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Texas America250 at MPL

Celebrate, Read, & Explore History

The logo of the Summerlee Foundation  Logo of the Texas Library and Archives Foundation  Logo of the Institute of Museum and Library Services


READING CHALLENGE

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January 1–December 31, 2026

Log 2,500 minutes (41.6 hours) of reading, Texas state park visits, and/or community service activities. The challenge is open to all ages and can be completed at your own pace.

Tracking logs are available at MPL locations.

Download a copy:
Texas America250 Reading Log

ABOUT AMERICA250

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In 2026, communities across the country will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Texas, the Texas State Library & Archives Commission is leading a statewide initiative that encourages Texans to explore history, civics, culture, and the stories that connect us.

At MPL, we're proud to participate in this statewide effort by providing opportunities for our community to read, learn, and engage with history throughout the year.

TRAVELING EXHIBIT

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As part of the Texas America250 initiative, a traveling exhibit at Main Library features reproductions of historically significant documents, photographs, and artifacts from the collections of the Texas State Library & Archives Commission.

The exhibit offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Texas history through rare materials that help tell the story of our state and its people.


RECOMMENDED READING
Explore our library catalog for additional books.
(Click on Image for Details)

Book Cover of "Off the Beaten Path"

Book Cover - "Texas"

Book Cover of "A naturalist’s guide to the Texas Hill Country"

Book Cover of "Hiking and backpacking trails of Texas"

Book Cover image of "Official Guide to Texas state parks and historic sites"

Book Cover of "The Big Bend: a history of the last Texas frontier"

Book Cover of "Texas"

Book Cover of "Explore Texas: a nature travel guide"

Book Cover of "Enjoying Big Bend National Park : a friendly guide to adventures for everyone"

ONLINE RESOURCES
The following websites contain information about services, maps and other information of interest for Texas state parks.

Abilene State Park
Click Here

Hill Country State Natural Area
Click Here

Colorado Bend State Park
Click Here

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
Click Here

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
Click Here

Dinosaur Valley
State Park
Click Here

Big Bend National Park
Click Here

Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Click Here

McKinney Falls State Park
Click Here

Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway
Click Here

Lost Maples State Natural Area
Click Here

Garner State Park
Click Here

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Click Here


UPCOMING EVENTS
Browse our upcoming events on our online calendar:
Events Calendar

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