HOUSTON, TX - Houston Public Library (HPL) invites the community to join in a monthlong celebration of culture, community, and gratitude with engaging programs, family activities, and cultural observances throughout November. From entrepreneurship to Indigenous heritage, HPL’s events bring people together to learn, connect, and explore.

Empowering Entrepreneurs
In recognition of National Entrepreneurship Month, HPL is supporting small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs through free, practical workshops. Join us at Central Library (500 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77002) for:

  • Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Business: Launch with Confidence – Saturday, November 1 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. 
  • QuickBooks for Small Business – Saturday, November 8 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Participants will gain valuable insights and tools to start and grow their businesses with confidence.

Experience the Flavors of Indigenous American Cuisine with Chef David Skinner 
Tuesday, November 5, 2025 | 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.  
Bracewell Neighborhood Library | 9002 Kingspoint Road, Houston, TX 77075

Renowned Choctaw Chef David Skinner brings the vibrant and diverse flavors of Indigenous American cuisine to life in a live cooking demonstration. Guests will watch as Chef Skinner prepares a signature dish inspired by traditional Native ingredients and shares insights into the stories and cultural heritage behind each flavor.

Chef Skinner, owner of Eculent and Kilta restaurants, is nationally recognized for his innovative approach to Indigenous foodways, blending traditional ingredients with modern culinary techniques. His work highlights the beauty and resilience of Native food culture and its influence on American cuisine today.

Cultural Connections: Native American Heritage Month Celebration 
Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 
Oak Forest Neighborhood Library | 1349 W. 43rd Street, Houston, TX 77018

Celebrate the rich traditions, diverse voices, and enduring cultures of Native American communities through music, dance, and art. 
Enjoy captivating performances by:

  • Danza Azteca Macuilxochitl – Sacred Aztec dance 
  • Lyndon Alec – Native American Hoop Dancer

The event also features balloon twisting, crafts, and face painting, making it a fun, educational experience for all ages.

Explore the “Besides Math” Traveling Exhibit

Discover a powerful artistic movement that redefines what it means to be Asian American in contemporary U.S. society. Created by Houston artist June Xu, the “Besides Math” exhibition highlights the rich and multifaceted narratives that shape the Asian American experience — celebrating creativity, identity, and individuality beyond stereotypes of academic achievement. 
The exhibit will be on display at the Central Library from November 1, 2025 – January 29, 2026.

“At HPL, we believe the library belongs to everyone,” said Sandy Gaw, Library Director. Whether you’re discovering a new culture, exploring a family tradition, or starting a business, our libraries are here to empower and connect Houstonians of all backgrounds.”

All events are free and open to the public. For full program details, visit houstonlibrary.org/events or follow HPL on social media.

About Houston Public Library

We are a dynamic public service organization serving one of the largest and most diverse areas in the nation – both in population and geography. Our comprehensive, customer-focused service delivery strategy supports the 2.3 million residents of the City of Houston.

Our system is comprised of 44 public service units, including six Regional Libraries – anchored by our flagship Central Library – 28 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, four TECHLink centers, a Satellite location at the Children’s Museum Houston, the Mobile Express outreach unit, and the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy. Together, we provide equitable access to resources, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities for all Houstonians.