Libraries have always been places of discovery, creativity, and lifelong learning but Texas State University is building on that tradition by combining emerging technology with hands-on, immersive experiences that give students new ways to learn, create, and solve problems. Located on the first floor of Alkek Library, Alkek One is a multidisciplinary innovation hub designed…
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.…
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…
September brings its own unique energy to libraries. Summer should be rolling out, but in Texas, the heat hangs on, and so do full calendars. Summer and back-to-school activities have wound down, and patron needs have shifted, but this comes with equally important demands. This month also marks National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, reminding us…
When Cynthia Soll and Rachel Kramer from McLennan Community College (MCC) Library in Waco began experimenting with AI, they weren’t intending to lead a tech revolution; their main focus was just trying to save time. Like many library staff across Texas, they wear a lot of hats. So when they saw an opportunity to use…
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) Library Development and Networking Division (LDN) is headed to Dallas for the 2025 TLA 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 descriptions, just…
On the last Thursday of most months, the Innovation and Technology Round Table (ITRT) of the Texas Library Association (TLA) hosts a series of FREE half-hour Zoom “Tech Chats” featuring the innovative, award-winning work of Texas libraries and some quick overviews of the latest emerging technologies through a library lens. All Texas library staff are…
As I watch the sun set from the train’s window seat and the gently rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country are replaced by the flatter terrain of the Prairie and Lakes Region, I mentally inventory my utility belt in preparation for the adventure ahead—serving as a moderator for the Get Graphic track at the…
The Federal Communications Commission recently approved a $200 million, three-year pilot program to boost cybersecurity in schools and libraries. The Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program will fund eligible participating school systems at a minimum of $15,000 to a maximum of $1.5 million. Funding amounts will be determined using a formula that estimates a cost…
The Library Digital Opportunity office (LDO) has a new speed test dashboard tool, and you can check it out now. See how your library stacks up to the rest! From the dashboard, you can track internet upload and download speeds across the state. The dashboard allows you to filter results by region, population, and income…