Lewisville Public Library recognized in statewide

Lewisville Public Library recognized in statewide study for helping residents access benefits

The Lewisville Public Library's partnership with the Tarrant Area Food Bank (TAFB) is one of nine innovative programs profiled in Beyond the Stacks: Economic and Community Value of Texas Public Libraries, a new statewide study released by the Texas Library Association (TLA).

The partnership connects residents with state and federal benefit programs through help offered right at the library.

"The title of this study says it well. Our library's services add up to great value and not just through lending" said Carolyn Booker, MLS, Director of Library and Arts. "Through our partnership with the Tarrant Area Food Bank, residents can get help with benefits in a place they already know and trust. The library is great at connecting people with services, information, even each other. We're proud to see that work recognized alongside libraries across Texas, and grateful to Zahira Alcantara and our partners at TAFB for making it happen."

Researchers from JBK Economics Group surveyed library directors across Texas and received 298 responses. Of those, 48 described innovative programs, and nine were chosen for in-depth profiles based on program uniqueness, library size, and geographic location. After Lewisville completed the survey, the research team reached out to learn more. Library Services Manager Kelly Brouillard walked them through the program and connected them with TAFB's Community Resource Specialist.

Residents who want help with state benefits can meet with TAFB staff at the library, 1197 W. Main Street. Meetings are typically on the second Wednesday of the month between 10:30 a.m -1:30 p.m. An appointment is required and can be made online, or by call or text to Zahira at 817.661.2427. Upcoming session dates are listed on the library calendar at library.cityoflewisville.com.

The study also measured what public libraries are worth to Texas communities. It found that every $1 invested in Texas public libraries generates $4.74 in community value, and that the state's public libraries delivered an estimated $3.8 billion in total economic benefits in fiscal year 2024. TLA commissioned the study with support from the Mellon Foundation.

The full study and a summary of key findings are available at trulytexas.txla.org. The Lewisville Public Library profile appears in Section 5, Library Profiles.

About the Lewisville Public Library
The Lewisville Public Library is located at 1197 W. Main Street in Lewisville. In addition to print and digital collections, the library offers extensive programming, public computers, Wi-Fi, a Digital Media Lab, and The Hive makerspace. Library cards are free to any Texas resident with a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of a current Texas address. Learn more at library.cityoflewisville.com or call 972.219.3570.