Even though your summer reading programs may be winding down, there is one last chance for your community to participate in a national summer reading challenge. Second Lady Usha Vance is challenging children in grades K-8 to read 12 books of their choice between June 1 and September 5. Here’s how the program works: If you would…
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…
Michelia Mason didn’t start out as a data expert. In fact, when she first opened Power BI, the data visualization tool felt more intimidating than intuitive. “Data analysis was not my background,” she admits. “Usage reports were about it.” But as the librarian at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), a nonprofit based in San Antonio that…
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…
Many Central Texas communities have witnessed devastating flooding, damage, and loss of life. While last week’s post focused on immediate resources of interest to affected libraries, this post seeks to highlight resources that libraries in affected communities may want to share with their patrons. Emotional Support Saving Family Treasures General Resources