New Hispanic History Research Center Coming Soon!
A new Hispanic History Research Center will provide not only a repository for invaluable documents, photos, media, and artifacts that represent Hispanic history in the region, but also provide a new space for exhibits, programs, and outreach. The Hispanic History Research Center will allow the public to trace their lineage and explore Houston's history.
Available Now: Hispanic & Latino History Collections
The digital archives includes collections of papers and photographs representing the contributions of Hispanics in every industry and their experience in the Bayou City. Coupled with first-hand accounts captured via oral histories these collections offer a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston. Materials range in date from 1703 to the present, with the bulk of the material covering the 1920s through the 1980s.
Within these collections are a significant number of materials about early Houston mutualistas (mutual aid societies), big band, Tejano, and Chicano music, the Mexican American experience during World War II, and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).
Movements in Houston
Created in 1974, part of its collecting scope was to capture stories and interviews of Houstonians. The founding Oral History Collection is made up of community members, artists, musicians, civil rights activists, politicians, and civic leaders who helped define the growth and history of the city. We have continued to conduct in-depth interviews, hosting collecting days and partnering in memory projects, and accessioning other oral history endeavors.
ORAL HISTORIES, MEMORY PROJECTS
For Researchers
From the Collection
Research Guide
Find available online items faster using this guide to access finding aids, print collections, databases, and recommended resources on Hispanic and Latino history!
Get Started
Digital Archives
View over 100 collections of papers and photographs representing the contributions of Hispanics in every industry and their experience in the Bayou City. These archival records, coupled with first-hand accounts captured via oral history offer a rich account of the Hispanic experience in Houston.
Explore Now
Building for the Future
FY2023-2027 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
The goal of HPL's CIP is to ensure that our customers (current and new) have equitable access to resources and services within any region of the city. Get budget details on library facility and technology projects.
CAPITAL PROJECT UPDATES
The projects highlighted here are funded and approved. Design teams are selected and project updates are provided from schematic design through substantial completion.
ONE HOUSTON, ONE LIBRARY PLAN
Transformation Plan on how HPL is aligning its people, place, and platform assets with citywide priorities driven by customer usage, needs and plans for the future.
HISTORY RESEARCH CENTERS
Visit one of our three History Research Centers focused on African American history, Family History & Genealogy, and Houston & Texas History. Get help with your research or donate to our collection.