News Release

Grant Awards

The Silsbee Public Library was awarded two grant packages this year from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission made available from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. One grant was titled “Beyond the Library” Grant Package which the library applied for outdoor movie equipment. The Silsbee Public Library wanted to consider offering services and programming in new or reimagined ways, they are looking at how to use their outdoor spaces as a way to connect and engage our community. Libraries of all types and sizes and in all climates and locations use their outdoor spaces to enrich the way they fulfill their missions and to serve their communities more effectively. Studies have shown that a visual connection to the outdoors increases focus and productivity and provides a sense of well-being. Children who experience quality time with their loved ones have more self-confidence. They are more sociable because they sense their parents value time with them. Kids with self-esteem also find it easier to build relationships. The SPL wanted to create and sustain a space that will help build a strong community so they looked for ways to move programming and services outside the traditional library space. Our Library serves as a critical community partner, and is considered one of the most trusted institutions in our community. The Library is a hub for community information and creative activities both inside and outside. With our community wellbeing as an utmost priority, bringing people together for free, fun entertainment such as outdoor movie night offers a creative solution for bringing people together while maintaining social distancing. There are many unique benefits movies and movie screenings can bring to patrons both culturally and academically. When the weather is nice out and the cool air is sweet, watching a movie outside is a perfect activity. Being able to cozy up on a blanket while avoiding overpriced candy bars and pricier evening theater tickets is a definite advantage in this day and time. What better way to reach patrons beyond the library! The SPL plans to implement monthly movie nights this year. The goal is to give families some relief from their everyday stress and provide a place where they can enjoy some entertainment with their kids and community. The movies will be licensed for public viewing and will consist of popular children’s titles. The SPL also applied for and was awarded a second grant which was called “Teen Services” Grant Package which the library was able to purchase gaming and photography equipment. Getting teens to come to the library is like pulling teeth! They just won’t come. The library can order thousands of dollars of books and DVD’s, but if teens won’t come, those items never get checked out. SPL wants to develop programs for the youth in our community that teens will actually come to. The activities kids do outside of school hours is critical to their overall development. The demand for afterschool programs is strong, they can support social, emotional, cognitive, and academic development, reduce risky behaviors, promote physical health, and provide a safe and supportive environment for children. Youth programs can also help youth develop assets by providing emotional support, positive experiences, social skills and opportunities to build relationships. The SPL’s goal is to attract children and teens back into the library. The problem is, kids think of the library as a place to study and do homework. SPL wants to attract them, not scare them away. With that being said, we must be able to provide programs they will be interested in. And right now, technology and games seem to be what they want. SPL feels “Teen Game Tournaments” and “Teen Gaming” are ways to engage local youth. They polled several teens and asked that they would be interested in seeing come to the library. Gaming was high on their list. The world of gaming and gaming tournaments is here to stay, and libraries are getting involved using them as new programs.

About Us

Services

The Silsbee Public Library offers a full range of services for the whole family. In addition to great books and a large children's reading section, we offer a busy event calendar to help your children fall in love with reading and books!

Whatever you need can be found on our online card catalogue. We also offer public computers for your use whether it be work or play.

We have a beautiful meeting room that can be rented for meetings and small events.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The Friends of the Silsbee Public Library are the fundraising nonprofit organization that helps the library in it's mission. Their primary purpose is to promote the continuing growth and welfare of the Silsbee Public Library and to enhance the cultural life of the community.

Find out more

Frequently Asked Questions

You can check our services page for a full list of services and the costs associated.

Please reach us at silsbeelibrary@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What are your current hours?

The library is open Monday thru Friday 9am-6pm, on most Saturdays 9am-1pm

What do I need to use a public computer?

You will need a form of valid photo identification.

What services do you offer?

Please see our services page for a full list or services and prices.

What do I need to get a library card?

You will need a valid Texas photo identification card or driver's license. Your photo identification must have the correct address on it. If the address has not been updated, you will need a proof of address such as an electric bill or a rental contract.

I have lost my library card, how do I get a new one?

You will need a valid Texas photo identification card or driver's license. Replacement card are $1.00. Please see our services page for more information.

Library Staff

Pam Hartt, Library Director

Naconna Armfield, Clerk

Pam Hartt, Library Director

Joni Sheppard, Clerk

Pam Hartt, Library Director

Joni Sheppard, Clerk

409-385-4831 - SILSBEELIBRARY@GMAIL.COM

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