Rich with history, Carlsbad, New Mexico provides residents and visitors the opportunity to experience local and regional history in a variety of ways; some of which are right next to each other in the heart of downtown.
Early implements from Native Americans, in addition to pioneering artifacts, can be seen at the Carlsbad Museum, as well as world class art in the Feezer and McAdoo Galleries. The Carlsbad Public Library provides access to a plethora of digital resources like HeritageQuest, online access to high school yearbooks, and a variety of physical resources in the archives and on the shelves. Today, the Halagueno Arts Park acts as a cultural hub for the community, showcasing an array of sculptures and providing space for events like movies and concerts in the park. The property on which the library, museum, and Halagueno Arts Park sit was donated by Charles B. Eddy on November 20, 1889. Joseph Stevens also donated land with a stipulation that it be for a library and a park. Project implementation and upgrades did not happen overnight; they took time and dedicated individuals to see them through to completion.
1940
View from east southeast of Library & Museum entrance, fountain to right. (Fine trees.)
1962
New north addition to the Public Library in Halagueno Park, in winter, from the east northeast. (A corner of the new Museum is at far left.)
1964
Interior – The new Carlsbad Public Library reading area south of the Main Desk, looking north.
1973
Views of the front of the Public Library.
1973
Carlsbad Municipal Library
Helping guide decisions for the complex are boards set up for each part of the facility: the library, museum, and arts park. Therese Rodriguez, retired educator, community advocate, and board member for both the library and museum, shared her take on the importance of historical preservation and local history. “Getting to know local history helps people feel rooted and gives them a sense of who they are. Preserving our local history through the library, museum, and arts park is about keeping Carlsbad’s spirit alive for our children and grandchildren,” shared Rodriguez.
“I volunteer because these places are so important to Carlsbad. As a local who grew up walking to the library and museum with my brothers and sisters, they’ve always held a special place in my heart. Volunteering on the boards for the library, museum, and Halagueno Arts Park lets me give back to the institutions that mean so much to our community and help ensure they continue to thrive for everyone,” Rodriguez added.
“At the library, my favorite is the children’s section and everything it offers. Those childhood visits with my siblings opened up so many stories and adventures, and now I love bringing my grandchildren there for reading and activities. Sarah Jones, the director, has brought new energy, current programs, and dedication that have made the library even more special for our community. At the museum, I really love how they keep the exhibits fresh and engaging with regular updates and rotating displays. Our museum’s director, Edward VanScotter’s vision and hard work have really taken things to the next level. The Halagueno Arts Park is a nice addition too, with its sculpture garden and the new History Garden. A special thanks to Julia Heaton, who led the HAP Board for many years and worked with so much heart to bring Carlsbad a great park that beautifully enhances both the library and museum,” Rodriguez reminisced.
Take some time to discover local history for yourself by visiting the Halagueno Arts Park, Carlsbad Museum, and Carlsbad Public Library. These cultural gems are for the community’s learning and enjoyment, and they are free to visit and explore. “Local history is our community’s story. It’s about our families, neighbors, and the place we call home,” shared Rodriguez. “Keeping it preserved helps us learn from the past and celebrate what makes Carlsbad special. I’d love for people to stop by the library and museum often, enjoy the park, join events, or support them however they can. These are places for all of us.”
Historical photos used with permission from the Southeast New Mexico Historical Society. For more details or full captions, visit the website.
Photography by Michele Robertson
Carlsbad Museum
418 W Fox • Carlsbad NM 88220
575.887.0276
Open Monday – Saturday • 9 am – 5 pm
Closed Sunday
Carlsbad Public Library
101 S Halagueno • Carlsbad NM 88220
575.885.6776
Open Monday – Thursday • 9 am – 8 pm
Friday-Saturday • 9 am – 6 pm
Closed Sunday
Article written by Michele Robertson and originally published in Focus on Carlsbad 2026 Summer edition.
Michele Robertson
There are many facets to what makes me who I am. Enjoying time in nature while practicing "leave no trace" principles and doing interesting, educational, and cultural activities with my kids tops the list of my favorite things. I’m also a community advocate and volunteer, doing what I can to make a positive impact.
