Richardson Public Library Director Jennifer Davidson updated City Council on what’s new at the library and what patrons can expect in the future at the April 7 meeting.
Looking ahead
Assistant Director of Library Services Vrena Patrick highlighted the Summer at the Library program, which will include board game rentals, and the Summer Reading Club, which will begin June 7. The theme will be Color our World, Patrick said, and will include programming for adults, teens and children.
Several cultural events are planned, such as an event focused on dances from indigenous cultures around the world.
Additionally, beginning June 14, a new craft program will be available for patrons to join called Creative Community Circle. The program will allow patrons to enjoy crafting and socializing with others.
Some details
The library received the Achievement of Excellence in Libraries award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Associations, Davidson said. Out of the 542 total public libraries in Texas, 102 received the award.
To receive the award, libraries must meet certain criteria such as introducing new services and participating in outreach events. Davidson said library staff participated in 57 events.
Davidson said 232,000 people visited the library in 2024, averaging about 720 people daily. More than 890,000 items, both physical and digital, were checked out.
Zooming in
Patrick said the library introduced a new book club called Pages of Perspective, which will launch in June.
“The aim of this club is to provide literature that sparks engaging, thoughtful and inclusive discussion in a welcoming and safe environment,” Patrick said.
The club is designed for patrons that want to explore a broader range of cultural topics, Patrick said.
Additionally, Patrick said staff hope the book club will attract new audiences that haven’t participated in them before. Once implemented, the library will have eight adult book clubs and two youth book clubs.
