To provide the community with resources to encourage imagination, connections, and inspiration.
Trinidad Carnegie Public Library will strive to be recognized as the heart of the community that promotes life-long learning with equal access to a diverse and updated collection, innovative programs and responsive services that meet the needs of everyone.
Delivering quality, efficient and cost-effective services
Treating everyone equally
Embracing best and safe practices
Valuing the thoughts and work of others
Honoring diversity and differences
Practicing the Golden Rule
Telling the truth
Being consistent
Doing the right thing even when nobody is looking
Fulfilling our obligations
Commitment to do the right thing
Working together towards a common goal
Going the extra mile
Exceeding expectations
Empowering others to be their best
library director
Jessica Huffman is the Director of the Carnegie Public Library, bringing over 18 years of experience in both public service and library administration. A proud Trinidad native, she is thrilled to be back in her hometown and serving the community that helped shape her.
Jessica is passionate about connecting people with resources and looks forward to collaborating with local schools, businesses, and residents to expand the library’s reach and impact.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and baking. She and her husband are especially grateful that their son gets to grow up surrounded by extended family in the same close-knit town.
Circulation Specialist
Youth Specialist
Jessica Payton is the Youth Specialist at the public library, where she brings over 20 years of experience working with children. With a background in education and several related certifications, Jessica is passionate about fostering a love of learning and reading in young minds. Though this is her first year working in a library setting, she’s thrilled to introduce the youth in our community to everything the library has to offer—from storytimes to creative programs and beyond. Jessica especially loves reading aloud to visiting children and creating a welcoming, inspiring space for every young reader who walks through the door.
Adult Programs & History Room Coordinator
Tom Potter is the Trinidad History Room Coordinator and Teen/Adult Services Specialist.
Tom has lived in Trinidad for 25 years and has worked at the library for over 6 years. Initially thinking this would be an easy job, he quickly learned that working in a library is demanding, but equally rewarding. Even though he’s an introvert at heart, he loves working with and helping the people who come to the library. He enjoys cooking, music, film, and playing golf and chess.
Tom designs and presents the library’s adult programs. He is also in charge of the History Room, an archive of Trinidad and Las Animas County history. Tom will also support library patrons who want to present an event at the library. If you want to visit the History Room or if you are interested in proposing an adult event, contact Tom Potter.
Cataloging Specialist
Anallely is the Cataloging Specialist. She manages the process of cataloging library materials that ensures the best experience for the patrons who utilize the library resources. She is always happy to help patrons find new books or assist with any questions they might have.
She is a mom of 3 humans and 3 furry ones. She loves nature and everything that involves family. She enjoys communicating with patrons and making them feel like they are long-time friends.
library clerk
Brian is the Library Clerk and he will be the first to greet you as you enter the Library. Brian’s industrious and kind nature makes him a patron favorite and he’s always willing to help with any patron request. He’s also in charge of labeling all the items in the library, making it simple for you to find what you’re looking for.
Brian likes to listen to music and read in his free time. He’s one of the longest-serving members of the Library team.
Technology & Community Engagement Associate
Dekota Torres is the Tech Clerk. She is our up-to-speed tech gal. She assists patrons who may need help with technology devices such as phones, computers, etc. She is in charge of our Facebook page promoting our new movies, books, and all of our other services. She likes to help anyone in need with a variety of tech and computer-related duties. She is in the process of helping with our Teen/ Adult programs.
She enjoys being able to be with family, friends, and her dogs. She likes to go camping, hunting, and fishing. She likes to cook new recipes and try new places to eat.
Library Clerk
Jules is one of our Library Clerks. She’s thrilled to help you find your new favorite book or movie and is always willing to help with any of your library problems. Her outgoing nature and optimistic attitude brighten up anyone’s day and she’s always excited to meet new patrons.
Jules enjoys multiple hobbies like reading, writing, and crocheting all while listening to her favorite nu-metal artists.