How many libraries does Garland have?

One? Four? Seven?

The question is a bit tricky given that the Central Library recently closed for renovation and, in its place temporarily, Central Library Express opened at 713 Austin St.

Library service in Garland is broadening. This spring, Garland library services expanded beyond the current four locations to offer services on the go. The library implemented two initiatives in order to extend its reach to patrons throughout the city.

The first initiative was Library on the Go (pictured, top). This is a refurbished shipping container that is placed at different locations in Garland. Library on the Go offers visitors the chance to sign up for a library card, check out materials, play games and learn about additional library services. Library on the Go made its debut at Bradfield Park on April 10 and welcomed visitors for about nine weeks. Library on the Go will reopen in the fall at a new location.

The second initiative was Go Library Go (pictured, left), a set of materials dispensers similar to vending machines. Patrons can use their library cards to check out popular reading material and DVDs 24/7 from these dispensers. The first dispenser is on State Street in Downtown Garland between City Hall and Roach Feed & Seed. A second dispenser is planned for Lon Wynne Park later this year.

The two materials dispensers and Library on the Go add three locations to the four already in the Garland library system. So the answer to the original question is that Garland has seven libraries!

By the way, the Central Library will be back and better than ever with new technologies to include a video production studio and makerspace equipment. The renovated library will feature an exciting new place for children to learn through reading and hands-on play, more collaboration and study areas, and new outdoor programming spaces.