Library staff are deep into planning to minimize disruption to programs and patrons as construction is set to begin Monday, August 4 on the first phase of your library’s long-awaited expansion. Digging up the current parking lot will be the first step, signaling the start of the project.
Initial construction involves creating a new entrance to the library on the west side of the building facing the elementary school. The new addition will feature a large program room that can accommodate 100 people or be divided in two for smaller groups, as well as a children’s room and an adjacent children’s garden.
Eagerly awaited improvements like these will happen only with some temporary dislocation to library operations as construction proceeds, according to Barb Brattin, library director. “But the good news is that we are staying in the building during construction,” she said.
The circulation desk will remain in place with your dedicated, knowledgeable staff there to help you, but you’ll enter the building by a different route. Parking moves to a new lot west of the library, on property donated by Margaret and Jim Wilson, which you’ll enter off Highway 160.
You’ll have the same copy, fax and print services available, but fewer computers and no meeting rooms during construction. Children’s programs will move temporarily to the Turner Reading Room, and the Hershey and Chimney Rock Collections will go into storage to make this happen. Inside bathrooms cannot be accessed so porta-potties will have to do.
Barb pointed out that she and her team are still looking for a space elsewhere in the community to temporarily house programs like after-school tutoring, adult crafts and book clubs.
“We’re determined to keep disruptions to a minimum as construction proceeds over the next two years,” Barb said. “We’re excited because we know the end result will make the temporary interruptions more than worthwhile as the new building will provide so many of the facilities our patrons have requested for a very long time.”
Barb pointed out that the expansion is totally paid for by private donations and grants — not taxpayer money — that has raised $4.2 million. As an example, she cited a $840,000 grant from DOLA, the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Fundraising continues for upgrades to the existing building.
“All of us on staff are already dreaming of the new and improved programs and services we’ll be able to offer when the construction is complete,” she said.
Last chance to donate books
To prepare for the forthcoming Friends of the Library book sale July 17-19, the Friends are hosting a book drive next Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the library parking lot where they will accept gently used books – and you’ll get a coupon for a free book at the summer book sale. Please note that damaged books will not be accepted.
This is the last chance you have to donate books to your library for the next 12 months because of our expansion construction. In anticipation, we are clearing out as much as we can so we can stay in the building during the construction.
Here are the guidelines for your donations:
Books on time-sensitive topics that can quickly become out of date are wanted only if they have been published within the last five years. These subjects include politics/current events, health and medicine, sports/exercise, business, technology, science, education and travel guides. Not accepted are reference materials, textbooks and non-print material like CDs, DVDs, Blu Ray, VHS or cassette tapes because they do not sell at the Friends sales.
Summer book sale plans
Mark your calendar for the hugely popular Friends of the Library book sale in July at the Community Methodist Church located downtown at 434 Lewis Street when you can take advantage of great bargains on books of all genres for all ages while helping the Friends raise money for your library.
Thursday, July 17 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. is the members-only early shopping opportunity – and if you are not a member you’re welcome to join at the door. Annual memberships are $15 per person or $25 per family. Lifetime memberships are $150 per person.
Friday, July 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday, July 19 from 9 a.m. to noon the book sale is open to the public.
Holiday closure
Your library is closed today, Thursday, June 19 for Juneteenth, a federal holiday celebrated to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States.
Friday arts and crafts
Every Friday through August 1 we are hosting special free all-ages events from 1 – 2:30 p.m. with experts leading sessions on different arts and crafts skills.
June 20 showcases photographer Mark Langford helping us explore life through a lens. June 27 features Jesse Krebs, survivalist and “Alone” star, teaching us to make a survival bracelet. All materials will be provided.
Paws to Read tomorrow
Friday, June 20 from 2-3 p.m., youngsters are invited to share their favorite books with Maple, a therapy dog who loves stories, at a free Paws to Read session.
Online author talks
Our highly popular free online author talks with New York Times bestselling authors continue in June with one more talk for you to watch live on Zoom or via a recording later this month. For details and to register go to https://libraryc.org/pagosalibrary/upcoming. Thursday, June 24 at 2 p.m. features Katherine Applegate on “Living the Otter Life,” a children’s book in verse for third-sixth grades.
Family storytime
Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. join a free educational hour of reading, singing and free play to build early literacy skills.
Writers Guild
Thursdays from 9-11 a.m. the Ruby’s Writers Guild welcomes writers looking for opportunities, support, resources and camaraderie with other writers at this free gathering.
Tech Time
Free in-person slots are available from 2-4 p.m. on Thursdays. Taylor helps with basic questions relating to computers, smartphones and tablets and also provides assistance in accessing the library’s online resources. No appointment is needed, but please bring your device’s charger and passwords with you. Note no Tech Time today, June 19 because of the holiday.
ESL classes
Free in-person evening classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with 4-5 p.m. reserved for beginners, 5-6 p.m. for intermediate and 6-7 p.m. for advanced students. Please help us pass the word about these classes. Note no ESL class today, June 19 because of the holiday.
How-to and self-help
“ChatGPT,” “Cybersecurity” and “Creating a Business Plan” are For Dummies guides. “Starting & Building a Nonprofit” is a Nolo guide. “Tree Houses Within Reach” by Derek Diedricksen teaches you how to build 30 cabins, playhouses and getaways. “Social Media Marketing for Your Business/second edition” by Carol L. Morgan shows how to build on your website and brand. “How to Design a Garden” by Pollyanna Wilkinson is a step-by-step guide.
Other nonfiction
“Smithsonian Plants & Fungi” is an illustrated guide to more than 1,000 different species. “Rockhounding Colorado” helps you find, collect and prepare the state’s gems and minerals. “How Economics Works” is a DK is a simple, visual guide.
DVDs
“Miss Austen” is the PBS Masterpiece drama. “The Outfit” is the thriller starring Mark Tylance. “Green and Gold” tells of a dairy farmer and his family trying to save their farm. “Companion” is a sci-fi dark comedy. “Agatha Raisin” is a murder mystery set in a small Cotswolds village. “Disney Aladdin” is a two-movie set.
Novels
“Passions in Death” by J. D. Hobb features homicide Det. Eve Dallas. “Slow Dance” by Rainbow Rowell follows two friends who meet again after 14 years of being apart.
Quotable Quote
“If you dream it, you can do it.” – Coco Gauff after winning the French Open women’s tennis tournament on June 7, 2025. This was her second career Grand Slam singles title and a come-from-behind triumph three years after playing her first final on this court in Paris.
Website
For more information on library books, services and programs – and to reserve books, e-books, books on CD and DVDs from the comfort of your home – please visit our website at https://pagosalibrary.org