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…
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission is made up of four divisions, Library Development and Networking (LDN), State and Local Record Management (SLRM), Archives and Information Services (ARIS), and the Talking Book Program (TBP). For this blog, we wanted to dive deeper into the technology the Talking Book Program uses for their programming and…
In Balch Springs, Texas, the public library is more than a place to check out books. It is a place where neighbors meet, skills are shared, and partnerships grow into something bigger than any one program. For Teresa Smith Conley, programming is not just part of the job. It is a passion rooted in creativity,…
The Texas State Independent Living Council (Texas SILC), in collaboration with the Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, has launched a statewide needs assessment survey to better understand the experiences, barriers, and priorities of Texans with disabilities. Public libraries are encouraged to share this survey widely in their communities to reach as many individuals as…
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…
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…
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…
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…