The Houston Public Library system links people to the world through educational, recreational, and cultural programs for persons of all ages, ethnicities, and life stages. The City of Houston’s budget does not fund the Library’s program activities. Instead, these essential programs exist through philanthropic partners who share our collective belief in the transformational power of lifelong learning.
The Houston Public Library Foundation, Inc. was established as an IRS 501(c)(3) organization in 2007 and replaced the historical, volunteer-led Houston Library Board. Our organizational mission is to support the Houston Public Library’s wide range of initiatives with particular emphasis on its neighborhood libraries and their community programs. Through our efforts, all library programs are free.
The Houston Public Library (HPL) holds 3.6 million items, has more than one million computer users, and serves more than seven million visitors a year. HPL answers 700,000 reference questions, circulates seven million books, magazines, and audio-visual materials. Over 200,000 youth, adults, and senior citizens participate in HPL programs in a single year. HPL is dedicated to serving all of Houston’s residents including vulnerable populations of the homeless, the undereducated, areas with high poverty, and inner-city youth.
550 McKinney Street
Houston, Texas 77002