Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is a nationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of 669,874 in El Paso County, Colorado. With fifteen facilities, online resources, and mobile library service, PPLD responds to the unique needs of individual neighborhoods and the community at large.
PPLD has an employee base of around 460 full- and part-time staff, and utilizes roughly 2,000 volunteers. It strives to reach all members of the community, providing free and equitable access to information and an avenue for personal and community enrichment.
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 the citizens of El Paso County voted to establish a special taxing district and PPLD was formed. The District serves all of El Paso County except Widefield School District 3.