Research Assistance

A reference librarian is on duty to help patrons find information.  The reference librarian can research the answer to a specific question; locate information contained within the library; instruct the patron on using the computer card catalog, the microfilm reader,  and online databases, such as TexShare.  The reference librarian can perform an interlibrary loan search when a patron requires a book or an article not found within the library.  The reference librarian has knowledge of newspaper clippping files and other items stored in the library's vertical file system (filing cabinets).

Summer Reading Program

The Howard County Library conducts a summer reading program from June 1- July.  We  read stories, do crafts, and do science experiments.  We have a performers and special events.  

Story Time & Baby Time

Storytime is every Wednesday at 10:30.  For additional information on storytime, please call the library.  Baby Time is every Tuesday at 10:30.

 Meeting Rooms

HCL has two (2) meeting rooms that are available to civic, cultural and educational groups.  You must be a citizen of Howard County in order to reserve a room. Please call to reserve a room, 432-264-2260.

Fax Machine

Howard County Library has a fax machine that is used to transmit documents.   Patrons are charged a fee for both incoming and outgoing faxes. 

Library’s Collection

 Howard County Library acquires and makes available materials that will inform, educate, entertain and enrich County residents.  Since no library can possibly acquire all print and non-print materials, HCL must employ a policy of selectivity in acquisitions.  HCL provides (within its financial limitations) a general collection of reliable materials that embrace broad areas of knowledge.  Included are works of enduring value and timely materials on current issues.  Within this framework, selection is based on community demographics and evidence of areas of interest.  New formats will be considered for the collection when a large part of the population has the necessary technology to make use of the format.

Impartiality and judicious selection will be exercised in all acquisition practices.  Allocation of the materials budget and number of items purchased for each area of the collection will be determined by usage, average cost per item, and the objectives for development of the collection as expressed in HCL’s Collection Development Plan.

Howard County Library supports the individual’s right to access ideas and information representing all points of view.  To this end, HCL welcomes and solicits patron suggestions, comments, ideas about the collection and how it is developed.  The Commissioner’s Court of Howard County and the Director have adopted the American Library Association’s BILL OF RIGHTS (Appendix F); the FREEDOM TO READ (Appendix G) and FREEDOM TO VIEW statements (Appendix H).