HOUSTON — The Houston Public Library (HPL) kicks off summer with a trio of compelling exhibits that celebrate Texas identity, immigrant experiences, and historic restoration efforts. These immersive displays, launching throughout June, offer Houstonians unique perspectives on storytelling, cultural history, and global craftsmanship.
A Giant Celebration of Texas and Literacy
Beginning Saturday, June 7, the Central Library (500 McKinney St.) will unveil I Am Texas, the Guinness World Record™ holder for the largest published book. Standing seven feet tall and weighing nearly 500 pounds, the book represents the collective voices of over 1,000 students from more than 80 Texas school districts. It features stories, poems, and artwork that pay tribute to the Lone Star State, as seen through the eyes of its youth.
Published by the iWrite Organization and The Bryan Museum, and sponsored by Phillips 66, the book includes illustrations by bestselling author Brad Meltzer and artist Christopher Eliopoulos. Its cover features notable Texas figures such as Bessie Coleman, Juan Seguín, and former First Lady Barbara Bush—whose 100th birthday will be honored with special storytimes across all HPL locations on the same day.
I Am Texas will remain on display through November 14, 2025, and the public is encouraged to snap photos with the massive book and explore the behind-the-scenes process of its creation.
Portraits of Immigration and Belonging: “Al Otro Lado / The Other Side”
Opening Saturday, June 14, HPL will debut Al Otro Lado / The Other Side, a deeply moving photographic and multimedia exhibition by Houston Chronicle visual journalist Raquel Natalicchio. Located in the Dr. James and Betty Key Map Room of the Julia Ideson Building (550 McKinney St.), the exhibit runs through February 28, 2026.
Blending powerful large-scale portraits with historical maps and video interviews, Al Otro Lado creates a visual dialogue between the immigrant experience and Texas history. Natalicchio pairs intimate images of immigrants living in Houston with archival maps from the library’s collections, offering a grounded view of personal journeys that transcend borders.
“This exhibit invites viewers to explore immigration through a thoughtful blend of portraiture, storytelling, and historical context. Rather than focusing on politics or policy, it centers on the lived experiences of individuals,” said Natalicchio.
A free Opening Reception will be held on June 14 at 12 p.m. in the Julia Ideson Building. Online registration is encouraged due to limited space.
Restoring a World Treasure: Notre-Dame de Paris
Later in the month, on June 30, the Julia Ideson Building will also host The Great Restoration Adventure: Celebrating the Craftsmen of Notre-Dame de Paris. The exhibit honors the skilled artisans who played a pivotal role in restoring the iconic cathedral after its devastating fire on April 15, 2019.
With the ceremonial reopening of Notre-Dame scheduled for December 27, 2024, this exhibition underscores the importance of cultural preservation and highlights international craftsmanship that spans generations. The exhibit will remain open through August 2, 2025.
Partners include Archaeology Now, Villa Albertine – Consulat Général de France à Houston, Alliance Française de Houston, Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris, and several restoration-focused studios and organizations from France and the U.S.
About Houston Public Library
HPL is one of the largest and most diverse library systems in the country, serving over 2.3 million residents. With 44 public service locations, including six regional libraries, three history research centers, four TECHLink hubs, and a robust mobile outreach unit, HPL remains committed to equitable access, community enrichment, and lifelong learning across the City of Houston.
For more details on exhibits, event schedules, or registration, visit www.houstonlibrary.org.
