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 and brings over 18 years of experience in both public service and library administration. Born and raised right here in Trinidad, Jessica is thrilled to be back home leading the library that meant so much to her growing up.
As Library Director, Jessica helps guide the library’s vision, supports staff, manages daily operations, and builds partnerships throughout the community. She loves finding new ways to connect people with information, programs, and opportunities that make a difference in their lives. Whether it’s collaborating with local schools, hosting community events, or expanding access to resources, Jessica is passionate about keeping the library at the heart of Trinidad’s story.
When she’s not at the library, you can find her spending time with her family, reading, or baking something sweet. Jessica and her husband are especially happy that their son gets to grow up surrounded by family in the same wonderful town they call home.
Assistant Library Director
Dekota Torres is the Assistant Library Director at the Trinidad Carnegie Public Library, where she plays a key role in managing the day-to-day operations of the library. From behind-the-scenes planning to front-desk support, Dekota helps keep things running smoothly—while also staying on top of all things tech!
She manages our Facebook page, keeping the community informed about new books, movies, events, and everything else the library has to offer. Dekota is also bringing fresh ideas and new energy to our Kids, Teen, and Adult programs.
Outside the library, Dekota enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dogs. She’s a big fan of trying new recipes and discovering fun places to eat. She also loves to go to concerts and shopping.
Circulation Specialist
Jules is the Circulation Specialist. When up at the desk, she’s thrilled to help patrons find their new favorite book or movie and is always willing to help with any of your library problems. Behind the scenes, she works to repair damaged items and works diligently with patrons to take care of overdue or lost items. Additionally, Jules also heads our Homebound Patron Service and is happy to work with those patrons to ensure they can also use and enjoy all our library has to offer.
Outside of the library, she enjoys multiple hobbies like reading, writing, and crocheting all while listening to her favorite music.
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
Brian is our Cataloging specialist. He is a lifelong resident of Trinidad and brings many years of experience working at the library. He is one of the longest serving members of our crew.
Brian is dedicated to ensuring that incoming library materials are processed quickly and efficiently. His attention to detail and organizational skills help keep the library’s collection up-to-date and accessible. In addition to processing new items, Brian is also responsible for accurately labeling materials throughout the library. This ensures that every book, DVD, cd and other resources are easy to locate and identify. Patrons can enjoy a smooth and straightforward experience when browsing the shelves and selecting items for checkout.
In his spare time, Brian likes to listen to different types of music, watch movies and to read graphic novels.
Youth specialist
Ursula Blanchard is the Youth Services specialist at the Trinidad Carnegie Public Library. She has years of experience working with kids as a dance teacher and is excited to combine her love for reading and her passion for early education. She runs story time and helps keep the children’s library organized and accessible. She is eager to help empower kids to read, write, and help give them the tools they need to navigate the tricky landscapes of adolescence. Whether it’s helping someone find a book, playing a game with them, or just giving them space to decompress and be themselves, she is here to help make the library a special and safe place for all kids and teens. She is new to Trinidad and very excited to contribute to and become a part of the community. In her spare time, she loves to hike with her dog, do yoga, and read many, many books.
Library clerk
Library Clerk