The Bandera Kronkosky Public Library says it is looking to expand its role in the community as a newly strengthened board works to build on the library’s services and develop new educational, cultural and community programs.
Library officials said the board is more fully staffed than it has been in years and is focused on growing the library as a community resource.
“It’s been many years since we have had such a full board!” Executive Director Sarah Rodriguez said. “The board, as well as myself, are very excited to grow and expand the library to really be a pillar of knowledge for the community.”
Vice President Anna Montague said the library has an obligation to bring residents together and noted that its existing services have made it more than a traditional library.
“As I continue to serve on the Kronkosky Library Board, I see an obligation to bring community together,” Montague said. “At present the library offers many services which makes it a multiuse center.”
Montague said one example is the library’s work introducing area artists to the community through events where artists display their work and give presentations.
“There are many programs they can be initiated but unfortunately, funding is a challenge to library boards everywhere,” she said.
Rodriguez said the library plans to build on its existing foundation while creating additional opportunities for residents of all ages.
“As Executive Director of the Bandera Kronkosky Public Library, my goal is to build on the library’s strong foundation while creating new opportunities for our entire community,” Rodriguez said. “I want the library to be a welcoming place where people of all ages can discover books, learn new skills, connect with one another, and experience the arts and culture of Bandera.”
Among Rodriguez’s goals are expanding educational and cultural programming, strengthening Spanish- language resources and digital services, and creating more opportunities for children and teens.
She also wants to develop additional partnerships with local schools, businesses, artists and community organizations.
“I also want to continue developing the library as a gathering place where residents feel a genuine sense of connection and belonging,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez said the library’s future should reflect Bandera’s identity while also serving the needs of its changing community.
“Most importantly, I want the Library to reflect the community it serves—its history, its creativity, its Western heritage, and its future,” she said. “My goal is for the library to be more than a place to check out books; I want it to be a place where our community comes together, learns, creates, and feels at home.”
The library’s fundraising efforts will include its second annual Book Wranglers’ Ball, scheduled for Oct. 24 at The Longhorn at Way Back Texas. Proceeds from the event will benefit the library and help fund books and programs.
The event will feature a Texas barbecue dinner by Bill Miller BBQ, entertainment, a silent auction, a photo booth and a cash bar. Tickets are $75 per person or $520 for a Wrangler Table Package for eight.
Tickets are available at the Bandera Kronkosky Public Library or through the library’s website. For more information, call 830-796-4213.
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