Libraries Seek Photos, Memories For 75th Anniversary Celebration
Libraries Seek Photos, Memories For 75th Anniversary Celebration
– Aug 8, 2022
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Fort Bend County library system, and preparations have begun for a county-wide celebration to mark the historic occasion!
Special events and activities are being planned in salute to the advances achieved by the library system, and to the communities that made it all possible, over the past 75 years.
The dream of a public library system for Fort Bend County began in 1947 with 12 women who wanted to share their love of reading with all people across the county. Their goal was to make books accessible to everyone.
From a humble beginning of 1,000 books and a bookmobile, the library system’s collection has grown to more than 1.1-million books, audiovisual materials, and digital selections. There are now more than 375,000 cardholders who frequent the 11 library locations throughout the county. The library system has averaged about 3 million checkouts annually over recent years.
In preparation for a 75th anniversary celebration in October, Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) is very interested in gathering memories that members of the community have of any and all of the library branches in the Fort Bend County library system. Was it the smell of books that sparks special memories, or was it the excitement of earning a trophy each summer? Who remembers the days of eagerly waiting for the bookmobiles?! Did the long-running Shakespeare-by-the-Book Festival foster a love of the theater? What are YOUR memories of the library?
FBCL is seeking old photos of events, people, and places significant to the library system over the past 75 years. Written memories are also encouraged, and videotaped testimonials of library memories would be most welcome!
Photos, stories, and videos may be submitted in a number of ways. The first way is by submitting online through the FBCL website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us); click on the “Celebrating 75 Years” button at the bottom of the website, complete the online form, and upload the photo, video, or document. Second, they may be emailed to celebrating@fortbend.lib.tx.us. The third way to submit is by visiting any of the library locations – FBCL staff will be happy to scan or assist with submitting the items.
When submitting the items, please include any relevant information, such as date, place, a description of the item, names of people, and permission by the creator to share the piece.
FBCL will compile the memories and share them with the public during the celebration in October. The photos and testimonials will be added to the library system’s archives in the Genealogy and Local History Department as an online album for all to enjoy for years to come.
For more information, or to make special arrangements for assistance videotaping an oral history, call Fort Bend County Libraries’ Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
Fulshear Book Clubs Announce August Reading Selections
Fulshear Book Clubs Announce August Reading Selections
– Aug 8, 2022
Share your love of reading with other book lovers at one of the book clubs that meet monthly at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library.
The next meeting of the Day Readers Book Club will take place on Monday, August 8, beginning at 12:00 noon, in the Meeting Room of the library. The book to be discussed is Celeste Ng’s novel, Little Fires Everywhere. This title is available in print, audio, and digitally as an ebook and e-audiobook on OverDrive; call the library to check availability of additional print copies. This book club meets on the second Monday of every month.
The Fulshear Night Readers Guild will meet on Monday, August 29, beginning at 6:30 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library. The book to be discussed is The Awakening: A Solitary Soul, written by Kate Chopin. This title is available in print, audio, and digitally as an e-audiobook and ebook on OverDrive and as an e-audiobook on Hoopla; call the library to check availability of additional print copies. This book club meets on the lasts Monday of every month.
The book club meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us) or call the Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library (281-633-4675). 8100 FM 359 South in Fulshear. New members are always welcome.
Law Library’s “Pro Se Basics” Series Introduces Free Legal Info Resources
Law Library’s “Pro Se Basics” Series Introduces Free Legal Info Resources
– Aug 9, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Law Librarian, Andrew Bennett, will present a series of “Pro Se Basics” introductory demonstrations of the informational legal resources that are available to the public at the Fort Bend County Willie Melton Law Library. These programs will be available both in-person and online.
The introductory classes will take place on Tuesdays August 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 10:00 to 11:00 am, in Conference Room C, of the Fort Bend County Willie Melton Law Library. Individuals may choose to attend individual sessions or the whole series.
The classes will introduce important procedural information for self-represented litigants who wish to begin their legal research, represent themselves in court, or seek resources for their Family Law or Probate issues.
The material that will be discussed is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Librarians cannot provide legal advice or recommend specific forms. The August schedule is as follows:
August 2 – “Courthouse 101” Self-represented litigants will get a basic introduction to the legal system. Learn about the difference between civil and criminal cases, the basic parts of a legal document, the different types of legal documents, and where to file legal documents. Gain a better understanding of the differences between district courts, county courts, and justice of the peace courts, learn how they interact with each other, and how individuals might be involved with the courts.
August 9 – “Family Law 102” This class will provide a more in-depth exploration of family-law databases and digital resources. Those viewing this session will also learn how to find paperwork post the petition phase.
August 16 – “Probate 101” Learn about the resources that are available in the Law Library for probate cases, as well as free online resources. Get tips on using the library’s catalog to find resources throughout the library system, and hear about the library’s online databases that can be accessed from home.
August 23– “Advanced Legal Research” This class covers search strategies using the libraries’ databases. Learn how to use Boolean operators, natural language, and special characters to narrow searches. In addition, the class will demonstrate how to begin a simple search and how to narrow searches.
The series will continue in September.
The classes are free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events.” Select “Virtual Programs” or “Fort Bend County Willie Melton Law Library.” Choose the program and complete the online registration. Participants may also register by calling the library at 281-341-3718.
NOTE: Please indicate in the “Special Notes” section of the online registration form whether you wish to attend in-person or online.
The Fort Bend County Willie Melton Law Library is located in the Fort Bend County Justice Center at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 20714, in Richmond.
Teens Earn Volunteer-Service Hours At Libraries’ Ya Advisory Councils
Teens Earn Volunteer-Service Hours At Libraries’ Ya Advisory Councils
– Aug 9, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries offers programs specifically designed for high school-aged teens in grades 9 through 12. The programs provide fun and challenging opportunities for these young adults, who are also encouraged to become active participants in designing and orchestrating new activities for teens in the library system.
Teens can earn volunteer-service hours by participating in FBCL’s Young Adult Advisory Councils, where they can express ideas, help organize upcoming activities, and suggest new programs and books that would be of interest to teens at the library.
The August schedule of Young Adult Advisory Council meetings is as follows:
Mission Bend Branch Library – Tuesday, August 9, 4:00 pm, Meeting Room.
Cinco Ranch Branch Library – Wednesday, August 17, 4:00-5:00 pm, Conference Room.
In addition to the Young Adult Advisory Council meetings, Fort Bend County Libraries will offer the following Young Adult (YA) book clubs for the teen community.
Cinco Ranch Branch Library: “YA Book Club”– Wednesday, August 24, 4:00-5:00 pm. Conference Classroom. This month, readers will discussLongbow Girl, written by Linda Davies. This title is available in print and digitally as an ebook on OverDrive; call the library to check availability of additional print copies.
Craft Days for Young Adults
Mission Bend Branch Library -- “DIY Squishies” – Monday, August 22, 4:00 pm.
Create a squishy stress ball or other foam shape.
The Mission Bend Branch Library is located at 8421 Addicks Clodine Road in northeast Fort Bend County, and the Cinco Ranch Branch Library is located at 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy.
The activities are free and open to the public. For more information, see FBCL’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call FBCL’s Communications Office (281-633-4734), the Mission Bend Branch Library (832-471-5900), or the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311).
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
– Aug 10, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard in Katy, presents a variety of free children’s programs every month. The fall schedule begins mid-August; activities will not take place during the first two weeks of August.
Family Story Time takes place on Wednesdays and Thursdays, beginning at 10:15 and 11:30 am, in the Meeting Room. Families with children of all ages will enjoy stories, songs, and action rhymes. Craft packets will be given out at the end of each program, so that children may take them home to enjoy.
The schedule of Family Story Time activities is as follows:
August 3 and 4 – NO PROGRAM
August 10 and 11 – NO PROGRAM
August 17 and 18 – Letters & Numbers
August 24 and 25 – Bath Time
August 31 – Dance Party
Pajama Night Story Time and After-School Breaks will not take place in August. Their schedules will resume in September.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
– Aug 10, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard in Katy, presents a variety of free children’s programs every month. The fall schedule begins mid-August; activities will not take place during the first two weeks of August.
Family Story Time takes place on Wednesdays and Thursdays, beginning at 10:15 and 11:30 am, in the Meeting Room. Families with children of all ages will enjoy stories, songs, and action rhymes. Craft packets will be given out at the end of each program, so that children may take them home to enjoy.
The schedule of Family Story Time activities is as follows:
August 3 and 4 – NO PROGRAM
August 10 and 11 – NO PROGRAM
August 17 and 18 – Letters & Numbers
August 24 and 25 – Bath Time
August 31 – Dance Party
Pajama Night Story Time and After-School Breaks will not take place in August. Their schedules will resume in September.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Cinco Ranch Branch Library Presents Introductory Google Docs Class
Cinco Ranch Branch Library Presents Introductory Google Docs Class
– Aug 10, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Adult Services staff at the Cinco Ranch Branch Library will present a free, introductory computer class, “Introduction to Google Docs,” on Wednesday, August 10, from 2:00 to 3:00 pm, in the Computer Lab of the library, located at 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy.
Learn how to create, access, edit, and store documents online using the Google Docs free application. While similar to other word-processing applications, Google Docs also allows users to collaborate on the same document in real time with other users and access their cloud-based documents from any computer.
Attendees are encouraged to set up a personal Google account prior to attending the class.
The class is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select “Cinco Ranch Branch Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library at 281-395-1311, or by visiting the library.
Additional pre-recorded online tutorials on a variety of computer/technology topics can be viewed at any time in the “Virtual Computer Programs” section on the FBCL website -- https://www.fortbend.lib.tx.us/virtual-computer-classes
Learning English? Get Practice At Libraries’ Esl Conversation Circles
Learning English? Get Practice At Libraries’ Esl Conversation Circles
– Aug 10, 2022
Are you learning to speak English? Would you like some practice in a casual, informal atmosphere? Fort Bend County Libraries presents a program for individuals of all nationalities who would like a place to practice their English language and conversation skills. The “ESLConversation Circles” provide an opportunity for non-English-speaking people to gather in a relaxed setting, and discuss topics of their own choosing while practicing their English skills.
The ESL Conversation Circles will take place at multiple locations in the Fort Bend County library system in August. Reservations are NOT required. The schedule is as follows:
Mission Bend Branch Library– 8421 Addicks Clodine Road
o Wednesdays, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2:00-3:00 pm, Meeting Room.
Cinco Ranch Branch Library– 2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy
o Fridays, August 12 and 26, 2:00-3:00 pm, Conference Classroom.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the ESL/Adult Literacy Department at George Memorial Library (281-341-2652), the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the Mission Bend Branch Library (832-471-5900).
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
– Aug 11, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard in Katy, presents a variety of free children’s programs every month. The fall schedule begins mid-August; activities will not take place during the first two weeks of August.
Family Story Time takes place on Wednesdays and Thursdays, beginning at 10:15 and 11:30 am, in the Meeting Room. Families with children of all ages will enjoy stories, songs, and action rhymes. Craft packets will be given out at the end of each program, so that children may take them home to enjoy.
The schedule of Family Story Time activities is as follows:
August 3 and 4 – NO PROGRAM
August 10 and 11 – NO PROGRAM
August 17 and 18 – Letters & Numbers
August 24 and 25 – Bath Time
August 31 – Dance Party
Pajama Night Story Time and After-School Breaks will not take place in August. Their schedules will resume in September.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
Youth Activities At Cinco Ranch Branch Library Resume Fall Schedule After Break
– Aug 11, 2022
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library, 2620 Commercial Center Boulevard in Katy, presents a variety of free children’s programs every month. The fall schedule begins mid-August; activities will not take place during the first two weeks of August.
Family Story Time takes place on Wednesdays and Thursdays, beginning at 10:15 and 11:30 am, in the Meeting Room. Families with children of all ages will enjoy stories, songs, and action rhymes. Craft packets will be given out at the end of each program, so that children may take them home to enjoy.
The schedule of Family Story Time activities is as follows:
August 3 and 4 – NO PROGRAM
August 10 and 11 – NO PROGRAM
August 17 and 18 – Letters & Numbers
August 24 and 25 – Bath Time
August 31 – Dance Party
Pajama Night Story Time and After-School Breaks will not take place in August. Their schedules will resume in September.
For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Cinco Ranch Branch Library Book Clubs Announce August Reading Selections
Cinco Ranch Branch Library Book Clubs Announce August Reading Selections
– Aug 11, 2022
Share your love of reading with other book lovers at one of the book clubs that meet monthly at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library, located at 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy. New members are always welcome.
The Literary Lunch League Book Club will meet on Wednesday, August 3, beginning at 12:00 noon, in the Conference Classroom. The book to be discussed is Know My Name, a memoir written by Chanel Miller. This title is available in print and digitally as an ebook and e-audiobook on OverDrive; additional print copies are available at the check-out desk. Those attending are invited to bring a lunch, if desired. This book club meets on the first Wednesday of every month.
Members of the “The Butler Did It” Mystery Book Club meet on the second Thursday of the month, beginning at 2:00 pm, in the Conference Classroom. The book club discussion on Thursday, August 11, will be on One By One, written by Ruth Ware. This title is available in print, audio, and digitally as an ebook and e-audiobook on OverDrive; additional print copies are available at the check-out desk.
The book clubs are free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).
Learning English? Get Practice At Libraries’ Esl Conversation Circles
Learning English? Get Practice At Libraries’ Esl Conversation Circles
– Aug 12, 2022
Are you learning to speak English? Would you like some practice in a casual, informal atmosphere? Fort Bend County Libraries presents a program for individuals of all nationalities who would like a place to practice their English language and conversation skills. The “ESLConversation Circles” provide an opportunity for non-English-speaking people to gather in a relaxed setting, and discuss topics of their own choosing while practicing their English skills.
The ESL Conversation Circles will take place at multiple locations in the Fort Bend County library system in August. Reservations are NOT required. The schedule is as follows:
Mission Bend Branch Library– 8421 Addicks Clodine Road
o Wednesdays, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2:00-3:00 pm, Meeting Room.
Cinco Ranch Branch Library– 2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy
o Fridays, August 12 and 26, 2:00-3:00 pm, Conference Classroom.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the ESL/Adult Literacy Department at George Memorial Library (281-341-2652), the Cinco Ranch Branch Library (281-395-1311) or the Mission Bend Branch Library (832-471-5900).