Hooks, Texas – After nearly ten years without a public library, a community-driven project is moving toward reopening a library for the town’s families and students. The effort is being coordinated by Hooks resident Emily Thomes, who says the goal is to create a welcoming space where children can read, learn and spend quality time together.
Grassroots Support Fuels the Initiative
Thomes explained that the idea grew from her family’s love of libraries; the Thomes family holds library cards in nearby New Boston and Texarkana and regularly visits those facilities. When word spread, neighbors began offering help, books, shelves, furniture and financial contributions. A large collection of books, including a donation from a local church, has already been delivered.
“What began as an idea quickly became something much bigger once people in the community started offering help, books, encouragement and support,” Thames said.
Location and Resources
The future library will occupy a building made available by the Hooks Industrial Development Corp. The organization’s support helped turn the concept into a tangible project. Volunteers are currently cleaning the space, installing shelving, sorting and cataloging the donated books, and setting up the necessary library systems.
The collection will emphasize children’s literature—picture books, middle‑grade titles and young‑adult novels—while also building an adult section. In addition to books, the library plans to host story time, crafts, board games and other activities aimed at fostering community interaction.
Focus on Family and Faith
Thomes emphasized that the library is intended to be more than a storage room for books. “I want it to feel like a community space rather than just a room where books are stored,” she said. “I want people to walk in and feel that this is their library and that they are welcome here.”
She also noted a desire to honor her faith through the project. “I want the work I do here to honor the Lord,” Thomes said, adding that she hopes the library will serve as a small way of serving neighbors and contributing positively to the community God has given them.
Who the Library Will Serve
The upcoming library is expected to serve public‑school students, homeschool families, adults and any Hooks resident seeking access to books or a quiet place to read. Thomes said the response from the town has been overwhelmingly encouraging, with many residents stepping forward to assist in various capacities.
Although an official opening date has not yet been set, Thomes expressed confidence that the project will move forward quickly. “We are moving quickly, though, and my goal is to open as soon as I can do it well,” she said. “We’re so looking forward to seeing it up and running.”
How to Help
Those interested in contributing books, funds, time or expertise can contact Emily Thomes directly via the email address provided in the original announcement or by calling 903‑908‑2452.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
