Palestine Library Friends plan new fundraising efforts and expand community programs

In the heart of Palestine, Texas, the City of Palestine Library Advisory Board convened on January 14, 2025, to discuss exciting new initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and library services. As the meeting unfolded, members shared updates on programs designed to attract a diverse audience, particularly among teens and families.

One of the standout announcements was the transformation of the library's teen night. Previously centered around Dungeons and Dragons, the program will now include printmaking workshops, allowing teens to explore their creativity with hands-on art projects. This shift aims to broaden participation, inviting more young people to engage with the library's offerings. Additionally, the first Thursday of each month will feature an open art night, welcoming participants of all ages to join in various artistic activities, fostering a sense of community through creativity.

The library's chess meetups also received attention, with regular attendance reported at around six to seven children. The board emphasized the importance of keeping the chess program accessible, allowing children to drop in any day to play, thus encouraging ongoing interest in the game.

In a significant move towards modernizing library services, the board reviewed the usage statistics of their digital platforms, particularly Hoopla, which offers ebooks, audiobooks, and more. The data revealed that audiobooks were the most popular among patrons, with a notable increase in engagement since the introduction of a new checkout system that allows users to access multiple titles under a single checkout. This change, implemented in the last three months, has made it easier for patrons to enjoy a wider variety of content.

Sarah Sanchez Hewitt, president of the Palestine Library Friends Inc., also addressed the board, highlighting the organization's efforts to support library functions through fundraising and community involvement. With a nominal membership fee, the Friends group aims to bolster library resources and has recently focused on underwriting costs for new furnishings in the library.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed optimism about the library's evolving role in the community. With new programs and a commitment to enhancing digital access, the City of Palestine Library is poised to become a vibrant hub for learning and creativity, inviting residents of all ages to explore the world of books and beyond.