At Texas A&M University–San Antonio, even defining what it means to have the title of “AI librarian” is a work in progress. Kim Grotewold stepped into the role on September 1, 2025, but like many emerging positions tied to artificial intelligence, the scope is still evolving. “AI librarian” is only one part of her job.…
Since opening its doors in March 2023, Frisco Public Library has quickly established itself as one of the most innovative library spaces in Texas. Housed in a transformed 150,000+ square foot former rocket factory, the facility reflects the city’s investment in the future of learning. From maker spaces and VR equipment to a towering T-Rex…
At San Marcos Public Library, STEM programming is no longer about one-time workshops or isolated topics. Instead, it has evolved into something much more powerful. It is a model rooted in families learning together, sustained over time, and supported through a unique partnership with Texas State University. For Ashley Schimelman, Division Manager of Programming and…
Back in early February, digital opportunity leaders from across the country gathered in Chicago for Net Inclusion 2026. The sessions covered broadband legislation, AI literacy, disaster response, tech distribution, and the uncertain future of federal funding. But one message rang clear above all others: Digital opportunity is local work. And libraries are uniquely positioned to…
When the Institute of Museum and Library Services announced the 2025 winners of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, one Texas library was still in shock. Nicholas P. Sims Library in Waxahachie, now 121 years old, has been named a national medal recipient, one of the highest honors a library can receive in…
When people think of genealogy libraries, they often picture quiet rooms and adults researching family trees. But at the Genealogy and Preservation Center of Montgomery County Memorial Library System in Conroe, Texas, history is an exciting activity for all ages. Thanks to the creativity and dedication of Genealogy Librarian Laura Politte, the space has become…
At the Clute Library in Clute, Texas, afternoons do not wind down when the school bell rings. They ramp up. Located directly across the street from the local intermediate school, the library becomes a steady stream of backpacks, laughter, and curiosity as students head over after class. For many families in this lower income community,…
When Marla Boswell talks about robotics at the Arlington Public Library, she does not describe it as a class. She describes it as an experience. After more than 25 years working with tweens and teens, Boswell has learned that the most effective learning happens when kids are fully engaged, curious, and having fun. Boswell began…
At Montgomery County’s Charles B. Stewart Library, Children’s Librarian Ally Graves has built a reputation for transforming everyday curiosity into unforgettable learning experiences. Her recent Bubble Lab, part of her STEAM series, drew a record crowd and even required an impromptu second session. The secret behind the success goes far beyond soap and water. It comes…
For nearly 90 years, Ector County Library has been a cornerstone of Odessa in the Permian Basin. But with no branch locations and many residents living miles from downtown, access to library services hasn’t always been easy. That’s why the return of a bookmobile, now reimagined as the Words on Wheels! (WoW!) mobile van, is…