Just around the corner from Green Trails Estates, the Maud Marks Branch Library located at 1815 Westgreen Blvd, Katy, TX 77450 is a beloved community hub that’s been connecting local families with lifelong learning opportunities for decades. This July, the library continues its tradition of service with a full calendar of free events tailored for every age group—from infants and toddlers to teens and seniors.

Built in 1993 and named in honor of longtime Katy educator Maud Smith Marks, the library is part of the Harris County Public Library system. Over the decades, it’s become a cherished gathering place for West Houston residents, known for its vibrant programming and welcoming atmosphere.

Here’s a closer look at what’s happening at your neighborhood library this month.

For Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers

Weekly early literacy programs help little ones grow through stories, rhymes, and fun:

• Tuesdays at 10:15 AM - Read & Rhyme Storytime (Ages 3–5): Build early literacy skills through stories, songs, and crafts.

• Wednesdays at 10:15 AM or 11:15 AM - Patty Cake Baby Storytime (Ages 3–17 months): Interactive lap-sit program with rhymes, books, and songs.

• Thursdays at 10:15 AM or 11:15 AM - Totally Toddler Time (Ages 18–35 months): Toddlers enjoy songs, parachute games, and shared reading.

For Kids & Families

Part of the ongoing “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program, these interactive events are ideal for elementary-aged children. Free tickets are distributed 30 minutes before each performance:

• July 7 (1:30 & 2:30 PM) – Mad Science: Indoor fireworks, color explosions, and chemistry fun.

• July 11 (3:00 PM) – Incredible Animals: A close-up look at a variety of creatures.

• July 14 (1:30 & 3:00 PM) – Creature Teacher: Hands-on animal learning adventure.

• July 18 (1:30 & 3:00 PM) – Houston Ballet’s Dance to Learn: Kinesthetic storytelling through movement.

• July 21 (1:30 & 3:00 PM) – Adventures in Storyland: A journey with storyteller Dante and his magic flute.

• July 28 (1:30 & 3:00 PM) – Rob Holladay Balloon Show: Balloons, comedy, magic, and books.

Craft sessions with National Charity League volunteers also take place on July 9 and July 23 at 4:00 PM.

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For Tweens & Teens (Grades 4–12)

Teens and tweens can “Color Our World” through creative and STEM-based programming. Most sessions require tickets picked up 30 minutes early:

• July 1 (3:30–4:30 PM) – Paint with Watercolor Pencils.

• July 10 (3:30–4:30 PM) – Native Texas Reptiles Encounter with Zookeeper Melissa.

• July 15 (3:30–4:30 PM) – Battle Robots with American Robotics Academy.

• July 17 (3:30–5 PM) – Minecraft Lost City of Atlantis Adventure (STEM-focused).

• July 22 (3:30–4:30 PM) – Teen Summer Craft.

• July 24 (3:30–4:30 PM) – Tween Summer Craft.

• July 29 (3:30–5:30 PM) – Teen Summer Reading Finale: Movie, popcorn, pizza, and trivia.

• July 31 (3:30–5:30 PM) – Tween Summer Reading Finale: Same cheesy fun, tailored for grades 4–5

For High Schoolers & College-Bound Students

• July 2 (4:00 PM) – Academic Advising 101: Presented by a former advisor to help incoming students navigate course selection and college planning.

• July 16 (4:00 PM) – College Essay Prep with FUTUREU: A workshop to craft standout application essays

For Adults

The Adult Summer Reading Program also features the “Color Our World” theme, with prizes for participants and a lineup of engaging activities:

• July 8 (2:00 PM) – DIY Resin Magnet Workshop: Make mini masterpieces.

• July 10 (2:00 PM) – Booked This Afternoon: Discuss John Grisham’s A Painted House.

• July 12 (2:00 PM) – Jigsaw Puzzle Challenge: Compete in teams (registration required).

• July 14 (6:30 PM) – Diamond Dots Craft Night: Relax with dot art and light refreshments.

• July 21 (6:00 PM) – Color Analysis Workshop: Discover your best color season

Tech & Maker Workshops

Get certified to use high-tech equipment across the Harris County Public Library system:

• July 9 (5:30 – 7:30 PM) – Laser Cutter Orientation.

• July 19 (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – 3D Printer Orientation.

• July 28 (5:30 – 7:30 PM) – Cricut Orientation.

Space is limited, and registration is required for all orientations

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For Seniors 55+

July 3 – Timeless Travelers Day Trip: Visit the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft and Contemporary Arts Museum. Registration ran June 16–21. Sponsored by the Friends of the Maud Marks Library. Stay tuned for future day trip opportunities departing from the Maud Marks Branch Library!

Bonus: July Book Sale!

The ever-popular Friends of the Library Book Sale returns:

• July 26 (10:00AM – 4:00 PM) – Open to the public.

• July 25 (4:00 – 5:30 PM) – Members-only preview with rock-bottom prices on books for all ages

Residents of Green Trails Estates are encouraged to stop by the Maud Marks Library, located at 1815 Westgreen Blvd, to take part in the July programs. Whether you're introducing your baby to books or exploring robotics as a teen, there's something for everyone just minutes from home.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more community updates and library happenings near you.

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.