Some Pikes Peak libraries might be forced to close

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Pikes Peak Library District is planning for the future but is in need of more taxpayer money to meet budget expectations. In a preliminary report, the Pikes Peak Library District outlined that if it didn’t get the funding, it had a few options—and one of them included closing two libraries.

“We love the library; it’s been something that we have been going to every week for years,” said Heather Hill, a frequent visitor at Library 21C. “I think it adds a lot to our community and adds a lot to our family and our home life. So, it’s something that I hope they’re able to continue as a service.”

The preliminary report showed that the Library District could close two locations unless additional funding from taxpayers is secured.

Hill, a local mom of three, said it would be a loss for the community.

“I think one of the things that’s so amazing about our library system is how big it is and how many resources they have,” she said. “So having to cut back on that would be a sad thing for our community.”

Without help from taxpayers, the report recommends closing the Rockrimmon and Ruth Holley libraries as possible things to consider.

“Those are two of our leased facilities. We don’t own those locations, we rent them, and that’s part of that discussion,” said Tamy Sayles, Chief of Public Services Officer for the Pikes Peak Library District.

Luckily, the doors haven’t closed yet.

“We haven’t asked for anything yet, but in that option, they presented that; if we had more dollars, these are some things we could do with those dollars,” added Sayles.

Three action plans were recommended, each with different but possible scenarios.

“Also, expanding some of our undersized locations and remodeling the east location are some additional options,” she said.

Other options included adding a new location off Powers Boulevard.

“Our population for the library district service area has grown exponentially out toward the east side,” Sayles said. “So, it included shifting a leased location to maybe an owned, or lease-to-own option somewhere in that Powers corridor. Our Monument branch is also a leased location, but also significantly undersized for the population that’s up there.”

A ballot initiative to use taxpayer money has also been considered.

This would mean that instead of $134 a year, the average household in El Paso County would pay either $161—(which is what Pueblo County pays)—or the state average of $195 each year.

“With a significant increase bringing us up to what the state average per capita is, we could consider not only some of those things but also expanding some of our undersized locations,” added Sayles.

A final report is expected in the next few months, but until then, library lovers like Heather Hill will hope this story has a happy ending.

“A picture book is like an art gallery that you can look at, because when the illustrations are really well done, then you have this beautiful artwork to share with your child,” she said.

The next board of trustees meeting will be on July 17 at 5 p.m. The Library District is hoping to have a solution in the next few months. Until then, they said they are committed to doing whatever best fits the needs of the community.

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