Library staff told the Garland Library Advisory Board on Nov. 10 that the West Garland Library’s Oct. 25 grand opening drew strong community turnout and showcased the city’s capital improvement work.

The most immediate measure of public interest came from a staff presentation: “We had roughly about 350 people at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and throughout the day over 1,200 people came,” a library staff presenter said, describing a day of ribbon cutting, photographs, giveaways and performances. Staff reported lion dancers, confetti and a professional photographer at the event, and described families exploring the children’s area and outdoor furniture.

Why it matters: The turnout is the library system’s first major public test of two recently completed renovation projects, and staff said it demonstrates strong neighborhood demand for the renovated Central and West facilities. Staff indicated the larger capital-improvement program is largely complete and that remaining work is focused on smaller projects at the North and South locations.

Staff also highlighted cultural and community partnerships that amplified the day’s programming. The presentation credited Jennifer Nguyen and the Vietnamese American Association for coordinating performers and loaning a temporary exhibition tied to the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon; staff described loaned artifacts and items on display. Staff said the Hollabaugh Recreation Center brought demonstrations to the event and that the library and rec center will continue shared programming.

Board members praised staff outreach and the library’s role as a community hub. One board member noted the importance of tracking usage data as West comes online and asked staff to report back with attendance and program statistics in future meetings.

Next steps: Staff said they will return next month with a more detailed update on smaller North and South projects and will continue community outreach to sustain programming at the renovated facilities.