DENVER — The Denver Public Library is looking for community engagement as they prepare to renovate the Ross-Broadway Branch Library in the Baker area. Right now, they're encouraging library users to provide feedback through an open survey.
Nearby businesses told 9NEWS they've struggled with challenges presented by illegal activities, including drug use, by people who frequent the library.
Vesper Holly Muck owns and operates ReFillanthropy, which is off Bayaud Avenue and South Broadway, just steps from the library. She said since she took over the space in May, she's seen needles, burnt tinfoil, human feces and trash outside her business.
"It’s not exactly favorable for trying to operate a business along this street," Muck said.
Muck said she opened her store as a way to help the community limit its plastic waste. She knew she would have to overcome some hurdles as a new business, but never knew they would include the headaches she's had to endure.
"There’s days in front of the library where you’ll see 10 to 15 people just camped out," Muck said. "We find evidence of drug use over there, baggies, tinfoil, needles, that kind of stuff in front of the library, and it’s just, I wouldn’t want to bring my children to that library. It’s definitely spilling over from the library, and I'm seeing the effects of that."
A DPL spokesperson told 9NEWS they're aware of the community's safety concerns, and said they're working to make the library safe for everyone to use. She also said that, as a public building, everyone has access to the library.
Muck said the activity outside the library has fostered a direct relationship between her and Denver Police. She said that in addition to reporting the drug paraphernalia she's found outside her business, she also witnessed what she believed was a drug deal.
"A man showed up in a hoodie, and as soon as he showed up, there was a huge crowd gathered, bunch of people from all over came by, and he was definitely dispensing something, I don’t know exactly what," Muck said. "I submitted that footage to the police department, and the narcotics division is investigating it."
Muck has several security cameras outside and inside her store. She said she's seen footage of people sleeping in her doorway and shoving half-eaten food in her mail slot.
"You can tell these people are struggling, and it’s just unfortunate that it’s kind of spilling over onto us as well," Muck said. "As business owners, as patrons, as just residents of the community."
Muck said she's considering installing a gate to prevent additional loitering. She said she's never felt personally targeted, but she's getting more than she signed up for as a business.
"Just trying to operate a business here. I want my customers to feel safe. I want to feel safe, especially when I’m working here by myself," Muck said.
The library said it plans to use community input to help shape the scope of its branch renovations. According to the Elevate Denver project dashboard, the project is currently in the design phase, with construction set to begin at the end of 2024.
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