Neighborhood libraries are vital community hubs that provide access to information, foster lifelong learning, and promote cultural engagement. They offer a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages. This month we sat down with Branch Supervisor of Eugene Field, Robin Filipczak to learn more.
Libraries have long been a cornerstone of education and access to information. How has Eugene Field evolved to meet the needs of the community?
Thanks for the opportunity to speak directly with our beloved Wash Park community! Our work starts with our mission: Together, we create welcoming spaces where all are free to explore and connect. But as you’ve alluded, how our customers explore and connect constantly evolves. While libraries lead from the heart, at the end of the day, we are a data-driven organization. By understanding the demographics of our neighborhood, we amplify the types of services and programming most engaging for our customers.
Older adults (50+) comprise a steadily growing demographic in the neighborhood: 30.4% of the population in 2010, 34.8% in 2022, with a projected 36.1% of the population in 2027. These folks are eager to embrace new experiences; they’re health conscious and find time to exercise and seek out engaging cultural offerings. Much of the nutrient-dense programming we provide caters to these folks. As of March, we are excited to offer weekly drop-in technology help, bimonthly one-on-one technology appointments, and a monthly tech program.
Our youngest customers comprise 5.1% of the neighborhood (with a projected 5.8% by 2027); this tracks quite similarly with the rest of the City (5.5%). Wash Park residents are ardent library supporters and take advantage of our storytimes, family yoga, and arts and crafts programs. While these programs are based in fun, a lot of intentional planning and brain science goes into our planning. Library programs help children learn to express themselves creatively, use their senses to try new things and make predictions, be creative and flexible, and engage their imagination in pretend scenarios.
With the rise of digital media and AI, how does the library continue to stay relevant and provide value to residents of all ages?
Libraries are becoming more than just places to borrow books; they act as community hubs for learning and skill-building. Denver Public Library licenses content from media and streaming services and educational platforms like Udemy (technology learning), the New York Times Online, Kanopy (streaming video), Libby (eBooks, audio eBooks, and digital magazines), and Craftsy (online resource for creative makers) providing residents access to premium content that might otherwise be unavailable. This helps bridge the digital divide by offering free, reliable resources to those who may not have access to them otherwise.
Libraries are often seen as equalizers, providing access to knowledge regardless of economic background. What are the most impactful programs Eugene Field offers to promote social equity?
In an age where many people lack access to subscription resources or internet tools, libraries ensure that individuals can access reliable content, computers, and free printing, regardless of their background. Folks who need a computer or internet at home can check out a Chromebook, a wifi hotspot, or both for three months. We’ve been able to waive overdue fines for late returns, ensuring a library fine does not become a permanent access barrier for a customer. Our Community Resources team visits weekly to provide resources to customers experiencing hard times.
In an era where misinformation spreads easily, how does the library ensure that the community has access to reliable, fact-based information?
We carefully curate trusted resources from reputable, verified, and peer-reviewed sources. We provide expert guidance; library staff are trained to help patrons find credible information. They assist people in navigating the vast amount of information available, guiding them toward reliable sources and offering expert advice on where to find accurate data on various topics. We are neutral and unbiased. We’re not driven by profit motives or political agendas, which helps ensure that the information we provide is impartial and fact-based.
Beyond books, what are some of the lesser-known resources or services that the library provides to support the community?
The library’s collection includes everything from home delivery services to circulating Wi-Fi hot spots, sewing machines, and museum passes—all free to our customers. Visiting one of our makerspaces provides you with access to unique technology assets like laser cutters and 3D printers, whether you’re prototyping the next big innovation in your industry or experimenting with printing your own dinosaur figurines, you’re encouraged to create. Come for the latest bestseller and leave with free digital access to New York Times Digital! Entrepreneurs can meet one-on-one with a specialized librarian to gather quantitative data to write their business plan. I always say, “Spend five minutes telling me what animates you in life, and I’ll find a library resource you should take advantage of.” Follow our newsletters that showcase the depth of our services and resources: www.denverlibrary.org/newsletters
Libraries serve as gathering spaces for diverse groups of people. How does Eugene Field foster a sense of inclusivity and belonging?
Library spaces are activated through the imagination and needs of our customers; whether that be by connecting with others, using a private study room to work remotely, escaping the elements, or just stopping by to pick up materials—we want you to see yourself here. Our kind, adaptable staff are skilled in welcoming all, helping people use our resources, providing meaningful experiences, and facilitating connections. There’s not a week that goes by that a neighbor doesn’t reach out to me to let me know how my staff has delighted them with outstanding customer service.
What role do libraries play in supporting literacy and lifelong learning, especially for underserved or marginalized populations?
We are evolving better to incorporate equity into all annual and long range planning. We aim to address systemic barriers, promote inclusion, and foster equitable access for staff and community members. We are committed to fostering an inclusive library experience by maintaining a diverse and relevant collection, prioritizing accessible technologies, designing spaces to meet diverse needs, and reviewing policies to address biases and ensure equity.
With budget constraints often impacting public services, what challenges does the library face, and how can the community help support its mission?
We are fortunate that Denver citizens show strong support for our mission. Denver voters passed measure 2i to support the library in November 2022, providing DPL with an additional $32 million a year through the new Denver Public Library Fund. This additional funding allows the library to more fully meet the community’s evolving needs. Funding has already supported reduced wait times for materials, expanded hours and upgrades of our facilities. We are in the design phase of the renovation of the Eugene Field Branch Library. I hope folks will attend our Renovation Information Session on March 15, 12-1:30 p.m., to engage with our design and provide community feedback.
Can you share a success story of how the library has positively impacted an individual or group in the community?
How about two?! We offer a monthly themed walk in Washington Park. A recent attendee had just lost her wife. I expressed my condolences, and she told me our programs were helping her make new connections.
Every once in a while, you are reminded that a book recommendation can be so much more than just sharing a title. One of our staff created a curated list of suggested reads, and we got back this response: “I’ve been struggling with addiction and have recently been trying to stay sober. As a kid, I loved reading…So now I’m trying to get back into it and see what other hobbies I can enjoy sober. This was the perfect resource for me to find books in my comfort zone that were new to me. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. It’s going to keep me busy and give me something to look forward to on the hard days.”
We would love to hear how the library has impacted you. Share your story with us at info@denverlibrary.org or stop by and ask for me. I am always happy to have a cup of tea and a chat with customers.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of libraries, and how do you see Eugene Field continuing to adapt and thrive?
We will strive to provide an attractive, multifunctional space that reflects the identity of our neighborhood. We will expand customers’ access to a variety of popular and historically underrepresented narratives in different formats and languages—and reduce wait times—by developing a collection of freely available materials. Neighbors will have access to new and existing technology in our collection, as well as the support they need to engage with it. We will continue to build intentional teams capable of high quality interactions with customers, helping them to identify and respond to your inquiries. Learn more in our recently released Strategic Plan: bit.ly/41mWODb