New Braunfels Edition | February 2026

Next chapter From the cover

The local impact

Southeast Library amenities

Key:

City leaders said the Southeast Library reflects a continued investment in public spaces that support learning, connection and quality of life for New Braunfels residents. The Southeast Library’s strategic placement will serve six nearby schools, including New Braunfels Middle School, New Braunfels Academy, and Klein Road, Voss Farms, County Line and Walnut Springs elementary schools, according to city officials. Zach Perkins, New Braunfels ISD communications coordinator, said the library would provide additional resources for students. “NBISD is always excited to see additional resources, like the city’s new library, come to our community. These investments benefit not only our students, but expand opportunities for all New Braunfels residents,” Perkins said. Plans include a large public plaza and garden space intended to encourage outdoor gathering and extended use of the facility. Cafe services, public restrooms and book sales are also planned as part of the project, according to the 2023 bond. The project is designed to strengthen access to public services for families and students living in that part of the community, positioning it as a neighborhood resource with a strong focus on youth and family engagement, according to the city. All while aligning with the community’s identity, with a design reminiscent of the Southwest. Once completed, the branch is expected to help relieve demand at other library locations while improving access to educational, cultural and recreational resources for nearby residents, according to city officials.

Circulation Public spaces Reading areas Book stacks Youth services

Children's section

Adult’s section

Bathrooms Staff area Utility

Public lobby breezeway

Study rooms

Staff offices

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RENDERING COURTESY FORD, POWELL & CARSON ARCHITECTS AND PLANNERS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Nearby schools 1 Walnut Springs Elementary 2 County Line Elementary 3 New Braunfels Academy 4 Voss Farms Elementary 5 New Braunfels Middle 6 Klein Road Elementary

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3

725

1044

Southeast Library

5

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6

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The framework

city officials on behalf of the firm. The firm wanted to create a building that is not only visually appealing, but also safer for residents to park and walk in by placing the parking lot on the opposite side of the building from the main roads, firm officials said at a Dec. 16 open house. The final design for the Southeast Library is expected to be completed by summer. Construction is anticipated to begin following the completion of the design, according to city officials.

Design work for the new library is wrapping up after City Council approved a $1.88 million contract with Ford, Powell & Carson Architects and Planners Inc. for final design services May 27. The San Antonio-based architect firm’s contract equates to about 6% of the total funds allocated for the design and construction of the library, according to the city. Ford, Powell & Carson created a tentative design, which could go through changes pending public feedback. The overall design was created to change how residents see the library, according to

Cost breakdown Funding for the Southeast Library comes from the voter-approved 2023 bond Proposition C, allocating $28.56 million for its design and construction.

Design

Construction

$1.88M

$26.68M

SOURCE: CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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