in super-G and slalom.

Peak. Locals may even have caught a glimpse of her downtown

Five Games later, when she earned a gold medal in the individual

in 2021 when she flew in to help celebrate the new United States

time trial for road cycling at the 2012 Games in London, Jones

Olympic and Paralympic Museum.

would become just the second American woman to earn gold at both

“You don't realize what you have in the Springs until you're gone,” she says. “I went to the University of Denver, so I lived in Denver

Summer and Winter Paralympic Games.

At her final Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016, Jones was elected

for a bit and I ended up back in the Springs, and then after the 2012

to be Team USA’s flag bearer for the opening ceremonies.

Games, me and my partner at the time decided to move to Steamboat

An ‘odd duck’

Springs, trying to branch out and do something fun … We made it all of like three months and then ended up back in the Springs.”

So even though her now-career as a mechanical engineer was the impetus for the move away this time, Jones looks back fondly on the area.

“It's home,” she says. “Everything’s there. It's accessible. It's so

One might wonder about the logistics, and chutzpah, of competing professionally in two sports at once — even if they are different seasons.

“I had a blast. It was one of those things — I'm super competitive when it comes to just personal training, personal goals. And so being able to do winter-summer, it didn't create any lull time in the year

accessible. Like people just don't understand — mountain biking or

and the sports complemented each other. I could take the strength

cycling or running or swimming, it's an outdoor town.”

from skiing and all that straight into cycling, and then … take the

‘That’s what I want to do’

endurance from cycling and roll that into the early-season training for

Born without her right femur due to proximal femoral focal

skiing,” says Jones. “They definitely helped each other in a sense of

deficiency, Jones was fitted for her first prosthetic before she turned

being able to transition.” Otherwise, she admits, they are completely

a year old. It wasn’t long after that she was participating in, and

different sports. Skiing emphasized reflex and agility versus cycling’s

falling in love with, sports of all sorts and nurturing her competitive

lung capacity and endurance.

nature. As a child, she first excelled in skiing, but at 14, Jones had an experience that would change everything.

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In a 2020 interview for TeamUSA.org, she said she attended the

“But I loved it,” she adds, “and I definitely wouldn't have changed the insanity of trying to do two sports at once.”

Competing in multiple sports, Jones says, really isn’t that common.

There are a few Paralympic athletes that are currently making it happen and “setting new standards,” such as Oksana Masters, in cycling and skiing; Tatyana McFadden, in track and field and skiing; and Kendall Gretch, in biathlon and triathlon. “But it's rare,” she says. “Those athletes are super dedicated and motivated to be out there.”

“You’re an odd duck,” Jones says, when you show up and say you want to give it a year-round go.

Cheering on Team USA Since officially retiring from competitive sports, Jones has transferred her passion to her mechanical engineering career, but she does miss the camaraderie of hanging out with athletes from all over the world.

“When we got on the course, we were competitors. We’re all trying to win. But after the races … we could have fun and be able to share those moments with everyone.”

Of course, Jones will always be a Team USA super fan — she “absolutely … 100%” watches the Games when they’re on.

“I moved to Portland right as the Paralympic Games were starting and, as an engineer, I had a whiteboard, like a little portable whiteboard I get to use. And instead of doing engineering on said white board, I had the USA score tally on it with how many golds we won each day. … I made sure everybody knew what was going on in Korea.”

She laughs as she remembers those days. “I didn't have a TV yet, so I ended up at the bar and the bar got to know me so well. They just handed me the remote when I showed up, let me flip to the channel and take over one of the TVs. That was pre-COVID so, of course, it was totally acceptable. The staff was truly awesome.”

For the upcoming Winter Games, she’s excited to keep a close eye on the skiing events. And for those who might be new to Paralympic skiing, Jones recommends watching out for Team USA’s sit skier Andrew Kurka.

“He basically crashed out of Sochi in the first training run and then ended up winning — I want to say two or three golds or at least three medals. I can't remember how many golds in South Korea, but he's been doing really well, and he's a force to be reckoned with once he gets his mojo in the right direction.”

The Athlete, the Mechanical Engineer, the Reader If you come to my house,” Allison Jones says, “I have my little library — it’s very little. I’ve been Marie Kondo-ing my library, but I still keep books on hand.” (She also keeps her medals on hand. They’re behind the books.)

With this in mind, we asked Jones a few questions about her reading habits.

All-time favorite book: The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho Favorite genre: Sci-fi — Thumbs up to recent read The Martian by Andy Weir.

Book she can read over and over again: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card Most recent book she’s read that she recommends: Anxious People by Fredrik Backman. She also enjoyed Backman’s A Man Called Ove. Audio books: Yay or nay?

"Absolutely.” Jones says that not only does she like to fall asleep to audio books, but she “full-on rebuilt” her shed during COVID-19 while listening to Becoming by Michelle Obama (a 19-hour listen) and A Promised Land by Barack Obama (which comes in at a whopping 29 hours).

Olympic Books Celebrate the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022 with a special booklist. Books penned by Olympians, Paralympians, and about the journey to success! ppld.org/WinterGames.

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PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS

Learn more at ppld.org/programs/adults or use the QR code and search by keyword on our events calendar!

Adult Education This service provides instructor-led classes, online resources, and more to prepare for the items below. Learn how to get involved with a class or resource that suits you and your goals at ppld.org/adult-education.

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GED/HiSET/TASC exam

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English as a Second Language (ESL)

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Career Online High School (COHS)

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Job Training

Path to Citizenship

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Job Search

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Digital Literacy

Learn more about all adult services at PPLD!

Learn more about all adult education at PPLD!

Visit ppld.org/programs/adults.

Visit ppld.org/adult-education.

Virtual Presentations

Take and Makes

Virtual programs will be held via Zoom. See the March calendar Digital Literacy Tip on page 22 to learn how to set up Zoom.

Take and Make kits are available the first Friday of each month at all Library locations and are available while supplies last.

Mindful Movement & Meditation Thursdays, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27

JANUARY Community Quilt Squares

Ambrie Sward will lead a guided meditation in a four-part series that helps calm the mind and body and inspires us to kick off the new year.

Bullet Journal

A Northern Winter Journey Wed., Jan. 19 at 7 p.m.

Author Anders Morley presents his book This Land of Snow: A Journey Across the North in Winter, the story of his four-month journey through the wilds of northwestern Canada on crosscountry skis. Morley will discuss and share anecdotes from his journey, read from his book, and show photographs from along the way.

Native Plants of Colorado April Irene Shonle from Colorado State University Extension Office shows Colorado’s wealth of native plants, colorful wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees, which are naturally adapted to our variable climate, soils, temperatures, and elevations. Native plants are great for landscaping because of their adaptability.

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Zentangle FEBRUARY Winter Lip Balm DIY Button Bouquet Paper Strip Sea Art Pom Pom Bookmark MARCH Crochet Squid Felt Underwater Garden Irish Coffee Ship in a Bottle

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS

In-person Presenters

Sudoku

African Storytelling, Drumming, & Percussion Black History Month - February

Sudoku is a logic-based, combinatorial number-placement puzzle. In classic sudoku, the objective is to fill a 9×9 grid with digits so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3×3 subgrids that compose the grid contain all of the digits from 1 to 9. See if you can solve this puzzle without using the key below!

Dr. Wanda Tisby Cousar and Ron Cousar tell the true story of the Lion King using an African instrument, the Balafon, and West African dance.

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The Black Cowboy & African Americans in the American West Black History Month - February Historian and author Michael N. "Cowboy Mike" Searles teaches about the history of Black Cowboys and the American West.

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Skean Dubh (Celtic Acoustic Band) Irish American Heritage Month - March

Colorado College history professor Dr. Jane Murphy, CC students Sabrina Brewer and Brian DeLong, and filmmaker Sylvia Lambe discuss their PBS documentary about Dr. Justina Ford, the first licensed female African American doctor in Colorado, who delivered an estimated 7,000 - 8,000 babies during a 50-year career.

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Skean Dubh is one of the most highly sought after acoustic Celtic bands in the Rocky Mountain region, featuring unforgettable vocals, hauntingly beautiful uilleann bagpiping, sophisticated fiddle, and engaging rhythms.

Dr. Justina Ford, Colorado Medical Pioneer Women's History Month - Hybrid; March

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Craft Programs Visible Mending In-person; January

Mend your favorite clothing items that have some minor wear and tear!

Antiqued Tray Displays In-person; March Spruce up your living space and express yourself using stencils and lettering with a piece of rustic home décor!

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PROGRAMS FOR CREATIVE SERVICES Learn more at ppld.org/create

Learn more about Creative Services at PPLD!

Intro Classes

Use the URL above or the QR code on the left.

Intro to Machine Sewing

Maker in Residence

Badging Classes

ppld.org/MIR

ppld.org/Create/Makerspaces

The Pikes Peak Library District provides spaces and resources for generating creativity, innovation, and learning. To foster these endeavors, PPLD offers the Maker in Residence program.

After completing the class, you will be able to use the machine on your own during open hours at the makerspaces at East Library, Library 21c, Manitou Springs Library, and Sand Creek Library. Start making today!

Our next Maker in Residence program will run from Mon., March 21 through Sun., May 29. During that time, the resident will work on a studio project and teach classes throughout the District. You can attend a class and drop in and chat with the maker!

Artists of the Knight: Season 3 ppld.org/AoK Artist of the Knight is a virtual program, highlighting creatives who work in a variety of media in the Pikes Peak region. Learn more on the March Calendar page. (p.23)

Laser Cutter Badging Class Have you ever wanted to cut out a wooden plaque or etch a custom design on glass?

You can do all of that and more with our laser cutter/engraver!

3D Printer Badging Class 3D printing is an amazing technology that lets you print custom designs out of plastic!

CNC Badging Class Learn how to use a CNC! PPLD's ShopBot Desktop CNC is a computer-controlled mill, router, and drill all in one that lets you make your own projects with wood or acrylic.

Did you know that PPLD makerspaces provide free access to sewing machines? In this class, you will learn the basics of machine sewing and complete a project along the way!

Design to Die-cutting Have you ever wanted to cut your own custom stickers, cards, and more? PPLD's Silhouette Curio and Cameo are die-cutters that will let you create your own projects on cardstock, vinyl, and other materials.

In this class, you will learn how to use the free software Inkscape to design your own custom images.

The Kitchen ppld.org/Create We’re proud to announce the opening of the Kitchen.

Housed at Library 21c, this new space has already hosted the District’s Food Industry Training and will soon host a variety of culinary programs. Check our calendar to find opportunities to learn more about cooking!

REGIONAL HISTORY AND GENEALOGY RESOURCES Learn more at ppld.org/regional-history-and-genealogy

Regional History and Genealogy programs are virtual.

Use the URL above or the QR code on the left.

Genealogy Basics

Coffee Talk First Wednesday of every Are you interested in researching your genealogy, but aren't sure where to start? month from 10 - 11 a.m.

Join us for an introduction to basic Grab your favorite genealogy research strategies including beverage and join us getting started, organizing research, and for an informal virtual selecting and searching for records. discussion moderated by a Regional History and Mon., Jan. 3 from 10 - 11 a.m.

Genealogy staff member.

Sat., Jan. 15 from 10 - 11 a.m.

Whether you’re a seasoned Mon., Feb. 7 from 10 - 11 a.m. genealogist or just getting Sat., Feb. 19 from 10 - 11 a.m. started, join members of Mon., March 7 from 10 - 11 a.m. your community to chat Sat., March 19 from 10 - 11 a.m. about all things genealogy.

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Pre-1850 Research Mon., Jan. 24 from 6 - 7 p.m.

Researching African American Ancestors Mon., Feb. 28 from 6 - 7 p.m.

FamilySearch Basics Mon., March 28 from 6 - 7 p.m.

Want to dig into your Researching ancestors in the Researching your genealogy research?

United States before 1850 African American FamilySearch is a can be a challenge. Census ancestors can be great place to start! records contain far fewer a challenging, yet Learn more about this names, vital records are less rewarding, process. incredible resource, standardized, and time has In addition to including how to search taken its toll on documents, research strategies, for records, limit your photographs, and grave this class will cover findings, and navigate markers. Join us to learn how to use both some of FamilySearch's strategies, records, and tips traditional and unique helpful tools and to help you dive deeper into resources to explore features, including the your genealogical research. your family tree.

Research Wiki.

YOUNG ADULT SERVICES Learn more at ppld.org/teens

These programs are for ages 12 - 18 unless otherwise noted.

Use the URL above or the QR code on the left.

How to DJ with DJ Gravity In-person Presentation

Pull back the curtain on the mystery of being a DJ! DJ Gravity reveals what it takes to be a master DJ, and how you too can become one.

Teen Advisory Board

Free Math Tutoring

Come learn leadership skills, earn volunteer hours, and give your input on what happens at the Library! Attendees will earn volunteer hours at meetings and by working on projects for PPLD, as well as engage in leadership development opportunities. Regular attendance is recommended. You must fill out a volunteer application to participate.

Is math homework getting you down? Are finals freaking you out? Do you need to brush up before the ACT, SAT, or GED? Our experienced math tutors can help you improve your grades and take the stress out of math. Tutoring is for all ages, all levels.

ppld.org/teens/volunteer

ppld.org/MathHelp

Programs Murder Mystery: The Charmstone Academy Murder Virtual / In-person Headmistress Bellatrix has called a meeting with all wizard and witch students at the Charmstone Academy as someone has used dark magic for evil purposes. Can you catch the killer? Or are you the killer?

Participate in this immersive murder mystery experience to find out!

Escape Room: Back to the Past In-person

Coding Series Virtual / In-person

Escape Room for Families Virtual

Go back to the past to pass the class! Help poor student Poole pass his class by finding notes from a famous geologist that have been locked in a box. Can you solve the puzzles to unlock the box in time?

Learn to code with Google!

Using an evaluated curriculum from the computer scientists at Google, youth will learn basic computational thinking concepts through block coding.

Work with other participants to build a game, tell a story, and even design your own imaginary company! For ages 9 - 15.

Join us for a virtual escape room perfect for the whole family! Play together as a family or on your own. We will have hard, intermediate, and easier games available so that you can pick the perfect game for your group or family!

Dungeons & Dragons In-person

Learn to Knit: Round Loom In-person

Play D&D with other teens, led by volunteer Dungeon Masters.

Learn to use a loom to knit a hat in this three-part series that will keep you warm all winter long!

Learn to Knit: Baby Socks In-person Learn to use a loom in this three-part series to make quick, easy, and cute baby booties for your little one or a loved one! For ages 16+.

Life-Sized Candyland In-person Play Candyland like you've never played it — in full size!

Will you be the one to find King Kandy? For ages 9 - 18.

Stay or Take: TeensMake

MAKE at your library or take one home! Take and Makes will be available the first Friday of every month.

DIY Phone Stand January Tired of holding your phone every time you want to watch a show? Want something personal and cheap? Look no further — make a DIY phone stand that solves your problems and looks good doing it.

Embroidery Heart Charm February Learn the basics of embroidery and make a cute, heart-shaped charm at the same time.

ASL Love Décor March

Slam Dunk Catapult Spring Break

Learn more about American Sign Language (ASL) and make a fun decoration. You'll use letters of the ASL alphabet to spell out love in this fun project.

You will be given directions on how to build a catapult, but it will not be very successful. The challenge is to make changes to the original design using the various materials provided to build a successful catapult that can shoot an item into a “basketball hoop” to celebrate the March Madness NCAA tournament.

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PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Learn more about Family and Children Services.

Use the URL above or the QR code on the left.

Dog Tales

Rocket Academy

Dog Tales: Enjoy border collies Joey and Kira's antics as they perform some amazing puppy tricks.

Children will help Denise Gard tell a story, and then create an easy origami craft.

For ages 2 - 8.

Rocket Academy: Where kids train to be astronauts!

Learn about space through hands-on activities, including paper rockets. Other activities involve planet orbits, the solar system, and creating a vacuum. For ages 5 - 12.

In-person Presentation

In-person Presentation

Pop-up Programs

Art, games, rockets, STEM activities, music, and more! You never know what you’ll see in your library. Check out the children’s area for the latest.

Prenatal Series Homeschool Science Fair Are you expecting and have so many questions?

Join Pikes Peak Library District, Nurse Family Partnership, and other local organizations for a series of prenatal classes.

Each week we will explore a different topic and have a Q&A session.

The Venue, Library 21c Fri., Feb. 18 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

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

For ages K-12. Registration is required and is open from Tue., Jan. 11 to Sun., Feb. 12.

LENA Start

Have you ever wondered how much you talk to your baby/toddler? Would you like to learn ways to increase talk and get your child ready for school? This 10week program will help parents, with children 0-32 months, increase conversational turns. Each week a child will wear a "talk pedometer" to track the number of adult words, conversational turns, and minutes of electronics they are exposed to. Families earn free books and other incentives.

Homeschool Resource Fair

Jean Ciavonne Poetry Contest

Our annual Homeschool Resource Fair features a wide variety of local exhibitors offering educational and extracurricular opportunities for homeschooling families.

Learn more on the April Calendar page.

Six winners will receive a book and $50 each. The contest is open to all 4th and 5th graders in the Pikes Peak Region. Submissions are open through Tue., Mar. 1, 2022. This year’s theme is Unexpected Gardens: Poems on Everyday Bravery. View entry details and contest rules at ppld.org/ poetrycontest.

Live Presenters

Early Literacy

Down the Rabbit Hole: All About Pet Bunnies In-person

Set your child up for success with in-person, early literacy programs in libraries around the District!

Learn about the unique needs of domestic house rabbits and how they differ from dogs and cats, and learn how pet rabbits differ from wild rabbits. Stay and meet the bunnies after the program! Presented

by Rocky Mountain House Rabbit Rescue. For ages 3 - 12.

Storytime

Small Animals from PPCC Zoo Keeping Department In-person Join us to discover the secrets of animal life with Pikes Peak Community College's Zoo Keeping department. They will bring live small animals and speak about habitats, food, and other fascinating facts. For ages 3 - 12.

Music Together In-person Music Together® is a research-based program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and the grown-ups who love them. We will sing, dance, play rhythm instruments, and include at least two sing-along storybooks during the class. Presented by All Aboard Family Music.

For ages 1 - 5.

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Stories and more for children ages 3 and older, with a favorite adult.

Toddler Time One and two year-old children, with a favorite adult, participate in nursery rhymes, music, and movement and listen to a few short books.

Baby Time Babies from birth to 12 months, with a favorite adult, enjoy songs, bouncing action rhymes, and sharing a book together. Each interactive session gives babies the opportunity to hear lots of language and play with other babies.

Music & Movement Shake those wiggles out and have some fun! This program consists of music and movement activities and a story. For ages 2 - 3 accompanied by a favorite adult.

Sensory Storytime Join us for a fun and interactive Storytime that is specially created for children on the autism spectrum or with sensory integration challenges.

KidsMake

KidSTEM

Find these in-person programs for ages 5 - 12 around this Library District this winter!

Find these in-person programs for ages 5 - 12 around the District this winter!

Mini Sculpting Get ready to sculpt! Using clay, beads, and other decorative materials, use your creativity to fashion your own mini sculpture.

Oh, no! Torrential rains are coming and flooding is predicted. Can you create a barrier to keep your doghouse from flooding? First, test the absorbency of several materials, and then build a paper house and experiment to discover the best barrier to keep your doghouse dry.

Tissue Paper-stained Glass

Winter Games

Take advantage of those cold but sunny days by creating a masterpiece that will let color and shapes shine through your window!

The Winter Olympic Games will be held in Beijing starting on Fri., Feb. 4, and while you probably can’t travel to China to watch the games, your kids can still be a part of the fun by joining us for some sports-themed STEM activities.

Trash Art

Pi Day STEM: Celebrate Circles

Using trash for art? Yep! From creating your own masterpiece with clean trash to practicing cleaning feathers from an oil spill, this program is full of activities to help you learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle!

Celebrate circles at our Pi STEM event! Explore the value of pi, participate in a spinning pi challenge, color code pie, and much more!

Tie Dye Art

Flood Barriers

Celebrate the Earth!

Your child will celebrate the earth with STEM activities while learning more about our planet!

Use your colorful creativity to make your own personalized tie-dye pieces!

Tween

Tween programs are in-person and are for ages 9 - 12 unless otherwise noted. These programs will be available around the District this winter.

Junior Advisory Board (JAB)

I Survived in the Library

Have a voice in your community, meet new friends, and make a difference! We want to learn from the experts (you!) what programs and events tweens want to see at the Library. Each session of the Junior Advisory Board will include time for you to give ideas and feedback and time for a fun project or activity.

Experience the I Survived book series in real life! You will recreate the sinking of the Titanic through 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.

Critter Club Pets 101: The Basics In this station-based program, participants will learn the basics about what each kind of pet needs. We will talk a little about the care and behavior of dogs, cats, small mammals, fish, reptiles, and birds.

Gross Out Science

Bird's Nest Treats

Are you a champion belcher? Interested in how the digestive system works?

Eager to make some (fake) snot and bring it home to show the family? Brave enough to stick your hand in some (fake) vomit? Join us for some gooey and gross science fun!

Spring is for the birds! Come create edible bird's nest treats, and then make some birdseed ornaments for your feathery friends to eat as well.

Coding Series Learn to code with Google!

Learn more on the Young Adult Services page.

Dungeons & Dragons Club Play D&D with other tweens, led by our very own Dragon Master Alli! We are now meeting in person on the third Thursday of each month.

Homeschool

Homeschool programs are in-person educational experiences for ages 6 - 12 unless otherwise noted. These programs will be available around the District this winter.

Physical Science: Atoms & Molecules

Finding Your Roots: Goldilocks, Dinosaurs, Genealogy for Kids & STEM

Explore the Periodic Table and discover atoms and molecules in this physical science session on matter.

Construct atoms and molecules using simple craft supplies and candy.

Learn about pH and participate in simple experiments to watch chemical reactions. Visit all the stations or pick and choose which ones apply to your family.

Fill out your family trees, discover how to ask the right research question to learn about your ancestors and where and how they lived, and explore a variety of fun hands-on activities.

Introducing Mo Willems’s Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs, a laugh-out-loud funny version of a classic tale!

Homeschoolers will dig deeper into the story with a variety of engaging hands-on STEM activities from building and design challenges to dinosaur fun. For ages 5 - 10.

Stage Fright Join us for a short history of the theater, and then practice your own performing skills with fun theater games!

Work in teams to produce a skit, memorize a short monologue to present on your own, or amaze your friends with another type of short performance! For ages 7 - 12.

Homeschool Science At East Library on the third Friday of the month at 1 p.m. except for February.

January: Water Wonders: Fire & Flooding March: History Detectives

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which you are interested into the search bar.

Enter a keyword relevant to the program in

programs for you.

Select age groups or program types to browse

selected to see all program options.

Select your preferred Library(s) or leave all

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sponsored event.”

on the calendar and are notated as “not a library

Public meeting room reservations are also listed

email address.

Register if registration is required and use a valid

to your calendar, print, or share the event.

Use the icons in the center to set a reminder, add

LIBRARY MARKET

LITERACY TIP:

JANUARY

the full events calendar.

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com for

View all events happening this month

the fun posted on social media!

Don’t forget to tag PPLD with all

Stay connected and get updates on social media

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Place holds, search for materials, set your pickup locations, and find digital materials in the palm of your hand with our easy and free app today!

App Store and Play Store download: ppld.org/App

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Track your holds, view your account information, and more.

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classes. KCH has three main spaces available for use.

any of the 15 PPLD locations or mobile library services.

Wednesday

concerts and theater performances to business presentations and

Tuesday

offers a large public space that can be utilized for anything from

PowerPass holder can also check out five physical items at a time from

Monday

Space to Thrive, by the Community, for the Community. KCH

resources like databases, eBooks, and song and movie downloads. Each

Sunday

ppld.org/KCH

students library card from PPLD, granting access to the Library’s digital

Knights of Columbus Hall is Open

Knowledge is power. Unlock your potential! The PowerPass is a just-for-

ppld.org/PowerPass

PowerPass

application on Android phones. the QR code. Click the pop-up notification to open the webpage.

You may be prompted to download a supporting Open the camera app on your phone and aim it at

QR CODES

DIGITAL LITERACY TIP:

FEBRUARY

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the full events calendar.

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com for

View all events happening this month

the fun posted on social media!

Don’t forget to tag PPLD with all

Stay connected and get updates on social media

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ppld.org/WinterReading Track your reading and activities from pages 8 - 9 on the calendar! Check the box on days you've completed. You can write your book or activity on the calendar to keep track!

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PPLD’s eLibrary houses all of our eMaterials: eBooks, eAudios, eComics, eMagazines, eMusic, and eVideos.

Most you can check out, but some you can keep forever! ppld.org/eLibrary

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resources, book lists, and more!

library card.

Friday

Month with special programs,

offers so many exciting things, it’s hard to capture them all! Learn about all you can access with your

Thursday

in celebrating Black History

yoga, learn a new language, discover your family tree, stream music, watch movies, and more? PPLD

Wednesday

Join Pikes Peak Library District

at each of our libraries. But did you know you can also get help with at-home education, do virtual

Tuesday

ppld.org/BlackHistoryMonth

At Pikes Peak Library District, you can do anything you set your mind to. We, of course, offer books

ppld.org/MyLibrary

Black History Month

Library Lovers Month

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Activate your account.

Create your account name and password.

• • •

You can then try a test meeting.

After you’ve installed the Zoom app, you’ll see buttons to “Join a Meeting” or “Sign In.” Sign into the app.

And you’re ready to Zoom!

• • • •

MARCH

the full events calendar.

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com for

View all events happening this month

the fun posted on social media!

Don’t forget to tag PPLD with all

Stay connected and get updates on social media

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ppld.org/WinterReading Track your reading and activities from pages 8 - 9 on the calendar! Check the box on days you've completed. You can write your book or activity on the calendar to keep track!

Sunday

Tue., March 29.

Spring Break from Mon., March 21 to

with some fantastic programs during

Take time out for fun

ppld.org/SpringBreak

Spring Break

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ppld.org/PressReader

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and more!

watch previous seasons, and more at ppld.org/AoK. Thursday

programs, resources, book lists,

explore the artist’s creative process. Apply to be a featured artist,

Wednesday

History Month with special

of their work, as well as a conversational interview with the intent to

Tuesday

Join us in celebrating Women’s

ppld.org/WomensHistoryMonth

ppld.org/AoK Each episode will focus on a creative individual and display examples

Women’s History Month

Artists of the Knight: Season 3

Calhan Library 600 Bank St., Calhan, CO 80808 (719) 531-6333, x7013 Cheyenne Mountain Library 1785 S. 8th St. #100, Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 531-6333, x7001 East Library 5550 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs, 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 Knights of Colombus Hall 20 W. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 531-6333 Library 21c 1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 531-6333, x7012

Pikes Peak Library District Discovery Winter 2022 / Volume 4, Issue 1 Executive Editor Michelle Ray Managing Editor Denise Abbott Graphic Designer Nicole Enger Contributors Kirsten Akens Brenna Hemphill David Kelly James Krebs Jeremiah Walter Pikes Peak Library District 2021 Board of Trustees President Wayne A. Vanderschuere Vice President Scott Taylor Secretary/Treasurer Dora Gonzales Debbie English Cathy Grossman Mina Liebert Dr. Ned C. Stoll

Manitou Springs Library 515 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (719) 531-6333, x7004 Mobile Library Services (719) 531-6333, x2313 Monument Library 1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr., Monument, CO 80132 (719) 531-6333, x7005 Old Colorado City Library 2418 W. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs, 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., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 531-6333, x7015 Rockrimmon Library 832 Village Center Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 531-6333, x7008 Ruth Holley Library 685 N. Murray Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80915 (719) 531-6333, x7009 Sand Creek Library 1821 S. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80916 (719) 531-6333, x7018

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

Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) seeks to engage and transform people’s lives by providing equitable access to information, enrichment opportunities, and community connections via 16 facilities, online resources, and mobile library services.

It is a nationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of more than 670,000 across 2,070 square miles in El Paso County, Colo.