The libraries in Cortez, Dolores and Mancos have teamed up to do a diaper drive benefiting local nonprofits in need, and diapers can be donated at all three locations until Dec. 31.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, one in three families reported that they were affected by the supply-chain diaper shortage of 2020. Although the supply has improved significantly since then, the libraries wish to help nonprofits in the community who are in need of diapers.
The Cortez Public Library had done a diaper drive for the Piñon Project in the past with the help of the Sunflower Theatre during the Four Corners Board of Realtors Parade of Lights. They had also done a “Food for Fines” drive in which people could bring in food to donate, which in turn would take $2 off their overdue library fee. Now that the Cortez Public Library no longer charges fines for overdue books, they wanted to do something different.
“Since we didn't do that this year and we partner with other libraries on other projects, I thought why not have all three county libraries come together and try to get as many possible diapers as we can,” said Laura McHenry of the Cortez library.
Megan Waterman of the Dolores Public Library echoed McHenry’s statement, saying, “We are trying to establish more of a community of libraries in the county, so we’re trying to think of things we could do together.”
The libraries are accepting all sizes of diapers for donation, and organizers said opened diaper packages are OK as long as they are taped shut before donation.
“We're accepting new and used packages – any openings taped closed – all sizes: infant, toddler and adult. If someone donates money instead, that’s great too,” McHenry said.
The diapers will be donated to the Mancos Early Learning Center, Mancos Sharehouse, the Mancos United Methodist Church, The Nest Preschool and day care, Dolores Family Project, Piñon Project, Montelores Early Childhood Council and Montezuma County WIC.
Donations are not just limited to the ones listed, however.
“If anyone else has need of diapers, please let us know and we will be happy to share as much as we can,” Waterman said.
While calling and asking organizations if they could use diapers donated during the drive, Erin Bohm from the Mancos Public Library found that adult diapers are in very high demand, so they have been added to the flier of diaper sizes to donate.
“Any drive is so important because there's such a need in our county and, as we know, diapers are expensive,” McHenry said. “People are struggling and, if we can help in any way, we're here to serve. That's why I love this profession.”
They are encouraging people to spread the word.
“If everybody can spread the word, especially the churches, that would be wonderful,” McHenry said.
Anyone who wishes to donate diapers can do so until Dec. 31, and they can be dropped off at the Cortez, Dolores and Mancos libraries.
