Libraries and the Library System in Houston
For those who love reading or just enjoy spending time in a peaceful environment, Houston’s libraries are perfect for you. We have a fantastic range of libraries providing something to everyone. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or someone looking for a good book to read, you can find it here. Sure libraries are places to borrow books, but they are community centers offering a wide range of services and programs. From free Wi-Fi and computer access to children’s storytime and adult education classes, Houston libraries provide resources for everyone.
History of Libraries in Houston
Houston’s library system has a history dating back to the early 20th century. The Houston Public Library (HPL) system began in 1904 with the opening of the first public library. It was funded by a grant from Andrew Carnegie. Since then, the system has grown significantly, now boasting 42 branches across the city. The Julia Ideson Building, opened in 1926, is one of the oldest and most iconic library buildings in Houston. It serves as memory to the city’s commitment to education and public service.
Central Library
The Central Library, located in downtown Houston, is the heart of the Houston Public Library system. It offers a vast collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources. The Jesse H. Jones Building, part of the Central Library, provides extensive research facilities and special collections. It is a great place for students and researchers. They also offer free workshops and events, making it a great asset to the community.
Neighborhood Libraries
Houston’s neighborhood libraries are wonderful community resources. These libraries offer convenient access to books and other resources, and each has its own unique charm. For example, the “Heights Library” is known for its historic architecture and cozy reading nooks, while the “Kendall Library” offers a wide range of programs for children and teens.
Key Libraries Located in Houston
1. Central Library (Jesse H. Jones Building) Address: 500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002 Phone: (832) 393-1313
2. African American Library at the Gregory School Address: 1300 Victor St, Houston, TX 77019 Phone: (832) 393-1440
3. Alief-David M. Henington Regional Library Address: 7979 South Kirkwood Rd, Houston, TX 77072 Phone: (832) 393-1820
4. Alice McKean Young Neighborhood Library Address: 5107 Griggs Rd, Houston, TX 77021 Phone: (832) 393-2140
5. Bracewell Neighborhood Library Address: 9002 Kingspoint Rd, Houston, TX 77075 Phone: (832) 393-2580
6. Carnegie Neighborhood Library Address: 1050 Quitman St, Houston, TX 77009 Phone: (832) 393-1720
7. Collier Regional Library Address: 6200 Pinemont Dr, Houston, TX 77092 Phone: (832) 393-1740
8. Dixon Neighborhood Library Address: 8005 Mesa Dr, Houston, TX 77028 Phone: (832) 393-2450
9. Flores Neighborhood Library Address: 110 North Milby St, Houston, TX 77003 Phone: (832) 393-1780
10. Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library Address: 4100 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006 Phone: (832) 393-1800
11. Henington-Alief Regional Library Address: 7979 S Kirkwood Rd, Houston, TX 77072 Phone: (832) 393-1820
12. Hillendahl Neighborhood Library Address: 2436 Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77080 Phone: (832) 393-1940
13. HPL Express Discovery Green Address: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010 Phone: (832) 393-1375
14. Johnson Neighborhood Library Address: 3517 Reed Rd, Houston, TX 77051 Phone: (832) 393-2350
15. Jungman Neighborhood Library Address: 5830 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057 Phone: (832) 393-1860
16. Kendall Neighborhood Library Address: 609 N Eldridge Pkwy, Houston, TX 77079 Phone: (832) 393-1880
17. Lakewood Neighborhood Library Address: 8815 Feland St, Houston, TX 77028 Phone: (832) 393-2480
18. Lanier Theological Library Address: 14130 Hargrave Rd, Houston, TX 77070 Phone: (281) 477-8400
19. Looscan Neighborhood Library Address: 2510 Willowick Rd, Houston, TX 77027 Phone: (832) 393-1900
20. McCrane-Kashmere Gardens Neighborhood Library Address: 5411 Pardee St, Houston, TX 77026 Phone: (832) 393-2450
21. McGovern-Stella Link Regional Library Address: 7405 Stella Link Rd, Houston, TX 77025 Phone: (832) 393-2630
22. Melcher Neighborhood Library Address: 7200 Keller St, Houston, TX 77012 Phone: (832) 393-2580
23. Morris Frank Neighborhood Library Address: 10103 Fondren Rd, Houston, TX 77096 Phone: (832) 393-2550
24. Park Place Regional Library Address: 8145 Park Place Blvd, Houston, TX 77017 Phone: (832) 393-1980
25. Pleasantville Neighborhood Library Address: 1520 Gellhorn Dr, Houston, TX 77029 Phone: (832) 393-2280
26. Ring Neighborhood Library Address: 8835 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055 Phone: (832) 393-1970
27. Scenic Woods Regional Library Address: 10677 Homestead Rd, Houston, TX 77016 Phone: (832) 393-2030
28. Smith Neighborhood Library Address: 3624 Scott St, Houston, TX 77004 Phone: (832) 393-2050
29. Smith Branch – Gregory School Address: 1300 Victor St, Houston, TX 77019 Phone: (832) 393-1440
30. Stanaker Neighborhood Library Address: 611 South Sgt Macario Garcia Dr, Houston, TX 77011 Phone: (832) 393-2080
31. Stimley-Blue Ridge Neighborhood Library Address: 7007 W Fuqua Dr, Houston, TX 77489 Phone: (832) 393-2090
32. Tuttle Neighborhood Library Address: 702 Kress St, Houston, TX 77020 Phone: (832) 393-2100
33. Walter Neighborhood Library Address: 7660 Clarewood Dr, Houston, TX 77036 Phone: (832) 393-2500
34. Westbury Neighborhood Library Address: 5505 Belrose Dr, Houston, TX 77035 Phone: (832) 393-2088
35. Young Neighborhood Library Address: 5107 Griggs Rd, Houston, TX 77021 Phone: (832) 393-2140
36. Flores Neighborhood Library Address: 110 North Milby St, Houston, TX 77003 Phone: (832) 393-1780
37. Scenic Woods Regional Library Address: 10677 Homestead Rd, Houston, TX 77016 Phone: (832) 393-2030
38. Jungman Neighborhood Library Address: 5830 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057 Phone: (832) 393-1860
39. Walter Neighborhood Library Address: 7660 Clarewood Dr, Houston, TX 77036 Phone: (832) 393-2500
40. Stanaker Neighborhood Library Address: 611 South Sgt Macario Garcia Dr, Houston, TX 77011 Phone: (832) 393-2080
41. Lakewood Neighborhood Library Address: 8815 Feland St, Houston, TX 77028 Phone: (832) 393-2480
42. Flores Neighborhood Library Address: 110 North Milby St, Houston, TX 77003 Phone: (832) 393-1780
Local Rules and Regulations
Each library branch in Houston may have specific rules and regulations, but some general guidelines apply across the board. Patrons are expected to maintain a quiet environment, respect library property, and follow borrowing rules. It’s important to have a library card to access many of the services and borrow materials. The library’s website provides detailed information on obtaining a library card and the rules for borrowing and returning items.
Digital Resources and Services
In today’s digital age, Houston libraries have welcomed technology by providing a range of digital resources. Patrons can access e-books, audiobooks, and online databases from the comfort of their homes. The library’s website offers a wealth of information and services, including online catalogs, research tools, and educational resources. The HPL Mobile app makes it even easier to access these resources on the go.
Support and Volunteering
Libraries in Houston grow with the support of the community. There are many ways you can get involved, whether through donations, volunteering, or joining the Friends of the Library group. Volunteers play a serious part in helping with events, managing book sales, and supporting library programs. Donations help fund new books, resources, and community programs.