Homes for Books: Libraries near Westlake Hills, Texas

Posted by Brian Talley on May 1st, 2017

There are many benefits to living in Westlake Hills, Texas, and for those searching for homes for sale in Westlake, the great libraries of the Austin metropolitan area are just another perk. In many cities across the United States, budget cuts have severely impacted the public library systems, limiting the acquisition of new materials and leading to reduced hours, and in some cases, library closures. But the Austin Public Library system and many local independent libraries have maintained their commitment to the community and are thriving. Two such libraries who make their home in the Westlake Hills area are the Westbank Community Library and the Austin Public Library - Howson Branch.

The Westbank Community Library was conceived after an article in the Westlake Picayune solicited support for a new library for Westlake Hills homeowners and residents. The article was a success, and after garnering the support of the community and securing a free space in the Texas Commerce Bank building, the Westbank Library held its grand opening on March 5, 1984. In 1989, the library moved into a new home at its current location, at 1309 Westbank Drive. In 1998, Westbank Library created its own independent library district, ensuring steady funding for the facilities through a percentage of area sales tax. With economic stability established, the library was thriving, and in 2000, celebrated a 10,000 square foot expansion. In 2009, the Westbank Community Library District added its first new facility, opening the Laura Bush Community Library at 9411 Bee Cave Road. A rarity among libraries these days, both Westbank and Laura Bush Libraries are open seven days a week.

The Howson Branch of the Austin Public Library system makes its home in Tarrytown, just north of Westlake Hills and across the Colorado River, at 2500 Exposition Boulevard. Although a part of the Austin Public Library system, rather than Westlake Hills’ system, it was built with private funding bequeathed by Emilie Wheelock Howson, whose portrait is displayed in the branch. The facilities were expanded in 1994 when Jean Southerland donated funds for the Louis Feno Southerland Reading Room, named in honor of her late husband. Another shining example of Austin’s standout library system, the Howland Branch is open six days a week, much to the appreciation of west Austin’s reading community

About the Author: Brain Talley has years of experience of working as a Westlake real estate agent in Austin, Texas. He is quite an expert and he loves to share his expertise with people. He enjoys discussing real estate trends, real estate market news to help people make informed decisions.