We look back on 2019’s major milestones at the Estes Valley Library and preview plans for the new year.
Estes Valley Library: a Year to Celebrate, and a Year to Anticipate
by Claudine Perrault, Library Director
Around town, holiday decorations are wistfully packed away for the next season, yet wintertime still inspires us into a bright new year. 2019 recorded many milestones for the Library, which we’ll build upon in 2020 to serve you even better.
Case in point: the Library went Fine Free in 2019. Now more families are using the Library again. Here are additional highlights from key areas:
More in Store: The Library introduced new collections, like Lucky Day, where you can find popular bestsellers awaiting you on any given day. And the Library of Things continues to grow, with telescopes, critter cams, scrapbooking kits, and much more.
Infrastructure: Facility upgrades included restroom renovations and new signage to meet and/or exceed ADA standards. The Library website was updated with an ADA-friendly design and faster load times. And energy-efficient LED lighting was installed building-wide, saving the District (you the taxpayer) an estimated $33,000 over the next five years.
A Cliffhanger Debut: Instead of letting Used Book Sales fade from existence, the Library Friends & Foundation gave this fundraiser a permanent new home where book lovers can shop for bargains and donate gently-used materials. Thanks to volunteers, Cliffhanger Used Books is open every day, except a few major holidays.
What’s in store for 2020? More services to meet your needs and interests.
Programs to Inspire: Look for more of the great programs you enjoy: One Book One Valley in January, the Kindness Project this February, and another great Summer Reading Program for all ages. Makerspace programs will explore new applications through monthly Repair Clinics and Craft Jams.
Growing Collections: You’ll find all your favorites (that includes traditional print books and digital editions), plus new check-out items like Storytime Kits and Notebook Computers to use in the Library
Programs to Empower: We’ll build upon the Civic Engagement programs you’ve asked for, with the Library as a neutral place to discuss today’s hot topics, where the spirit of deliberative democracy fosters real-world solutions. Local teens can look forward to weekly Homeworker Helper sessions, plus opportunities to practice the SAT and Book-a-College-Planner. We’ll continue to serve the many English Language Learners ready and waiting to work one-on-one with volunteer tutors.
Searching Made Easier: This fall, the Library introduces a new software system on the leading edge of service and technology. You’ll enjoy easier browsing of the Library catalog, with new conveniences, including more integration with our popular Digital Collections. In time, it will be easier than ever for students to find Estes Valley Library materials from their school catalogs.
None of these advances would be possible without you–our caring community of Library supporters. We look forward to our shared journey with you into 2020, as we work together to continue strengthening our great community.