What do you get when you mix cotton candy, karaoke, a helicopter, and hundreds of books? One unforgettable library event that drew more than 1,000 people, and once again, showcased why libraries are often the beating heart of their communities.

To kick off the city’s 100th anniversary and the start of summer reading, Texarkana Public Library didn’t just put up a few balloons and call it a day. Instead, they shut down the street in front of their building, brought in more than 30 vendors, partnered with city departments, and turned their downtown block into a fun-filled, family-friendly celebration of reading, learning, and community.

“We wanted to commemorate our centennial with something special,” said Olivia Poulton, Director of Texarkana Public Library. “So we asked ourselves, what could we do that would get people excited, bring them to the library, and give them something fun to do with their families?”

The result? A first-ever for the Texarkana Public Library: a vendor fair and block party that featured everything from a bounce house obstacle course and face painting to kids singing karaoke on a giant stage. One library staff member even manned a cotton candy machine and handed out 330 servings of cotton candy for free!

Planning with Purpose (and Plenty of Phone Calls)

Brandon Bell, who works in Technical Services, helped lead the planning effort. “The first step was just brainstorming. Where would we hold it? What would we need? Then it became about who to call to make it happen.” With a plan in place, Bell took to the phones and started getting results.

With the street shut down in front of the library, Texarkana Parks and Rec supplied a massive stage, Western Waste Management donated trash service, and local vendors rallied behind the idea of a community-centered celebration. With a shaved ice truck and a host of arts and crafts vendors, there was something for everyone and it was mostly all free to the public.

The library intentionally limited the number of food trucks to ensure each vendor had a successful day, and they didn’t charge for booth space. “It wasn’t about making money,” said Poulton. “It was about making memories.”

Community Partnership Power

Key to the event’s success was collaboration. The police and fire departments showed up with vehicles for kids to explore. Texarkana College’s aviation department even brought a decommissioned Bell helicopter to display.

“We weren’t afraid to ask for help,” said Bell. “We called everyone. Some said yes. Some didn’t. But the ones who said yes made it incredible.”

One small local business, Dot’s Rentals, provided a cotton candy machine and ingredients. A professional DJ donated equipment for the kids’ karaoke stage. And when volunteers needed a break, the library staff made sure they were well-fed. “People will work for hot dogs,” joked Bell.

An Event with Impact

The event, held from 10:00 to 2:00 on a Saturday, had more than1,000 attendees and 130 summer reading sign-ups that day alone. Patrons renewed their cards, paid off overdue fees, and reconnected with the library. “We weren’t even asking for money,” Bell said, “But after the renewals and late fees getting paid we made nearly 700 dollars.” The Friends of the Library also ran a book sale, and the library’s circulation desk stayed busy all day as people wandered inside for some cool air.

“It felt like the entire city came out,” said Public Services Librarian Morgan Chance. “We had people of all ages, from toddlers to teens to retirees. And so many left saying they couldn’t wait for us to do it again next year.”

Even the local news took notice, with media outlets and radio stations promoting the event.

Lessons for Other Libraries

Despite Texarkana’s population of 35,000 and its unique status as a dual-state library funded by both Texas and Arkansas, the team says this kind of event is achievable for smaller libraries too.

“Size doesn’t matter,” said Bell. “Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to be rejected. If you make the case that it’s about bringing the community together, people want to be part of that.”

Poulton added that events like this are great opportunities for student volunteers, especially high schoolers looking for service hours. One such volunteer helped coordinate cleanup by bringing in the Young Marines to assist with take-down.

Technology as a Community Bridge

In addition to bringing the community together for fun and games, the Texarkana Public Library is deeply committed to helping its community bridge the digital divide.

Thanks to a $15,000 grant from the American Library Association in partnership with AT&T, the library launched Digital Learn computer classes. These cover everything from internet and email basics to resume building and cell phone use. Materials, handouts, and lesson plans are all provided through the Digital Learn platform, and classes are led by staff and volunteers.

The library also partnered with Texas Workforce Solutions to install a job-seeking kiosk—a touchscreen computer and printer station where patrons can build resumes and apply for jobs at no cost. One recent success story? A long-haul trucker laid off after 37 years found new direction thanks to the library’s support and was able to craft a resume to seek new job opportunities.

Their growing makerspace includes a 3D printer, Cricut machine, and die cutter, all purchased through ARPA funding. In August, they’ll launch a youth-focused tech camp to teach patrons how to use these tools. LeapPads (made possible by a Kiwanis grant), bilingual AWE computers, and a “mommy and me” computer desk (complete with attached crib) are among their tech-forward offerings.

And maybe most relevant,  they loan out Wi-Fi hotspots as well. In a community with high poverty and limited internet access, this service is a lifeline.

What’s Next?

When asked if the library plans to do it all again, Bell didn’t hesitate: “100% yes. Without a doubt, this is going to be an annual event.”

Next year’s dream? A “Big Rig Takeover” with even more community engagement, where kids can tour firetrucks, ambulances, and hear from the people who operate them.

As Poulton summed it up, “The event just kept getting bigger and bigger. It was a lot of work but everything came together. It will be even bigger next year.”

Feeling Inspired?

If you’re a Texas library dreaming up your own summer event, Texarkana’s message is clear: start small, ask for help, and let your community shine. Whether you’ve got a population of 3,000 or 30,000, your library can be the spark that brings people together.

If you want to hear more stories like this, and find out what your local public library is doing to entertain, educate, and elevate your community, subscribe to the LDO Download to keep up with the latest news or email us!