Corpus Christi Public Libraries Engagement Soars to New Milestones

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX—The Corpus Christi Public Libraries (CCPL) are celebrating a year of unprecedented success and significant investment in fiscal year 2025. The system achieved new programming milestones and boosted circulation figures across its six branches, reflecting its essential role in the Coastal Bend community.

This surge in engagement coincides with the launch of the highly anticipated $2 million exterior renovation of the La Retama Central Library.

CCPL’s community impact, measured by its circulation and visitor numbers, demonstrates significant public value:

• Circulation: CCPL circulated a record 844,079 items, including books, media, and digital materials, setting a new usage peak.

• In-Person Visits: In FY 2025, CCPL welcomed 378,095 visitors to one of its six library branches.

• Programs Offered: The library system provided over 3,441 free programs throughout the year, the highest number to date.

• Attendance & Partnerships: Drawing 91,033 attendees, the programs featured 580 events with 80 local community organizations.

The library's success in programs spanned literacy, education, and life skills for all ages:

• Summer Reading Program: Nearly 2,400 children registered for this program, which ran from June 2 to July 27, and read a remarkable 91,322 books, an average of 38 books per child. A total of 872 participants earned the Mayor’s Challenge certificate.

• 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten: For this year’s program, 312 additional children enrolled in the popular foundational literacy program, which encourages early reading habits.

• Science Thursdays: This rapidly expanding series at the Hopkins Public Library, aimed at science enthusiasts ages 15 and up, is a valuable partnership with the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Life Sciences Department.

• Teen Cooking Classes: Free sessions, in partnership with the Coastal Bend Food Bank, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and Cabana Pantry, emphasize nutrition and life skills.

Additionally, the La Retama Central Library's exterior renovation, which commenced in August, will significantly enhance the building's front and surrounding grounds, thereby boosting accessibility and community appeal.

Key renovation improvements include:

• Accessibility: Installation of a new accessible walkway from the existing bus stop to the front door.

• Building Envelope: All windows and the storefront entrance will be replaced, along with the repair of the building's exterior plaster wall finish and fresh paint.

• Grounds: Redesign the front yard with new landscaping, hardscaping, and enhanced area lighting.

• Signage: New, prominent signage, including a freestanding library sign and upgraded building wall signs.

The project is scheduled for completion by early fall 2026.

For more information, media representatives can contact Cassandra Hinojosa, Public Information Officer, at 361-826-2944 or cassandrah3@corpuschristitx.gov.