PCCLD launches $2 million capital campaign for library renovations

(PUEBLO, Colo.) — The Pueblo City-County Library District (PCCLD) and Pueblo Library Foundation have launched a $2 million capital campaign to fund renovations for two of the district’s branch libraries.

The Building Together Capital Campaign will fundraise for the expansion and renovation of the Barkman and Patrick A. Lucero libraries.

“This is the beginning of a transformative chapter for our community as we launch the Building Community Together campaign to renovate and expand the Barkman and Patrick A Lucero Libraries,” said Nick Potter, PCCLD’s Executive Director of Library Foundation and Strategic Initiatives. “This project is about more than just buildings; it’s about ensuring everyone in Pueblo has access to the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Join us in creating a library that reflects the spirit and aspirations of our community.”

Both libraries will undergo improvements to enhance each location’s capacity to grow its services to meet the ever-changing needs of Pueblo’s children, teens, families, and adults.

Renovation costs are more than $8.9 million; the price tag includes design, construction, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Most improvements will focus on refurbishing, and expanding the interior of the buildings with some exterior site work. Currently, more than $525,000 has been raised through a combination of public and private funding.

The Barkman Library will receive an improved interior and exterior while adding an additional 2,463 square feet onto the building. Opened more than 30 years ago, Barkman has served the Belmont neighborhood and northern Pueblo for decades.

“It is the goal that through the renovation of both Barkman and Lucero Libraries that patrons will have access to improved and expanded libraries. Through improved facilities, library programs, and a great selection of print and digital books, we aim to ensure that there is something for everyone at Pueblo’s libraries. We are committed to continually improving library services and facilities in our community,” Executive Director Sherri Baca said.

Lucero Library has served over 1.6 million visitors during the past 11 years, is heavily used by the community, and has quickly outgrown its footprint. Renovation plans include expanding the public meeting room, improving the front entrance, a new children’s discovery area, marker space, and a visual creative studio in addition to a refreshed book collection and larger spaces for children and teens.

Lucero Library will close to the public on Saturday, Aug. 3 in preparation for work to begin, with construction expected to be completed in 2025. The public is encouraged to visit other PCCLD locations including:

• Tom L. and Anna Marie Giodone Branch Library, 24655 U.S Highway 59 E.
• Greenhorn Valley Branch Library, 4801 Cibola Drive, Colorado City
• Lamb Branch Library, 2525 S. Pueblo Blvd.
• Library at the Y, 3200 E. Spaulding Ave.
• Pueblo West Branch Library, 298 S. Joe Martinez Blvd, Pueblo West
• Robert Hoag Rawlings Public Library, 100 E. Abriendo Ave.

Barkman Library is expected to wrap up at the beginning of September. A ribbon cutting is set on Sept. 10 at Barkman Library — located at 1300 Jerry Murphy Road — to celebrate the opening with a week full of festivities.

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