Eugene Field Branch Library:
A New Chapter

For decades, the Eugene Field Branch Library has been the neighborhood hub of Bonnie Brae, Belcaro, and surrounding communities. Toddlers discovered their first love of stories here, teenagers and college students claimed quiet corners to study, and retirees finally settled in with books they’d been meaning to read for years.

In late November, the beloved institution closed its doors for at least 18 months as the building undergoes its most significant renovation since 1994. The closure will sting. But this moment also represents opportunity—a chance for this neighborhood staple to catch its breath and emerge stronger, better equipped to serve future library patrons of all ages.

A Neighborhood Anchor

The Eugene Field Branch Library’s story is one of careful evolution. When the current building opened in March 1970, replacing a much smaller predecessor in Washington Park, it became an instant gathering place. Families basked in the sunlit windows, students found solace at study tables, and people searching for a welcoming refuge found it here. Denver architect Oluf N. Nielsen designed a space to serve this neighborhood, and for nearly two decades it did exactly that.

By the late 1980s, times had changed. More families arrived. More students needed places to work. Demand for technology grew, and the library was bursting at the seams. When the 1990 Library Bond Issue came up for a vote, the community responded enthusiastically. Roth Sheppard Architects led a redesign that added 400 square feet of new meeting rooms and a separate children’s area to reduce noise. Two private study rooms were installed along with a computer work center, and new seating areas bathed in natural light. When the refreshed library reopened in April 1994, it felt like a place built by and for its neighbors.

For 30 years, it has lived up to that promise. But buildings, like neighborhoods, must adapt to growing populations, aging systems, and people’s changing needs. The moment has arrived.

Community at the Heart

Robin Filipczak, the library’s branch supervisor, has long watched the library’s daily rhythms and knows its community intimately. When asked who uses it most, she gets specific.

“Families with young children and adults 50 plus. High school and university students. Remote workers. Folks needing technology access for computers, faxing, printing, and copying.”

That essentially describes almost everyone who calls the neighborhood home. Certain programs stand out. Interactive storytime for babies, toddlers and families, with children returning year after year as they grow into confident readers. The Discover Walks program, started in 2024, brings older adults together for walks and conversation around Wash Park. The Lego Club for kids ages 5 through 8 and the popular tween hangouts fill the meeting rooms with joy and energy. Every year, the library throws a Volunteer Party to honor the teens, retirees, and neighbors of all backgrounds who work behind the scenes, recognizing their essential contribution to the community.

This library is not just a silent study hall. It’s a vibrant family branch with something for everyone. Cori Jackamore, a retired librarian with 42 years in the field, sees that clearly.

“Many people miss the days of a quiet public library with mostly students and scholars,” Jackamore says. “I’ve always wanted libraries to be vibrant, busy, welcoming to everyone, and that’s what Eugene Field is.”

Jackamore began volunteering at Eugene Field in 2018 and works behind the scenes every Tuesday and Thursday on the Families Create craft program, inventorying supplies, researching craft ideas and setting up the room. When she walks in at the end of each program and children eagerly show her what they’ve created, the moment reminds her why this work matters and “makes my heart smile every single time.” That kind of magic requires both staff who care deeply and a space designed to nurture it.

As neighbors settle into life without their library, Jackamore knows every regular will feel the loss in their own way. Some will miss coming in every day to read free newspapers and magazines. Others will miss the quick stop to pick up books on hold, using computers and free printing or enjoying storytimes and programs for kids. There will be those who simply miss having a space to be quietly surrounded by people—a rare gift in a busy, expensive city. That’s part of what makes a public library essential. It’s a place you can go just to belong.

Designing for Tomorrow

In November 2017, Denver voters approved Measure 2E, committing $69.3 million to the renovation of Central Library and 10 branches, including Eugene Field. This isn’t about a quick coat of paint. The investment is thoughtful and comprehensive.

The renovations will address overdue system upgrades: new HVAC, safer restrooms, improved fire and life safety, upgraded security, and better IT and communication infrastructure. The visible transformations will be more exciting, including a revamped entrance, a community room designed for flexibility, an expanded children’s area and accessible new features throughout. Finishes, furniture, and signage will receive a modern update while keeping the neighborhood’s welcoming character at the heart of every decision.

The process has involved close collaboration, with community members, organizations, schools, and library staff all offering input and ideas. Once complete, Eugene Field will feature a larger reservable community room, additional study spaces, and upgraded technology prepared for future library services. The design aims to capture what worked in 1970 and 1994 while delivering what neighbors need today.

The Emotional Weight

Perhaps the hardest part about this closure is its emotional weight for longtime staff and volunteers. According to Filipczak, one librarian at Eugene Field has been there 15 years and even brought her own baby to storytime before joining the team. That “baby” is 23 now. The walls have witnessed a lifetime of connections and change.

“It’s going to be hard to say goodbye. These walls hold a lot of memories and a lot of community. But change happens. With the new renovation, Eugene Field will be updated for the next generation to feel at home, grow and find community in the Bonnie Brae neighborhood,” Filipczak says.

For Jackamore, now eight years into retirement, the closure represents important evolution rather than loss.

“Change is necessary,” she says. “The Field branch hasn’t been renovated in a long time and it really needs a refresh. It also needs to respond to how customers are using libraries today. Personally, I’m looking forward to what’s coming.”

Staying Connected

For the next year and a half, neighbors will need to adjust their routines. But the library system is working to ease the transition. The Virginia Village Branch Library has moved to seven-day-a-week service to meet increased demand, and Central Library will expand to seven-day-a-week hours to maximize accessibility. The bookmobile continues its regular routes, and online resources and e-book collections remain available to all cardholders.

Schools in the area continue to receive direct support from the library’s team, and community groups are working with staff to find temporary homes for their meetings and gatherings. For parents worried about keeping kids engaged during the closure, Jackamore has practical advice.

“Make sure your children see you reading and enjoying it. That’s the number one factor for reading success,” she says. “Take them to other DPL branches or the newly renovated Children’s Library at Central. It’s worth the trip.”

When the doors reopen, something familiar will have become new again. For all who found comfort there, the spirit and welcome will be waiting.

Seth Davis is the editor of MyDenver magazine. 

Photographs by Maithili Anantpur and Robin Filipczak