We were ecstatic to see the high level of community support for the Harris County Library, yet not surprised. Over three hundred people turned out for the grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony. This only confirmed the positive thinking of Hamilton residents as related to development, growth, and progress. The crowd lingered, a great many for over an hour after the ceremony, unlike typical ceremonies where people leave quickly after the ribbon is cut. Dozens of new library cards were issued, and stacks of books were being checked out. Patrons received demonstrations of the new automated RFID-enabled checkout system. Library staff also demonstrated the new 3D printer and Virtual Reality gear available in the Maker Space. Children explored every nook and cranny of their new section. There are dedicated spaces for adults, children, teens, reading spaces, Maker Space, meeting rooms of various sizes, computer lab and a business center.
This new facility is located adjacent to the design award-winning Harris County Community Center, also designed by 2WR + Partners. The new library is 15,000 square feet, triple the size of the previous facility.
2WR + Partners master-planned the entire 22+ acre Community Center Complex in 2009, working collaboratively with the Harris County Board of Commissioners and Harris County Parks and Recreation Department. We are thrilled to see this next phase of the development coming to life. The same collaboration was utilized in development of the Harris County Library. The synergy between the existing community center and its programs, adjacent to the new library will create a valuable and dynamic long-lasting community asset for Harris County residents.
