The Austin Public Library is marking its 100th anniversary with yearlong Centennial Celebrations running through Dec. 23, per the library website.

The background: Austin's first public library opened Feb. 16, 1926, at 819 Congress Ave. with just 500 donated books in a rented space. Later that year, the first permanent building opened Dec. 23 at West Ninth and Guadalupe streets, according to the Austin History Center.

Today, the system includes the Central Library and 20 neighborhood branches.

The details: Centennial programming at library locations across the city includes Roaring '20s-themed events, history and genealogy programs, branch birthday celebrations, a community History Harvest collecting residents' memories and photos for the Austin History Center, and a passport-style Adventure Book with activities and prizes, the library said.

Austinites can also vote through July 31 on designs in the Centennial Library Card Art Contest, with winning cards debuting in September.

Yearlong Centennial Celebrations run through Dec. 23, capped by a free, all-ages event at the Central Library on Oct. 17.

From superintendents to school colors, read some of the recent education stories affecting families in Hays County.

1. San Marcos CISD superintendent announces retirement after 10 years: Michael Cardona has served as the superintendent of schools for San Marcos CISD since 2016. On July 7, he announced his intention to retire at the end of September 2026.

2. Dripping Springs ISD selects colors for 2nd high school: Driftwood Springs High School’s official colors will be navy blue and gold following several months of community deliberation.

3. Hays CISD superintendent set to retire after 4 decades in public education: After eight years serving as the Hays CISD superintendent of schools and nearly 40 years in public education, Eric Wright will retire in February 2027.

Looking to get away this summer without going too far? Check out some places to plan a staycation throughout the Austin area. 

Bastrop
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa: The ranch-style resort offers dining, golf, a water park, spa and event spaces.

Dripping Springs
The Yurtopian: The Hill Country resort offers glamping in Mongolian-inspired yurts with upscale amenities and scenic views.

Georgetown
San Gabriel House: The historic bed-and-breakfast showcases its 20th-century charm with the original pine floors and leaded-glass front door.

Liberty Hill
River Ranch Inn: The self-proclaimed “undecidedly and beautifully offbeat” boutique hotel in Liberty Hill offers guests swimming, kayaking, fishing and stargazing.

North Central Austin
Commodore Perry Estate: The venue features European-style architecture and decor, a pool, restaurant, on-site entertainment and event spaces.

Round Rock
The Ruby Hotel & Bar: The hotel offers a pool, scenic views and private event spaces near the historic downtown, which features an abundance of shopping and dining,

Check out the latest transportation project updates across the Austin metro.

Cedar Park to improve more neighborhood roads: Cedar Park City Council approved a change to the city’s contract with Lone Star Paving on June 25. The change order adds ten new streets to the project, with the existing asphalt removed and replaced with a new 2-inch asphalt surface.

Gattis School Road lane closures in effect through end of July for construction: A section of Gattis School Road between Via Sonoma Trail and High Country Boulevard will be reduced to one lane in each direction until the end of July. The closure will facilitate installation of three waterline crossings.

Roadway plans move forward as Dog's Head site prepped for major industrial project: Preparations for the first major addition to the recently annexed Dog's Head are underway, while local leaders ready to adopt a long-term public financing plan for upgrades across the more than 4-square-mile East Austin megasite. A range of mixed-use development is possible after city officials' initial vote for a long-term deal this spring. 

Nonprofit Torch Literary Arts is slated to open a physical creative space called The Torch Center in August.

The details: The organization focuses on advancing opportunities for Black women writers and is known for its online publication Torch Magazine, which publishes poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction and screenplays from new and experienced writers.

The organization also hosts reading and writing workshops and other events with community partners, and features a curated bookshop. 

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