CARRIZOZO COMMUNITY LIBRARY AND ARCHIVE
written by: Aspen Coriz-Romero, NM Rural Library Initiative
Carrizozo - originating from a Spanish word, Carrizo, meaning "reed grass" - is a town in Lincoln County, NM.
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At the Carrizozo Community Library and Archive, a little yellow bus rolled to a stop and 13 preschoolers hopped out, giddy with excitement. Diane Dean, the director, warmly greeted everyone and ushered us inside, weekly BookNook was about to begin.
Inside, the kids settled on a rug while Deb, one of twelve library volunteers, pulled out the book “Barnyard Boogie” from her bag. She jumped into an animated read-aloud, with silly voices and sound effects that had the kids giggling. When the story concluded, the group transitioned into a coloring activity.
Beyond story time, the library layers hands-on learning into its programming. Dennis Bateman, a community member and local museum director, runs Wonder Lab, a monthly STEM series for classes pre-k through 5th grade. He shared some recent projects that included dinosaur skeletons constructed from packing peanuts, potato candles, and a physics demonstration that used toy balls to show how energy transfers. Programs like these turn abstract concepts into playful experiments kids can touch, test, and remember.
Cultural life and local history have visible homes in the library. Book signings by local authors bring readers and writers together, and an archive preserves materials that trace the town’s past and art scene. The library also maintains a dedicated Holocaust collection for study and remembrance.
One of the most surprising features is its “Library of Things”. 33 items that expand the idea of what a library loans– crochet tools; binoculars and birding guides; rock-hound backpacks; garden tools; three telescopes; even both DVD and VCR players. These resources lower barriers to learning a new hobby.
During the pandemic, the library quickly adapted to keep services running and patrons safe. Reading materials were available through curbside pick up, and story time continued to be held online.
The library is run entirely by volunteers who design programs, staff the front desk, manage the archive, and keep the doors open. Their commitment shapes every offering, and the library responds directly to what the community needs.
With growing programs, expanding collections, and steady support, this volunteer-powered hub is becoming a bolder, more resourceful center for learning and belonging.
