By Amy Gillentine

• “I worked full-time and had occasionally enjoyed checking out books with my kids — staff was always pleasant and available, but I never thought much of it.

“I had to retire from work due to a disability and fill my time with the full scope of the library. What an amazing discovery! The library has classes of all types, book clubs, zoom lectures, author talks, computer availability, online databases, and of course, books in all formats. I thought retirement would close my world, but the library opened it right back up, and then some! Thank you for the invaluable addition to my life!”

• “I was shown how to fill out a resume and got my first job in a long time. I couldn’t have done it without the library. If you want to better yourself, succeed in life, and want true, sincere help, give the library staff a chance. They helped me.”

• “I work for El Paso County DHS [Department of Human Services], and I send the Helping Hands Packet out to clients on a daily basis. It is an AMAZING resource for help of all kinds that I was unaware of until I started working here. PLEASE continue to research and update these lifesaving/life-changing services for our community. Thank you SO much!”

• “The Strategic Services Librarians’ dedication and selfless commitment have made a lasting difference in my entrepreneurial journey. As a newcomer to Colorado Springs, I was amazed not only by the wealth of business resources available through Pikes Peak Library District, but also by how they brought them to life.

“They consistently go above and beyond, often initiating follow-ups, sharing relevant training, and providing tailored guidance. Their efforts have been instrumental in helping establish my business here. I am truly grateful for the impact they have made and for the Library’s invaluable role in supporting local entrepreneurs.”

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During April, we celebrate all the ways the library impacts our lives – from the small ways, like a painting class or Storytime to the big ways, like providing pregnancy classes and early literacy help, job training, resume help, entrepreneurial assistance, and more.

For many, the library serves as a third space gathering spot for Mahjong games at Library 21c, Dungeons and Dragons at East Library, Tween role-playing games or play groups for children at many of our branches.

For adults, it can be a place to gain a GED, to learn English as a second language, to find marketing and other resources for local businesses. It’s a place to take the family for books, movies, and music, all available at no cost. For seniors, it’s a connection to the world and a way to meet people with similar hobbies. For aspiring podcasters, a free place to record. For those who want to create, it’s a free place to learn 3D and laser printing.

Visiting the library can – and does – change lives.

The stories above are just a few ways patrons have shared their experiences with Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD). During National Library Week, we invite you into the library to learn all the ways you belong – from books and historical resources to genealogy classes tailored for different groups, and from early literacy to homework help and math tutoring.

PPLD exists to serve El Paso County. And we do so in a numerous variety of ways every day. Librarians answer questions, find resources, and can help you access assistance from other agencies and organizations.

Next time you’re in the library – be sure to thank a staff member. Their dedication and knowledge are the foundations of PPLD. And if you haven’t visited in a while, stop by a local branch and learn more about our wi-fi services, classes and programs, and the books and resources we provide. You belong at the library!