Library-Centered Community Connection: Three Texas Library Stories Libraries are more than buildings filled with books—they are gathering places where communities connect, celebrate, learn, and grow together. Across Texas, libraries are creating programs that respond directly to the needs of their communities, building stronger relationships across generations and ensuring that people of all ages feel welcomed…
As we consider the role of meeting room access in public libraries, the following scenario illustrates how well-intentioned efforts to support community engagement can reveal the risks that arise when a clear meeting room policy is not in place. Without consistent guidelines, libraries may face inconsistent decision-making, interpersonal conflict, and perceptions of unfair or unequal…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Internship May 11, 2026 Do you know any current undergraduate or graduate students—or recent college graduates (within six months)—preparing for employment or further studies in education, library science, history or museum studies? Would…
Library-Led Community Impact: Three Texas Library Stories Opening Doors | Montgomery County Memorial Library System (Spring, TX) In Montgomery County, a community eager for stability and opportunity, residents found themselves navigating the uncertainty of job seeking and struggling to connect with trustworthy employers and meaningful work. Recognizing this need, the Central Library of the Montgomery…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. In-Person Amigos Library Services Courses at Austin Public Library Join us for two exclusive in-person workshops hosted at the Austin Public Library. Each workshop requires a separate registration. Please note that these in-person workshops are only available to…
As we turn our attention to library boards, consider how an unexpected leadership vacancy can quickly expose the risks of operating without current bylaws. In moments of transition—especially during high-stakes decisions—the absence of clear governance guidelines can prevent a board from acting confidently and transparently, undermine public trust, and stall strategic initiatives due to procedural…
Libraries as Catalysts for Community Leadership: Three Texas Library Stories Transforming Concern into Coordinated Action | Claud H. Gilmer Memorial Library (Rocksprings, TX) In the small community of Rocksprings and the surrounding Hill Country—where neighbors double as coaches, volunteers, and caregivers—families searched for a way to recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and a place to…
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) Library Development and Networking Division (LDN) is headed to Houston for the 2026 Texas Library Association Annual Conference and several members of our staff will be presenting. We’ll be sharing some exciting updates on our programs and initiatives so mark these in your calendar. For in-depth session…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. American Folklife Center Resources: Texas February 12, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. (Central) American Folklife Center collections from Texas display the depth of diversity found within the Lone Star State and span over a century. Beginning with the John…
As we turn our attention to National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) compliance, consider the following scenario in which a well-intentioned effort to help patrons engage civically revealed how the absence of an implementation plan can lead to inconsistent practices, legal risk, and unintended harm to public trust. The Gotham Public Library—a fictional, small, rural library…