FORT SUMNER PUBLIC LIBRARY
written by: Aspen Coriz-Romero, NM Rural Library Initiative
Fort Sumner is a village located in De Baca County, NM.
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Melanie Ratliff opens the library each morning in the same town where she grew up. Now in her fourth year as director, she still remembers when the building was a video rental shop before its conversion into a library in 1994. Today, she leads a small but mighty team who pour energy and creativity into meeting patron needs.
Staff run an impressive array of programs that reach residents of every age. This summer’s reading program served 58 children. Participants earned “library bucks” for meeting reading goals, then used them to purchase prizes from the “library store” – an innovative way to teach budgeting and basic math. The library hosted its first adult summer reading program, drawing in 27 participants.
Free balance and mobility exercise classes are offered four times a week. Once a month, youth enjoy a craft-and-movie, while seniors have their own popcorn-ready movie night. Most unique are the local sports watch parties, which let families cheer on loved ones playing in away games without the hassle of travel.
The library hosts free flu-shot clinics and after flooding damaged the health office, WIC began using the annex to serve clients. A recently installed telehealth booth is life-saving for residents who are often forced to travel three hours or more to see specialists.
Its services underscore how the library answers everyday needs. From hosting end-of-life seminars to running a free Tax Day for seniors. Melanie shared a recent partnership with local organizations for a community diaper drive. It also convenes candidate forums and office hours for representatives, making the library a reliable place for civic engagement.
Beyond services, the library works to preserve Fort Sumner’s history. An extensive Southwest Collection and archive have been excellent resources for researchers and curious visitors alike. The library emphasizes history that is frequently forgotten, such as The Long Walk to Bosque Redondo.
At its best, a library responds to the whole life of a town. Fort Sumner Public Library does that and more: preserving the past, supporting today’s needs, and helping neighbors prepare for tomorrow.
