Allen Kreutzkamp talking about how the idea of funding a library building came about. At right are Caroline Kreutzkamp, Mayor Ray Cordova, and State Librarian Richard Akeroyd.
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Allen Kreutzkamp talking about how the idea of funding a library building came about. At right are Caroline Kreutzkamp, Mayor Ray Cordova, and State Librarian Richard Akeroyd.
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11 December 2006—A standing room only crowd turned out Monday, December 11 for the opening of Tularosa's first library building. Tularosa Mayor Ray Cordova presided over the ceremonies, which featured brief presentations by First Lady Barbara Richardson, donor Allen Kreutzkamp, Department of Cultural Affairs Secretary Stuart Ashman, and State Librarian Richard Akeroyd.
Funding for the new library comes from Kreutzkamp Family Trust, State of New Mexico, Hubbard Foundation, McCune Foundation, and Daniels Fund. The building is dedicated in remembrance of Jose and Lupe Bernal, ancestors of the Kreutzkamps who lived in Tularosa.
The new library is an impressive achievement. Tularosa has gone from having no library at all to having a brand new library building in only 2-1/2 years. Mayor Cordova recognized the many people who worked to make this happen.
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The Kreutzkamp children cut the ribbon to officially open the new building. First Lady Barbara Richardson is at center.
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Mrs. Richardson talked about the importance of literacy in New Mexico, and donated a copy of Michael McGarrity's first novel, Tularosa, signed by the author and the jacket artist. Mr. Kreutzkamp introduced about 15 members of his extended family who were there for the event and talked a little about how he got the idea to donate the site for the library and some cash to pay for part of the building construction. He also reminded us that we make our own futures. Mr. Ashman described himself as a "museum guy" but explained that libraries, which are also under Cultural Affairs, are just as important. He noted with approval that the library has copies of Art in America and Smithsonian magazines. Mr. Akeroyd has been involved with the Tularosa Library since the beginning, and talked about the way that the State Library works with developing libraries. He also donated a copy of the catalog Passions in Print: Private Press Artistry in New Mexico, signed by the exhibit curator Pam Smith.
Mayor Cordova closed by comparing this event to one he attended 3 or 4 years ago to recognize the opening of the Otero County Prison Facility at Chaparral. He said that it is much better to open libraries than prisons, and that Tularosa should be proud that it can create such worthy projects.
The Tularosa Library Director is Randi Northrop. The new library building is located at 515 Fresno in Tularosa (map), telephone 585-2711. The library is open Wednesday-Friday 12-5 and Saturday 10-3.
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