At McKinney Public Library, data isn’t an afterthought; it’s the backbone of decision-making, from library hours to programming to collection development. Director Spencer Smith and his team have made a habit of asking, What do the numbers say?, and the results speak for themselves. Shaping hours to match community needs Before renovating the downtown branch,…
With Summer Library Program in the review mirror, you can practically hear the thrum of those yellow limousines, taste the cafeteria‘s food service delights, and smell the essential oils of fresh pencil shavings mingling with melted crayons. And now that it’s back to school season, learning and reflection are top of mind. As the young…
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is supporting the launch of the Presidential AI Challenge, a national initiative encouraging K-12 students and educators to harness the power of artificial intelligence to address local community challenges. This effort invites participants from all backgrounds to develop innovative AI-based projects while building skills and confidence in…
Upcoming Opportunities These opportunities are available for free unless otherwise noted. Descriptions are provided by host organizations. Foundations of Philanthropic Partnership August 6, 2025 | 2:00 p.m. (Eastern) Ready to transform how you approach philanthropy? Join Mary Riddick for this foundational session to shift your perspective from traditional fundraising to authentic partnership-building. Discover how to…
Access to justice isn’t just a legal principle, it’s a real challenge for many Texans. That’s why libraries across the state are stepping in, using technology to bridge the gap. Virtual court kiosks, now available in public libraries like Harlingen and Harris County Law Library branches, offer a secure, private space where patrons can connect…
In the heart of Hidalgo County, the Palmview Municipal Library is showing what’s possible when vision meets dedication even with a small team and limited space. Opened just a year ago, on March 23, 2024, the library has already become a hub for learning, connection, and growth in this rapidly evolving Texas town. A Library…
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…
Living in El Paso, I never experienced severe weather. Except for dust storms (more like dirt storms!) and 100+ degree heat, we rarely faced the kinds of natural disasters that other regions experience, like hurricanes, floods, or blizzards. Getting rain and snow was such a delight and something I looked forward to because they happened…
Although none were born into leadership, it is a truth universally acknowledged that some achieve it and some have it thrust upon them. With apologies to both Shakespeare and Austen, the path to library leadership can be as varied as the individuals who travel it. Directors and head librarians come to this work by many…
El Paso Public Library’s recently reopened Main Library is now home to a groundbreaking initiative: Centre Future, a unique program designed for young adults ages 16 to 26. As the first of its kind in the nation, Centre Future brings teens and twenty-somethings together for workforce development, digital literacy, life skills training, and so much…