The Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library has been garnering national recognition since the day it opened in the summer of 2024, and we couldn't be prouder of the Houston Public Library (HPL) colleagues who helped bring it to life! We spoke with Raiset Ruban, Senior Project Manager at HPL, about his experience working on this milestone project.
“As a Project Manager my role begins in the design phase, and my biggest challenge is always to conceptualize the project while keeping the focus on creating the 'Library of the Future,' a future that increasingly feels like the present,” Raiset said. “The goal of our SPACES division, which I am proud to be a part of, is always to represent the needs of our patrons and the library network as whole ecosystem.”
He emphasized that the project was truly a team effort. Close collaboration across HPL divisions, along with vital support from City departments - especially the General Services Department - helped turn vision into reality.
Raiset described working on Walker Neighborhood Library as a rare and rewarding experience. Most recently, Walker was recognized by the AIAH Interior Architecture Committee during Houston Design Week. “For our SPACES team, it was a chance to create something meaningful for the Houston community, and seeing that kind of recognition isn’t just flattering, it’s a powerful affirmation that we’re doing something right.”
Why Walker Is Special
Walker stood out from the very beginning. It replaced two beloved branches in the Westbury neighborhood, so expectations were high. Naming it after Dr. Shannon Walker, NASA’s first Houston-born astronaut, added an extra layer of pride and purpose. From innovative design and sustainable features to intentional community engagement, the project challenged everyone involved to reimagine what a modern library should be.
Raiset highlighted several “firsts” introduced at Walker: a podcast studio, an underground water detention system, and a “book cellar” packed with titles. “But my favorite feature? The flexible meeting space and café with retractable partitions. It’s designed to be the heart of the library—a place for connection, collaboration, and community.”
Libraries Are More Than Buildings
“The library is a 'third place' and our mission is to connect people to the world by providing equitable access to resources and innovative tools,” Raiset said. “I also want to thank the project team BRAVE and SpawGlass for their outstanding work and dedication in every phase of this project. Their commitment, creativity, and professionalism made it possible to bring the vision of the Walker Library to life, creating a space that will serve and inspire generations to come.”
The Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library has been garnering national recognition since the day it opened in the summer of 2024, and we couldn't be prouder of the Houston Public Library (HPL) colleagues who helped bring it to life! We spoke with Raiset Ruban, Senior Project Manager at HPL, about his experience working on this milestone project.
“As a Project Manager my role begins in the design phase, and my biggest challenge is always to conceptualize the project while keeping the focus on creating the 'Library of the Future,' a future that increasingly feels like the present,” Raiset said. “The goal of our SPACES division, which I am proud to be a part of, is always to represent the needs of our patrons and the library network as whole ecosystem.”
He emphasized that the project was truly a team effort. Close collaboration across HPL divisions, along with vital support from City departments - especially the General Services Department - helped turn vision into reality.
Raiset described working on Walker Neighborhood Library as a rare and rewarding experience. Most recently, Walker was recognized by the AIAH Interior Architecture Committee during Houston Design Week. “For our SPACES team, it was a chance to create something meaningful for the Houston community, and seeing that kind of recognition isn’t just flattering, it’s a powerful affirmation that we’re doing something right.”
Why Walker Is Special
Walker stood out from the very beginning. It replaced two beloved branches in the Westbury neighborhood, so expectations were high. Naming it after Dr. Shannon Walker, NASA’s first Houston-born astronaut, added an extra layer of pride and purpose. From innovative design and sustainable features to intentional community engagement, the project challenged everyone involved to reimagine what a modern library should be.
Raiset highlighted several “firsts” introduced at Walker: a podcast studio, an underground water detention system, and a “book cellar” packed with titles. “But my favorite feature? The flexible meeting space and café with retractable partitions. It’s designed to be the heart of the library—a place for connection, collaboration, and community.”
Libraries Are More Than Buildings
“The library is a 'third place' and our mission is to connect people to the world by providing equitable access to resources and innovative tools,” Raiset said. “I also want to thank the project team BRAVE and SpawGlass for their outstanding work and dedication in every phase of this project. Their commitment, creativity, and professionalism made it possible to bring the vision of the Walker Library to life, creating a space that will serve and inspire generations to come.”