Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Culture And Tourism topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Waco library reports circulation and visitor gains; museum seeks $10 million for renovation
Summary
The city's library director reported continued growth in circulation (781,595 items) and visits (329,391) in 2025, digital expansion and program gains, while the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame faces attendance declines and is planning a phased renovation supported by a proposed $10 million interlocal transfer from DPS.
Roberto Zapata, director of Library and Cultural Enrichment, told the City Council on April 21 that the Waco–McLennan County Library system and Texas Ranger Hall of Fame continue to modernize services and pursue improved visitor experiences.
Zapata said systemwide circulation rose to 781,595 items in 2025 (an 8.1% increase year over year) and visits totaled 329,391. The mayor's summer reading challenge reached a record 4,166 participants, and library leaders attributed part of the circulation and visit growth to expanded digital collections (including Comics Plus and Spanish-language materials), a new mobile app and community-focused programming.
On the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, Zapata reported a decline in visitation and revenue year over year (roughly an 11% drop) and described plans to improve exhibits and year-round programming. He outlined a renovation timeline tied to an interlocal agreement that would transfer $10 million from the Department of Public Safety to the city to fund museum renovation and Company F headquarters improvements; the interlocal was expected on a May council agenda.
Zapata said the department has improved operational efficiency through technology additions (self-check checkout, automated book drops), integrated services and partnerships with Baylor Museum Studies interns and other organizations. He said museum attendance tends to peak in spring and that staff view the renovation and programming updates as central to restoring consistent visitation and revenue.
Council members praised the library's outreach and requested continued updates on the museum renovation schedule and fundraising.
