At the San Antonio Public Library, Learn at SAPL offers more than just computer access, it provides a pathway to independence and confidence. The program, now celebrating its eleventh year, helps adults build digital skills, find jobs, and navigate everyday challenges in an increasingly online world. A dedicated space within seven branches across the city,…
Where the circulation desk of a former library once stood, a different kind of knowledge center now buzzes with activity. In Spring 2024, the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) at UT Austin opened Hello Maker Studio, a free, student-staffed makerspace in Welch Hall, steps from the college’s main gathering space known as The Nucleus. Built…
When A’ndrea McAdams arrived in Sundown nine years ago, the library was a volunteer-run remnant of what used to be a county branch. Today, under her leadership, the City of Sundown Library is an award-winning, grant-powered hub of access, wellness, and local pride, proof that innovation does not only belong to big cities. A’ndrea’s path…
Not long ago, the Red Oak Public Library, which serves a small rural area south of Dallas, functioned out of a single room. When the library moved into its new location in the Government Center with 4,700 square feet in 2023, staff finally had physical room to dream bigger. That vision became reality with the…
Finding a Safe Haven in the Library For Diana Muturia, the Phoenix Public Library was more than a place to borrow books, it was a lifeline. Originally from Kenya, Diana arrived in Phoenix with determination but limited resources. “The library saved me,” she recalls. “It was the only place I could get Wi-Fi, and it was…
Across the country, libraries are evolving beyond books and quiet study spaces to become centers of innovation and creativity. Maker spaces, equipped with tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, recording studios, and design software are giving patrons the chance to experiment, build, and bring ideas to life. These spaces lower the barrier to entry for…
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…
At the Amarillo Public Library, digital access is more than a service, it’s a lifeline. During a recent webinar for the Texas Library Association (TLA)’s Innovation and Technology Round Table (ITRT), Maggie Elder, the library’s Digital Outreach Coordinator, shared how their innovative Digital Navigator program is helping the community build confidence, skills, and independence in…
E-rate is a federal discount program available to accredited public libraries that pays up to 90% of broadband costs, but we at TSLAC know the process to complete an application like this can be challenging. TSLAC is continuing its support of libraries this year in applying for E-Rate. The project, called Libraries Connecting Texas (LCT),…
The Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO) is tackling the digital divide with programs that expand infrastructure and digital opportunity across the state. Led by new Director Bryant Clayton and supported by Digital Opportunity Supervisor Omar Ledezma, and Outreach Coordinators Andrea Pacheco and Lauren Weber, the BDO plays a key role in keeping communities, internet providers,…