'Libraries play a vital role in our communities': Houston cuts ribbon on new Family Place Library

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, accompanied by City Councilwomen Carolyn Evan-Shabazz and Abbie Kamin, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 21 for Houston Public Library’s new Family Place Libraries (FPL).

During the ceremony, Turner underscored the importance libraries play in the development of youth.

"Libraries play a vital role in our communities and are the epicenters of learning, books and program access,” Turner said on Twitter.

Family Place Libraries seek to foster early childhood learning and family involvement with specially designed spaces that include interactive materials, early literacy kits, games, toys, music and multimedia resources, learning stations and books. Library staff is also trained and equipped with the tools to develop children's social, emotional and cognitive skills before they enter kindergarten.

FPL is located at the McGovern-Stella Link Regional Library, which is named after Dr. John P. McGovern, a distinguished American and internationally noted physician. He made contributions to the fields of science and medicine and has been called a physician who “embodies service to humanity.” His generous contribution to the Houston Public Library enabled the expansion of this library to 20,000 square feet. He also provided funding to the Museum of Health and Medical Science, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Zoo and the Museum of Natural Science. In addition, he received numerous national and international awards and decorations.