About Us
From a small reading room established 136 years ago, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of our sprawling and growing community.
Thanks to taxpayer funding, the Library cultivates spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities via 15 facilities, three mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources and services that are inclusive and welcoming to all. We strive to make our physical and digital spaces safe and respectful for diverse voices, perspectives, and pursuits; to foster community dialogue and connections; and to help people achieve their goals and dreams in life.
As a national leader and the second largest library system in Colorado, our Library District serves a population of about 750,000 residents across 2,070 square miles of El Paso County. Thanks to an employee base of more than 400 staff and nearly 350 volunteers, PPLD continues to be internationally recognized for its innovative and community-focused services and programs, its commitment to community collaboration, and excellent customer service.
VISION
Access to resources and opportunities leads to thriving people and connected communities.
MISSION
Cultivate spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities.
VALUES
- Access: We ensure all people feel safe to connect with services, resources, and experiences.
- Service: We remove barriers to provide access for all to pursue their interests, needs, and goals.
- Freedom: We ensure the right of community members to interact with and experience library services as they choose.
- Accountability: We responsibly steward resources with integrity and transparent practices.
- Creativity: We foster imagination and resolve problems in new ways.
- Community: We bring people together.
History & Background
The history of public libraries in the region began in October 1885 when the Colorado Springs Social Union established a library on the corner of Tejon and Cucharras Streets in downtown Colorado Springs. In 1905, a new library opened at 21 West Kiowa Street with funds donated by Andrew Carnegie and land granted by General William Jackson Palmer. In 1962, a majority of El Paso County citizens voted to establish a special taxing district and PPLD was formed. The town of Manitou Springs voted to join PPLD effective January 2013. Our Library District currently serves most of El Paso County, except Widefield School District 3. Learn more about the history of PPLD.
PPLD’s Board of Trustees consists of seven members from the community who govern the budget and set Library policy. The citizen volunteers are appointed jointly by the Colorado Springs City Council and El Paso County Commissioners for a maximum of two five-year terms.
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