Butt-Holdsworth turns 59 Wednesday — and wants your memories for its 60th

The Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library celebrates its 59th birthday Wednesday, Aug. 26, and patrons are invited to stop by 505 Water St. for a slice of cake.

But this year’s party comes with an assignment: the library is collecting community memories ahead of its 60th anniversary in 2027.

Since opening in 1967, the library has served generations of readers, students, families, researchers and job seekers, and staff want to hear the personal stories behind those decades — first library cards, childhood storytimes, Summer Reading, genealogy discoveries, quiet study sessions and everything in between.

“Libraries hold more than books — they hold memories,” said Diane Miller, the library’s director. “As we approach our 60th anniversary, we would love to hear from the people who have grown up with this library, brought their children here, found help here, volunteered here, worked here, researched here or simply found a favorite place to read and belong.”

The library is especially interested in memories of childhood visits and storytimes, first library cards, recollections of how the building and its services have changed over time, photographs or keepsakes connected to the library, and reflections on what it has meant to individuals and families.

Selected memories and photographs will be featured in displays, social media posts and programming during the 2027 anniversary celebration. To share a memory, contact the library at 830-258-1274 or visit in person.

No library card is needed to visit or attend programs — though the library suggests that signing up for one, free to City of Kerrville and Kerr County residents, is a fitting way to celebrate. Cards provide access to books, e-books, audiobooks, movies, databases and more.

The library’s full events calendar is available at buttholdsworth.librarycalendar.com.