District Discovery - Summer 2022

Summer 2022 • Volume 4, Issue 3 (719) 531-6333

ppld.org

Your favorite summer program

is BACK!

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Letter from the

Summer Adventure Staff Family & Children’s Services and Young Adult Services love summertime! We know that parents do so much with their children and teens over the summer, so the Library is here to support you and your family with activities to keep brains active and bodies moving, while winning prizes that keep the summer fun!

Summer is a perfect time for children and teens to explore new hobbies and discover the joy of reading.

Making reading a habit helps establish the foundation for becoming a lifelong learner.

Reading looks different for everyone – some enjoy a physical book, and others love an audiobook or a graphic novel. Regardless, all of it counts as reading! We gain different skills from reading or listening; reading helps with spelling while listening helps with pronunciation. With this year’s Summer Adventure program, we'll present fun prizes to participants as they reach milestones that we hope will encourage children and teens to choose to read.

For younger children (ages 0 - 5 years old), talking, singing, and reading builds vocabulary and brain development. These are the steppingstones to get your child ready for reading before kindergarten and each of these counts as an eligible activity in this year’s summer reading program.

We love it when families decide to take their summertime to explore new worlds and adventures through stories and imagination.

So go to ppld.org/summer-adventure to sign up your child for this summer’s reading program and use the calendar at the end of this magazine to track their progress.

We hope everyone will join us in our Summer Adventure this year!

Melody Alvarez

Director, Family & Children's Services

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Joanna Rendon

Director, Young Adult Services

Table of Contents 4

It's Never Too Early to Start Reading Summer reading programs are one early literacy tool

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Celebrating 35 Years of Service to You The history of PPLD's East Library

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Programs for Adults

13 Summer Adventure Made Me an Avid

Reader and Loyal Patron

An interview of PPLD patron Philip Riegert

14 Programs for Teens, Kids and Families 20 Summer Fun Activities 22 Calendars

Let's share our sunshine! ppld.org/social-media

Get the latest updates, tag us in your summer fun photos, and find more summer fun for everyone!

Have an all-access summer! ppld.org/mobile-apps

Get access to great PPLD services on all of your mobile devices. Download our app today!

Kids are incredibly different. They need incredibly different care.

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It's Never Too Early to Start Reading Summer reading programs are one early literacy tool

By Elyse Jones Summer is here, which means in addition to warmer weather Pikes Peak Library District’s Summer Adventure [presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado] is back! This summer reading program is not just to keep kids busy while on school break, it also plays an important role in early childhood literacy.

Participation in Summer Adventure can help prevent “summer slide” by combating the summer learning loss and encouraging lifelong reading habits.

Learning to read starts from infancy with the help of parents and caregivers by reading aloud together. From birth to three years old, children’s brains are growing rapidly. Reading to your kids helps with early language development as they begin to expand their vocabulary and listening comprehension, establishing the fundamentals of being a good reader long before children reach school age.

According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the majority of eighth grade students in Colorado are below proficiency in reading. The same organization notes that only 17% of 13-year-old students reported reading for fun on their own time in 2020, down from 10 years ago.

The good news is there is never a bad time or age to embrace reading for pleasure. Pleasure reading not only increases academic performance but also social awareness and empathy. Literary fiction is an exploration of the human experience transporting the reader into the mind of characters and worlds that may be different from their own.

The World Literacy Foundation confirms that early intervention can help develop a child's brain with as little as 20 minutes of reading per day. These crucial years can shape the adults they become, the success they achieve, and the contributions they make to the economy and society.

Reading to your kids establishes "the fundamentals of being a good reader long before children reach school age.

"

Children are developing the skills they need to read and write long before they actually know how to read and write. Early literacy lays a foundation so children learn the necessary skills for reading, but also incorporates writing, talking, singing, and playing.

Practice writing helps develop fine motor skills and connects spoken and written words. Even the youngest children are already strengthening the muscles in their fingers and hands that they will use for writing and drawing later. Babies and toddlers can sit and spread apple sauce on their tray to make simple letters, shapes, or scribbles.

Speaking to babies and toddlers throughout the day helps to build vocabulary. Talk to your child from birth and remember to give them a chance to respond to you. One way to do this is to go for a walk and talk about the weather, the clouds in the sky, and describe what you see, smell, hear, and feel. Learn more about how to build your baby’s brain through talk with LENA Start at ppld.org/LENAStart.

Creating opportunities for music, rhythm, and song in your day slows down language so that children can hear the syllables more clearly. Include hand motions, claps, and movement when you sing songs to help your child connect with them even more.

When you are in the car sing juvenile songs such as “The Wheels on the Bus” or "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star."

Play helps children express themselves; it provides them the opportunity to learn more about their world as they problemsolve, cooperate with others, and practice decision-making. It is important to help them learn to think symbolically when they later learn that letters and words have meaning.

PPLD can play a vital role in early childhood development and literacy. Whether it’s joining the Summer Adventure reading program for ages 0 - 18, or participating in another program, make the Library part of your summer!

Start this summer!

ppld.org/summerkids

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Celebrating 35 Years of Service to You PPLD's EAST LIBRARY

When Colorado Springs voters approved a $9.9 million bond measure in 1983, it enabled Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) to begin plans for a library in a part of town that was growing rapidly but lacked ample Library services.

“About 40% of the people who use the library system live east of Circle Drive,” PPLD’s Carol Bruce Shannon said at the time, with only a small library in Rustic Hills Plaza to serve a burgeoning population.

On Oct. 20, 1986, a cornerstone dedication was performed by the Grand Masons of Colorado, and a time capsule was put in the cornerstone.

The East Library and Information Center (now just called East Library) had its grand opening on Jan. 10, 1987, and the day’s activities included a presentation by writer and historian David McCullough, who has since won two Pulitzer Prizes.

A 10-acre site near Vickers Drive and Union Boulevard was purchased in 1984 from School District 11 for $600,000.

The facility included a computer lab, large community meeting room, video studio, art exhibit foyer, and a branch office for the El Paso County Department of Motor Vehicles.

At a ceremony held on Aug. 27, 1985, ground was broken by a group that included community members aged 2 to 77 and a robot with a plastic shovel programmed to help with the digging.

The land to the west of the library became George Fellows Park, named after a former city manager, and is maintained by the Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation Department.

Robert Muir and Associates designed a three-story, 64,000-square-feet building, and Hubcon Corp was the main contractor on the building’s construction.

Overlooking the park, and with a spectacular view of Pikes Peak, is a glassed-in circular reading terrace.

“The new Library facility represents a building that is designed for the future, housing state-of-the-art computer equipment to enhance public access to information in a comforting, visual environment,” said Muir.

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By Jeremiah Walter

Residents in the area were excited with the new addition, with one East Library neighbor noting, “There are very few recreational and pleasure facilities in this part of town, so it is a welcome addition to the community.”

East Library in July 1986. Photo credit: Myron Wood

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER

The Educational Resource Center at East Library provides hands-on materials such as math, science, social studies, and language arts kits, as well as art and music resources and computer software for families with students of all ages.

ppld.org/erc

“During the first three days, we had about 12,000 people in here,” said Nancy DeLury, PPLD’s Public Information Officer at the time.

In September 2007, the East Teen Center opened in the space formerly occupied by the Motor Vehicles branch. It offered a dedicated area in the library for teenagers to do homework, use computers, and even play video games.

East Library underwent significant renovations in 2015, providing additional public space on the top level of the building after PPLD administrative staff vacated the location for Library 21c. The top floors now give Library patrons access to a larger computer lab, additional meeting spaces, a makerspace, and the Educational Resource Center.

In 2022, East Library remains popular, receiving the highest annual foot traffic of all Library locations across PPLD's sprawling service area.

“East Library is a destination library for a substantial portion of El Paso County, whether they live nearby or not,” explains PPLD Director of the Southeast Region Abby Simpson. “It is the closest library for many students in School Districts 11 and 20.

East Library in 2020. Photo credit: Drew Cerino

MAKE at EAST

Make at East gives PPLD patrons access to many types of creative equipment, including 3D printers, laser engravers, sewing machines, vinyl and die cutters, a button maker, and more.

ppld.org/create/make-east

Also, I have noticed that we serve a lot of patrons who have been living in the area a long time. Some patrons who visited as kids themselves are proud to tell us they are now bringing in their kids.”

The location is responsible for about one-quarter of PPLD’s circulation, and its meeting and study rooms are very popular, as well as faxing and printing services.

“We are used by patrons of all ages and needs. We get the toddlers who bring their parents to Storytime, as well as the senior citizens who stop by almost every day just to say hi,” says East Library Supervisor Terry Ford.

“We also have plenty of space for people to just be,” adds Simpson. “You can come in and enjoy a book, take in our great views from the new furniture on the veranda, or enjoy the cyber world with our free WiFi.” And perhaps most important of all is the first-rate service provided by PPLD staff.

“They are an energetic and passionate staff and provide the best service with a big smile,” says East Library Circulation Supervisor Marion Roberts. “They are the best magicians in the whole wide world.”

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PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Learn more at ppld.org/programs/adults Use the URL above or the QR code to get more information about these programs!

FEATURED PROGRAM Mountain of Authors The 16 annual Mountain of Authors welcomes keynote speaker and author of the Longmire series, Craig Johnson.

This annual community program provides an opportunity for the public and local authors to network, listen to notable authors, as well as learn more about the craft of writing and trends in publishing. th

Programs CSU Extension Class: Mediterranean Diet Workshop This workshop will answer questions about key characteristics of the Mediterranean lifestyle and how foods in the diet contribute to health. Plus, you will learn how to make fresh homemade hummus and try a delicious sample.

Dungeons & Dragons 18+

Juneteenth Recipe Cards Learn about foods from African American culture to celebrate the roots of Juneteenth.

Manitou Springs Lawn Concert Series Each Wednesday in June and July from 6 - 7:30 p.m. there will be a local band performing on the lawn of the of the Manitou Springs Carnegie Library located at the southwest corner of Manitou Avenue and Pawnee Avenue.

FEATURED PROGRAM Colorado: The Outlaws, The Renegades, and the Dissolute Colorado's early hardscrabble days prove that we were not settled by temperate, well-adjusted people. More than that, Colorado attracted a virtual "who's who" of famous Wild West characters. Join author Randi Samuelson-Brown for a fun look into Colorado's rollicking yesteryears.

Play D&D with other young adults (18+), led by volunteer Dungeon Masters. No experience is required. Check with your favorite library for more details!

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.

Natural Grocers Nutrition Classes Join Natural Grocers for these informative classes to help you get healthy and stay healthy!

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Patriotic Wooden Door Hanger

FEATURED PROGRAM History of Mystery

Celebrate the 4th of July with this festive decoration for your home!

Pride Month Pour Art Create a pour art masterpiece in the colors of Pride for Pride Month. Instead of using painting tools, you will pour the paint on a canvas and gently move and tilt it to create a pattern.

Historical mystery author, Patricia Meredith, will share about the Gilded Age historical research that inspired her new novel, Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, set in 1901 Spokane.

Shakespeare in the Park Join PPLD and Theatreworks at UCCS for an outdoor Shakespeare performance of The Tempest. Join us to see spirits, shipwrecks, sorcery, and more in this condensed, family friendly take on Shakespeare’s magical tale.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULT EDUCATION Learn more at ppld.org/adult-education

Use the URL above or the QR code to learn more about Adult Education!

Adult Education provides instructor-led programs, study groups, tutors, career development, and online resources.

Programs

High School Equivalency Class (GED/HiSET)

Career Online High School (COHS)

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Path to Citizenship Study Group

Speak English and Write English Practice Groups

Career Navigation

Food Industry Training Course (FIT)

Beginning Computer Class (Northstar Digital Literacy)

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

Use the URL above or the QR code to learn more about Creative Services!

FEATURED PROGRAM Repair Café PPLD's Repair Café is a neighborhood initiative that promotes repair as an alternative to throwing things away. At a Repair Café you will find the tools and materials needed to repair your broken items, as well as knowledgeable volunteers who will show you how to do it. Repair Trainers will offer a diagnosis and suggested remedy for broken items, repairing items when possible, or explaining what parts you may need to obtain to complete the repair. The Repair Café exists to show how much fun repairing things can be, and how easy it often is. ppld.org/RepairCafe

Monthly Programs 3D Printer Badging 3D printing is an amazing technology that lets you print custom designs made of plastic! After completing this class, you will be able to use the 3D printer on your own during open hours at our makerspaces. For ages 9+.

CNC Badging 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. After completing this class, you will be able to use the CNC on your own during open hours at Library 21c. For ages 16+.

Drop-in Watercolor Painting Come to Make at East to experiment with watercolors at this fun and informal drop-in session. All skill levels are welcome.

We'll supply the brushes, paint, and paper; just bring yourself!

Sessions are facilitated by local artist Carmen Franco, who will be on hand to help and inspire. For ages 9 and up. Ages 9 - 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is not required.

Art Inspiration Explore art techniques including painting and drawing for adult artists. Basic drawing and painting materials provided.

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Introduction to 3D Modeling

Intro to Silhouette

Get a basic overview about how to create and modify 3D designs using TinkerCAD, a free browser-based 3D modeling platform. You will learn the basics while designing your own project that you can then print for free in any of our makerspaces.

Have you ever wanted to customize your shirts and bags with iron-on designs? PPLD's Silhouette Curio and Cameo are diecutters that will let you create your own designs on heat transfer vinyl. In this class, you will learn how to use Silhouette Studio, a free software, to design and cut your own custom images that you can then iron onto fabric.

Introduction to Inkscape for the Laser Cutter Learn the basics about how to use the free software Inkscape to create images you can cut or engrave using the laser and design your own project! You will leave the class with a finished notebook and the confidence to design more creative projects.

Laser Cutter Badging Learn to cut out a wooden plaque, etch a custom design on glass, and more with our laser cutter/engraver! After completing this class, you will be able to use the laser cutter/engraver on your own during open hours at any of our makerspaces.

For ages 9+.

Quilt Block Club We’ll create a new quilt block together each month, drawing from classic American quilt designs. At the end of the year, join your blocks together to create a sampler quilt!

Intro to Sewing Interested in learning to sew? Learn the basics of using a sewing machine, including threading, filling a bobbin, and executing basic stitches as we create utensil wraps that you can use for camping, picnics, and lunchboxes. Ages 9+. All materials provided. This class is intended for those who have little to no experience with machine sewing. Please bring reading glasses or "cheaters" if needed.

Yarnettes Fiber Group Whether your craft is knitting or crocheting, join this fun group of fiber arts friends for a couple of hours of working on projects and starting new friendships.

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REGIONAL HISTORY AND GENEALOGY RESOURCES Learn more at ppld.org/regional-history-and-genealogy All programs are virtual. Use the URL above or the QR code to learn more!

FEATURED PROGRAM Genealogy Basics Are you interested in researching your genealogy, but aren't sure where to start? Join us for an introduction to basic genealogy research strategies including getting started, organizing research, and selecting and searching for records.

Genealogy Basics (Colorado Edition) In celebration of Colorado Day (August 1), this month’s Genealogy Basics classes will focus on researching your Colorado ancestors!

Top Free Genealogy Websites The internet offers many fantastic, but sometimes overwhelming, resources for genealogical research. This class will highlight some of the best free websites you should reference while researching your family tree.

Census Records Census records are an excellent tool for genealogical research.

Join us to learn more about how to use Library resources to navigate and access census records, basic search strategies, and tips and tricks for locating your hidden ancestors.

Cultural Phenomenon of Home DNA Testing Join award-winning journalist and author Libby Copeland as she explores the extraordinary cultural phenomenon of home DNA testing, which is redefining family history. This presentation will draw on Libby Copeland’s years of research for her new book, The Lost Family: How DNA Testing is Upending Who We Are, which The Wall Street Journal calls “a fascinating account of lives dramatically affected by genetic sleuthing.”

DNA Basics DNA testing can be a fascinating, and often rewarding, genealogical research method. This class will provide information to help you decide if DNA testing is for you. It will cover how to compare testing options and understand the basics of DNA and test results for genealogical research.

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FEATURED PROGRAM 2022 Pikes Peak Regional History Symposium: Resilience, Resistance, and Restoration Pikes Peak Library District is excited to announce our 19th annual Regional History Symposium: Resilience, Resistance, & Restoration. Our speakers will explore the challenges and triumphs of the people and communities of the Pikes Peak Region over the course of two program sessions.

Sat., June 11 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. | East Library Sat., July 9 | 10 a.m. - Noon | Virtual - Zoom

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

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

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

Eventually, I started volunteering at PPLD, helping support my

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

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

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

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YOUNG ADULT SERVICES Learn more at ppld.org/summerteens

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

Use the URL above or the QR code to learn more!

FEATURED PROGRAM Nature's Educators: Radical Reptiles Join Nature's Educators to meet and learn about several native and non-native reptiles and amphibians! Discover where they live, what they eat, and how they survive. How do you tell a venomous snake from a non-venomous one? What are the differences between frogs and toads? Find out during this exciting program!

Programs Coding Series: Game Design 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. The theme of this series is "Game Design." Participants will learn basic video game coding concepts by making different types of games, including racing, platform, and launching. Please note this is a multi-part series! Registration required.

Learn to Sew: Nautical Zippered Pouch Learn the basics of sewing, including threading the machine, winding the bobbin, and basic machine troubleshooting. You will leave the class with a nautical-themed, color-blocked zippered pouch and maybe a bonus project or two!

Murder Mystery: Mutiny & Murder Arrrrrr, mateys! It's time to invite yer crew and have a shiverin' timbers good time at our pirate-themed murder mystery party!

For ages 12 - 18. Registration required.

Ocean Mini-golf Play mini-golf in the Library! Can you navigate this ocean-themed course?

Teens Eat: Nailed It! Cupcake Decorating

Escape Room: Searching for the Sea Solve puzzles and open locks to win a prize in this sea-themed escape room! Registration required.

Laser Tag Play laser tag at the Library! For ages 12 - 18 only. Waivers and registration are required!

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*ONE HOUR ON THE CLOCK!!* Come to PPLD and see who nails it! Show off your decorating skills! Just like the popular Netflix series with the same name, we challenge you to replicate professional cupcake designs using provided supplies.

For ages 12 - 15.

Teens Make: Axolotl Plushie

Teens Make: Under the Sea Spray Paint

Hand-sew a cute axolotl plush! We’ll provide the instructions and materials. Registration required.

Create a seascape (jellyfish, bubbles, and other aquatic creatures) using spray paint and stencils. Wear appropriate clothing because you will get messy! For ages 12 - 18.

Teens Make: Whale Macrame Tail It's a whale of a tale! Make your own macrame whale tail keychains this summer. For ages 12 - 18.

Teens Make: Ziggy Stardust Painting Honor David Bowie with this Ziggy Stardust/Aladdin Sane painting just in time for Pride Month! Don't love David Bowie as much as we do? Choose another musical icon to paint.

Registration required.

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

Use the URL above or the QR code to learn more about Family & Children's Services this summer!

Homeschool Programs

Early Literacy Programs

Homeschool Curriculum Swap

These are specialized programs for the ages listed. A caregiver must be present with the child. Some programs require registration.

Looking for new curriculum and/or 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-a-year 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? Call (719) 531-6333, x6048 or email jfleishhacker@ppld.org.

Homeschool Game Day Homeschool families are invited to an outdoor game day!

Activities include four-square, hula hoops, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, kick ball, and more! Come prepared to play! All ages are welcome. In case of bad weather, the event will be cancelled.

Contact Joy at (719) 531-6333, x6048 with any questions.

FEATURED PROGRAM LENA Start This 10-week program will help parents, with children 0 - 33 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. We will increase conversational turns by the end of the 10 weeks. We will meet weekly to give you tips on how to increase conversational turns. ppld.org/LENAStart

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Early Literacy Programs cont.

Baby Time Enjoy songs, bouncing action rhymes, and sharing a book together. For ages 0 - 12 months.

Create & Play

Storytime Stories and more for children ages 3+.

Toddler Time Participate in nursery rhymes, music, and movement, and listen to a few short books. For ages 1 - 2.

Did you know that making art builds motor skills, reading readiness, and math concepts? Little ones experience creative and playful adventures with art! For ages 1 - 5.

KidsMake Programs

FAB Time

Fairy Huts

Talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children. For all ages.

Create a mystical fairy hut to house a tiny flameless light or a mini-imaginary creature!

French Music Lingua

Ocean Sensory Play

Join Barbara Mills from Springs French Music Lingua for a unique, free program that teaches French and American Sign Language to children using a fun mix of music, movement, art, drama, and storytelling. For ages 8 and under.

Create a mini aquarium to take home with you! Using ocean supplies, this fun, sensory bottle can house a little bit of under the sea.

Music & Movement

Create your own squishy stress ball and decorate it however you like!

Shake out those wiggles and have some fun with music and movement activities and a story. For ages 2 - 3.

Prenatal Series Are you expecting and have lot of questions? Join PPLD and Nurse-Family Partnership for a series of prenatal classes. Classes are every Wednesday at noon. Each week we will explore a different topic and have a Q&A session. ppld.org/prenatal-series

KidsMake programs are for ages 5 - 12.

Squishy Stress Balls

Under the Sea Portal Suncatchers Create a suncatcher portal to take a peek into some fun under the sea creatures and watch the light stream through your creation!

STEM Programs STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering. and Mathematics) programs are for ages 5 - 12.

Air Cannons For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Children will get to demonstrate it when using the air cannon they will create!

Balloon-powered Cars

Sensory Storytime Join us for an interactive storytime that is especially welcoming for children on the autism spectrum and families who are looking for a smaller, more adaptive library experience.

For ages 12 and under.

Stay & Play We’ll have fun toys to enhance your child’s early literacy learning. Meet new friends and have fun playing together.

For ages 1 - 3 years old.

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Observe the conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy while building a car powered by nothing but air. Experiment with different designs to make the car go faster and farther, then race your top design!

Cloth Printing

Nailed It!: Cupcake Decorating

Use Ashanti Kente Cloth as inspiration, creating your own patterns and arrangements.

Show off your decorating skills! Just like the popular Netflix series with the same name, we challenge you to replicate professional cupcake designs using provided supplies.

FEATURED PROGRAM Glow in the Dark Paint Party This program is available for ages 9 - 15 and 12 - 18. At this paint party, you’ll rock and vibe to music that inspires your inner Van Gough or Basquiat while you make a painting that glows in the dark.

Simple Machines: Pulleys Imagine you’ve just bought a plot of land in the Old West.

What’s the first thing you need to do? Build a well to get water!

But how? Build a pulley!

Tween Programs Tween programs are in-person and are for ages 9 - 12 unless otherwise noted.

Camp Half-Blood Cabin Flag Create your own Camp Half-Blood cabin flag based on your favorite Greek god or goddess! Put your knowledge of the books to the test with Percy Jackson trivia.

Dungeons & Dragons Play D&D with other tweens, led by our very own Dragon Master Alli! New members are always welcome and no experience is required. Ages 9 - 12.

FEATURED PROGRAM JAB (Junior Advisory Board) We want to learn from the experts (you!) on what programs and events tweens want to see at the Library. Each session of the Junior Advisory Board (JAB) will include time for you to give ideas and feedback and time for a fun project or activity.

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Summer Fun

Presenters Dinosaur Resource Center: The Amazing Prehistoric Seas Alpacas!

Claudia Swenson will present facts about her charming Alpacas and how their versatile fiber is used. Visit with these amazing creatures after a short program (at most libraries).

For ages 5 - 12.

Learn how dinosaurs and sea reptiles differed from each other. Take home pictures of creatures like Ichthyosaurus, Kronosaurus, the Megalodon shark, and more! Discover the fun of learning about these incredibly unique prehistoric animals.

Presented by the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center.

For all ages.

Animals of the Wizarding World Some of the fantastical beasts from popular books and movies are real-life creatures! Nature's Educators will introduce you to some of the live animals featured in these stories. Learn about their role in the story, but also their habitat, diet, and natural history. For ages 3+.

Fly Fishing!

Learn fish conservation and fly-fishing concepts with professional fly-fishing guide Kenny Romero. Learn how to and practice casting in this class that is specifically geared for children ages 7 - 12.

Foam Parties with Ann Lincoln Cool Science: Super-Sized Science Kids will learn how to perform a few cool science experiments with simple items they may have at home, then watch in amazement as we SUPER-SIZE each one during the show for even more excitement! Fun for all ages.

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Enjoy some bubbly outdoor fun! Wear swim clothes or shorts, bring some towels to dry off, and get silly in the suds!

Biodegradable, hypoallergenic foam is used in this unusually wet and wacky program. For ages 2 - 12.

Inspector Magic: Lobster Tales

Puppet Tales: The Missing Magic Bunny

Don't be crabby! Make a splash at the Library and make a difference in the world. Find out how at our undersea magic show with Inspector Magic. For all ages.

Houdini the magical rabbit is lost, and Magic Dave needs your help to find him! Join this magical journey filled with illusions, hilarious puppets, and a story about true friendship. Based on the book: The Magic Rabbit by Annette LeBlanc Cate.

For all ages.

Ocean-themed Crafts in June and July In June, enjoy a variety of ocean-themed crafts and explore different crafting materials at your local library. Then, in July, get ready to celebrate Shark Week by exploring various oceanthemed crafts. For ages 1 - 12.

Petting Zoo with Wishing Star Farm

Shark Week Celebrate Shark Week at PPLD! Find the shark hidden in your local library, go to the circulation desk, and sing a verse of Baby Shark or tell them where the shark is hiding. Win a sticker!

For ages 2 - 12.

Get up-close and personal with some friendly animals from Wishing Star Farm. These programs are held outdoors for ages 0 - 12.

Steve Weeks Family Concerts

Pirate Dogs of the Sea! Ahoy, Mate! Denise Gard’s famous Border Collies Joey and Kira are hunting for treasure upon the seven seas. When they become shipwrecked will they find treasure or learn about keeping the ocean clean? Join them for a program that is so action-packed and full of dog tricks, you’ll wish you were a pirate dog too!

Argh!!! For all ages.

Pirates of Puppet Pants in an Ocean of Possibilities Be prepared for some pirate shenanigans with this entertaining program that features ventriloquism, variety, and lots of hilarious audience participation, presented by Joshua Lacky.

For all ages.

Join Steve for an interactive family romp filled with music and humor, as he performs his hit songs. Laughing, singing, and dancing will be on the docket so bring your dancing shoes!

For all ages.

Wacky Water Works with Colorado Springs Utilities Did you know your water ends up in the ocean? Capture a cloud, take a vapor shower, have a pipeline water race, and clean up dirty water with Colorado Springs Utilities. For all ages.

West African Dance, Percussion, and Storytelling Join Dr. Wanda and Ron Cousar for a culturally engaging storytelling, dance, and percussion experience that reflects authentic West African culture of building community and celebrations! Participation and exploration make this program a fun and unique learning experience. For ages 2 - 12.

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Summer Fun

Activities

SEA SEARCH

How many can you find?

SEAHORSE HIDDEN WORDS The scientific word for seahorse is hippocampus — hippo means "horse" and "campus" from the Greek kampos meaning "sea monster." How many words can you find hiding in the scientific name for seahorse?

HIPPOCAMPUS

Bird: 2, Shell: 3, Fish: 1, Dolphin: 4

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CRABBY ANAGRAMS

FISHY JOKES

COPOUTS

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_______________________

REGROUP

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_______________________

What fish sings in the choir?

Bass

UNFOLDER =

_______________________

STRAYING

=

_______________________

EMANATE

=

_______________________

Unscramble the words and find sea creatures!

How many friends can you tell?

What fish is very rich?

A goldfish What fish comes out at night?

A starfish What did the ocean say to the other ocean?

Nothing. They just waved.

What are the strongest creatures in the ocean?

Mussels

Octopus, Grouper, Flounder, Stingray, Manate

TRAPPED IN THE CORAL Help Gill find his way out!

!!

Answer:

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JUNE View the full calendar of events and fill yours in!

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com or use the QR code on the right.

Cool Science: Super-sized Science Kids will learn how to perform a few cool science experiments with simple items they may have at home, then watch in amazement as we SUPER-SIZE each one during the show for even more excitement! Fun for all ages! tinyurl.com/supersizedscience

Ranger Packs The Junior Ranger Nature Pack provides self-guided activities to encourage children and their families to get out, explore, observe, describe, and engage the senses any time during the year. Designed for ages 7 - 13.

Start Exploring!

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Fun Fact!

5,138 children and 5,514 teens participated in the Summer Adventure program in 2021.

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JULY View the full calendar of events and fill yours in!

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com or use the QR code on the right.

Inspector Magic: Lobster Tales Don’t be crabby! Make a splash at the Library and make a difference in the world! Find out how at our undersea magic show with Inspector Magic! For all ages.

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Fun Fact!

Did you know that 2021 Summer Adventure participants collectively read 203,081 days? That’s equivalent to 29,011 weeks or 556 years!

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tinyurl.com/lobstermagic

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AUGUST View the full calendar of events and fill yours in!

Visit ppld.librarymarket.com or use the QR code on the right.

Homeschool Game Day Fri., Aug. 26 | 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

George Fellows Park behind East Library Homeschool families are invited to an outdoor game day! Activities include four-square, hula hoops, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, kick ball, and more.

Come prepared to play! All ages are welcome. In case of bad weather, the event will be cancelled. Contact Joy at (719) 531-6333, x6048 with any questions.

Homework Help

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We offer tutoring, study guides, timed practice exams, DMV practice tests, college planning, scholarship searches, career planning, and more!

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Check your email on the first of each month for our monthly newsletter!

Fun Fact!

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Last year, Summer Adventure participants took part in 142,826 activities!

Calhan Library

Mobile Library Services

600 Bank St., Calhan, CO 80808

(719) 531-6333, x2313

(719) 531-6333, x7013

Monument Library

Cheyenne Mountain Library

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

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 Columbus Hall 20 W. Pikes Peak Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 531-6333, x6142

Library 21c 1175 Chapel Hills Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 531-6333, x7012

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

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

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

Pikes Peak Library District Discovery Summer 2022 / Volume 4, Issue 3 Executive Editor Michelle Ray Managing Editor Denise Abbott Proofing/Editing Jennifer Flatland Graphic Designer Rachel Quinn Photography James Krebs Pikes Peak Library District 2022 Board of Trustees President Dr. Ned C. Stoll Vice President Scott Taylor Secretary/Treasurer Dora Gonzales Erin Bents Debbie English Mina Liebert Aaron Salt

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Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) 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, Colo.

Learn more at ppld.org.