Bayard Public Library will close at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, due to short staffing. Regular hours resume Monday, August 10. Thank you for understanding.
Cindy “Renee” Provencio | Head Librarian
Renee was raised in Bayard, NM, and is proud to be serving the community that raised her in the role of Head Librarian. Renee is a Cobre High graduate, has a Bachelor’s in English and Art, a graduate certificate in Art from Western New Mexico University, and a Master’s in Multicultural Women and Gender Studies from Texas Woman’s University.
Renee leads with a deep commitment to access, equity, and community engagement. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Renee works closely with local partners to create programming that reflects and uplifts the people of the Mining District and beyond.
Danielle Gonzalez | Assistant Librarian
Danielle Parra is an honors student at Western New Mexico University, where she pursues a pre-medical curriculum with exemplary dedication and academic distinction. As Assistant Librarian at the Bayard Public Library, she applies her technical expertise to revitalize library services and provide excellent technical support to patrons, and fosters a deeper appreciation for reading. With a profound passion for healthcare and public service, she remains committed to serving her community at the highest level and inspiring those around her.
Wendy Spurgeon | Assistant Librarian
Wendy supports the mission of Bayard Public Library through a strong commitment to literacy, youth programming, and community engagement. Under the leadership of Head Librarian Renee Provencio, she helps develop and lead initiatives that serve families throughout the Mining District and beyond.
With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts from Southern Oregon University and a background in preschool programming and performing arts education, she brings creativity and care to her role. Wendy served as Site Coordinator for Bayard Public Library’s participation in the New Mexico Summer Reading Program, leads the weekly “Mother Goose on the Loose” story-time for young children and their caregivers, and facilitates a teen drama club focused on self-expression and collaboration. She values storytelling as a tool for learning, connection, and community growth.
Chelsea James | Digital Navigator
Chelsea James recently made Silver City her home and is excited to be part of the Grant County community. Originally from Tucson, Arizona, she spent many years raising her two sons while working at Pima Community College. She earned her master’s degree in Information Resources and Library Science from the University of Arizona and has dedicated her career to libraries, education, and helping people access the information and resources they need to thrive.
In her role as Digital Navigator for Bayard Public Library, funded through a grant from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Chelsea works to expand digital literacy and technology access throughout the community. She believes that digital skills are essential tools for opportunity and empowerment, and she is enthusiastic about helping individuals gain confidence in using technology. Chelsea is honored to serve Grant County and is committed to supporting a more connected, informed, and equitable community for all.