The Doña Ana County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted a pressing community need as residents rallied for the opening of the Chaparral Library. Retired librarian Ida Garcia, representing a dedicated group of volunteers, urged the commissioners to approve a donation of bookshelves valued at $2,160 from a nonprofit organization. This donation is crucial for housing over a hundred boxes of books currently without a home, as the library remains closed due to a lack of resources and support from the county.

Garcia emphasized the library's potential as a vital community resource, stating that despite efforts to operate the library, persistent roadblocks have kept it from opening its doors. She noted that the county had not allocated a budget for the library or assigned staff, leaving volunteers to manage operations. The request for shelving comes after previous communications indicated that shelving would not be reconsidered until the library was fully operational, despite the urgent need for space to store adult fiction, nonfiction, and reference materials.

Community members echoed Garcia's sentiments, sharing personal stories about the importance of a local library. Jessica Nevarez, a long-time resident, expressed her desire for a safe space where families can gather and children can learn, highlighting the challenges faced by families in accessing books due to distance and financial constraints. Santiago Gonzales added that a library would provide essential resources and activities for all ages, fostering a sense of community and learning.

The meeting underscored the collective frustration of residents who have been advocating for a library in Chaparral for over a decade. Christina Maloney, another retired librarian, called for not only shelving but also proper cataloging systems and equipment to ensure the library can function effectively once opened.

As the commissioners consider the donation request, the community remains hopeful that this step will bring them closer to realizing a long-awaited resource that promises to enrich the lives of Chaparral residents. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the future of the Chaparral Library and its role in fostering education and community engagement.