HOUSTON, TX — In a celebration of literacy, history, and global craftsmanship, the Houston Public Library (HPL) launched three highly anticipated exhibitions in June 2025 that captivated visitors of all ages. With a commitment to education and cultural enrichment, HPL transformed its Central and Julia Ideson library buildings into vibrant hubs of storytelling and preservation.

📚 “I Am Texas” Broke Records and Celebrated Young Voices

On June 7, HPL debuted I Am Texas, the Guinness World Record™-holding publication for the largest book ever created. Standing seven feet tall and weighing nearly 500 pounds, the book served as a monumental tribute to Texas, entirely created through the voices and artistry of over 1,000 young contributors from 80+ school districts across the Lone Star State.

The exhibit was unveiled on what would have been former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 100th birthday, honoring her legacy as a national literacy advocate. System-wide storytime events were held across all HPL locations, featuring some of Bush’s favorite books.

Published by the iWrite Organization and The Bryan Museum, with sponsorship from Phillips 66, I Am Texas featured illustrations of iconic Texans including Bessie Coleman, Juan Seguin, and Barbara Bush, brought to life by New York Times bestselling author-illustrator duo Brad Meltzer and Christopher Eliopoulos. The record-breaking book, which made its debut in Houston in 2022, will remain on display at Central Library (500 McKinney St.) through November 14, 2025.

🎥 “Al Otro Lado / The Other Side” Gave Immigration a Human Face

Also in June, HPL premiered Al Otro Lado / The Other Side, a stunning visual exhibit from Houston Chronicle photojournalist Raquel Natalicchio. The exhibit opened on Saturday, June 14 in the Dr. James and Betty Key Map Room of the Julia Ideson Building and invited guests into an intimate portrayal of immigration through large-scale portraits, historical maps, and personal video interviews.

Natalicchio’s lens focused on the journeys of immigrants who now call Houston home. Her work, paired with historical archives from HPL, offered a moving juxtaposition of past and present, placing real faces and stories alongside the complex geography of migration. “This exhibit invited viewers to explore immigration through portraiture, storytelling, and historical context,” said Natalicchio. “It centered on lived experiences—not politics.”

A free opening reception on June 14 welcomed the community for a firsthand look at the exhibit, which will be available to view until February 28, 2026.

🛠️ The Great Restoration Adventure Spotlighted Artisans Who Saved Notre-Dame

On June 30, HPL unveiled The Great Restoration Adventure: Celebrating the Craftsmen of Notre-Dame de Paris, paying tribute to the artisans and restorers who helped bring the famed cathedral back to life following the devastating 2019 fire.

The exhibit highlighted the skilled hands and historical techniques that rebuilt the Gothic masterpiece and coincided with the December 2024 ceremonial reopening of Notre-Dame. Through displays of stonework, wood carving, blacksmithing, and architectural models, the exhibition reminded visitors of the vital importance of preserving global cultural landmarks.

Partners in this international collaboration included Archaeology Now, Villa Albertine, Alliance Française de Houston, Maison Luquet, Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris, Ateliers Perrault, Handshouse Studio, the Houston Area Blacksmith's Association, and the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. The exhibit will remain on display in the Julia Ideson Building through August 2, 2025.

About the Houston Public Library

With a service network of 44 locations, including six Regional Libraries and four TECHLink centers, HPL has continued to serve Houston’s 2.3 million residents with dynamic programs and equitable access to resources. From neighborhood branches to cutting-edge literacy initiatives, HPL remains a cornerstone of learning, culture, and innovation in one of the country’s most diverse cities.

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