Gardening and construction enthusiasts will be glad to know they can borrow landscaping equipment from two HCPL locations: the Baldwin Badger Library at Mercer Arboretum and the Evelyn Meador Branch Library. Items including gloves, wheelbarrows, hedge sheers, kneeling pads, safety glasses, and more can be reserved for free and kept for up to 14 days without renewals.

In addition to the tools, HCPL also has a catalog of seeds at the Lone Star College-CyFair and North Channel branches. And yes, these are just to be borrowed, technically—visitors are encouraged to harvest the seeds of the plants when grown and donate them back to the library. HCPL also hosts seed swaps where people can exchange ones they have with other attendees.

Did you know anyone could borrow baking sets from HPL? The “Library of Things” collection includes specialty pans, cutters, icing tips, and more that can be kept for up to three weeks. Other items in this collection include board games, Toniebox storytime sets, and “discovery kits” packed with educational toys or gear for activities like bird-watching.

Visitors to any of the HPL’s TechLink locations can make use of the sound studios. These rooms are complete with everything one might need to create music, including microphones, mixing consoles, and electronic and acoustic instruments. There are also video production spaces available with cameras, teleprompters, green screens, and more.

Anyone with an HCPL or HPL card can unleash their creativity using state-of-the-art tech equipment. These makerspaces are equipped with 3-D printers, laser cutters, Cricut machines, vinyl cutters, embroidery machines, and sewing machines, among other tools. Free training programs ensure that individuals can make the most of these resources, turning their ideas into tangible creations, from crafting personalized gifts to prototyping inventions.

Having a hard time updating your resume or writing a cover letter? Both library systems offer career services that include aid with professional documents for job-seeking. Workshops, one-on-one consultations, and online resources are part of the comprehensive support provided by both entities.

HPL offers free online tutoring for locals from kindergarten to early college, including a language lab for those looking to expand their linguistic skills. While HCPL does not offer that same range of services, it has adult literacy and high school diploma classes. Both systems also offer free LinkedIn Learning courses for skill development and personal growth.

Houston’s library systems recognize the city’s diversity and actively contribute to the integration of new Americans. In collaboration with local government agencies, they offer citizenship services including dedicated classes and language programs. With the demand on the rise, these expanded services aim to bridge the gap for eligible individuals seeking to navigate the complex journey to citizenship.

Both library systems offer convenient passport services for first-time applicants and for renewals, streamlining the entire process, including passport photos, for a fee.

Catering to the curiosity of those delving into their family histories, both library systems offer extensive genealogy programs. Access to databases is complemented by guided programs, providing patrons with assistance in navigating and conducting searches. Whether it’s uncovering long-lost family connections or exploring local history, the libraries offer resources to satisfy inquisitive minds of all ages.