2024 National Medal for Museum & Library Service Harris County Public Library has received the nation's highest honor given to institutions…

Core values

- **Community Outreach and Inclusion**: HCPL extends its services beyond traditional library settings, including visits to assisted living facilities, local elementary schools, and providing services to diverse refugee populations, which fosters a sense of belonging, inclusion, and empowerment[1][4].
- **Addressing Digital Divide**: HCPL has distributed thousands of Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebook laptops to residents without reliable internet access, enabling remote learning and work[4].
- **Support for Vulnerable Communities**: The library provides free library reference services for people incarcerated, offers an inclusive library card program, and has initiatives focused on inclusivity, diversity, equity, and access[4].
- **Promoting Education and Health**: HCPL's programs are positively associated with school effectiveness, community health, and other dimensions of social wellbeing[3][4].
- **Economic Growth**: The library's workforce development programs drive economic growth, and its services contribute to broader networks of support that enhance community wellbeing[3][4].