After months of renovation, the Patrick A. Lucero Library, 1315 E. 7th St., on Pueblo’s East Side reopened this week with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday.
The weeks events began on Tuesday with the unveiling of two new community walls: a Digital History Wall celebrating Pueblo’s East Side, and a Tribute Wall honoring Patrick A. Lucero’s life and legacy.
Also on Tuesday, librarian and scholar Charlene Garcia-Simms gave a talk about the lives and legacies of Hispanic women who helped shape Pueblo and southern Colorado. Through storytelling, history, and reflection, this event honored the courage, leadership, and lasting impact of these remarkable pioneers.
The open activities will conclude Thursday with an event fulled with animal-themed fun and back-to-school excitement from 4 to 6 p.m.
Join us for a joyful celebration as we reopen with an event full of animal-themed fun and back-to-school excitement!
- Meet friendly animals at the petting zoo
- Adopt your very own plushy reading buddy
- Design a custom collar for your new friend
- Snap a photo together at our adorable photo booth
- Power-Up Giveaway! Get ready to power up for the school year with awesome backpacks, cool lunch boxes, handy school supplies, and tasty lunchbox snacks—everything kids need to start the year strong and stylish! It’s not just a giveaway—it’s a celebration of learning, laughter, and love from your library family.
IN MEMORIAM
Katherine Ortega
Katherine “Kata” Ortega, 70, of San Luis, CO passed away unexpectedly on September 8, 2025. She was the daughter of Joseph “Pete” and Ida Ortega. Katherine was preceded in death by her father Joseph Ortega; sister Evelyn Ortega; grandson Carlos Estevan Romero; grandparents Mary Serna, Lucas Serna and Jose Belisandro Ortega; and sister-in-law Priscilla Ortega. She is survived by her mother; Ida Ortega, brother Larry (Debbie) Ortega; children Cristina (Jose) Garcia-Valenzuela; Lynnea (David) Ruybal and Janelle (Frank) Gonzales; grandchildren Victoria, Vanessa, Darion, Isaiah, Marcus and Joshua; great grandchildren, Roman and Jayden; father of her children, David Garcia; loyal puppy companion, Rosie; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Katherine was a devoted daughter, mother and grandmother. Some of her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed painting, playing bingo, listening to music, and watching the Denver Broncos play.
She was very passionate about her community. In her younger years a big part of El Movimiento, Brown Beret and Land Rights Council for La Sierra in San Luis. My parents always spoke of La Cucaracha and the impact it had back in the 70’s along with present day. She lived her life serving others as a licensed practical nurse for 30 years and always said that caring for others was her life’s calling.
Katherine will be deeply and truly missed by her family, friends and the many more whose lives were touched by her. Although Katherine’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, she will be deeply missed by her family, friends and many more.