Mesa County Libraries invites the community to participate in discussion about the future of the Orchard Mesa Branch Library. Because of declining usage, rising rent costs and anticipated budget reductions in 2026, the library must evaluate the long-term sustainability of its current location.

Mesa County Libraries said in a news release a 21 percent rent increase in 2023 placed additional financial strain on the Orchard Mesa branch, and upcoming changes to property tax rates will further impact the budget. Additionally, more than 60 percent of Orchard Mesa library cardholders use the Central Library in downtown Grand Junction.

Given these factors, the library is exploring alternative solutions. To ensure transparency and gather public input, Mesa County Libraries will host a series of community chat sessions with library leadership. These sessions allow patrons and community members to voice their concerns and share ideas.

The Community Chat schedule is as follows:

• March 4, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• March 7, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
• March 13, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• March 14, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
• March 19, 1–3 p.m.
• March 25, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• March 26, 4–6 p.m.

All sessions will be hosted at the Orchard Mesa Branch Library. During these times, patrons and community members will have the opportunity to speak with the library executive director and a board trustee.

For those unable to attend, a short survey is available online or can be picked up at the Orchard Mesa Branch Library. Community members can also email the executive director at director@mcpld.org.

Mesa County Libraries encourages community members to participate in this conversation. The community input is essential in determining the best path forward for the Orchard Mesa Branch Library.