District Discovery: Sesquicentennial Edition Fall 2021

YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF COLORADO SPRINGS

Fall 2021 • Volume 3, Issue 4 (719) 531-6333

ppld.org

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Table of Contents

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CELEBRATING AND REFLECTING ON 150 YEARS A look at Colorado Springs history as city celebrates sesquicentennial

OF COLORADO SPRINGS

LIFE OF A BOOK Journey along with All Pikes Peak Reads' selected title

The story of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region is far too interesting

LIVING HISTORY Archives tell story of region's past, preserve today's voices for future

District (PPLD) has published a series of books examining our rich history.

and complex to fit into a lone magazine article. Luckily, Pikes Peak Library Titles include:

ALL PIKES PEAK READS 2021 Annual program kicks off!

• The Book of Colorado Springs

BOOKS, AND MORE, IN A ROW "Strip-mall libraries" offer different sense of community

• Legends, Labors, & Loves of William Jackson Palmer

• Extraordinary Women of the Rocky Mountain West • Rush to the Rockies! The 1859 Pikes Peak or Bust Gold Rush

FALL PROGRAMS BY SERVICE

Learn more about these and other books at regionalhistoryseries.org.

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR Featuring Bumps 'n Babies Resource Fair

Dig into local history with PPLD! The Regional History collection includes

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OCTOBER CALENDAR Featuring All Pikes Peak Makes

videos, government documents, pamphlets, periodicals, and other materials

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NOVEMBER CALENDAR Featuring DINOvember!

books, maps, manuscripts and archives, photographs, oral histories, films and related to the history of the Pikes Peak region.

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

Not this city’s first rodeo This year marks the Sesquicentennial of Colorado Springs, and while Pikes Peak Library District has existed in its current form since only 1962, the seeds of our current library system were planted shortly after the founding of Colorado Springs in 1871. In 1885, the Colorado Springs Social Union opened a public library in downtown Colorado Springs, and by 1903, the collection had grown to the point that the Free Public Library of Colorado Springs was created. Since that time, public libraries have been established throughout El Paso County, and Pikes Peak Library District has grown to be the second largest library system in Colorado, with 16 locations, seven of which are in Colorado Springs.

Our community has grown tremendously over the past 150 years, and as the community has grown, so has the library system that serves it. From that small reading room established 136 years ago, we have evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of this community, and we look forward to continuing that rich tradition of service long into the future.

Kids are incredibly different. They need incredibly different care.

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Celebrating and Reflecting on 150 Years

A look at Colorado Springs history as city celebrates sesquicentennial

Colorado Springs resides on land inhabited for thousands of years

“People coming across the country could see Pikes Peak early on

by indigenous peoples, including the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho

and had heard about it for years,” elaborates Pikes Peak Community

Tribes. Artifacts found at Garden of the Gods, one of Colorado

College Professor of History Katherine Sturdevant. “So they came

Springs’ most beautiful natural attractions, date back an astonishing

here and then had to veer north. The ‘59ers were heading to the

3,500 years.

Central City-Blackhawk area, but the mountain was sort of a beacon

Military expedition leaders such as Major Stephen H. Long and Lieutenant Zebulon Pike later explored the area in the early 1800s.

for gold seekers.”

Colorado City (now called Old Colorado City) was founded in

A gold rush that began in 1858 and peaked in ’59 brought

1859 as a supply hub for miners heading to the gold field.

prospectors through the area, but they did not settle here. “The

However, the city we call Colorado Springs officially began 150

Pikes Peak or Bust Gold Rush is a deceiving name,” explains Matt

years ago. At 8 a.m. on July 31, 1871, the first stake for a new town

Mayberry, director of the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. “The

was driven at what became the southeast corner of Pikes Peak and

gold wasn't here. It took 30 more years until the discovery of gold in

Cascade Avenues.

Cripple Creek.”

Pikes Peak Avenue in 1875.

General Palmer (at center) and a two-man survey team work laying out the town of Colorado Springs in 1871.

Palmer The founding of the town sprang from the vision of Civil War

Eastern, upper-middle and upper classes,” says Sturdevant, “but it was also a business man's plan.”

veteran General William Jackson Palmer. He was travelling between

“He didn't want this to be a boomtown. He wanted it to be a

Pueblo and Denver in 1869 when he wrote in a letter, "At Colorado

resort,” adds Mayberry. “Colorado Springs was to be the finest place

City, the Garden of the Gods, we stopped to breakfast. Near here are

in the west to build a home.”

the finest soda springs and the most enticing scenery. I am sure there will be a famous summer resort here soon."

Palmer also saw an opportunity for a southward railroad route out

Such a place would need parks, and Palmer included a city park (now known as Acacia Park) in the original town plot. He later gifted additional land that became Monument Valley Park and Palmer Park.

of Denver, which was about to be connected to the Kansas Pacific

His wife, Mary Lincoln “Queen” Mellen Palmer, also played an

Railway from the east.

important role in the town’s early days. “She is deserving of a lot of

“Railroads were his first love,” says Mayberry. “And you can't have railroads as a business venture in the West without having communities to serve. Colorado Springs is part of that formula.”

credit,” says Mayberry. “Especially establishing the school system and creating a sense of place in Colorado Springs.”

Queen Palmer taught at the first free school in town, which she

Soon thereafter, Palmer formed the Rio Grande Railway Company

opened on Nov. 13, 1871.

and the Colorado Springs Company. Construction on the railway

Spencer And Julie Penrose

began in January 1871, the first stake was driven in July, and in October the railway reached the new town.

“Colorado Springs was a product of the utopianism of the

“As Palmer is beginning to step off the stage,” says Mayberry, “Spencer Penrose steps on and takes our history into a different phase. He's more of a capitalist than Palmer was. Even though

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Winfield Scott Stratton, ca. 1900.

Air Force Academy Chapel under construction. (date unknown)

Palmer was an industrialist, he didn't have the same kind of drive for

or infirmity to earn a livelihood." The home continues to help people

wealth that Penrose did.”

to this day.

After making a fortune from gold and copper mines in Cripple Creek and Utah, Spencer married Julie Villiers Lewis McMillan in 1906.

Penrose had already built The Broadmoor, Pikes Peak Highway, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo when the El Pomar Foundation was formed in 1936. The Foundation has since distributed over $500 million in grants. “That boils down to the efforts of Julie Penrose making sure that some of that wealth was available for the good of the community,” explains Mayberry.

Winfield Scott Stratton Winfield Scott Stratton also made a fortune in mining, hitting gold in Cripple Creek on the Fourth of July 1891 after spending 20 years

“Art is foundational to Colorado Springs,” says Mayberry. “The scenic beauty of the region attracted photographers and artists like William Henry Jackson and Thomas Moran. And there was economic potential to being an artist in Colorado Springs. You could capture the scenery, and then had audiences to commission that work.”

In 1919, Broadmoor Art Academy opened in the former home of Spencer and Julie Penrose, and soon helped Colorado Springs become nationally known as a center for the arts. In 1936, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center (FAC) opened at the same location. Alice Bemis Taylor donated art to the FAC collection, which also included works by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso.

as a carpenter. “He's chasing a dream all his life, and then he finally

“We had an influx of people, which you could call an artist colony

gets it. It's a story of having a wolf by the tail. You can't let go, but

or literary colony,” says Sturtevant. “They were also friends with Julie

you can't keep holding on either,” says Mayberry. “He's plagued by

Penrose, and she supported this artistic activity.”

wealth toward the end of his life,” with people constantly demanding money from him.

He donated land for Colorado Springs City Hall and the Mining Exchange building, and paid to construct the El Paso County Courthouse (now home to the Pioneer Museum).

He also bought the town’s trolley system and spent $2 million to help Colorado Springs develop one of the top street railway systems in the country. (The streetcar system was replaced in 1931 by the Colorado Springs Bus Company.)

Stratton left a majority of his fortune to build the Myron Stratton Home, a free home for people who are "without means of support, and who are physically unable by reason of old age, youth, sickness,

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The Arts

Political Activism “Colorado Springs was a place with many forward-thinking women who would make it a center for the women's suffrage movement,” says Sturdevant.

Suffragist Caroline Spencer founded the Women's Club of Colorado Springs and the Civic League. Alongside Alice Paul, she picketed the White House in 1917 and was incarcerated for seven months as a result.

Gretchen McRae is another notable Colorado Springs resident who worked for equality. A Black woman and civil rights activist, McRae wrote and edited publications such as her pamphlet Dedicated

to the Lowliest Man and A Free Republic, a national magazine in the late

After the guy recovered, he rented the plane to Lindbergh, who flew

1930s.

up and down the Front Range to see what the air currents would

In her own way, Fannie Mae Duncan was also an activist.

be like and if it would be feasible and safe for people to learn how

“Gretchen is trying in a bold-faced way to be an activist about

to fly and do a lot of practicing right here along the Front Range.”

equality, using the printed word primarily,” says Sturdevant. “Whereas

Colorado Springs went on to become home to Air Force Academy

Fannie Mae is trying to run a business.”

cadets in 1958.

That business was the Cotton Club, where a sign famously read,

North American Aerospace Defense Command, also known

“Everybody Welcome.” At a time when some places still refused to

as NORAD, was initially headquartered at Ent Air Force Base in

serve Blacks or required that they use a separate entrance, customers

1957, then was housed in the Chidlaw Building, before moving into

of all skin colors came to Duncan’s club to enjoy music by such

a bunker excavated into Cheyenne Mountain. This Space Defense

luminaries as Etta James, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, and Duke

Center and the Combat Operations Center became fully operational

Ellington.

in 1967.

Miltary Camp Carson opened just south of Colorado Springs in 1942, soon after the start of World War II. In addition to housing and training soldiers, it also held prisoners of war. At one point, Camp Carson held about 9,000 POWs, mostly Italian and German, many of whom were put to work in the nearby agricultural and logging industries. It was renamed Fort Carson in 1954, and has been home to several divisions over the years. Many soldiers have also trained at the nearby Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site.

Also in 1942, an Army Air Base opened near Fort Carson to train

In 1985, Falcon Air Force Station (now Schriever Air Force Base) opened and housed the 2nd Space Wing and continues to support space operations, including Department of Defense satellites.

The military presence in and around Colorado Springs has contributed more than the obvious economic impact. “An underappreciated aspect is what it does to changing the diversity of the community and bringing in more diverse residents,” says Mayberry.

The Future “Colorado Springs, because of our rather vague founding vision

soldiers for photographic reconnaissance missions. Its airfield was

of being a great place to live, we've been required to constantly

named Peterson Field.

reinvent ourselves,” says Mayberry. “It’s fascinating to see how

Ent Air Force Base opened at the site currently occupied by the Olympic Training Center in 1952. When Ent closed in 1975, nearby Peterson Field was designated Peterson Air Force Base.

In 1954, famous aviator Charles Lindbergh was named to an

we've tried to make ourselves relevant to respond to changes in the economy to look for the next best thing.

“One hundred and fifty years. You don't celebrate that every day. What we need to do, as (Mayor John Suthers) says, is be good

advisory commission to determine the future site of the Air Force

ancestors for whoever's coming after us. So, for the 200th anniversary,

Academy. Colorado Springs was on the short list, so Lindbergh

when somebody is looking back at what we did, they see we've

went to Peterson Field and “asked to rent an airplane,” recounts

created value and we set the community up to be successful. I don't

Rick Sturdevant, Kathy’s husband and Air Force deputy command

want (the Sesquicentennial) to just be about the past. I think it's about

historian. “Lindbergh was asked, ‘Well, do you have a pilot's license?’

evaluating and assessing where we want to go in the future. And then

And he had a pilot's license signed by one of the Wright Brothers.

challenging us to make those decisions and go.”

Camp Carson troops, May 5, 1951.

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Life of a Book

Journey along with All Pikes Peak Reads' selected title

Have you ever wondered about the path a library book takes before it gets to you? You’re in luck! We tracked the All Pikes Peak Reads’ 2021 selection for adults, Finna by Nate Marshall, from when the book was first ordered until it ended up in the hands of a Library patron.

Step 1 Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) employs several Selection Librarians who determine which Library materials to purchase. For popular titles, we acquire multiple copies in a variety of formats.

Step 2 Once the item has been ordered, patrons can place a hold using PPLD’s mobile app, through the Catalog on ppld.org, or by speaking with a Library staff member.

Step 3 Boxes of new materials are delivered to the Collection Management office, which is based at Library 21c. Most vendors adhere spine labels, book jackets, RFID tags, and bar codes before the Library receives them.

Step 4 Materials Assistants open the boxes and place items on a cart.

Step 5 Catalogers ensure materials are easy to find when patrons search the Library’s online catalog or use PPLD’s mobile app.

Step 6 Materials Assistants process books and place routing slips in each of them.

Step 7 Staff place the books in the appropriate bin to send them to one of the District’s 15 libraries or mobile libraries. Each bin has a two-letter code to identify its proper destination.

Step 8 A courier takes the bins and delivers to each of the Library District’s locations.

Step 9 Library staff process their delivered items and file them on the “holds” shelf.

Step 10 After being notified by email that their hold is available, a Library patron picks up their requested item and can find a comfortable Library seat and begin to read the book.

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Living History

Archives tell story of region’s past, preserve today’s voices for future

Pikes Peak Library District’s Regional History and Genealogy resources are housed online and in the historic 1905 Carnegie Library

negatives, stereo views, postcards, albumen prints, and cyanotypes.

attached to Penrose Library in downtown Colorado Springs.

Many of these have been digitized, and prints are available for

The building was once the workplace of Margaretta M. Boas, who in 1926 became head librarian of what then was called Colorado Springs Public Library.

“She was collecting regional history items, things she thought were

purchase.

The archives also include audio recordings of local oral histories.

“When you hear a person telling their story, you can hear the emotion in their voice when they're excited about something, or the annoyance

good to save for later,” explains Director of Regional History and

in their voice when the interviewer asks something they don't know

Genealogy Brett Lobello, “and we just built from there.”

about,” says Lobello. “That's the beauty of the medium.”

In addition to more than 500 manuscript collections and half a

Other useful resources include Colorado Springs City Directories

million archived photos, the Regional History collection includes

going back to 1879 and the Homicide Index, a collection of all

books, maps, oral histories, films and videos, government documents,

published information concerning any homicides that have taken

pamphlets, periodicals, and other materials related to the history of

place in El Paso County.

the Pikes Peak region.

PPLD's collection contains extensive family history research

“There's so much about our community in these archives,” says Ramsey. “A lot of people think archives are for someone who is a

materials, covering the entire United States from Colonial times to the

serious student, or a professor, or someone writing a book. I want to

present, including books, periodicals, and access to major genealogical

make everyone feel the archive is something that is accessible.”

databases.

There are so many resources available, it can seem daunting, but Library staff is there to help in person, by phone, or by email.

“The intimidation factor certainly comes into play,” says Tim

One way Ramsey does this is through the classes and programs she plans, like Genealogy Basics. “We appeal to the beginner and make it approachable. We focus on research methods and practical ways to get started. When you start genealogy research, there are so

Morris, Special Collections Manager. “Just getting started is going to

many records, so many questions… It can feel overwhelming, even if

seem challenging. So staff expertise really helps with that.”

you're excited about it. So we really break that down.”

“We have a lot of specialists, but we're all generalists when it comes to the resources,” adds Lobello.

That versatility came in handy for Program Coordinator Cara

The biggest program that PPLD’s Regional History and Genealogy team offers is the annual Regional History Symposium.

“Each year, you get different community perspectives on a chosen

Ramsey when she worked a desk shift to cover for another staff

topic that are well researched and entertaining,” says Morris of the

member taking lunch. “I received a question about an obituary for

event, which usually happens at East Library, but went virtual in 2021

someone filling out federal paperwork, a local organization wanted to

due to the pandemic.

use some of our photographs to hang on their walls, and someone

Previous Symposia are released in podcast form as Pikes Peak

working on a documentary needed things from an archival collection.

Pastcast. Also, each year’s theme has a corresponding book published

This was all in a 30-minute period.”

as part of the PPLD’s Regional History Series, which also includes

One of the most popular resources is Pikes Peak NewsFinder, a searchable database of local newspapers and registers going back to 1872. Although most of the database covers local news, state and national news that affects the Pikes Peak region is also included.

“I basically read every newspaper front to back every day, and I've

reprints of books about local history.

The Symposium wasn’t the only thing the pandemic made Regional History and Genealogy reassess.

“Once the doors closed, it became clear some of our patrons couldn't access the content they wanted,” says Lobello. “That opened

lived here for quite a few years,” says Digital Archives Specialist Dave

my eyes that we need to be doing more digitization. We need to be

Wendel. “So I'm aware of local happenings and developments. If

more accessible to people.”

something’s happening in Denver, for example, but has an impact on Colorado Springs, I'm going to index it.”

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The photo archives are also heavily used and include glass plate

Although technology can make things more accessible, it also creates a challenge.

Western History Room, February 1970

1905 Carnegie Postcard (date unknown)

“People don't collect like they used to,” says Lobello. “When you look at our collections, it's on paper. You'll see handwritten notes

Historic map

PPLD Special Collections Manager Tim Morris in archives, 2020

archives.

“We're taking in things from our community and documenting it

back and forth between people. Nowadays, it’s email and social

for future generations,” says Ramsey, “and we want everyone to feel

media. That's a whole other level of collecting. That's a growth area

that they are reflected in it and that we value their stories.”

for us.”

What will not change is the importance of documenting local history.

“Regional history shows who we are,” says Lobello. “People have to see themselves in their history and see that their history is important.”

Learn More ppld.org/regional-history-and-genealogy Regional History: (719) 531-6333, x1253 Genealogy: (719) 531-6333, x1252

And that means making sure all voices are represented in the

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Spot the Difference Can you find the five differences in this photo of the 1905 Carnegie postcard?

INDIAN NO MORE Charlene Willing McManis with Traci Sorell CHILDREN

All Pikes Peak Reads 2021 Annual program kicks off

All Pikes Peak Reads is Pikes Peak Library District's annual program geared towards celebrating literature, improving community connection, and fostering dialogue across social, cultural, and generational lines. This fall we invite you to read one of the selected titles above, and join us for author visits, programs, and more.

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NIMONA Noelle Stevenson YOUNG ADULTS

Differences: Mountain background on left side; man's shoe color; lights on lamp; man near bicycles; top right window size.

HIDDEN VALLEY ROAD Robert Kolker ADULTS

FINNA Nate Marshall ADULTS

Magnetic Poetry Kit Take and Make September

To kick off All Pikes Peak Reads, make your own poetry kit!

Learn more and find all events at ppld.org/APPR.

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Books, and More, in a Row

“Strip-mall libraries” offer different sense of community

On the southwest side of Colorado Springs with an 8th Street address sits Cheyenne Plaza, a nondescript strip mall with a dozen storefronts. At the south end of the mall, locally owned dive bar The Burrowing Owl serves up tasty vegan dishes and creative mixed drinks.

At the north end, Coal Mine Dragon Chinese restaurant has been winning Best Of awards from the local alternative newsweekly, the Colorado Springs Independent, for its lunch buffet and more for years.

Just about midway between the two — a gym on one side and a gymnastics fitness center on the other — an entrance not much bigger

the following: • Providing a sense of community/connection on a neighborhood level while integrating/uniting disparate neighborhoods; • Providing opportunities for local organizations to work together for the community’s best interests on a neighborhood level; and • Providing opportunities for residents to connect with each other and experience more of what El Paso County has to offer, increasing their sense of connection with the local community.

And not that these needs can’t be met in some way at every facility,

than any other along this row is identified by a sign that simply says,

Tiffany Paisley, Cheyenne Mountain Library Manager, says that sense

“Library.”

of identity and relationship to neighbors has been key at her location.

Pikes Peak Library District’s Cheyenne Mountain Library opened

“This is where the local community comes to go to the Dollar

its doors in 1993. It wasn’t the first library of the District to take up

General, to the coffee shop,” she says. “Kids can come in here after

residence in a strip mall: Ruth Holley Library opened in 1987; Sand

Flipshack.”

Creek Library in 1988; Rockrimmon Library in 1989; and in 1999,

At least they could, pre-pandemic. Over the past year, obviously

Monument Library was relocated from its original spot of almost 25

foot traffic has been lighter, and the staff at Cheyenne Mountain

years to its current five-times-larger facility, sharing commercial space

Library had to cancel multiple neighborhood events planned in 2020

with Tri-Lakes Fitness, a coffee shop, and a flooring company, among

— from an annual mall-wide chalk fest and a culture fest to a back-

others.

to-school type event with local food trucks and other fun activities in

While the American Library Association (ALA) doesn’t keep

collaboration with the Ivywild Improvement Society. But that doesn’t

a formal count of the number of libraries found in spaces like

mean they haven’t been able to still contribute to the community

these, it acknowledges that the movement has continued to grow

in smaller ways. Paisley says their staff set up a story walk in their

— especially as communities find themselves wanting to repurpose

windows that people could wander by and pause to read.

unused commercial space for environmental and financial reasons.

The manager at Sand Creek Library, Jake Rundle, says that while

In a document compiled by the ALA’s Center for the Future of

they, too, had to cancel or postpone community-connecting activities

Libraries, “creative placemaking” has been identified as one of about

such as a collaborative art project for Panorama Park — and, he notes,

40 emerging trends libraries are encouraged to consider. A report on

the toddlers from the daycare next door haven’t been able to come by

the topic notes, “One of the most obvious values creative placemaking

for weekly story times like they used to — their location in a strip mall

advances is the sense of place, transforming spaces that might not be

has also had an unexpected benefit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

particularly inviting or personal into places that are attractive, convey meaning, and build and sustain memories.”

“For many,” it continues, “the truly transformational essence of

“We were really lucky when they renovated this library, maybe 11 years ago, they gave us a drive-up window in the back for holds pickup. So all these other libraries had to innovate how to do curbside

this trend is in the process of making. Creative placemaking requires a

pickup,” says Rundle. “For us, it was just, ‘Don’t come in the front

community process, including deliberative discussion and collaboration

door. Drive around back, pick up your books from the window, and

that results in community empowerment and a new sense of identity

drop off your books in the slot.’”

and relationship to neighbors.”

Three of the recurring themes identified in PPLD’s community

While a larger, historic Center of Excellence facility or stand-alone library can often make an impactful physical impression and offer

needs assessment conducted during the Fall of 2019 fall right in line

more services simply based on its size, one other statistic from the

with this type of thought. The assessment — the result of months of

Library’s community surveys stand out.

interviews, focus groups, and community surveys — notes that the Library District may be “uniquely positioned to help meet”

When it comes to the likelihood of residents recommending specific Library locations to others in the community, the two with the highest scores are strip-mall stars: Ruth Holley and Rockrimmon libraries.

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Rockrimmon Library

Monument Library

Sand Creek Library

Ruth Holley Library

Cheyenne Mountain Library

REGIONAL HISTORY AND GENEALOGY RESOURCES

Learn more at ppld.org/regional-history-and-genealogy Vital Records

Sharing Your Family History

Vital records are key genealogical documents that provide proof of life events including birth, death, marriage, and divorce. Learn more about these records, what information and insight they provide, and how you can locate them.

There are many ways to share your genealogy research with future generations. But, with so many available tools and methods, getting started can be overwhelming. In this class, we’ll cover some of the ways you can share your hard work and heritage with family members.

Ancestry

Researching Female Ancestors

Ancestry Library Edition is a great place to get started with your genealogical research! Learn more about this incredible database, including how to search for records, limit your findings, and navigate some of Ancestry's helpful tools and features.

Researching your female ancestors can be a difficult, yet rewarding, process. Women’s rights and positions in society varied by time and place, often making their records harder to trace (and how do we find those elusive maiden names?). In this class, you'll learn strategies and records to help you research the women of your family.

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

Pikes Peak Poet Laureate

Arts Month

All Pikes Peak Makes

The Pikes Peak Poet Laureate program is back! Colorado Springs’ newest Laureate will be named in October 2021. Keep an eye out for further events as we reinvigorate this celebration of poetry and poets in our region. ppld.org/poetlaureate

October is Arts Month. PPLD is celebrating with programs and Take and Make kits that will help you indulge your inner artist.

Whether you're new to the arts or a master, come join us! ppld.org/artsmonth

Join us this October to celebrate creating, tinkering, and innovating.

Learn more and mark your calendar with activities on page 20.

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PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Learn more at ppld.org/programs/adults

Adult Education Adult Education provides instructor-led classes to prepare for a GED/HiSET/TASC exam, English as a Second Language (ESL), and Career Online High School (COHS). Classes take place at different libraries, community locations, and virtually. If your goal is to communicate in English, improve computer skills, earn a high school diploma or equivalency certificate (GED/HiSET/TASC), study to obtain United States citizenship, find a job, or get job training, our classes and programs are here for you. Winter classes will begin in January and registration for orientation sessions will open in December. Learn more at ppld.org/adult-education.

Learn more about all adult education at PPLD!

Learn more about all adult services at PPLD!

Visit ppld.org/adult-education.

Visit ppld.org/programs/adults.

Take and Makes

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

Library-hosted Programs

Staff lead you through these hands-on craft activities in person.

Magnetic Poetry

Pumpkin Spice Latte Candle Mugs

September

September

Painted Pottery

Vanilla-Oat Body Soap

September

September

Easy Party Favor Bag

Painting without a Twist

October

October

DIY Native American Fry Bread

Murder Mystery

November

Library Crafts

These Take and Make kits are accompanied by an instructional video!

See all of these videos at tinyurl.com/ PPLDVirtualTakeandMake Crochet Cat Toy September

Hanging Bookshelf September

Wax Paper Luminaries October

Spooky Terrarium October

Veteran's Day Poppies November

DIY Journal November

October

Presenters

Paper Marbling Class Local multimedia instructor Laurel Bahe will teach you the art of paper marbling. Be able to create your own refrigerator magnet and necklace!

The Art of Grief Area multimedia instructors Sophia Thunberg and Patti Smithsonian present a workshop honoring the departed, our feelings of love and grief, and our memories of those we are grieving. Create two projects: a grief journal and a home memorial. Learn how many cultures honor their departed including Ofrendas (Mexico), Joss paper (Chinese), and Ossa de Mortu (Italy).

No-Sew Infinity Scarf

Native American Storytelling

Fall-Themed Cross-Stitch

Join Native American storyteller Sebrena Forrest to learn more about Native American culture as she performs tales from indigenous cultures to educate and entertain.

November November

Virtual Presenters KonMari Organization & Downsizing Find out why it is so hard to let go of stuff, and how to start downsizing your home for the next exciting chapter in your life with the KonMari Method. Presented by Glenda Crawford.

A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music Learn about the origin of the blues, rock, and country music with this entertaining and informative show.

Presented by Jon Waterman.

How to Taste Wine Join wine educator Jim laughren as he discusses his book, 50 Ways to Love Wine More, and gives advice about wine tastings, buying, pairings, history, and more.

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PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG ADULTS Learn more at ppld.org/teens

Learn more about young adult services at PPLD! Visit ppld.org/teens.

Teen Advisory Board

Take and Makes

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. ppld.org/teens/volunteer

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

Dungeons & Dragons Play D&D with other teens, led by volunteer Dungeon Masters. No experience is required.

Fandom We love geeks! Check out our Fandom programs. tinyurl.com/PPLDVirtualFandom Sankt Milo Painting September

Axolotl Shrinky Dink or Plush October

Ms. Marvel Drawing

Booktasting September

Nimona Program October

This program will involve the All Pikes Peak Reads' young adult title, Nimona.

Learn to Draw!

November

Teens Make

The Princeton Review presents: Get Into Your Dream School Planning for college is fun and exciting. The Princeton Review can tell you everything you need to know about the college admission process and finding the school of your dreams.

Attend this session to gain valuable insights and dispel common myths. We will discuss how to choose the school that is the best fit for you, and how to get into your top-choice schools.

September

Paper Flowers October

Pom Pom Tassle Garland November

Teens Read

Get your snack on with Teens Eat programs! tinyurl.com/PPLDVirtualTeensEat

Get recommendations from Young Adult Services staff!

Peanut Butter Bars

Banned Books Week Roundtable

Sciency-beverage

October

Learn more about the art of crafting poetry from the staff at Hear Here Poetry of Colorado Springs, then take the stage to read your own creations. Hear Here Poetry and Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission give guidance on how to put your thoughts into words and use your voice to make an impact on the world!

Yarn Balloon Art

Teens Eat

In the Heights Video

Word Warriors

Learn a new craft with Teens Make! tinyurl.com/PPLDVirtualTeensMake

November

September

Presenters

September October

Apple Pie Filling/Turnovers November

Own Voices Indigenous Novels November

Free Math Tutoring 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/MathTutor

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PROGRAMS FOR FAMILY & CHILDREN Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Family & Children's Services Live programs will be held in a variety of Library locations, off-site locations, and parks.

Please check the event listing for registration details.

Children's Performers Series Sound Ideas from Around the World S a t . , S e p t . 1 1 • 2 p. m .

Have you ever heard of a didgeridoo?

Experience a world of music with Michael Stanwood in this unique, interactive, live, and often hilarious program about musical instruments from around the globe. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on, and join us at George Fellows Park behind East Library.

For all ages. No registration necessary.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration S a t . , O c t . 2 • 2 - 4 p. m .

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month live with Family & Children's Services!

Zumba for Kids S a t . , O c t . 9 • 2 p. m .

Enjoy a live Zumba session with instructor, Natilia Sibert. This is a fun way to get some exercise for the whole family! One registration needed per family.

Halloween Hullabaloo S a t . , O c t . 2 3 • 3 p. m .

Join us live and wear your favorite costumes and meet local children's authors, Diane Curtis Regan and Nancy Bently, who will read their Halloween picture books. Silly Halloween songs and activities will add to the festivities.

One registration needed per person. (subject to change) For ages 3 - 12.

Take and Makes Fridays • All library locations

Take and Make supplies and project instructions for each Tween Twist, STEM, and KidsMAKE program will be offered at all Library locations every Friday! Take and Make kits are first come, first served.

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Learn more about all family and children's services at PPLD! Visit ppld.org/kids.

Yoga Classes

Storytime

Baby and Me Yoga

Learn more at ppld.org/storytime

Sat., Oct. 9 • 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.

S a t . , N o v. 1 3 • 1 0 : 1 5 - 1 0 : 4 5 a . m .

Come and enjoy live yoga again! This gentle class is taught by a licensed yoga instructor for caregivers and the infants they love (4 weeks to crawling). Special attention focused on baby bonding and postpartum moms. Check with your health care provider to be sure you and baby are ready for a program. You will need a mat/beach towel and a baby blanket. Only one registration needed per family.

Family Yoga

Get your Storytime! Virtual, outdoor, indoor, or drivein, we have a storytime option to suit your family's needs. Even get storytime materials to perform at home!

Baby Time Wa t c h v i r t u a l l y a t t i n y u r l . c o m / PPLDBabyTime

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.

Sat., Oct. 9 • 11 - 11:30 a.m.

S a t . , N o v. 1 3 • 1 1 - 1 1 : 3 0 a . m .

Toddler Time

Come and enjoy live yoga again! Spend time with your children (crawling to age 12) exploring movement, breathing, and mindfulness in a playful and engaging class taught by a licensed yoga instructor. We will flow through some traditional yoga postures focusing on strength, balance, and fun. Check with your health care provider that all participants are ready for a yoga program. Bring a mat/beach towel for each participant. Only one registration needed per family.

Wa t c h n o w t i n y u r l . c o m / P P L D V i r t u a l To d d l e r T i m e

One- and two-year old children, with a favorite adult, participate in nursery rhymes, music and movement, and listen to a few short books. Toddler Time builds on familiar experiences to introduce new vocabulary and word sounds in a lively atmosphere. This program lasts approximately 20-25 minutes.

Octopus Dance Party Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Come dance under the sea with us! Twirl, jump, and jam out with family and friends as we celebrate our underwater friends - you might even see an octopus!

Costumes encouraged.

Homeschool Learn more in the September calendar!

Raising littles or expecting?

Join us this September for our month-long Bumps 'n Babies Fair. Learn more on page 18.

Homeschool Science: Rocket Academy

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

Do you dream of traveling to the stars? Join us for Rocket Academy and learn all about space, rockets, and what it takes to be an astronaut. After completing our fun, interactive "training" program, you'll create and launch a rocket of your own!

Simple Hand Sewing

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

For more information about Bumps ‘n Babies visit ppld.org/babies-fair.

In this program developed with Creative Services, kids learn a bit about sewing and quilting and try their hand at their own sewing project. For ages 7+.

Homeschool Into the Vault: Discover the Gold Rush

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

DINOvember: Dinosaurs!

Is your family interested in learning more about local history? Join other homeschool families and Special Collections staff to explore PPLD’s resources and learn more about this important 19th-century period.

For ages 7+.

Learn more in the November calendar!

Homeschool Science: Zoomobile!

Stomp, roar, chomp, and shake your tails with us all November long with DINOvember! Learn more on page 22.

Tween Virtual Dungeons & Dragons Club Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Play D&D with other tweens, led by our very own Dragon Master Alli!

New members are always welcome, and no experience is required. For ages 9 - 12. A Zoom link will be emailed to registrants close to the program date.

Prenatal Series Learn more at ppld.org/Prenatal-Series

Are you expecting and have so many questions?

Join PPLD and Nurse Family Partnership for a series of prenatal classes. Classes are every Wednesday from Oct. 6 - Nov. 10 at noon. Each week we will explore a different topic and have a Q&A session. Each session attended earns you an entry for a prize to be given away following the last session. You can earn up to six entries!

Music & Movement

Parenting Little Ones Q&A

Learn more at ppld.org/kids

T h u r s d a y s , O c t . 7 - N o v. 1 1 • 7 : 3 0 p . m .

Shake those wiggles out and have some fun! This 30-minute program consists of music and movement activities and a story. For two and three-year-old children, with a favorite adult.

Have questions about parenting little ones? PPLD's Family Place Libraries are hosting a six-week series on Zoom where caregivers can ask questions of community professionals in the fields of child development, nutrition, speech/language, and more! Participants from El Paso County, CO are entered into weekly gift card drawings as well as a six-month KiwiCo Crate subscription grand prize!

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

Learning is a memorable experience when you can visit with animals from around the world. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo staff will teach about the important role animals play on our planet. Get up-close and become a champion for wildlife and wild places.

Cerealism: Out-Of-The-Box Art

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

Create Pop Art like a pro! Join us in the creative process of turning a cereal box/cardboard brand packaging into a clever work of art. You'll be inspired

by Pop Artist Michael Albert’s colorful, iconic masterpieces, then use the same kinds of materials he uses to create a unique collage with color and text. For ages 7+.

Giving Thanks

Learn more at ppld.org/homeschool-hub

Explore a variety of cultural practices centered around giving thanks and discover some ideas to create new traditions in your own family. For ages 6+.

LENA Start Learn more at ppld.org/LENAStart T u e s d a y s , S e p t . 1 4 - N o v. 1 6 • n o o n T h u r s d a y s , S e p t . 1 6 - N o v. 1 8 • 6 : 3 0 p . m .

LENA Start is a 10-week program where parents learn how to increase conversational turns with their babies and toddlers. Pre-registration is required.

View all events at ppld.librarymarket.com

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Watch a presentation from librarians SarahEllen and Alanna.

They also give tips on how to share books and toys to get your baby off to the best start in life!

Want to know about some awesome books and toys you can use with your baby?

Big Siblings Zoom Program Do you have questions about how to care for your baby, how they will grow and change, or how to prepare siblings graduating to “Big” Sister or Brother status? Ask our local community experts in this Zoom program!

Free board book for babies Visit your local PPLD location beginning Wed., Sep. 1 to pick up a free board book for babies ages 0 - 12 months while supplies last.

Join us for a virtual Zoom meet ‘n greet with a variety of local organizations, classes, and groups.

Are you looking for some fun activities to help your baby learn and grow?

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BUMPS ‘N BABIES RESOURCE FAIR AT PPLD.ORG/BABIES-FAIR

Join us each Wednesday in September to learn how you can make a simple educational toy for your baby using items you have around the house.

SEPTEMBER

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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

19

App store and Play store download: ppld.org/App 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!

The Regional History collection includes books, maps, manuscripts and archives, photographs, oral histories, films and videos, government documents, pamphlets, periodicals, and other materials related to the history of the Pikes Peak region.

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

Track your holds, view account information, and more

Dig into local history with PPLD

Explore the world of making this October with All Pikes Peak Makes! A maker is someone who creates–from solving problems to having fun. Making can encompass just about anything, high tech or low tech, art or fabrication. Join us Oct. 11 - 24 as we celebrate making in the Pikes Peak region.

Find more details at ppld.org/appm

All Pikes Peak Makes

WHETHER YOU’RE NEW TO THE ARTS OR A MASTER, COME JOIN US! PPLD.ORG/ARTSMONTH

October is Arts Month. PPLD is celebrating with programs and take and make kits that will help you indulge your inner artist.

OCTOBER

20

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

21

the arts or a master, come join us!

will help you indulge your innter artist. Whether you’re new to

PPLD is celebrating with programs and Take and Make kits that

Learn more at ppld.org/artsmonth

October Is Arts Month

and art tools. Reservations are recommended for makerspace equipment.

engraving and cutting machines, sewing machines, and assorted handicraft

bring your creative vision to life. Equipment includes 3D printers, laser

PPLD’s makerspaces offer access to tools, materials, and machines to help

ppld.org/create/makerspaces

Find out what’s available and plan your project at

Makerspaces are Open

Make a habitat for a tiny dinosaur and decorate it with all kinds of fun supplies! Name your little dino and make sure to read it your favorite stories! For ages 5 - 12.

discover the pre-historic steps of the gentle giants, primeval

predators and leaping lizards that once stalked the earth.

Fascinating dino-facts are revealed as erupting volcanoes, catchy

tunes, and life-like puppets make this colossal creation come to life!

Presented by the Center for Puppetry Arts.

Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Learn more at ppld.org/kids

ROAR! Do you want to be a dinosaur? Go back in time and

animals and bring your camera!

ago. Touch the claws, skulls, and teeth of these marvelous

around during the Cretaceous period about 65 million years

dinosaurs, flying reptiles, and marine reptiles that were

Join the Dinosaur Resource Center and learn about

Dinosaur Resource Center DINOrama Take and Make

Virtual Puppet Show: Dinosaurs

LEARN MORE ABOUT DINOVEMBER AT PPLD.ORG/KIDS

Where’s Dino? Find the dinosaur hiding at a PPLD library each week and collect a sticker!

NOVEMBER

22

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

23

sticker! One sticker per week, per child.

locations each week. Find it and go to the circulation desk for a

A dinosaur will be displayed in a different place inside PPLD

Learn more at ppld.org/kids

Where’s Dino?

can check out, but some you can keep forever!

eAudios, eComics, eMagazines, eMusic, and eVideos. Most you

PPLD’s eLibrary house all of our eMaterials: eBooks,

ppld.org/eLibrary

Done with prehistoric times?

Check out our eLibrary

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 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

Pikes Peak Library District Discovery Fall 2021 / Volume 3, Issue 4 Executive and Managing Editor Michelle Ray Graphic Designer Nicole Enger Contributors Denise Abbott Kirsten Akens Brenna Hemphill David Kelly James Krebs Colleen Lark Michelle Ray 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

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

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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.