Community

Fort Bend County Libraries is preparing for a major digital comeback. On Monday, September 2, the library system will launch a new, state-of-the-art online network and catalog, restoring computer and Internet services that have been offline since February.

The upgrade comes after a six-month network outage that began on February 24, affecting the online catalog, email, some phone services, and public access to library computers and printers. While Fort Bend County Libraries maintains that no patron data was compromised, investigative reports from outlets like ABC13 indicate the outage stemmed from a ransomware attack, with potential impacts to employee data still under review by county officials.

According to library officials, the overhaul included installation of all-new servers, modern network hardware and software, and advanced security tools, providing a unique opportunity for the system to replace outdated infrastructure with cutting-edge technology. The new infrastructure is designed to provide a safe, resilient, and faster user experience for years to come.

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A highlight of the relaunch is the fully cloud-based online catalog, which will allow for faster updates, stronger security, and quicker rollout of new features. The library system is also rolling out a mobile app that initially will support catalog searches and hold requests, with more features to follow.

While new computer and printing stations are being installed across branches, public access is already available—though stations may be limited until the project is complete. Wi-Fi remains free at all locations, and self-checkout stations are once again operational.

The relaunch means library visitors will find thousands of new books that have been ordered over the past months but were unavailable without a functioning network. New offerings like Wonderbooks, Kanopy+, PressReader, and a “Library of Things” collection debuting later this fall at George Memorial Library in Richmond will expand access to both educational and entertainment resources.

Popular community programs are also making a return. The free “Teacher in the Library” homework-help service for grades 3–6 resumes September 2 at George Memorial Library, Mission Bend Branch, and Missouri City Branch. The “Lawyer in the Library” service continues at the Willie Melton Law Library in the Fort Bend County Justice Center.

Digital resources such as LinkedIn Learning for Libraries, The Wall Street Journal, OverDrive/Libby, and Hoopla are back online, though some users may need to update app settings. Overdue fines accrued during the outage have been waived, and materials checked out between February 24 and September 1 will remain fine-free until November 30.

To mark the milestone, branch libraries will host special activities and giveaways throughout the week beginning September 2. The celebration culminates with a Re-Launch Party on Saturday, September 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. at George Memorial Library, featuring sweet treats, activities, and limited-edition library cards designed by winners of the Library-Card Design Contest.

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“We thank you for your patience and appreciate your continued support,” said Library Director Roosevelt Weeks. “We look forward to introducing everyone to our new, enhanced system!"

For more information, visit fortbendlibraries.gov or call the Communications Office at 281-633-4734.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.