The Blanco Library was established in 1938 by the Blanco Woman's Club. It remained a private corporation until February 2002, when it was formed into a Library District. It is operated almost totally by volunteers, with the exception of one "paid" position - the librarian.
The library serves a population of 4,500 people in the south half of Blanco County, including the City of Blanco and the surrounding communities of Spring Branch, Kendalia, and Henly.
The Library's 6,900 square foot facilities include a large general collection area, areas for children and youth, a genealogy room, computer areas, and a large public meeting room. The meeting room often features art and other exhibits, club meetings, and seminars.
The Texana Collection contains many rare and historical items, and will be the basis of the Library's future Blanco Museum.
The Library is also Blanco's primary point for free Internet access. Use of the Public Internet Access Computers requires a library card, agreement to library policy, and a sign-up schedule (There is a computer area for children, for "tweens," and an adult area).
Because of Library District status, the Blanco's Library receives a small amount of tax-generated money.
However, most of its funding still comes from the Friends of the Library, an offshoot of the Women's Club. Proceeds from membership dues, memorials, fund raisers, and gifts are used to provide books and needed items which they could not afford otherwise. The Friends are committed to assisting the library in its quest to bring books, educational materials, information resources, and interesting programs to Blanco.
The Blanco Library is located at 1118 Main St. (US Hwy 281, between 11th and 12th Streets). Hours change from time to time, so please check the Blanco Library web site for more information.
Blanco Non-Profit Organizations The backbone of Blanco, its non-profit and volunteer groups provide most of the amenities that have come to be expected.