Next Chapter: A Summer of Stories & Support

Creativity lives here. Thanks to the Krienkes’ generous gift, the Messy Makerspace is sparking ideas, innovation, and imagination for years to come. Naming opportunities like this one are still available!

A Note from Belle

Hi friends,

From my perch in the vibrant playscape just outside the Cedar Park Public Library’s front door, I get the best view of what summer looks like at the library—joyful readers, excited families, and a season bursting with books, imagination, and connection.

Thanks to your support and the Cedar Park Public Library Foundation, over 1,400 new early readers and graphic novels have joined our shelves—just in time for the summer surge. From toddlers discovering their first stories to teens diving into graphic novels, your generosity is sparking adventures on every page.

This month, we’re especially proud to celebrate the Krienkes—long-time Cedar Park residents and community leaders—who are continuing their legacy of generosity and service in our Donor Spotlight. Their dedication is helping write the next chapter for our library and the families who depend on it.

And there’s even more magic ahead! Gus the Atmos mascot is digging his way to the movie party, free sunglasses are adding sparkle to summer days, and our tote bags are back—helping donors show their library love in style. 

So, whether you’re joining the Chapter Society, naming a space, or simply turning pages in the sunshine—thank you for being part of this beautiful story.

Let’s keep the joy flowing, together.

Warm wishes and happy reading,
Belle

P.S. Want to catch up on what you’ve missed? Read past newsletters here.

Thanks to your support and the Cedar Park Public Library Foundation (CPPLF), the library was able to expand its collections just in time for the busy summer season! Julia Mitschke, Library Director, shared that Foundation funding enabled the addition of over 1,400 early readers and graphic novels—ensuring young readers have access to the stories and characters they love.

The library typically sees a significant increase in visitors during the peak summer reading season from June to mid-August. At our previous location, we welcomed over 75,000 visitors last summer. If current trends at the new library continue, we could see more than 260,000 visitors this summer alone—a powerful testament to the community’s love of reading and learning.

🌞 We’re thrilled to give a big shout out to Atmos Energy for sponsoring this year’s Summer Reading Program—and for bringing extra joy and excitement with their beloved mascot, Gus!

Meet Gus the Mascot – Monday, July 14 | 3:00 p.m.
Gus will be on hand to greet families at the beginning of the screening of our Inside Out Movie Party—bringing smiles, high-fives, and photo ops galore! It’s all part of Atmos Energy’s generous support of summer reading and community fun.

About the Event:
Enjoy a heartwarming animated film alongside crafts, coloring sheets, and “core memory” moments for the whole family. All ages are welcome!

Be the reason someone falls in love with reading—every single month.

When you join The Chapter Society with a monthly gift, you help turn one chapter into a world of possibilities. Your support brings books, bold programs, and imagination to life at the library—all year long.

Give $25/month or more in June, and you’ll be entered to win a family annual membership to the Austin Aquarium—just in time for summer fun!

From raising cattle and kids on 115 acres to transforming their land into a wildlife refuge, the Krienkes have shaped Cedar Park for over 50 years. Now, their gift to the Library Foundation is helping shape its future, too.

Shine bright with us in the Library Lobby from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

We’re celebrating summer with a fun giveaway—free sunglasses (while supplies last)! Stop by, say hello, learn about our latest projects, and snap a sunny selfie with us.

You can also make a $20 donation to receive one of our popular tote bags—a stylish and meaningful way to show your support for the library!

Leave a lasting mark on the future of Cedar Park. Naming opportunities are still available, including dedicated library spaces and recognition on the Donor Wall at the library’s main entrance.

Contact Kristen Huguley at director@cedarparkbooks.org to schedule a meeting and explore ways to honor a loved one, celebrate your family or business, or share your passion for literacy through this opportunity.

Naming rights offer a 20-year legacy at this crown jewel of the Bell District—one of the busiest buildings in all of Cedar Park.

“Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him.”

— Maya Angelou