On July 21, Buffalo and Toronto Public Media reported that the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library System was mourning the loss of one of its leaders, John Spears, who passed away after a long battle with cancer. Spears was 51 years old and managed libraries in Missouri, Illinois and Utah – and for the Pikes Peak Library District. As Chief Librarian of PPLD, John was a force for dynamic change and inclusion, ensuring that the libraries truly served everyone.
John and his partner Brian were longtime residents and active supporters of Manitou Springs.
“John was a passionate defender and champion of the First Amendment,” remembers Pikes Peak Bulletin Publisher Lyn Ettinger-Harwell. “A beautiful soul. A great friend. He left every library district he led a much better place, especially the Pikes Peak Library District.”
The Community Congregational Church of Manitou Springs will hold a streaming of his memorial service on Aug 20. As event plans develop, more information will be posted by the church on Facebook.
