Little Spark Library bookshelves in the Learning Center

A nonprofit inside the Observer Ranch Learning Center

Little Spark Learning Center

A nonprofit library and learning space at the ranch, sparking curiosity one book at a time

Empowering through education

Little Spark is a nonprofit on a simple mission: empower people of all ages through education. It lives inside the Learning Center at Observer Ranch, where a lending library, a children's corner, and a full calendar of hands-on programs give curiosity room to run.

The Little Spark Library

We have a multitude of enticements competing for our attention, and we recognize the life-giving beauty of a story. Time spent in quality literature builds background knowledge, cultivates virtuous character, and nurtures a love of reading. The Little Spark Library holds hundreds of donated books curated for exactly that, free to browse whenever the Learning Center is open.

Outside, the Little Free Library keeps the exchange going: take a book, share a book. Thank you to the generous donors whose books fill these shelves.

What we do

Lunch and Learns pair knowledge-sharing with a shared meal in a relaxed, friendly setting. Classes and programming range from model rocket launches to school field trips and homeschool events, each one built to spark interest and deepen understanding in a supportive environment.

Get involved

Your support keeps the mission moving. Attend a class, volunteer your time, donate books, or make a contribution. Ready for more? See upcoming classes and events at the ranch, or head back to the Learning Center.

Little Spark is a nonprofit operating under parent company Fresh Starts. The IRS requires us to inform you that no goods or services have been provided in consideration of your donation. Your contribution is fully tax deductible.

Little Spark, operating under parent nonprofit Fresh Starts, is exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, Identification Number 81-3166105.

Kira and Lulu book in the Little Spark children's play and reading area

Start them young

Spark curiosity early

Little Spark believes a love of reading starts with one good story. The children's corner pairs picture books with room to play, and the Kira and Lulu series from our shop walks little observers through the Sun, the planets, and the Milky Way.

Browse the Books
Kids at the Always Be Learning light wall inside the Little Spark Learning Center

Hands-on learning

Always be learning

Model rocket launches, Lunch and Learns, school field trips, and homeschool days all run through the Learning Center. Programs are built around doing: launch it, build it, taste it, question it, then pass what you learned to a neighbor.

See Upcoming Events

What Little Spark does

  • The Library

    Hundreds of donated books, curated for learning and open to campground guests and the community.

  • Little Free Library

    Take a book, share a book. The exchange shelf keeps good stories moving between readers.

  • Classes & Events

    Lunch and Learns, hands-on classes, model rocket launches, and school and homeschool events all year.

Inside Little Spark

Books, rockets, and bright ideas

Kids at the Always Be Learning light wall inside the Little Spark Learning CenterSigned model rocket from a Little Spark launch event at Observer RanchObserver Ranch scenic photoLearning Center event space available for rentalLittle Spark Library shelves with hundreds of donated booksObserver Ranch Learning Center building, home of the Little Spark Library

The Little Spark Library and Learning Center at Observer Ranch in Penrose, Colorado.

Get involved

Help us empower through education

Attend a class, volunteer, or donate. Every book and every hour helps light another spark.

Contact Us