Rotarians Meg (the Library Director) and Cindy (the Development and Community Relations Manager) gave us the low-down on the seemingly endless variety of services provided to the Community by our magnificent Library (the little Library that could).
Meg summarized: “We have something for everyone,” illustrating her proposition by mentioning the outdoors backpacks the Library has available on a first come, first serve basis, containing state park passes and outdoor gear.
Distributed to further illustrate the proposition was the Library’s Adult Schedule of Activities for the month of June. (Meg and Cindy pointed out that he Library also has monthly calendars of activities for children and teens, but they didn’t bring copies because of the demographics of our particular group. Wait a minute . . . did they call us OLD?) The Adult Calendar alone well made their point, as it included at least 24 individual entries sprinkled liberally through most weekdays during the month, ranging from classes on computers, to Spanish, to fly fishing, to adult education, and other activities ranging from a free Legal Clinic, to book clubs, to a music club.
All of the Library’s activities for the different age groups, Meg advised, are fully included in the Community Calendar published weekly in the Pagosa Springs Sun. (The Community Calendar typically lists activities and events at least three weeks in advance. It is printed in the tabloid section of the Sun, that is included in the paper for sale, but is also circulated throughout the community by mail, free of charge.) Activities are also described during twice-weekly spots on KWUF radio.
The Library’s activities are also listed in its website, https://pagosalibrary.org/ The website is a treasure trove of information about the Library and its works. But it also offers free downloads of books, audio books, magazines and movies. It is well worth a visit. Cindy pointed out too that the website provides access to resources covering 33 topics, ranging from issues affecting business, to small engine repair, to language study (more than 100 languages, she added).
The website includes also a catalogue of the Library’s books, and Meg emphasized that among all its other services, the Library does indeed lend books. She added that there is a professional staff that can help with patrons’ inquiries and searches. And, she pointed out that there is now a book drop strategically located near the entrance of City Market for the convenience of borrowers. The book drop doubles as a video drop (yes, the Library loans videos, too.)
Another convenience to readers is the newly innovated “Book Barn” bookshelves stocked with reading materials in community businesses and gathering points. Just borrow, and return when done to any of the Book Barns, Meg said.
Cindy reported that the Library has adopted a Vision Statement: “Mountains of Opportunity to Inspire Ideas, Enrich Lives, and Create Community.” To help with fundraising to pursue the vision, a Library Foundation is being formed. Cindy solicited volunteers to become foundation board members.
In addition, like many local institutions, the Library makes good use of volunteers. All interested community members are welcome to volunteer time, Meg said: “Just give us a call!”