The Martindale Community Library:

A Little Library with a Lot of Heart

By Anthony Collins

LPR Editor                                    

    
Above, children participate in Lego Club. 

Right in the heart of downtown Martindale sits a one-room treasure that’s making a big difference. The Martindale Community Library, though small, is packed with energy, enthusiasm, and enough books and activities to light up the whole town.

     Whether you’re a toddler listening to your first story or a retiree checking out the latest mystery novel, there’s something here for everyone.

Story Time and Smiles

     Every Thursday at 11 a.m., the library hosts Pre-K Story Time, and it’s a hit with families. Kids giggle through stories, sing songs, and play fun learning games, all designed to build early reading skills in a warm, welcoming space.

     “Story time is the highlight of our week,” one parent shared. “It’s such a great way to introduce reading.”

Open Doors, Open Minds

     You’ll find the library open four days a week:

•Wednesdays and Thursdays: 12–6 p.m.

•Fridays: 11–4 p.m.

•Saturdays: 10–2 p.m.

     With over 9,500 physical books to explore, plus seating for studying or relaxing, it’s become a favorite hangout for students, seniors, and lifelong learners alike.

Summer Fun, All About Reading

     June and July bring something special: the Summer Reading Program. Kicked off this year on May 31 and backed by Save the Children, it’s full of creative crafts, guest readers, and reading challenges for all ages.

     “Our kids absolutely love going,” said a local mom. “It keeps them excited about books during summer.”

     The goal? Beat the summer slump and have a blast doing it.

Going Digital, Staying Local

     Besides shelves full of books, Martindale Library also gives cardholders free access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks through Libby and Overdrive, plus research tools like the Tex Share databases. If you’ve got a card, you’ve got the world at your fingertips.

Community-Powered and Proud

     A big thank you goes to the Friends of the Martindale Library, the volunteer group behind many of the library’s events and fundraisers. From bake sales to silent auctions, their work helps keep programs running strong, and completely free to the public.

     Their efforts, along with generous grants, ensure that folks from Caldwell, Hays, and Guadalupe counties continue to benefit from everything the library offers.

Why It Matters

      At a time when many small-town libraries are fading away, Martindale’s is going strong. It’s not just about books, it’s about belonging.

     So whether you’re a curious kid, a reading teen, or just someone who loves a good story, the Martindale Community Library has a place for you.

Want to get involved?

•Drop in during open hours

•Join a program

•Volunteer or donate through the Friends group

•Call (512) 357 4492 to learn more

    In Martindale, a library card doesn’t just open books, it opens doors. And this little library is helping write the next great chapter for the whole town.