Poudre Libraries spotlights outreach growth and expanded Southeast library plans in annual report

Poudre Libraries used its annual report to highlight a broader role in Fort Collins, from expanded digital collections and social-service partnerships to civic programming and a significantly larger library planned inside the Southeast Community Center. Library Director Diane LaPierre told City Council on May 19 that the district’s recent work has focused on creating opportunities and building connections while preparing for a new library space expected to open in 2028.

LaPierre said the library has grown beyond its traditional role as a place for books, pointing to programs that celebrate cultural heritage, the all-electric bookmobile Evie, outreach to Title I schools and the Larimer County Jail, and partnerships that connect patrons with help finding jobs, housing and mental health support. She said the district’s new strategic plan identifies four roles for the library: community catalyzer, social and cultural connector, equal access champion, and resource partner.

Among the examples she highlighted were Fort Collins’ first library-specific Pride event, which drew more than 400 people to Library Park, and a June 13 livestream partnership for the TED Democracy Live project with the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. LaPierre said Poudre Libraries is one of two libraries in Colorado and 65 nationwide selected to host the event, which she framed as part of the library’s work to support civic knowledge and civil dialogue.

LaPierre also pointed to youth-focused programming, including the Imaginantes summer program for teens and the Summer Adventure reading program, which drew more than 6,300 participants last year. This year’s theme is "Unearth a Story," with activities tied to dinosaurs and partnerships with the city’s Natural Areas department, she said. She also noted that the Old Town Library will mark its 50th anniversary in October.

A major part of the presentation focused on renderings for the library space planned within the Southeast Community Center. LaPierre said the new facility will be a major expansion from the current Council Tree Library, with full-service desks, an adult collection area, a dedicated teen space, multiple study pods and nine or 10 study and meeting rooms. The plans also include maker spaces and two large community meeting rooms. A groundbreaking is scheduled for June 10.

Council members responded with praise for the district’s programming and outreach. Councilmember Anne Nelsen said the breadth of cultural activities offered through the library "makes a huge difference in our community." Councilmember Julie Pignataro pointed to Evie’s school visits and said the mobile library is expanding both access and excitement around library services, while Councilmember Josh Fudge said it was encouraging to see the Southeast Community Center library move from a long-term idea toward construction.