Houston Public Library (HPL) is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest Family Place Library™, a welcoming space designed especially for families with young children to play, learn, and grow together.

The Family Place Library™ is located inside the Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library, a branch already recognized for its award-winning architecture and innovative design that honors the legacy of Dr. Shannon Walker, Houston’s first female astronaut. Now, that inspirational space is expanding its mission to support the launch of a child’s lifelong learning journey.

“Parenting doesn’t come with a manual. With the generous support of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and PNC Foundation, we’re able to offer more than books and resources. We are building a community of support for caregivers during a child’s most critical years of development,” said Sandy Gaw, Director of Houston Public Library.

The Family Place™ model is a nationally recognized initiative that transforms libraries into vital centers for early learning and family engagement. The new space will offer free, high-quality programs such as: 

•    Parent-child play sessions led by early childhood specialists 

•    Storytimes and sensory play 

•    Resources on parenting, child development, and family health 

•    Connections to local services and experts 

The ribbon-cutting celebration will take place Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at 11630 Chimney Rock Rd., Houston, TX, 77035. Families are invited to enjoy hands-on activities, light refreshments, and a first look at the vibrant new space.

"With Family Place Libraries across the HPL system, we aim to be anchors of support for families working hard to give their children a strong start. These programs help build lasting connections between families across our city," said Julie Finck, Ph.D., President & CEO, Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.

“At PNC, we believe that high-quality early learning experiences are essential to a child’s success in school and in life," said Julie Young Sudduth, Regional President, PNC Bank. "Supporting Family Place Libraries is one way we invest in local communities and help create equitable opportunities for every child to thrive."

This marks HPL’s 10th Family Place Library, a significant milestone in the library’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every Houston family has access to tools, knowledge, and support they need from the very beginning.