The Port O’Connor Library stands as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the community. From the early dreams of a few visionaries to the collective effort of countless supporters, the library is a source of pride and a beacon of knowledge for all who love Port O’Connor.
For almost four decades, the Port O’Connor community, local and otherwise, have strongly supported the Port O’Connor Library Branch. The current building was established through heightened awareness and contributions from people from all walks of life via donations, fundraisers, and events. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of The Friends of the Port O’Connor Library, a new library building was dedicated and opened on January 19, 2019.
Due to the dramatic increase in library patron usage, The Friends of the Port O’Connor Library are once again fundraising to expand the current facility. Over the past five years, library patron usage has surged from 5,342 to 11,103, marking a 107% increase. Our library has now outgrown its allotted book space. The proposed expansion plan includes adding twenty new book stacks to accommodate the growing collection.
As can be seen with the construction of new homes and businesses in the area, Port O’Connor is experiencing an influx of individuals who are now working from home and require a private, professional space for internet meetings, such as interviews for jobs and Zoom meetings. Our retirees from professional backgrounds offer their services for counseling in legal and business matters and utilize our library for pro bono client meetings. A private space for these meetings is essential. The expansion includes three private study rooms to accommodate these needs.
The children’s area has become the ‘go to’ place for parents and grandparents who bring their children to the library. The area has limited space with two adult seats. The additional area for children will create a larger space for interactive play and reading and provide comfortable seating for parents and grandparents.
Our library currently lacks a dedicated study area specifically for teens or young adults. We have observed a rise in high school, and local college students visiting the library to work on special projects that require internet access. The library supports those who are in need of of high-speed internet and may not have it available. The Port O’Connor Library Branch’s objective is to establish a designated, multi-purpose space for teens and young adults, equipped with private study areas and internet access.
Due to the increased library usage, an assistant librarian was hired in March 2022. The current 8’x8’ space intended originally for the librarian’s office now suffices predominantly as library storage with little workspace for the two librarians. The proposed plan will include an additional workspace for the librarians and storage space for the library.
The Port O’Connor Library Branch would also like to add a Library of Things, a new concept in libraries, is a collection of non-traditional library items. Items in the library’s collection vary by locality. For example, popular items in Port O’’Connor may include infant and small child life jackets, beach toys or similar sports equipment. A space is needed for storage and organization of these items.
Port O’Connor is experiencing growth, and our library must expand to meet the community’s needs. Please join us for a tour during our Open House on June 29th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. We welcome all who wish to attend our Annual Meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. -Darla Mile
