“The Heart” and “the Lifeblood of this Community”

A stunning line of jagged peaks comes into view during the drive west across Custer County towards Westcliffe, Colorado. Once you reach the main street of this town brimming with mountain charm, the public library can be found tucked between a shop selling furniture, gifts, and antiques, and a gallery. Amy Bahlenhorst, Research Analyst for Library Research Service, and I had the pleasure of visiting West Custer County Library District and speaking with patrons, partners, and staff of this library. Throughout conversations with seven people, we heard over and over again how the library is adapting to meet community needs and how library staff go out of their way to provide personalized service to patrons. This library visit was filled with inspiration, energy, and insight into how a library can be a cornerstone to those it serves, all of which I hope to share through the stories below…

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