The newly constructed Baldwin Boettcher branch of the Harris County Public Library system has officially reopened to the public. Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey’s office celebrated the grand reopening with a ribbon-cutting Feb. 12.

What happened

Hurricane Harvey caused extensive damage to this location in August 2017. County officials said significant structural improvements were made as the facility was rebuilt, including a three-foot retaining wall around the foundation and flood barriers at entrances.

Library staff and patrons have operated out of temporary facilities with limited space and resources since Harvey hit.

“The people of this community have been so patient, so understanding and so supportive over the past seven years. We frankly cannot wait to welcome them into the brand new, full-service location the community deserves,” HCPL Executive Director Edward Melton said in a Jan. 14 news release.
Harris County Precinct 3 celebrated the library's reopening with a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 12. (Courtesy Harris County Precinct 3)
Harris County Precinct 3 celebrated the library's reopening with a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 12. (Courtesy Harris County Precinct 3)
The details


Located at Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, this new facility spans 10,000 square feet and features a:
  • Children’s reading area
  • Gardening tool library
  • Conference room
  • Circulation space
  • Computer area
“The Baldwin Boettcher Library offers a wealth of educational services and resources to families across our community,” Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey said in a Feb. 12 news release. “With its unique location in the beautiful Mercer Botanic Gardens, it’s a very special place that I encourage everyone to visit and spend a day enjoying the beauty of literature and nature.”

Operating hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Fridays.