With the generosity from our citizens, The HPL Foundation, and our partners the Houston Public Library offer a wide range of free outreach and community engagement initiatives. We firmly believe that the library is for everyone, so we are focused on our neighborhood libraries and their surrounding communities. We provide a wide variety of classes and services including information about the library, early literacy, digital literacy, STEM, workforce development, ESL, and citizenship.
The Community Engagement team serves as the outreach service arm for our library system. We bring the classroom to you! Get library services for all ages, stages, and walks of life from our instructors who have the knowledge and supplies for you to host a group event for kids or teens.
Family Place Libraries at HPL!
Welcoming our youngest pre-school customers, parents and caregivers to our re-imagined, re-designed, family-centered early literacy program and physical space. Develop your child’s social, emotional and cognitive skills for learning. Join us for engaging, fun and entertaining sessions.
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Bringing the Classroom to You
We have a full catalog of classes and activities tailored for all ages including for our adult learners.
We offer you the needed support so you may sponsor your own learning activity for any age group of 6 or more. Hop on board one of our mobile libraries to teach students valuable skills in unique learning environments or schedule an in-person group activity.
We offer the needed support so you may sponsor your own learning activity for any age group of 6 or more.
These events are typically closed to the general public because they are privately sponsored by a group or organization. If you have requested our services, you will find your event on our Community Calendar. HPL Events that are open to the public are found on the main HPL Events Calendar.
Mobile Express Technology Lab
Library services anywhere! Outfitted with high-speed internet, computers, webcams and headsets, wireless printing, and smart TV’s. Our buses are accessible and fun learning spaces!
Gaming Cube
Host small groups while they play on the console of their choice. A dedicated table arrangement makes this mobile great for hands on activities and outreach at your events.
Community Initiatives
Outreach
Request for our friendly library staff to setup a table or display with information about the library for your fair, open house, or other community event.
Groomed for Literacy
The Houston Public Library, Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation, and Put It In A Book Foundation have partnered to promote a love for reading and easier access to books for all.
The Memory Project
A dedicated focus on race, social justice, and COVID-19. The African American Library at the Gregory School and the Houston Metropolitan Research Center are seeking remote interviews from Houstonians.
Little Free Libraries
Learn how that tiny library you’ve seen in your neighborhood is part of a global book-sharing movement—and you can join! Anyone can join to start sharing in their community.
Liftoff Houston
The City of Houston's annual business plan competition. Its aim is to empower Houstonians with business literacy education and mentorship to start their own business while contributing to the local growth Houston economy.
Learning Link
Collaboration between local ISDs and Houston Public Library to rise to the White House's ConnectED Challenge - linking students to essential resources needed to achieve success.
Get Involved
Volunteer with HPL
Coming Soon! This program is currently being refreshed. Check back Fall 2022 for exciting new opportunities.
Support the HPL Foundation
Your support and donations helps us turn initiative and events into community successes.
What is the HPL Foundation
Learn more about The Houston Public Library Foundation's history, board members and events.