Courtesy Photos below
On Saturday October 5th, the Gila Valley Library hosted an anniversary celebration commemorating 20 years, almost to the day, of becoming an accredited library in the small community of Gila, NM. The event looked back at this local landmark’s humble beginnings in cardboard boxes in a community center closet, evolving over the years to eventually working its way into a building rented from Hidalgo Medical Services for one dollar a year.
Highlights throughout the day’s celebration included a performance by the Cliff High School cheerleaders, music by local group No Shame and several resident artisans. A speech was given by Chair Emeritus April Crosby on the 20-year history of the library and many attendees enjoyed a tour of the library’s well established pollinator garden given by the garden’s curator Monica Rude. Lunch was provided by the Gila Valley Deli with additional sides and dishes provided by local families.
The Library is run by an Executive Director, a volunteer Board of Directors and many dedicated volunteers. With the newly hired Director Esti Gutierrez, this group is excited to start a “new chapter .“ While they have always prioritized children’s programming they look forward to what Ms Gutierrez will bring to the library with her STEAM programming experience. The GVL has also recently launched a 15-month calendar featuring local artists and GVL library-logoed t-shirts. Both items are available for sale at the library which is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 4 and Saturday from 10 to 2.
The GVL invites you to come by and enjoy our great selection of books including a robust southwest selection and the enchanting children’s room. Currently featured in the children’s room is an extensive collection of Cliff School yearbooks dating back to 1939. Patrons can also enjoy free high speed internet, computer services and access to a printer. There is a free seed exchange program, which is the largest collection in the county.
The next time you’re in Gila, NM look for this amazing little library between the post office and HMS.
Submitted by Alida Burchett, GVL Board President
To pause the slide show, mouse over the image.
