Key Highlights
- Learn about the long past and bright future of the Fort Worth public libraries. There are also new ideas for 2026.
- Find every library spot, like big centers and the brand new places all over the city.
- See how your library card lets you get any book, digital pick, or audiobook for free.
- Look at all the things you can do, like using tech tools or getting help from the library staff.
- Join in with programs and events for any age. This goes from storytime to group workshops for adults.
- Learn how you can help the library so it keeps serving all Fort Worth residents.
Introduction
Welcome to your guide for the Fort Worth Public Library system. You could be someone who loves to read. You might be new in the city too. The public libraries in Fort Worth have a lot for everyone. You will find quiet spots where you can read. There are also many community events to join. You can get so much out of these places.
This guide will show you all the basics. You will learn how to get a library card. There is also a lot that you can find online with the digital collections. You can join fun programs too. Let’s see what these public libraries in Fort Worth have ready for you.
Fort Worth Public Library: A Brief History and Future Vision
The Fort Worth Public Library system has been part of the City of Fort Worth for many years. Its history is connected to how Fort Worth itself has grown. All official archives are kept safe at the Fort Worth History Center. You can look into these if you want to see how the library became what it is today in this part of Texas. The story is about people, learning, and building something strong together.
The city council and the library’s leaders also have big plans for the future of public libraries in Fort Worth. They want to help more people get access and bring in new technology. They also want to build new spaces that fit what the community needs now. You can learn about their important moments in the past and see what they are planning for 2026.
Early Beginnings and Milestones
The Fort Worth Public Library is an important part of the city’s past and who we are. The hard work done by the Fort Worth History Center helps the city by keeping the main archives, which show how the city of Fort Worth and its library have changed over the years. If you want to learn about the cultural and educational roots of this Texas city, this center can help you do that.
The library system has become much bigger through the years. Big moments include opening neighborhood branches that people have counted on for many years. Libraries like Wedgwood (1962), Meadowbrook (1964), and East Berry (1967) grew to be strong parts of their neighborhoods. These buildings gave people a way to find information and enjoy books.
The growth of the Fort Worth library system shows that the city wants every person to have access to what the library offers. Every new branch, along with each item saved in the archives, lets us see how things have changed over time. This story tells about a system that grows along with Fort Worth.
Innovations and Expansion Plans for 2026
The Fort Worth public libraries are not just focused on the past. They are planning and building for the future too. One big idea for 2026 is the new downtown library. The city council supports this project. It will be a modern place for learning and bring people together.
People can already see this new way of thinking in what the libraries do now. These public libraries are growing their collections. They add new books and offer digital items too. The new and updated regional libraries are not just for books anymore. They are made to be gathering spots for the whole community and are well set up for this digital time.
The goal is to make sure that every person in Fort Worth can enjoy a friendly and modern library. The Fort Worth public libraries, with help from the city council, want to stay creative. This way, they will keep serving their people with regional libraries now and in many years ahead.
Library Locations and New Branch Highlights
It is easy to find a library in Fort Worth. There are branches all over the city of Fort Worth. You can visit big regional libraries or small, friendly ones in your area. There will be one close to you. If you are in the Golden Triangle or near downtown, it is simple for all Fort Worth residents to use library services.
The library system keeps getting bigger, with new branches opening to help new neighborhoods. These fresh places give you modern things and all kinds of resources. The library is a key part of each community. Keep reading to find out about the main branches. You can also learn which new libraries are opening in Fort Worth.
Main Branches and Special Facilities
The Fort Worth library system includes several main branches and special facilities designed to meet a variety of needs for Fort Worth residents. Regional libraries like the East Regional and Southwest Regional locations serve as large hubs with extensive collections and services. These are complemented by unique facilities that offer specialized resources.
One of the most important special facilities is the Fort Worth History Center. As the municipal archives for the City of Fort Worth, it houses invaluable historical documents and materials. Another unique location is the Reby Cary Youth Library, the first of its kind in Fort Worth, which is dedicated entirely to serving children and their families.
These diverse locations ensure that whether you are conducting in-depth research or looking for a family-friendly outing, you can find the right space. Here are some of the key locations available to you.
| Library Name | Type |
|---|---|
| East Regional Library | Regional Library |
| Southwest Regional Library | Regional Library |
| Fort Worth History Center | Special Facility (Archives) |
| Reby Cary Youth Library | Special Facility (Youth) |
| La Gran Biblioteca | Retail-Based Library |
Upcoming and Recently Renovated Libraries
The Fort Worth Public Library works hard to keep up with today’s needs and reach more people. This means fixing up old libraries and building new ones to help everyone in the community. Some neighborhood libraries, like wedgwood, summerglen, riverside, northside, and meadowbrook, are still important places for people to get together.
In the past few years, the library has opened many new locations. These new and coming branches give modern library services to neighborhoods that are growing, so more people can get what they need close to home. These up-to-date spaces show that the library is serious about moving forward.
Here are some of the newest libraries in the Fort Worth area:
- Clifford Crossing Library: This library opened on August 31, 2024.
- Vivian J. Lincoln Branch Library: This new library for the community opened in 2023.
- Downtown Express Library: This one started in March 2024 and brings library help to the city center.
Exploring Services and Resources at Fort Worth Public Library
Your Fort Worth library card gives you a way to get to lots of services and things you can use. The public libraries have more than just books you see on the shelves. You can use digital media and have a way to get to technology. The library’s collection is made to help with learning, creativity, and bringing people together in the community.
The friendly library staff will always be there to help you find your way around. They want to make sure you get what you need. If you are looking for a good book or need help with a research project, your local library is ready to help. Let’s look at some of the great things the libraries in Fort Worth have for you.
Books, Digital Collections, and Audiobooks
The heart of the Fort Worth Public Library is in its big collection of books, audiobooks, and online content. You can get the newest books, popular hits, and old favorites. The digital picks are very helpful. You can borrow things and enjoy them at home.
If you like to listen to stories, the library has a wide range of audiobooks to check out. For ebooks and e-audiobooks, you can use easy-to-use apps like Libby and cloudLibrary. These apps let you download books right onto your phone, tablet, or e-reader.
The library also gives you special digital tools for your interests. If you have a library card, you can use thousands of items for free.
- cloudLibrary: A great choice for e-books and e-audiobooks.
- ComicsPlus: Get more than 27,000 graphic novels, comics, and manga.
- Libby: A favorite app for borrowing online books and audiobooks.
Research Assistance and Technology Access
You can get help with a project or use new technology at your library. The library staff knows a lot, and they can help you find good information for school, work, or any other topic you are interested in. They will show you how to use the library’s databases and many other helpful resources.
Every library branch gives you free internet. You can use your own device to get on the Wi-Fi. If you need the password, just ask the staff. If you do not have your own device, you can use one of the library’s public computers. These services help all people get online, so you can apply for jobs, finish homework, or talk with people through the internet.
Libraries give more than just internet. You can also use printing and scanner services at low prices. It is easy to print your paper, make a photocopy, or scan a file to your email. No matter what you need to do, your local branch has the right equipment for you.
Programs and Events for All Ages
The Fort Worth Public Library is an active place for people in the area. It has many programs and events for all Fort Worth residents. The library staff puts a lot of work into making sure everything is fun and good for learning. Kids can join storytimes with picture books, while there are also hands-on STEAM programs. There is always something going on for everyone.
These programs help spark curiosity and keep people learning. They also help bring neighbors together. If you are a parent who wants something for your child, or an adult hoping to learn something new, the library has something for you. You can find new things to do for children, teens, and adults at the Fort Worth library.
Children’s Storytimes and Youth Activities
The library has many programs just for children and youth. Storytimes are a favorite event. At these sessions, little ones hear picture books and sing songs. This helps build early reading skills. It is also good for getting kids ready for kindergarten and making them enjoy reading for life.
The library has more than just storytimes. There are activities for older kids and teens, too. These usually focus on hands-on fun and learning. The steam programs help kids to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math in a setting that is both engaging and fun.
All these events give young people a safe and good place to learn new things, make things, and meet others. Some of the most enjoyed ones are:
- Family Storytimes: Fun sessions with books, songs, and simple activities for young children.
- STEAM Programs: Workshops where kids can get hands-on with science and technology in a fun way.
- Youth Activities: Different kinds of events for kids in school and for teens.
Adult Learning, Workshops, and Community Events
The Fort Worth Public Library is a great place for adult learning and for building new skills. The library offers many workshops. You can find sessions about technology, career growth, and creative hobbies. These classes let you learn something new. You also get to meet and connect with people who like the same things as you.
The library in the city of Fort Worth also hosts many community events. These events help bring people together and help grow strong local connections. You might see author talks, a movie night each month, or community parties at your branch. These events turn the library into a warm, welcoming spot for all.
If you want to pick up a new skill, meet others, or just have a good time nearby, look at the library’s calendar. The Fort Worth library, with its focus on learning and people, always has an event or workshop for adults in your area.
How to Get a Library Card and Access the Online Catalog
Getting a Fort Worth library card is the first thing you need to do if you want to use the free stuff the library offers. It is easy to get started, and there are so many things you can use. With this library card, you get to check out books, use a lot of digital materials, look through helpful databases, and more.
After you get your card, it is simple to use the library’s collection from home or anywhere else. You just go to the online catalog or use the library app. You can look up books, put items on hold, and take care of your account all with a few taps or clicks. Let’s show you how to sign up for a Fort Worth library card and how to start using the library’s system online.
Registration Process and Cardholder Benefits
Getting a library card is easy for all Fort Worth residents. You can start online or go to any branch near you. You need to show proof that you live in Fort Worth to finish the sign-up and get your library card. Once you have your card, you can use it for everything at the library.
There are a lot of good things that come with your card. You can borrow books, DVDs, and other items from any library building. You also get free use of the library’s digital tools. This means you can read e-books, listen to audiobooks, watch movies online, and learn on the internet, all with your library card.
If you want, you can use an app to look after your account. You can renew your books and save a digital copy of your library card on your phone. With your Fort Worth library card, you get:
- Borrowing Materials: Pick out books, movies, music, and more at any library.
- Digital Access: Use your card number to get e-books, audiobooks, and look up things online.
- Computer and Internet Use: Sign in to use computers and get free Wi-Fi at any Fort Worth library.
Getting and using your library card gives you a lot, both in person and on the app.
Navigating the Fort Worth Public Library Online Catalog
Accessing the Fort Worth Public Library online catalog is easy. You can use any computer or phone for this. The catalog gives you a way to see all of the library’s books and other things. You can search for books, an author, or a topic you like. You can also look at new items or lists made by the staff.
To start, go to the library’s website. Find the link to the catalog there. You can search as a guest if you want. But, to hold a book or to see your account, you will have to log in. Use your library card number and password or PIN for this. The website will show you if the item is in and at which section or branch you will find it.
Your library account can be managed through the catalog, too. You can renew books you have, look at your holds, or change your contact details, like your email. Many libraries also have an app you can use on your phone. The app lets you browse the fort worth library catalog and use your account anytime you are on the go.
Supporting the Fort Worth Public Library Foundation
The Fort Worth Public Library needs help from the community to do well. The Fort Worth Public Library Foundation is very important to the library’s growth. This group is a non-profit and works to raise money and support for the library. The Foundation makes it possible for the library to offer programs and services that the city council’s budget alone cannot pay for.
You have many ways to give your support and help the library keep going strong. You can choose to donate money, give your time as a volunteer, or speak up for the library. Any way you help will mean a lot. Learn more about how you can join in and give something back to this important place for all of us in fort worth.
Ways to Donate or Volunteer
Supporting the Fort Worth Public Library Foundation is one way to give back to your city. Giving money is the most direct way to help the Fort Worth library. When you donate to the foundation, you support things like children’s reading programs. Your money also can help with technology updates in the City of Fort Worth.
If you do not want to give money, you can give your time instead. You can sign up to be a volunteer. The volunteers help the library staff. They do things like put books back on the shelves and help out at events for the city. You will get something from this. It is good for all Fort Worth residents who use the library.
Any gift, big or small, helps the Fort Worth library. Here are ways you can get involved:
- Make a Donation: Your money to the Library Foundation helps build better programs and services.
- Volunteer Your Time: Be one of the people who help library staff with their work.
- Join a Friends Group: A lot of branches in the city have “Friends of the Library” groups. Members in these groups raise money and speak up for their local library.
Recent Achievements and Awards
While formal awards give credit, the real success of the Fort Worth Public Library comes from helping people in the community every day. One big step the library has made is the push to grow and update the libraries. The library system keeps getting bigger so that it can serve the city as it changes and grows.
They have opened several new spots in the last few years. These new libraries have new tools and safe spaces for people who need them the most. The city is showing a strong promise to make sure anyone can get what they need at a library near them. This quick and careful growth is a great thing for public libraries and everyone in Fort Worth.
Here are some key wins that show how the Fort Worth Public Library is moving forward:
- Clifford Crossing Library: This library opened in August 2024.
- Downtown Express Library: The city center branch opened in March 2024.
- Vivian J. Lincoln Branch Library: A new spot for the community that opened in 2023.
Conclusion
The Fort Worth Public Library is more than a place where you can borrow books. It is a spot in the community where people of all ages go to learn and grow. The library is always adding new things for the future, even big changes coming in 2026. Over the years, the good things done here have helped shape what comes next. There is always a lot for everyone to see and do.
At the library, you will find all kinds of programs and events. These are made for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between. There are strong resources you can use any time, too. The team in the library is here to help with what you need.
We hope you will use all the good things at the Fort Worth Public Library. Get your library card now, and start to open up a world of learning and people around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the library offer free digital or audiobook access?
Yes! If you have a Fort Worth library card, you can use it to read lots of free e-books and listen to audiobooks. You can get to these books with apps like Libby and cloudLibrary. Just download the book or audiobook you want on your device. You can read or listen to them anywhere, any time, and you don’t have to pay.
How can I follow Fort Worth Public Library updates on social media?
It is easy to stay in touch with the Fort Worth Public Library. The best thing to do is go to the library’s main website. You will see links there that let you follow them. These links help you keep up with things like new events, new services, and news from the library staff.
Are there special library programs for children and families?
Yes, the library has many programs for kids and families. You will find storytimes with picture books for young children. The library also gives creative and learning STEAM programs for kids who go to school. All these events are made to be fun, free, and good for every family.