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.
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.
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.
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.
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.