Anythink expands hours, continues innovative services
As Adams County transitions to Level Clear, Anythink announces new summer hours to go into effect on May 10, 2021. These new hours provide increased access to the library and its in-person services during expanded morning and evening times. Updated hours are listed below.
As the library increases open hours, it also continues to expand upon the services it provides to the community. The COVID-19 pandemic created a need for the organization to reimagine its approach to important library resources and services. At Anythink, the result was a myriad of innovative opportunities for staff to safely meet critical needs while also providing inspiration and entertainment to the residents of Adams County. This included:
On-demand print and mail services: This vital, free service allowed community members to have documents printed and mailed for free during the most restrictive parts of COVID-19 closures.
Check-in phone calls: Anythink staff made more than 7,000 phone calls to aging adults in the community to offer resources and a friendly voice during a time of isolation.
Fighting food insecurity: In partnership with Tri-County Health Department, Thornton Community Connections and the American Heart Association. Anythink operated two farmer’s markets that provided more than $55,000 of free produce to aging adults, as well as WIC and SNAP recipients, from July-Oct., 2020.
Collaborative public art: Anythink Wright Farms became a temporary home to Xólotl: Dios Perro, a monumental alebrije sculpture by Mexican artist Óscar Becerra Mora. With opportunities for the public contribute to the papier-mâché structure and a Día de los Muertos community altar, this partnership with the Mexican Cultural Center and Adams County allowed for meaningful cultural engagement during a time of transition.
Subscription service for kids: The Anythink Box launched in early 2021, providing kids ages 5-12 with hand-selected books mailed directly to their homes. The Anythink Foundation is currently raising funds to expand the service to more families.
Immersive drive-in nights: In Brighton, Colo., community members experienced multisensory storytelling adventures from the comfort of their vehicles.
Take-home participatory experiences: To make virtual activities and performances more participatory, Anythink shared opportunities for families to safely connect with staff and special guests.
As COVID-19 restrictions ease, Anythink has even more opportunities for innovative community engagement on the horizon. With indoor and outdoor programming safely resuming, Anythink will soon announce the return of its annual mySummer program with a focus on promoting healing and joy for everyone in Adams County. This collaboration with artist Jayson Fann brings natural “spirit nest” sculptures to all Anythink libraries over the course of the summer, complemented by poetry, music and dance performances and programming.
“Our staff has worked diligently to provide a range of flexible services to meet an ever-changing environment,” says Anythink Director Pam Sandlian Smith. “This summer is a season of healing, and our expanded hours and services will create an opportunity to bring inspiration and wellbeing to our community. The library is a perfect place to become comfortable gathering once again.”
Looking ahead, Anythink has exciting offerings in the works, including:
- Outdoor equipment available for checkout, including bicycles and telescopes
- District-wide community wellness programs
- Interactive arts and cultural experiences in conjunction with the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
Anythink Locations & Hours
Anythink Brighton, Anythink Huron Street and Anythink Wright Farms
Mon.-Thurs., 10 am-7 pm
Friday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm
Anythink Bennett, Anythink Commerce City, Anythink Perl Mack and Anythink York Street
Tues.-Thurs., 10 am-6 pm
Friday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm