Old Colorado City Library Bridges Rich Past, Vibrant Future

By Jeremiah Walter

With its brick exterior and stately columns framing the front door, Old Colorado City Library has aged gracefully over the course of its nearly 120 years providing library service to its community. e rst library in Colorado City (before it was “Old”) was started by the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union in 1895 and soon named after Mrs. Lydia Woods when she donated $1,000 for the collection. In 1903, it became the Woods Free Library and eliminated membership fees.

In January 1903, the Colorado City Chamber of Commerce learned that industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie would donate $10,000 to build a new library if the city provided land and $1,000 a year for operating expenses. It proved to be an investment that is still showing dividends well over a century later.

On Dec. 7, 1904, the new library, designed by architect George M. Bryson, opened its doors to the public. When Colorado City was annexed by Colorado Springs in 1917, the library and its collection were sold for a grand total of $1 to the Colorado Springs Public Library (a precursor to Pikes Peak Library District). In 1977, it changed names again and became the Old Colorado City Branch.

Over the years, the building has undergone several renovations, including in 1980, 1992, 2007, and most recently in 2021, when the original r wood oors were replaced. PPLD works closely with the State Historical Fund to ensure the building matches the original appearance as closely as possible.

Just because the building looks much as it did in 1904 does not mean that it’s stuck in the past.

“We get to enjoy both worlds,” explains Amber Cox, manager of Old Colorado City Library. “We’re modern and relevant but still have strong ties to our historic roots. Our building may have a traditional feel, but as part of Pikes Peak Library District, our patrons have access to just about everything they could possibly need to pursue their interests, needs, and goals.” e resources o ered by the library are as varied as its patrons: children's programs and books, DVDs, graphic novels, large-print books, and crafting programs are all popular, as well as tech resources such as the computer lab, WiFi, scanning, and wireless printing. ere is even a circulating board game collection featuring popular favorites like "Ticket to Ride," "Settlers of Catan," and "Dixit."

e history only enhances the experience of a visit to the library.

“Nothing compares to working in this space,” says Senior Associate David Rasmussen, who has worked in the building for 17 of his 21 years with PPLD. “Not only do you feel the spirits of all the authors and creators of works old and new on the shelves, but there’s a keen sense of history as generations come and go, all seeking knowledge and new understanding in the hope of a better world and more inclusive community.” ere may be other spirits lurking, as well.

“Old Colorado City Library has been rumored to have a ghost in the basement. roughout the years, the overnight cleaning crew have made comments about strange energy and shadows that lurk around the building at night,” reports Senior Associate Sarah Hoelting.

Do not let that dissuade you from using the meeting space in the basement.

“ e meeting room is under-used for private functions. It’s quiet, removed, and includes tech and other support. And the room has been ADA accessible since the 2007 renovation,” says Rasmussen.

e best resource available at Old Colorado City Library is its sta . As Cox explains, “ ey are fun, quirky, imaginative, hardworking, kind, thoughtful, and community-focused.” at emphasis on community is apparent when speaking with library sta .

“One of my favorite aspects of my job is partnering with our local community members. e library has remained an active supporter of its Westside neighbors, like the Westside Community Center, Westside Cares, the Old Colorado City History Museum, and the local businesses along Colorado Avenue,” says Hoelting. “Community matters deeply here,” says Cox. “Many of our patrons have lived in the area their entire lives, coming to this library as a child, and then bringing their own children and grandchildren in to introduce them to all that their local library has to o er. is lifetime support for many members of our community is a unique and important facet of Old Colorado City Library, made possible by our extensive length of service to this neighborhood.”

And so, 118 years after rst opening its doors, Old Colorado City Library honors its past, provides services relevant to the present, and keeps an eye on the future.

“We’ve watched our patrons’ kids grow up and seen seniors go from computer illiteracy to complaining that the internet is too slow,” says Rasmussen “It’s amazing to ponder what future times will be like, with so much astonishing history to look back on.”

In 1903, Andrew Carnegie donated $10,000 to build a new library. at is the equivalent of $338,650 today!