Azle Memorial Library March 2024 Newsletter

AZLE MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Celebrating 15 years!

15TH ANNIVERSARY

From the Library Director

Happy March, or rather, Happy Anniversary! 15 years ago the former Azle Public Library had a big upgrade and name change when it moved from the 1970's era location on Highway 199 to the current location on Main Street. The beautiful new Azle Memorial Library building was a gift from a private benefactor who understood the value and need for a thriving public library in Azle. The donor made sure that the building that was donated to the City of Azle was big enough and modern enough for growth long into the future.

We are celebrating the past 15 years by inviting the public to attend our Open House Reception on March 23. We are also offering a variety of programs to all ages beginning the week of Spring Break and culminating with our Eclipse Watching Party on April 8th. During this celebratory time, we are excited to announce a new library card design, the transition of our old Computer Lab into a reservable meeting space, new digital books for children, and more!

Whether you have been visiting the Azle Library for decades or just just moved to the area last month, we look forward to your being a part of our library in the coming years. I would also like to thank the wonderful library staff members, volunteers, and supporters who have been an integral part of the library these past 15 years and during its rich history prior to this building opening.

Curren McLane

Curren McLane, MLS Library Director

1904:

Prior to 1962: April 4, 1964: Nov.27, 1966: Aug. 18, 1970: Dec. 13, 1973: Aug. 24, 1976:

Sep. 25, 1977: Dec. 31, 1980: Nov. 1997: Sep. 25, 2002: 2002: Mar. 30, 2009:

December 2010:

March 2014: March 1, 2024:

History of the Azle Library

Azle Christian Church bought 125 books to begin a library. Bookmobile came from Fort Worth at irregular intervals.

Azle Public Library opened on Main Street with Mrs. Eula Nation as librarian.

Azle Women’s Club made down payment and paid monthly payments on the Jim Bob Nation building on Main Street (current location of Azle Historical Society & Museum).

The Azle Women’s Club donated the library building to the City of Azle. The City of Azle assumed monthly payments and maintenance of the library.

The Azle Library Trust is founded as a non-profit organization with the mission of supporting the Azle Library. (The Trust is still in place today and helps enhance the library budget provided by the City of Azle by donating a significant percentage of the new books, digital resources and programs offered by the Azle Library.)

Mr. James Emanuel issued a challenge to the Trust that if they raised $45,000 in cash to match his gift he would offer services as general contractor for a new building.

The new library building at 609 SE Parkway opened to the public.

The number of library card holders reached 4,450.

Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel challenged the Azle Community with a matching grant of $25,000, which was matched in only six weeks. A 900 sq. ft. addition to the building was added in 1999.

Azle Public Library celebrated its 25th year at 609 SE Parkway.

Discussions and study began for new library to be built by generous local donor.

Grand opening of the new 21,600 sq. ft. Azle Memorial Library. Library usage doubles. Director of 22 years, Judy Whitt, retires and Curren McLane becomes the new Director.

The library door count reaches 1 million visitors.

In the past 15 years 2,853,036 items have been checked out. 3,539 programs have been offered for children, teens and adults with 139,354 in attendance. There are now 13,833 card holders.

Storytime Fun!

Join Children’s Librarian, Miss Ava, each week in the Library Community Room!

Tiny Tykes

Ages 1-2

Wednesdays at 10:30am

Pre-schoolpals

Ages3-6

Thursdaysat10:30am

Each storytime aids in developing age appropriate early literacy skills for children. Featuring stories, singing, dancing, rhymes, crafts, sensory bins, and interactive play to create a fun and educational time for young children and their caregivers.

*Please Note: Storytime will not take place the week of Spring Break (March 13th & 14th)

YOU’RE INVITED TO BUILD A BIRTHDAY CAKE WITH LEGOS TO CELEBRATE THE LIBRARY’S 15TH BIRTHDAY! LOOK FOR YOUR LEGO BUILD TO BE DISPLAYED IN THE CHILDREN’S AREA!

WEDNESDAY MARCH 20TH

4:30 PM - FREE!

KIDS OF ALL AGES WELCOME TO ATTEND!

Enjoy Delicious Cookies!

Special Birthday Prize for Attendees!