Since before Hurricane Harvey, the Westchase neighborhood has been without local library service. Well the wait is over, Houston!  This Saturday, April 28th at 2 PM the newly renovated Robinson-Westchase Neighborhood Library will be open for business.

Before we present the new, however, let's take a look back at where Robinson started. Named in honor of Judson Robinson, Jr., the branch was first opened to the public on November 4, 1991. A native Houstonian, Robinson was a lifelong advocate for education and civil rights and became the first African American elected to Houston's city council. He remained in service to the city he loved as a council member until his death in 1990. From the beginning, we knew that this library would be heavily used in the growing area of Houston and the proof has been in the numbers ever since. 

For the renovation, the existing building was gutted and completely re-imagined. Guests are greeted with a modern facade and a familiar, original outer wall. Once inside, the space is filled with natural light and the high ceilings make you feel like you are in a much bigger space. You have room to breathe and enjoy the details of the decor.  This family-friendly space has a great Children's area with storytime space and the Teen Room features great furniture and a semi-private atmosphere.

New technology will also be available!  Try the new Express Checkout (search your app store for meeScan HPL) where you can scan the barcode of books or other materials then place them on the white box like device (located in the Kids area as well as the main service desk) and voila, you're done! Borrow a tablet while you're at the library at the Hublet dispenser by scanning your library card. You will also still be able to enjoy the traditional library services HPL is known for as well, such as storytimes, computer and foreign language classes, books, DVDs, audiobooks and more!

Manager and Assistant Manager, Tim & Caitlin, have done a lot of outreach and visiting with the community leading up to the re-opening. They can't wait to see you!

Houston Chronicle profile of Judson Robinson, Jr.