Not every library stays relevant by becoming a place you can check out a book of recipes AND a crockpot.

Traveling between Huntsville and Conroe on Interstate 45, you pass through a town so small you may miss it if you blink. But if you take the exit, you will find small businesses, a few gas stations, schools, a couple of banks, and the New Waverly Public Library – which, to many, is the heart of this town.

“The only thing you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.” -Albert Einstein

The library was founded in 1987, and the community stepped up in a big way to show support. Books were donated, volunteers spent their time helping patrons, and financial assistance came flooding in from businesses and corporations.

Through the years, the library has changed locations, with a ribbon cutting taking place in 2008 for the new library located at 9372 TX-75, New Waverly, TX. Directors have come, and directors have gone – and the position is now in the hands of Chanel Maybin. With her team of volunteers, Chanel has big plans for the library – and they need the help of the community to assist in bringing those plans to life.

As with anything, money is a factor. Updates for the library have been discussed, but an available grant can only be fully taken advantage of if the library chips in a certain [large] dollar amount. With all the activities freely given to the community, the money coming in does not cover the amount needed to carry out the plans. With hope, determination, and a skillset for problem solving, Chanel and her righthand woman Cathy O’Donnell plan to see these dreams fulfilled.

Women on a Mission

Director Chanel Maybin is not new to this library. Many years ago, she started off as a volunteer. As her love for the library and strengths were revealed, she soon was placed in charge of the summer reading program…and then in charge of another program…and another.

In 2018, Maybin decided to take a step back from the library and ultimately resigned. A couple of years ago, the director position for the library was posted; Chanel Maybin applied, got the job, and it’s been full speed ahead ever since.

When asked what the library means to her, Maybin said, “It means a lot to me. I grew up with a love of reading. I actually got my first library card from this library many, many years ago.”

With Maybin overseeing virtually all programs and activities, she also counts on library Secretary Denise Miller and volunteers for the day-to-day function of the library.

One volunteer who has stepped up is Cathy O’Donnell. Having moved from a larger city, she has appreciated the pleasant atmosphere of a smaller town. “I didn’t want to squander what New Waverly had to offer us. So, I needed to get involved and see what I could do to help.”

Together, Maybin and O’Donnell are constantly brainstorming new ways to serve the community, along with new ways to make sure the funds are available to keep the library afloat.

What the Library Has to Offer

New Waverly Public Library is not simply there to allow patrons to check out books. Of course, with a large book selection, that is definitely at the forefront of what is offered – but there is so much more.

So, what can you expect from New Waverly Public Library?

Monthly senior citizen social gatherings, GED classes, Bible studies, blood drives, summer reading clubs, year-round reading and group activities for children of all ages, FREE tutoring, and more!

Cathey O’Donnell continued, “I just love this place. You come in, and you see the kids running around and making crafts…I brought my grandkids here, and they love all the activities. There are so many nice people. It’s just brought me into the community, and I feel like I’m a part of it.”

Cathy shared of one of their newer contributions, “It’s called ‘The Library of Things!’ Things people might need, but they don’t want to go buy. For example, if you need a crockpot, you can check out a crockpot…or board games, stuff like that.”

If you think that wraps up the list of what New Waverly Public Library has to offer, think again.

In need of internet? There are multiple internet hotspots available at the library that patrons may check out!

They also have a Community Center that can be rented out for events.  Hungry? Food trucks are located in the parking lot of the library.

In Need of Support

New Waverly Public Library is here for you. Can you be there for them? Join the effort to help sustain and update this community library.

When asked how the community can help, Director Chanel Maybin says, “I think the community can help by volunteering, donating, or frequenting the library. Bring your kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, or cousins to the programs we put on.”

New Waverly Public Library would like to say a huge THANK YOU to all donors and sponsors.  Special thanks to Blackoak Homes, whose recent large donation assisted with an air conditioning system repair.

New Waverly Public Library is open Monday – Friday, 11 AM – 6PM

For information on upcoming events or activities, give the library a call or check out the ‘Calendar’ tab on their website. To become a volunteer, stop by to pick up an application or download from the website.  Donate in person, online, or mail a check to:

New Waverly Public Library
9372 State Hwy 75 S
New Waverly, TX 77358
(936)344-2198
newwaverlypubliclibrary.org