BY ETHAN THOMAS
By the numbers
In their own words
item per person—is needed to keep accreditation, according to the Texas State Library and Archive Commission website. The new library branch would allow the city to keep up with not only accreditation requirements, but demands from a growing community, Johnson said.
The library aims to fill a need from a fast-grow- ing population. Since fiscal year 2021-22, circu- lation of library items has surged by over 30% from 577,268 to 773,228 checkouts in FY 2023-24, according to data from the city. For cities with populations between 100,000 and 200,000, at least one item per capita—or one
Michael Capizzi, New Braunfels City Council District 2 representative, whose district encompasses the library, called public input integral to the process of creating resources for residents. “Recurring themes and practical ideas are taken seriously and help guide decision making so the facility serves the community as effectively as possible over the long term,” Capizzi said. Johnson pointed to the need for a “third space” in the city—a location where residents can gather outside of school, work or home. “We need to offer spaces for people to come together and do programs, whether it’s crafting, learning a new skill or playing [Dungeons & Dragons],” Johnson said.
Library visitation and circulation Circulation of library items surged by over 30% over the last three years, according to the city of New Braunfels.
Total number of visitors
+69.58%
300K
287,096
Circulation of physical items
FY 2021-22
200K
215,122
577,268
169,296
FY 2022-23
100K
609,495
FY 2023-24
0
773,228
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
SOURCE: CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Calling all
young historians and creative minds. New Braunfels' history museum, The Sophienburg Museum & Archives, is hosting a 3-day History Maker Summer Camp for all incoming 3rd through 6th graders. Become an amateur archaeologist. Learn to read the clues of prehistoric cultures. Explore the artifacts and what they tell us.
1551 N WALNUT AVE, SUITE 10 (830) 626-3310
uly 7-9 Cost $75 and includes all supplies, snacks, t-shirt, and museum tour.
10% OFF CATERING FOR 40 OR MORE PEOPLE
9am - 12pm
Register online at sophienburg.com
REQUEST A QUOTE HERE
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
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