SAGUACHE - On May 31, the Northern Saguache County Library held a Community Appreciation Day at the library. Approximately 21 people attended the event. 

Operational Co-Director Matt Pettigrew and Administrative Co-Director Amy Garoutte were smiling just outside the library enjoying some interesting conversations with residents.  

There was a grill with some mighty flames, lapping over some juicy hamburgers that were being made for everyone, along with some toasted hot dogs, just outside the library. 

On a table on the side of the library, near the grill, chips of all assorted flavors were laid out in bags across the table, and plenty of wonderful hamburger fixings including lettuce, onions, and tomatoes were available for the public to garnish their burgers with. There was also lemonade and tea for drinks.  

On a smaller table in front of the larger one there was a bucket of books that were being given away to attendees. The air was fresh, with just a slight breeze that was picking up and sending the smell of freshly cooked hamburgers all around the building.  

Garoutte spoke about the event, and about her excitement regarding hanging out with the community. “This is a true community appreciation day. We do this once a year; we have a cookout for the community. We have four out of five of our trustees here. We are giving away books, and we have Peggy Godfrey here doing poetry this afternoon. It’s a lot of fun. A great day.” 

Garoutte stated that there is a lot to celebrate with the community event, their summer reading program is coming up fast, Garoutte stated that the library is also excited to be hosting many different poets, noting that the month in April, was an excellent month for poetry as they had 4 different poets at both the Saguache and Baca Grande Library show up for readings. Garoutte mentioned that there have also been some small remodels at both branches with their displays in each library. “This appreciation is a big part of it all and this event, this is also such a success. We have community members come in and it’s the time of the year, where we also have had some travelers come in today. It’s great.”  

Just inside the library, Godfrey was also getting ready to share her poetry at 1 p.m. Godfrey said she always has a good time sharing her Cowgirl Poetry. According to Godfrey, she has been writing poetry since she was a little girl. She is a published author and has written many books including, “Write Tough,” “Write Em Roughshod Life N Such Like,” Stretch Marks,” “Extra and Ordinary,” and she has even made a DVD of Cowboy Poetry, and a cd called “Write Em Cowboy.”  

Godfrey stated she was excited to be at the library and always enjoys sharing her poetry with everyone. Godfrey has been ranching for many years and stated that her inspiration for her poetry comes from everywhere.