The 3 Best Librarians Around Glenwood Springs

Jamie LaRue - Garfield County Public Library District

Jamie LaRue brings a broad vision to his role with the Garfield County Public Library District, informed by decades of leadership in the world of libraries. A published author and sought-after speaker, LaRue champions intellectual freedom and community-centered library services. His presence in Rifle and throughout the district has strengthened local programming, broadened outreach, and helped position the library as more than a building — it’s a catalyst for civic dialogue and lifelong learning.

Ana Gaytan - New Castle Branch Library

Ana Gaytan is a familiar and friendly face at the New Castle Branch Library, where her dedication to inclusivity and literacy shines through every interaction. Known for bridging language and cultural gaps, Gaytan builds trust with patrons of all ages and backgrounds. Her work reflects a belief that the library should reflect the community it serves — and with Ana on the front lines, it does just that. Storytime, tech help, or simply a welcoming “hello,” Gaytan does it all with grace and purpose.

Melissa Sandquist - Wamsley Elementary School

As the school librarian at Wamsley Elementary, Melissa Sandquist turns curious kids into confident readers. She understands that fostering a love of reading at a young age can unlock lifelong success. Sandquist isn’t just shelving books — she’s building a literacy-rich environment where students feel empowered to explore new ideas and dream big. Her library isn’t a quiet corner — it’s the heartbeat of the school’s learning ecosystem.

Thanks, ChatGPT.