Homeschool families in Spring can drop off and pick up gently used textbooks, workbooks and other teaching materials at the Barbara Bush Branch Library's first Bi-Annual Homeschool Curriculum Swap on Monday, Aug. 17, and Tuesday, Aug. 18.

The library at 6817 Cypresswood Drive is accepting curriculum donations both days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff will organize the materials so families can browse and take home what they need for the upcoming school year. No registration is required, and the event is free.

The branch framed the swap as part of its effort to welcome the area's growing homeschool community, writing in its event listing that the idea came from families themselves and fit the library's mission of providing access to information for all. Staff said they will work behind the scenes to get donated materials sorted and ready for browsing.

Branch manager Shane Harris oversees a location that already runs Tours & Tales, a Thursday-morning program where homeschool co-ops, parochial schools and other groups can book personalized storytimes, crafts and library tours with Ms. Maryam, who curates books and supplies to support each group's curriculum. Groups reserve a spot by emailing [email protected] with the subject line "ATTN: Tours & Tales."

The swap arrives as Texas's homeschool population continues to grow. The Houston Chronicle has reported that the state's homeschool student count is roughly equivalent to the entire population of Wyoming, with the majority concentrated in Harris County.

The library plans to hold the curriculum swap twice a year, though a date for the next round has not been announced. Families who want to donate materials outside the event window can bring them to the branch during regular hours: Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. The branch is closed Sunday.

For questions, call (832) 927-7800 or email [email protected].

Upcoming at Barbara Bush Branch Library:

  • Tours & Tales — Thursday mornings, by appointment. Email [email protected] with subject "ATTN: Tours & Tales."
  • Toddler Time — Regular storytimes for individual families; large groups directed to Tours & Tales.