Writing the Next Chapter

Future Growth

Our History

Placitas Community Library began as a grassroots effort in response to a community need. Our mission is to provide and promote open and equal access to library resources and services in order to meet the informational, educational, technological and cultural needs of our diverse New Mexico community in a welcoming, convenient and responsive manner. The original library opened in a leased 1,200 square foot former garage in Placitas in March 2004. The Roswell and Los Alamos libraries donated furniture and books, and it was staffed by dedicated volunteers and a library cat. Even so, Placitas, New Mexico needed a permanent library. Land for a new building was purchased by Sandoval County in 2006. With federal, state and private grants and lots of fundraising by Placitas volunteers, the new library was built and opened in May 2009. A full-time library director and a part-time custodian are the library’s only paid employees. Ninety volunteers keep the library open and functioning. The library is now a hub of community activity, providing educational, social and cultural activities for residents.

A Vibrant Community Hub

Library Grounds

Placitas Community Library has a lovely native garden maintained by volunteers. Signs identify plants, and visitors enjoy walking trails and a meditative labyrinth. Exterior porticoes offer tables and chairs for meetings, socializing or having lunch with a view.

Technology Resources

Many local residents do not have access to computers or to the internet. The library offers both to all age groups, as well as training on how to use a computer. In the last year, the library upgraded to high speed internet. A majority of Placitas residents have only DSL available, so the library provides for faster research and downloading. You’ll often see people sitting on the front porch or in their cars after hours, taking advantage of the internet.

Activities for Adults

Monthly family game nights for fun and socializing
Monthly art exhibits and receptions
Presentations on community issues
Presentations on historical events
Presentations on topics such as Medicare and investing
Talks and readings by authors
How-to classes n Book clubs
Book and bake sales
Annual Star Party with the Albuquerque Astronomical Society
Space for adult education classes through P.A.C.E.*

Activities for Children

PCL offers children’s programs to inspire a love of reading, science, music and art, as well as opportunities to socialize. n Monthly Pre-K Story Hour n Summer Reading Program n Monthly Children’s Book Club n Computer programs for children n Annual Star Party with the Albuquerque Astronomical Society

Meeting Room

The most active room in the library is the Collin Meeting Room. Available at no charge for any community event or meeting, it is the location for most library activities. n 900 meetings and events are hosted annually n All art exhibits and receptions n Many children’s activities n P.A.C.E.* classes n Topic-specific education n Monthly Game Nights n Book clubs

Collin Meeting Room filled with people listening to presenter

By the Numbers: 2018

0
Adult Books Checked Out
0
Children's Books Checked Out
0
Educational Program Attendees
0
Art Reception Attendees

The Need for Expansion

Making Placitas a more vibrant, educational, cultural, and social community.

Currently, the Collin Meeting Room receives more requests for use than it can accommodate. The size of the room means that events are frequently overcrowded, and some participants are turned away. Larger Placitas community events are often precluded due to size constraints.

We also have identified a need for an intimate space for individuals to read or for small groups to gather. Separate computer space is needed as well as a separate space for children’s activities.

Improved facilities will encourage more social opportunities in the community, and expanded facilities will allow more collaboration with other nonprofits.

Currently, access to book stacks (shelves) is awkward and narrow. More space will enable better organization and greater accessibility.

Click here to view the latest Q&A from Huitt-Zollars.

Blueprint image of the library expansion plans

Help Write the Next Chapter

Fundraising and Recognition Opportunities

Our fundraising goal to cover the library expansion is $993,000,  and we are well on our way. We may receive some Sandoval County and State of New Mexico funding, but the remainder must come from private fundraising.

Make a Pledge

Placitas Community Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Make a gift through monthly, quarterly or annual payments by check, direct deposit or credit card. We will be happy to send you reminders of pledge payments as they become due.

Levels of Recognition

All donors will be recognized and invited to a celebration event when our goal is reached.

Giving Levels of Recognition Benefactor $150,000 and up Sponsor $50,000-$149,999 Patron $25,000-$49,999 Friend $12,500-$24,999 Supporter $3,000-$12,4999

Those that pledge $50,000 or more receive naming rights for the new rooms once the architectural plans are approved.

The Next Chapter Depends on You