HPL News

Date: April 11, 2025

Houston Public Library (HPL) invites the community to join a daylong celebration of free, family-friendly events this Saturday at branch locations citywide! From a star-studded storytime to enriching workshops and engaging online activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Headlining the day is comedian, actress, and author Tiffany Haddish, who will be joining us for “A Special Storytime with Tiffany Haddish,” reading from her inspiring children’s book Layla the Last Black Unicorn.

Other exciting highlights include:
•    StoryBook Easter – Celebrate the season with stories, crafts, and Easter fun for little ones.
•    No Vitals? No Problem! – Building a Family through Circumstantial Evidence – A fascinating family history talk with renowned genealogist Judy Russell (a.k.a. The Legal Genealogist).
•    AARP Free Tax Help – Last-minute tax prep assistance from certified professionals.
•    STEM Workshop – Hands-on learning for curious minds.
•    Get Fit Exercise Class – Move your body and boost your health.
•    Stretch Your Dollar – Smart money tips to make your budget go further.
•    Board Games for All Ages – Unplug and play with friends and family.
•    Clutch Coding for Kids – Fun, beginner-friendly tech skills for the next generation of coders.
•    Preserve Your Memories: Digital Conversion Workshop – Learn how to digitize old photos, videos, and keepsakes

And so much more happening at neighborhood libraries across Houston!
Visit HPL’s events calendar for a full schedule and participating branch locations.

Left to right: HPL Director Sandy Gaw, 2023-2025 Houston Poet Laureate Aris Kian Brown, 2025-2027 Houston Poet Laureate Reyes Ramirez.

HOUSTON, TX - In celebration of National Poetry Month and National Library Week, Houston Public Library Director Sandy Gaw is proud to announce Reyes Ramirez as Houston’s new Poet Laureate, making him the seventh individual to hold this prestigious title.

The City of Houston Poet Laureate Program celebrates the work of a poet who represents Houston by engaging the community with written and spoken word, outreach activities, special programs, teaching, and individual works. The Poet Laureate plays an important role in stimulating creative expression, fostering a deeper appreciation for poetry in all its forms, and using words to connect residents and visitors with Houston’s cultural fabric.

The selection of Ramirez was announced Thursday night at a reception hosted by HPL, with remarks from Library Director Sandy Gaw. Former Houston Poet Laureate, Aris Kian Brown, also shared words of encouragement for the new appointee. 

“Reyes Ramirez represents the future of Houston’s literary landscape, and his work will continue to inspire and challenge our community. As we celebrate National Poetry Month, it’s exciting to see the Poet Laureate program continue, and Ramirez is a great representation of the talent we have in the City of Houston,” said Sandy Gaw.

Ramirez was selected through a competitive process by a diverse group of poets, scholars, literary experts, and community representatives. The selection committee consisted of Poet Laureate Emeritus, Aris Kian Brown; Brooke Lewis, journalist, author, and co-founder of BIPOC Book Fest; Amir Safi, founder of Write About Now; Dr. Kavita Singh, professor at University of Houston; Guiseppe Taurino, executive director of Writers in the Schools; Võ Đức Quang, executive director and host of Public Poetry; and Justin Bogert with the Houston Public Library.

“As the next Poet Laureate, I want to show how amazing the city of Houston is for art, because Houston itself is a juncture of all sorts of diasporas, of cultures, of peoples that are talking to each other just so casually. I want to highlight how Houston incorporates histories of the South, of the borderlands, of the Southwest, of the West, of the urban, of the rural, of farms, of city skyscrapers. All these things are in conversation with each other. I want to show how Houston not only is a major point of literature for Texas and the United States, but the world," said Ramirez.

Ramirez’ two-year term runs through April 2027. During this time, he will work closely with Houston Public Library to facilitate a series of Poet Laureate Workshops—eight hour-long programs (or more) designed to engage the community in the power of poetry. Additionally, Ramirez will lead a signature community outreach project at the end of his term, furthering the mission of the Poet Laureate program to bring poetry to every corner of Houston. As Poet Laureate, he will also participate in various City of Houston and HPL events, reciting his original poetry for a variety of audiences.
 

Left-right: HPL Director Sandy Gaw, Chief Operating Officer John Middleton, Deputy Assistant Director of SPACES Stephen Chamberlain and Project Manager Raiset Ruban at the Awards Ceremony. Photo by Paul R. Davis.

Houston Public Library's Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library has received two Development of Distinction Awards from the Houston District Council of the Urban Land Institute (ULI). The new library branch won a Development of Distinction award in the Small-Scale Non-Profit category, as well as the People's Choice award which is determined by public vote; the 2025 People's Choice Award voting broke records.

At the February 11 Awards Ceremony presented by the Wilson, Cribbs + Goren firm at Armadillo Palace, over 200 guests gathered to recognize developments and open spaces that provide an example of best practices in design, construction, and other qualities. Finalists were selected by a panel of Houston real estate experts, and projects were evaluated by a team of national experts.

"The 23,260 SF next-generation library is a community hub envisioned as a space for the modern community. What was once a forgotten post office site, the library is a vibrant art-filled public gathering space featuring a café, TECHLink with music, video and podcast recording spaces, flexible meeting areas, private study rooms and a variety of seating arrangements," said ULI Houston about the Walker Neighborhood Library.

The design of the library encourages interaction with nature. Additionally, the site is designed to cut deep into the library, offering multiple spaces for patrons to experience nature in both function and scale. "Color inhabits these spaces, and sunlight takes a more apparent possession of the building," ULI Houston added about the project.

As Black History Month 2025 comes to a close, Houston Public Library (HPL) is proud to announce the release of its curated African American Booklist, featuring new and notable titles for readers of all ages. This year’s booklist honors the national Black History Month theme, African Americans and Labor, recognizing the vital contributions African Americans have made in shaping the U.S. labor movement and their ongoing fight for workers’ rights.

Carefully selected by HPL staff, the booklist includes a diverse range of books that explore the rich history of African Americans in the workforce, from labor activism to the continued pursuit of economic justice. The list is available for download and can be accessed in HPL’s Book Lists section under the “Reader’s Corner” tab on the website. Printed copies will also be available at all HPL locations in the coming weeks for those visiting in person.

“As we enter the final week of Black History Month, we encourage the community to take an opportunity to dive into these powerful and inspiring books,” said Sandy Gaw, Director at Houston Public Library. “This curated collection provides readers with valuable insights into the African American experience and their significant role in labor movements.”

In addition to the booklist, HPL invites everyone to join the final African American Read-In event, a community gathering celebrating African American literature.

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
Time:  6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: McGovern-Stella Link Neighborhood Library

The event is free and open to the public, with registration encouraged. 

We invite you to stay engaged with us and look forward to exciting book recommendations and events in March as we celebrate Women’s History Month and the theme Moving Forward Together: Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Harris County Public Library (HCPL) and Houston Public Library (HPL) are joining forces to share the love with e-book fans across the Houston area. With a combined service population of over 4.5 million people, the two library powerhouses are linking their popular OverDrive digital collections, allowing patrons to borrow any available items using the Libby app with an existing or new library card from either library system. 

Although the OverDrive collections will remain separate, this partnership simplifies the user experience by offering seamless browsing and access to more than 600,000 e-books and downloadable audiobooks. “HPL and HCPL share many of the same customers, so sharing OverDrive will make it easier for everyone to access a wider variety of digital content. Simplifying the process of finding and checking out books is a win for the community,” said Patrick Atkins, Deputy Assistant Director of Library Materials Services & Training at HPL.

This collaboration is made possible by OverDrive, the chief supplier of digital content for both library systems. OverDrive serves over 92,000 libraries worldwide, including public, school, college, and academic libraries across 115 countries. The rise in digital checkouts has been remarkable, fueled by the growing use of smartphones—96% of Americans own one—and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. HCPL was the first library in Texas to circulate more than a million e-books in 2016. Last year, HCPL and HPL together circulated a staggering total of 12 million digital materials.

“The cooperative agreement between Harris County Public Library and Houston Public Library both acknowledges the changes in many patrons' reading habits and library use. It ensures broader and more equitable access for all. Both libraries are committed to refining and redefining public libraries for the twenty-first century and beyond.  "We are dedicated to building partnerships and expanding robust digital collections that ensure equitable access to knowledge and resources for all. Our commitment goes beyond simply providing digital materials; it is about creating opportunities for learning, growth, and enrichment that empower individuals and strengthen our community," said Amber Seely, HCPL's Division Director of Collections and Technical Services.”

Visit HCPL or HPL to learn more about the cooperative agreement and discover how you can benefit from expanded digital offerings.

Houston, TX – The Mayor's Office for Adult Literacy conducted its 2nd Annual Digital Symposium: The Future of Adult Literacy, on Friday, February 7, 2024, at Houston Community College - Southeast Campus.

This year's symposium focused on the growing need for digitally skilled workers and the impact of technology on everyday life for adult learners and their families. The event aims to provide adult educators, volunteers, tutors, coordinators, and administrators with valuable insights and training experiences ranging from basic digital literacy to advanced AI tech-driven workforce pre-skilling and upskilling curricula and tools. 

Key Highlights: 
•    Breakout Sessions presented by digitally accomplished trainers, curricula developers, and industry service providers on topics such as using community data to increase enrollment, integrating digital literacy into adult education, digital literacy navigators, and leveraging VR/AR simulations for workforce training. 
•    Expert Panels from industry leaders about the transformative power of digital literacy and its crucial role in driving economic growth and success for communities. 
•    Success Stories from Houston-based community organizations and learners about their experiences with digital literacy integration and the challenges they have overcome. 
•    Networking Opportunities to connect with fellow educators and professionals in the digital literacy and instruction space.

For more information and to learn about the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, please visit https://www.houstontx.gov/adultliteracy/2025-digital-symposium.html.

Houston Public Library is excited to announce a series of events in celebration of Black History Month, offering the community an opportunity to engage with and honor the rich cultural legacy and contributions of Black Americans. From creative writing workshops to cultural performances and thought-provoking author talks, HPL invites all to participate in these free, enriching activities throughout February. 
Featured Events Include: 

•    Documentary Screening: Black Lives Matter in Latin America: This documentary focuses on Black activism in Brazil, Peru, Argentina, and Cuba, showing the importance of challenging state-led violence against Black people.
Saturday, February 1 | African American History Research Center at the Gregory Campus 

•    Author Talk with Dr. Wendy Okolo: Dr. Okolo shares her memoir Learn to Fly: On Becoming a Rocket Scientist.
Tuesday, February 4 | Central Library

•    Words of Defiance: How Black Newspapers Amplified Labor Justice and Social Change: Marquel Sennet discusses how black media shaped the African American labor movement during times of racial tension. 
Saturday, February 8 | African American History Research Center at the Gregory Campus 

•    Get to Know an Architect: John S. Chase: Learn about this trailblazing Black architect that has over 200 sets of his drawings housed at our research center. 
Saturday, February 13 | Online Only

•    After Dark: The Labor of Love: Join therapist and relationship expert, Dr. Kyee Young, who will guide us through modern day love and a special viewing of the Reverend William Lawson Love Letters. 
Friday, February 14 | African American History Research Center at the Gregory Campus

•    Cultural Connections: Celebration of our community's rich diversity with food, fun activities, and cultural performances for all ages. 
Saturday, February 15 | Johnson Neighborhood Library

These are just a few of the events happening throughout the month. Additional activities include storytelling sessions, film screenings, and community gatherings, all designed to foster appreciation and understanding of Black culture. 

•    African American Read-Ins (multiple dates) will take place across various libraries in Houston, including Stella Link, Blue Ridge, Smith, and Central Library. A celebration of Black literature with readings from influential Black authors.
 
•    Black Poetry Readings (Feb 10, 20, 22) and Relax & Write Workshops (Feb 8, 18), as well as an African American Archives Tour (Feb 22) held at the African American History Research Center at the Gregory Campus. 

For event registration, visit houstonlibrary.org/events or follow HPL’s social media for updates and highlights.  

Houston Public Library (HPL) is preparing to launch a new state-of-the-art TECHLink at its Vinson Neighborhood Library location. The new technology center will replace Vinson's existing HPL Express area, which will be closed in preparation for construction at 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 25. During the construction period, some sections of the library will be inaccessible. However, most of the operations will remain open at Vinson, one of South Houston's busiest neighborhood libraries, located in the Hiram Clarke Multi-service Center at 3810 W. Fuqua St.

TECHLink Vinson, expected to open in the fall of 2025, will span 3,480 square feet and offer a range of functional and creative resources designed to support the next generation of innovators, designers, and entrepreneurs.

Key features will include:

• Video Recording Studio: HPL's largest TECHLink video studio, with chroma walls and advanced acoustic and equipment for professional-quality projects.
• Podcast Studio & Vlog Set: A high-tech space perfect for podcasting and vlogging.
• Music Recording Studio: Fully equipped with acoustic enhancements and a professional mixing table.
• Tiny Techs Zone: A dedicated area for kids featuring robotics and 3D printers.
• Makerspace Lab: Advanced tools like 3D printers, laser engravers, and high-resolution printers for hands-on creation.
• Editing Lab: The latest software for video editing, music production, digital art, and more.
• Training Lab: Virtual and in-person learning opportunities for creators of all levels.

“I always look forward to seeing our customers’ creative wheels turning and formulating plans once they recognize all of the technologies and equipment that they can freely access,” said Roland Lemonius, TECHLink Division Manager. “Being able to enhance their quality of life in this way along with our other library services is very rewarding.”

This new addition will be the fifth TECHLink center, furthering HPL’s commitment to empower the community through technology, innovation, and collaboration for all ages and skill levels. Stay tuned for updates and get ready to unleash your creativity! 

Want a sneak peek? Take a virtual 360 tour of TECHLink Dixon here.


 

The City of Houston is searching for its next poet laureate. In its 12th year, the Poet Laureate program has selected six poet laureates to represent Houston.
 
The program celebrates Houston's rich culture and diversity through the work of a Houston poet who serves as the city's ambassador for the literary arts. During a two-year appointment, the poet laureate makes several guest appearances at special events and completes a community outreach project. The poet laureate will receive an honorarium of $20,000 through the City Initiative grant program funded by a portion of the city's Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) and serve from April 2025 through April 2027.

The role of the Houston Poet Laureate is to stimulate poetic impulse, foster appreciation of poetry in all its forms, and serve Houston residents and visitors with expressions of culture through words. Each Poet Laureate for the City creates a signature Community Outreach project. The current Poet Laureate, Aris Kian Brown, is creating "Space for Us: Afrofuturism and the Poetic Imagination," a multidisciplinary exhibition utilizing the Black historical archives, multilingual poetry, and community interviews to imagine and demand the future of a liberated Houston. Previous Poet Laureate projects include:
     • Space City Mixtape, a mixture of spoken word narratives of Houston residents set to music by Russel Gus (Emanuelee "Outspoken" Bean, 2021-2023)
     • Bayou City Broadsides, artistic displays of lines from poems of everyday Houstonians (Leslie Contreras Schwartz, 2019-2021) 
     • Emerge, 11 community performance poetry videos highlighting various Houston neighborhoods (Deborah "D.E.E.P." Mouton, 2017-2019)
     • Houston's Favorite Poems, a published anthology of residents' favorite poetry (Dr. Robin Davidson, 2015-2017)
     • Creation of the Houston Poet Laureate's social media platforms (Gwen Zepeda, 2015-2017)

The application deadline is midnight on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 11:59 PM CST. Submissions from poets, authors, writers, and spoken word artists are welcome.

The guidelines, term requirements, and application portal for the Houston Poet Laureate are available here.

The Houston Poet Laureate Selection Committee, a panel of poets, scholars, and literary experts diverse in age, ethnicity, and experience, will review eligible applications. Non-voting members of the Committee include Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs Director Necole Irvin and Justin Bogert of Houston Public Library. The Committee will interview finalists in early February, and the selection of Houston's next Poet Laureate will be announced in April in celebration of National Poetry Month.

The program is coordinated by the MOCA and HPL and funded through the Hotel Occupancy Tax, which is dedicated to the arts.

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) has awarded the Houston Public Library (HPL) a $75,000 Special Projects Grant to expand its Career Online High School Program. The funding will provide scholarships to 40 new participants in FY25, enabling adults aged 21 and older to earn an accredited diploma online. Applicants must have completed at least the eighth grade and pass a prerequisite course with 70% or higher. To apply, potential students must take a brief survey to determine eligibility. The application deadline for scholarship funding is December 30, 2024.

This grant is part of over 40 awarded this year by TSLAC, funded through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the Library Services and Technology Act. “TSLAC is pleased to recognize and support the important work of Texas libraries in delivering innovative information services that strengthen local literacy, workforce and digital opportunity efforts,” said TSLAC Director and Librarian Gloria Meraz.

"Students who want to complete their high school diploma shouldn't have to deal with the burden of extra costs. These funds will allow more students to achieve this milestone and gain other opportunities," said HPL Community Engagement Division Manager Mercedes Clarke.

For more information about this program, please contact HPL's Community Engagement and Education Team at 832-393-1737.

Houston Public Library (HPL) is excited to announce that Spring Independent School District (Spring ISD) has officially joined HPL’s LEARNINGLink Program. This partnership provides Spring ISD students with free access to educational resources, including e-books, research databases, and tutoring services, all aimed at supporting their academic success.

The LEARNINGLink Program connects students directly to valuable online resources, empowering them to excel both in and out of the classroom. With a simple login process using their School ID and library card information, Spring ISD students will be able to tap into age-appropriate materials available 24/7 with resources such as Brainfuse, Boundless, and Comics Plus:

•    Brainfuse: Subject-specific assistance with tutoring, practice tests, flashcards, and study guides, which teachers can use to reinforce learning and recommend to students preparing for exams. 
•    Boundless: Thousands of age-appropriate e-books and audiobooks, providing a wide range of materials for teachers to enhance their lessons, encourage independent reading, and even create curated reading lists tailored to your curriculum. 
•    Comics Plus: Comics encourage discussions about narrative structure, character development, and visual storytelling, promoting critical thinking and analytical skills among students.

Integrating LEARNINGLink into Spring ISD’s educational offerings will give over 40,000 students and faculty the opportunity to access additional tools they need to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.

As we welcome Spring ISD into the LEARNINGLink family, we’d like to take this opportunity to remind all participating school districts—Alief Independent School District, Houston Independent School District, and Pasadena Independent School District—to fully utilize this incredible resource. LEARNINGLink is designed to enhance educational experiences, and we encourage you to remind your students and faculty about the free valuable tools available to them.

To make the most of the LEARNINGLink Program, educators are encouraged to: 

•    Explore Resources: Encourage students to browse the extensive collection of e-books, research materials, and more. 
•    Try Kanopy Access* for Faculty: Complement curriculums with a diverse library of educational films, documentaries, and classic cinema. Videos with the Public Performance Rights (PPR) icon can be used in the classroom and must include the statement, "Made possible through Houston Public Library."  
•    Provide Support: Foster a collaborative environment for student success. 
•    Share Feedback: Share your experiences with the program to help HPL enhance and expand its offering.

HPL's Deputy Assistant Director of Library Materials, Patrick Atkins, expressed enthusiasm about Spring ISD’s participation. “Partnering with Spring ISD is a natural fit for Houston Public Library. We are committed to increasing access to educational resources for students and assisting educators through our program. We invite other districts to join us in making these valuable resources available to even more students.”

For more information about the LEARNINGLink program and how your school district can get involved, please visit https://houstonlibrary.org/learning-link. 

HOUSTON, TX - Excitement is building as the Houston Public Library (HPL) prepares to unveil its brand-new branch in the heart of the vibrant Montrose community! The library system is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new facility at 1001 California Street. This milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in HPL’s commitment to providing innovative services, resources, and programs to the diverse residents of Montrose and beyond.

The new library will feature:
•    Advanced Technology: Enhanced access to computers, high-speed internet, and innovative learning tools to support all ages in today’s digital landscape.
•    Dedicated Youth Spaces: A floor designed for children and teens featuring a robust collection and interactive programs.
•    Adult Reading Space and Community Programs: A floor with reading areas and a flexible meeting room for educational programs and diverse community activities.
•    Outdoor Space/Terrace: An inviting area for open-air events, reading clubs, and cultural programs.
•    Art Installation: Permanent artwork by Houston-based, Filipino American artist “Kill Joy,” entitled Spirit of Montrose inspired by the neighborhood’s history.  

According to Council Member Abbie Kamin, “The neighborhood could not be more thrilled to have such a beautiful and welcoming space for all ages where innovation meets Montrose’s love for books. This opening comes on the heels of years of extensive community engagement and involvement by residents. On behalf of our District, I am so grateful to the Houston Public Library staff, and all those involved, for their partnership in realizing this very special day.”

"We can't wait to be a part of a mixed-use development, with food, shopping, and now a library!” added John Middleton, HPL's Chief Operating Officer. The grand opening is scheduled for December 14, 2024.

Current Plans for Transition
As part of this exciting transition, the Freed-Montrose Library at 4100 Montrose Blvd. will close on November 14, 2024. While the current library has been a cherished community hub, its aging infrastructure requires over $14 million in renovations to meet modern safety standards and to address patron technology needs.

City officials and library leaders have been working together to explore renovation options that will preserve the building’s historic charm while enhancing the services it provides. "I am optimistic about the possibilities as we strengthen our relationship with both the Montrose community and the University of St. Thomas," said Sandy Gaw, Library Director. "Our commitment is to ensure the best possible outcome for the community." 

Join us for a day of fun as we celebrate community and culture:

Literacy in the Bag Campaign Kickoff
Join us for our annual book drive and community outreach program aimed at fostering literacy in Houston’s children and adults. In collaboration with Texas Tamale Company, Literacy Now, and Space Cowboys, the Houston Public Library (HPL), is kicking off this year's Literacy in the Bag campaign to help stock Title 1 elementary and middle schools and create at-home libraries for students. We also welcome adult book donations, which will benefit the Friends of HPL.

Enjoy a family-friendly event featuring storytelling, 3D printing demonstrations, face painting, games, crafts, and much more!  Donations will be accepted at 15 HPL locations from October 14th through January 3rd.

Location: Robinson-Westchase Neighborhood Library
Address: 3223 Wilcrest Dr. Houston, TX 77042
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Hispanic Archival Collection Tour
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and American Archives Month with us! Dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of our community on this exclusive tour of the Hispanic Collections Archive.

Led by one of HPL’s expert Hispanic Collections Archivists, you'll discover the highlights of our collections, gain insights into their significance, and learn about the stories they tell. This is a unique opportunity to appreciate the contributions and legacies that shape our shared history.

Location: Julia Ideson Building
Address: 550 McKinney St. Houston, TX 77002
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

All Hallows Reads Festival!
Get ready for some spook-tacular fun at our 4th Annual All Hallows Reads Festival! Bring the whole family for a day filled with games, crafts, and activities. Tweens and teens can enjoy a special silent listening party—costumes are encouraged! Plus, experience a special lion dance performance by the Unity Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe, along with a shadow puppet theater performance by the Tung-Hua Puppet Theater of Taiwan.

Location: Central Library, Jesse H. Jones Building
Address: 500 McKinney St. Houston, TX 77002 
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Register Now!

Effective November 1, 2024, Houston Public Library will resume charging customers to print documents.

Over the past year, the library's budget has absorbed the cost of offering free printing services. However, it is no longer sustainable to continue absorbing these expenses.

Charges for Printing:
       Black and White: $0.15 per page
       Color: $0.50 per page

Payment Information:
       Only cashless payment options will be accepted.
       All major credit and debit cards will be accepted. 
       There will be a minimum $1 charge and $5 credit card hold per transaction.

Houston Public Library recognizes the vital role our system plays in providing free and accessible resources to all residents. We remain dedicated to ensuring that the library serves as a vital resource for everyone in our community. To support this goal, we are actively working on solutions to improve access to printing services. This includes exploring options to address the challenges posed by minimum credit card hold requirements and identifying accommodations for unbanked and underbanked households.

We appreciate the community’s understanding and ongoing support as we make this necessary adjustment to our services.

Pictured, left to right: Dr. Elizabeth Farfán-Santos and Leslie Contreras Schwartz.

HOUSTON, TX - Houston Public Library (HPL) is proud to present a vibrant series of events in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15. This year’s festivities will feature a wide range of cultural, literary, and educational activities that honor the rich history and contributions of the Hispanic community.

Hispanic Heritage Fiesta:
Join us for an exciting celebration of Hispanic culture, featuring live music, dance, traditional foods, and crafts. Families and individuals of all ages are welcome to participate and learn about the customs and traditions that shape the Hispanic community.

• Park Place Regional Library – Thursday, September 19th, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
• Robinson Neighborhood Library – Saturday, September 28th, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Flores Neighborhood Library – Saturday, October 5th, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Hillendahl Neighborhood Library – Thursday, October 10th, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

We are especially honored to welcome back Dr. Elizabeth Farfán-Santos, author of Undocumented Motherhood, as a special guest at the Flores Neighborhood Library fiesta and Leslie Contreras Schwartz, the 2019-2021 Houston Poet Laureate and acclaimed author, as a special guest at the Robinson Neighborhood Library fiesta.

Virtual Poetry Workshop and Author Visit:

In addition to her in-person appearance, Schwartz will lead two virtual programs in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. On Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., she will host a virtual poetry workshop that explores cultural heritage through original works of poetry.

Schwartz will also host a virtual discussion on her book, From the Womb of Sky and Earth, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. The discussion will focus on themes of motherhood and will be livestreamed on HPL’s Facebook and YouTube pages.  

Hurricane season is upon us, and Houston Public Library is here to help you stay prepared! Sign up for a MYLink library card this September, and you could win a generator, portable power station, or power bank. Gain access to valuable resources and stay informed as we approach the peak of hurricane season. Learn more about the giveaway and how to participate. Read Now!

HOUSTON - As the new school year approaches, Houston Public Library (HPL) is here to support parents, students, and educators throughout the month of August and beyond. HPL’s Back-to-School Guide offers a comprehensive collection of FREE resources designed to ensure a successful academic year. These tools include free online tutoring, homework support, downloadable and streaming media, books and e-books for all ages, and engaging educational events. Additionally, TECHLink technology centers provide state-of-the-art equipment and training to craft your next school project with access to 3D printers, 3D scanners, laser cutters, engravers and other multimedia tools. 
 
Students can participate in storytimes, seasonal reading programs and book clubs to foster a love of reading and improve literacy skills. We also encourage schools to schedule class field trips to Central Library or the History Research Centers focused on African American history, Family History & Genealogy, and Houston & Texas History. Students and researchers can explore HPL’s vast Hispanic and Latino History collection available in our online digital archives.
  
“We are committed to supporting our community’s educational needs,” said Deputy Assistant Director for Library Materials Patrick Atkins. “Back-to-School month is an excellent opportunity for students, parents, and educators to explore the vast resources and programs we offer. We aim to make the transition back to school smooth and successful for everyone involved.” 

Students and their families can easily sign up for library cards online or at any location, granting access to a wealth of educational materials. Students and teachers in Alief Independent School District, Houston Independent School District or Pasadena Independent School District are automatically enrolled in the LearningLink program which provides them with access to all the HPL resources students may need. 

HOUSTON, TX - July 18, 2024 - Houston Endowment has awarded Houston Public Library (HPL) a $200,000 grant for one year to support the relaunch of HPL’s Journey to Citizenship classes, which include “Introduction to Citizenship” and “Civics and Literacy.”

These comprehensive seven-week programs are designed for adult learners to master the reading, writing and vocabulary portions of the naturalization exam. Each 90-minute class covers the 100 civics exam questions, including topics on American government and history, rights and responsibilities, and integrated civics. The classes, available at several HPL locations, are essential for individuals learning the privileges and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, expanding their knowledge, and building community connections. The program is designed to equip participants with the confidence and knowledge needed to successfully become U.S. citizens. 

HPL will also introduce updated citizenship kits which include civics flash cards and a study guide for the naturalization test. MYLink cardholders can borrow these kits from the library and gain valuable resources to aid their journey toward citizenship. 

Grant money will support the hiring of certified citizenship instructors to facilitate the expanded series of classes. In addition to its citizenship classes, Houston Public Library serves as a full-service destination for applying and renewing passports at several libraries throughout the city. Passport services are available at six HPL locations, including the new Walker Neighborhood Library at 11630 Chimney Rock Rd. For more information or to make an appointment, visit Houston Library Passports or call 832-393-7277. 

About Houston Endowment
Houston Endowment is a private foundation established in 1937 by Jesse H. Jones and his wife, Mary Gibbs Jones, to improve the quality of life for everyone in Greater Houston. Today, it has more than $2 billion in assets and invests about $100 million a year in three priorities: strengthen public education, increase civic engagement, and enhance the region’s arts and parks. Working with fellow Houstonians, Houston Endowment pursues bold goals, builds partnerships, and invests in innovative solutions rooted in equity and evidence to create a vibrant region where all have the opportunity to thrive.

About Houston Public Library
We are a dynamic organization that serves one of the largest service areas –both population and area – in the country. 2.3 million residents in the City of Houston are the primary beneficiaries of a comprehensive customer-focused service delivery strategy.

Our system consists of 44 public service units which include one Central Library, five Regional Libraries, 29 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, three TECHLinks, one Satellite location at Children’s Museum Houston, one cafécollege Houston center, and one Mobile Express.   

Houston, TX— June 20, 2024 — Houston Public Library (HPL) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to support its digitization project, "Analog to Digital: Preserving Houston’s Black Voices." This two-year initiative will digitize historically significant and vulnerable archived audio, video, and oral history recordings of prominent Black community members, making these resources publicly available for library and museum exhibits, researchers, community events, and online and printed publications.

Key Project Objectives:

• Digitization and Reformatting: Preserve 1,416 audiovisual items by converting them to digital formats.
• Increased Accessibility: Enhance public access to resource materials by making them available online at no cost.
• Promotion of Archives: Increase awareness and usage of the archives through targeted promotions.
• Curated Community Partnerships: Engage with community partners to curate and share the digitized archives.

The funding will support essential project components including the hiring of a contract Project Archivist. These resources enable HPL to undertake comprehensive archival processing—arranging, describing, and preserving the materials—to ensure their longevity and accessibility. "Preserving Houston’s Black Voices" specifically targets historically significant collections related to Houston’s historic ward districts, key organizations like Trinity United Methodist Church, and notable neighborhoods such as Independence Heights and Sunnyside.

Currently, these collections are only accessible in person at HPL’s African American History Research Center (AAHRC) at the Gregory School, limiting their reach and impact.

“This generous support from the IMLS allows us to not only safeguard historical recordings but also to bring these important stories to the forefront. We look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our community and the preservation of Houston’s Black history,” said Miguell Ceasar, Head of History Research Centers. “This project will help tell the rich, living history of Black Houstonians, ensuring their stories and contributions are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.”

Click here to listen to a digitized oral history example, featuring the late Rev. Bill Lawson discussing race relations in Houston during the 1960s. This recording, along with many others, is available through HPL’s Digital Archives.

About Houston Public Library
We are a dynamic organization that serves one of the largest service areas –both population and area – in the country. 2.3 million residents in the City of Houston are the primary beneficiaries of a comprehensive customer-focused service delivery strategy.

Our system consists of 44 public service units which include one Central Library, five Regional Libraries, 29 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, three TECHLinks, one Satellite location at Children’s Museum Houston, one cafécollege Houston center, and one Mobile Express.

About the African American History Research Center at the Gregory School
The African American History Research Center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of African Americans in the Houston area and beyond.  Our goal is to link visitors from around the world to the storied history of this city.

The collections provide books, manuscripts, and photographs; the research center hosts events, exhibits, and programs that explore the lives and achievements of African Americans. The free services and events are open to the public and are designed to educate and engage visitors of all ages.

From left to right: John Middleton, interim Chief Operating Officer at Houston Public Library; Betty and Dr. James Key, donors and driving force behind the project; and Nicolas Jimenez, Board Chair of Houston Public Library Foundation.

Houston Public Library Foundation (HPLF) and Houston Public Library (HPL) are proud to announce the successful grand opening of the Dr. James and Betty Key Map Room, which took place on June 13, 2024. The event, celebrating the exhibit Mapping Texas and Houston: Selections from the Houston History Research Center, drew an enthusiastic crowd of history enthusiasts, scholars, and community members.

Event Highlights:

• Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: The grand opening commenced with an inspiring ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Nicolas Jimenez, Board Chair of HPLF, alongside HPL’s Interim Chief Operating Officer, John Middleton, and Dr. James and Betty Key.  This event not only symbolized the mission to preserve and share Houston's rich historical legacy but marked a milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing valuable library services to the Houston community.
• Thanks & Appreciation: The Houston Public Library Foundation and Key family extended its heartfelt thanks to all donors, partners, and supporters who made this project possible. Your continued contributions will ensure that the Key Map Room will be a lasting resource for generations to come.
• Family Contributions: Dr. James Key shared a personal story about his lifelong love for maps and how, Betty his wife, initially just indulged him prior to their now shared passion for cartography. Attendees received a heartfelt glimpse into the lives of the individuals behind the exhibit's inspiration.

Exhibit Features:
Over 2,000 maps have found their way into the collection via individual donations, as part of archival collections, and through the state document depository program. The new Key Map Room is a dedicated gallery space for displaying maps of Houston, Texas, and beyond, offering a unique opportunity for the public viewing of these beautiful and educational pieces of history.

• Rare Historical Maps: Visitors were thrilled to view original maps dating from the 16th century to the present, including early depictions of Texas and the Gulf Coast. These maps offer a visual journey through the region's history, showcasing changes and growth over centuries.
• Urban Development Maps: The collection includes detailed maps illustrating Houston's transformation from a modest settlement to a bustling metropolis. These maps provide a unique perspective on the city's rapid expansion and urban planning efforts.
• Dr. Key’s Personal Favorites: The exhibition features Girolamo Ruscelli’s 1574 map, Nueva Hispania Tabula Nova, one of the first maps to focus on the area that would become the Southern half of the United States and Mexico. The map reveals Spanish exploration and colonization of the region, noting the discoveries of famed explorers Alonso Álvarez de Pineda, Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, and Luis de Moscoso Alvarado. A rare American-made globe is also on display, which was manufactured by the pioneering Boston globe-maker Josiah Loring in 1844. The globe is notable for including the Republic of Texas.

Public Access and Tours:
The Dr. James and Betty Key Map Room is now open to the public during the History Research Center's regular hours. The Mapping Texas and Houston exhibit will be on display through March of 2025.  

Visitor Feedback:
Guests at the opening expressed their admiration for the exhibit's depth and the collective efforts in making history accessible. Many noted the exhibit as “amazing” and thanked Christina Grubitz, curator for HPL, for creating an experience that was both engaging and educational for all ages.
 

Houston, TX — Houston Public Library (HPL) is pleased to announce extended hours of operation to better accommodate the needs of our community. Starting June 1, 2024, Alief Regional Library, Central Library, and all three History Research Centers will have expanded hours, providing greater access to resources, services, and programs for all customers.
 
The new hours of operation for select locations are as follows:

All locations are closed on Sundays.

Interim Chief Operating Officer John Middleton expressed excitement about the change, stating, “This operational change is not just about convenience; the new hours are about our commitment to making the material available to the public. Whether it's for researching, accessing technology, participating in our programs, or simply finding a quiet place to study or read, we are here to serve the community.”

In addition to the extended hours, HPL continues to offer a wide range of services, including:

• Passport services available
• Free Wi-Fi and computer access
• A vast collection of books, e-books, audiobooks, DVDs, and a Library of Things
• Educational and recreational programs for all ages
• Research assistance and resources
• Meeting and study rooms

Houston Public Library (HPL) is offering FREE tutoring from Trice Education Resources for students in grades K-5 this summer. The Get LIT Summer Literacy Program offers thirty-minute one-on-one and group workshops in both English and Spanish at library locations across Houston. The program is designed to improve literacy skills including comprehension, phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, and vocabulary. Students can use their MYLink library cards to borrow fun books that support their learning needs and are encouraged to register for HPL's Summer Reading Program for chances to win prizes and attend free events.

The Get LIT Summer Literacy Program, which runs through July 26, has openings for young learners at the following library locations:

• Carnegie Neighborhood Library & Center for Learning - 1050 Quitman St., Houston, TX 77009
• Mancuso Neighborhood Library - 6767 Bellfort Ave., Houston, TX 77087
• Vinson Neighborhood Library - 3810 West Fuqua St., Houston, TX 77045 (Only English-language tutoring is available at this location)
• Young Neighborhood Library - 5107 Griggs Rd., Houston, TX 77021

This program is offered by Trice Education Resources, Inc., an educational consultant firm founded in 1998 that specializes in providing technical assistance to schools in the areas of literacy, professional development, student support, data analysis, and on-site coaching.

Parents and guardians can register their children for the Get LIT Summer Literacy Program using this online form. 

About Houston Public Library

We are a dynamic organization that serves one of the largest service areas—both population and area—in the country. 2.3 million residents in the City of Houston are the primary beneficiaries of a comprehensive customer-focused service delivery strategy. Our system consists of 44 public service units which include one Central Library, five Regional Libraries, 29 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, three TECHLinks, one Satellite location at Children’s Museum Houston, one cafécollege Houston center, and one Mobile Express. For more information about the Houston Public Library’s extended hours and services, visit https://houstonlibrary.org/home or call 832-393-1313. 

History of Trice Education Resources, Inc.

Trice Education Resources, Inc. is a consultant firm founded in1998 that specializes in providing technical assistance to schools in the areas of literacy, educational professional development, student support, data analysis, and on-site coaching to enhance staff development and student academic achievement. The primary goal of Trice Education Resources, Inc. is to assist schools and businesses with school reform and literacy growth. 

Trice Education Resources, Inc. has effectively provided services to schools and businesses in the states of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, South Carolina, Kansas, New Mexico, Missouri, and Wisconsin by providing schools and businesses within identified areas sustained, continuous professional staff development related to state standards, literacy in reading and mathematics, campus/business goals, professional teacher and administrative academic coaching, and as a result, the increase in teacher/student performance and test scores has been substantial. 

Teacher and administrative professional development are staff-focused but student-centered and directed towards helping administrators, teachers, and staff internalize new teaching behaviors through pedagogy, process, and content standards so that student achievement is actualized.

Houston Public Library (HPL) is opening two new Family Place Libraries™ locations at Alief-David M. Henington Regional Library and Jungman Neighborhood Library. A ribbon cutting for the two new locations will take place on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 from 11 AM to 12 PM at Alief-David M. Henington Regional Library. Guest speakers at the event include Houston City Council member Tiffany Thomas of District F, Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation President and CEO Dr. Julie Baker Finck, and Julie Sudduth, Regional President of PNC Bank Houston. 

Thanks to generous grant support from the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and PNC Foundation, the new Family Place Libraries™ have specifically designed spaces featuring welcoming areas with interactive early literacy materials, games, toys, and books. The HPL team will be provided with exclusive training to expand programs for toddlers and their families.

Read full media alert Houston Public Library Expands its Family Place Program.

Houston Public Library (HPL) is excited to announce the reopening of the Eleanor Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library on Monday, April 15, 2024. Operating hours will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., marking a significant milestone in the City’s commitment to serving the community.

A mini-event will kick off the festivities starting at 10 a.m. and include brief remarks from city officials followed by a storytime, craft time, 120th-anniversary limited-edition card sign-up, and book giveaways. 

While specific areas will be restricted to the public for safety reasons, reopening services will include a range of resources and amenities. Customers will have access to a collection of books, e-resources, engaging programs, a meeting space, computers, print services, and outdoor Wi-Fi.

The Freed-Montrose Library temporarily closed last month because of facility safety concerns. Following the closure, Mayor John Whitmire asked members of the library administration to meet with stakeholders and create a plan to safely reopen the building and welcome back the public to a beloved space for learning, discovery and cultural enrichment.

After careful consideration and invaluable customer feedback, the operations were extended at the Freed-Montrose Library, reaffirming HPL's dedication to providing continued access to the library's invaluable resources and services. 

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Montrose community, Freed-Montrose has been a cherished institution and hub for learning, exploration, and community engagement for years. 

According to the City's General Services Department, a specific date for the grand opening of the new library at 1001 California Street will be determined after substantial completion of the project’s construction.

Houston Public Library (HPL) regrets to inform its valued customers of the impending closure of the Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library located at 4100 Montrose Blvd. The library will cease operations at the end of business hours on Thursday, March 28, 2024. 

This decision is due to ongoing safety and facility issues that cannot be resolved in a timely manner. Among the workplace safety concerns, the elevator's non-functionality renders the second floor inaccessible to the public, as it does not comply with ADA accessibility standards. However, HPL is excited to announce plans for a new and improved library facility to better serve the community, anticipated to open in Fall 2024.

During the closure, customers can still utilize the book drop for returns until April 4, 2024. HPL encourages customers to explore alternate library locations and online services for their reading and informational needs.

Construction is already underway for the new Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library, which will be in the Montrose Collective mixed-use shopping center at 1001 California Street, 77006. The new location is anticipated to open in Fall 2024, providing the community with an upgraded and modern library experience and expanded hours.

"We understand the inconvenience this closure may cause, but please know that we are completely focused on providing a better equipped and more accessible library facility for our customers," said Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, Executive Director at Houston Public Library.

The nearest library branches to the Montrose community during this transition period are:

• Central Library, located 2.6 miles away at 500 McKinney St., 77002 | Phone: 832-393-1313
• Smith Neighborhood Library, located 3.0 miles away at 3624 Scott St., 77004 | Phone: 832-393-2050
• Looscan Neighborhood Library, located 3.6 miles away at 2510 Willowick Rd., 77027 | Phone: 832-393-1900

HPL remains committed to keeping patrons informed throughout the transition process and will provide updates on the progress of the new building as more information becomes available. 

"Although the doors may close, the knowledge and memories shared within the walls of Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library will forever endure. I look forward to welcoming customers to the new library later this year," added Lawson.

For more information or assistance, customers can contact Ask HPL customer service online or call 832-393-1313.