60th Anniversay of the Friends of the Temple Public Library and the First Anniversary of the Library's Exploration Station
TEMPLE, TX (January 16, 2026) — The City of Temple is celebrating two major milestones for the Temple Public Library. The 60th anniversary of the Friends of the Temple Public Library and the First Anniversary of the Library’s Bookmobile, the Exploration Station.
Founded in March 1965, the Friends of the Temple Public Library have spent six decades supporting literacy, learning, and public access through volunteerism and philanthropy. Over the years, the organization has funded library equipment, renovations, author visits, children’s programs, and more than $500,000 in support through its long-running book sales.
Most recently, the Friends helped make expanded outreach possible with an $80,000 donation to launch the Exploration Station, which brings library services directly into neighborhoods, schools, and community events.
"For 60 years, the Friends of the Temple Public Library have been champions of literacy, learning, and community connection. From their earliest days in 1965 to their most recent investment in our new bookmobile, the Friends have consistently strengthened our ability to serve the public. Their generosity has shaped everything from collections and programs to major renovations and outreach initiatives."
Elizabeth Page, Director of Libraries and Museums
During Fiscal Year 2025, the Temple Public Library’s Outreach Division significantly expanded access to library services by bringing books, programs, and learning opportunities directly into the community. Through its Homebound Program, the division completed 46 service stops, reaching 91 participants and facilitating 1,217 checkouts for residents unable to visit the library in person. In addition to homebound services, Outreach staff conducted more than 180 visits to schools, childcare centers, senior living facilities, recovery programs, and community organizations across Temple. Additionally, the Exploration Station supported hands-on learning, mobile collections, and pop-up library services at schools and community events
These ongoing efforts reflect the Temple Public Library’s continued commitment to expanding access to reading, information, and meaningful connection for seniors, residents with limited mobility, and community members across Temple.
To learn more about Friends of the Temple Public Library and the Exploration Station, visit exploretpl.com.