Maud Smith Marks Branch Library’s July 2026 Lineup Offers Summer Fun, Learning and Community Connections for Families in Oak Park Trails
For many families in Oak Park Trails, summer means finding meaningful ways to keep children engaged, encourage lifelong learning, and spend quality time together. This July, the Harris County Public Library’s Maud Smith Marks Branch Library is offering an extensive lineup of free programs designed to do exactly that, with activities ranging from magic shows and live animal encounters to career exploration workshops, crafting classes, technology training, and storytimes for young readers.
Located in at 1815 Westgreen Blvd, Katy, TX 77450 near Highland Knolls Drive, the Maud Smith Marks Branch Library has long served as more than just a place to check out books. As one of the area's most active community learning hubs, the library regularly hosts educational programs, cultural experiences, technology training, and family-friendly events that bring residents together while supporting literacy and lifelong learning.
This summer, the library's annual Summer Reading Program, themed "Unearth a Story," continues through July with opportunities for children, teens, and adults to earn prizes while developing a love of reading. Readers can earn points for books they complete and participate in special events throughout the month.
Summer Reading Adventures for Children
Young readers and their families will find no shortage of excitement this month.
The library's popular Afternoon Adventures and Family Programs series features a variety of interactive performances and educational experiences throughout July. Highlights include:
- July 6: John O'Bryant Magic Show at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
- July 7: Harris County Pollution Control Program at 1 p.m., focusing on environmental stewardship and practical ways families can help reduce pollution.
- July 10: Harris County Fire and Rescue visit at 4 p.m., featuring a real fire truck and opportunities to meet local first responders.
- July 13: Science Heroes: Digging It! at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
- July 17: Mr. Leo's Puppet and Dance Party at 3 p.m.
- July 20: The Creature Teacher live animal experience at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
- July 27: Magician Jamie Salinas performs at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Many of these programs require tickets, which are distributed 30 minutes before performances. Priority seating is reserved for children ages 5-11.
Storytimes Continue Throughout July
For younger children, Maud Marks offers a variety of storytime experiences focused on early literacy development.
Special events include:
- July 7: Special Preschool Storytime featuring "Shyrana Saurus Rex" by Express Children's Theatre at 10:15 a.m.
- July 11: Classical Sing Move and Play "Americana Music Show" at 10:15 a.m., celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
Regular weekly programs include:
- Read & Rhyme Storytime on Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. for ages 3-5
- Patty Cake Infant Storytime on Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. for babies ages 3-18 months
- Totally Toddler Time on Thursdays at 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. for children ages 18-35 months
Children ages 6-11 can also participate in Wednesday Wonders – NCL Crafts on July 8 and July 22 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., featuring creative projects led by National Charity League volunteers.
Programs Designed Specifically for Teens and Tweens
Older students will find a variety of engaging opportunities that combine creativity, career exploration, technology, and hands-on learning.
Programming includes:
July 7 | Pitch Your Story for the Stage Theater Workshop
Students in grades 4-12 will learn how to transform improv ideas into structured stories and pitch original play concepts. (4:30-5:15 p.m.)
July 9 | Future U: Understanding Your Options After High School
A practical session exploring college, trade school, workforce opportunities, gap years, and future planning. (4-5 p.m.)
July 14 | Still Life Drawing with Valerie Maggitti
Participants will explore artistic techniques involving light, shadow, flora, and skeletal subjects. (4:30-5:30 p.m.)
July 16 | Code Knights Minecraft: Neo-Tokyo Engineering Build
Students become architects in a STEM-focused Minecraft challenge featuring transit systems, apartments, and retail design. (4-5:30 p.m.)
July 21 | Cupcake Decorating Workshop
Led by Sweet Crumb Bakeshop owner Carmen Lambert, participants will create and take home decorated cupcakes. (3-4 p.m.)
July 23 | Learn Chess at the Library
Youth in grades 2-12 can learn and improve their chess skills with volunteer instructors. (4:30-5:30 p.m.)
Adult Programs Blend Creativity, Technology and Lifelong Learning
Adults participating in the Summer Reading Program can also enjoy a robust calendar of enrichment activities.
Highlights include:
America250 Movie Event | July 1 at 5 p.m.
A special movie presentation inspired by the life of Alexander Hamilton, complete with refreshments.
Booked This Afternoon Book Club | July 9 at 2 p.m.
Discussion of Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts
Paint by Number: Dinosaur Edition | July 13 at 6 p.m.
A relaxing, adults-only painting session featuring a colorful T-Rex design. Registration required.
Adult DIY Workshop: Popsicle Stick Flower Pots | July 14 at 2 p.m.
Participants will create decorative planters from simple craft materials. Registration required.
Jigsaw Puzzle Challenge | July 18 at 2 p.m.
Teams compete to complete puzzles for prizes and bragging rights. Registration required.
Learn New Technology Skills
Residents interested in maker technology can take advantage of several specialized training opportunities.
Orientation classes include:
- Fastfoto Orientation — July 11 at 2 p.m.
- 3D Printer Orientation — July 15 from 6-8 p.m.
- Cricut Orientation — July 20 from 6-8 p.m.
- Laser Cutter Orientation — July 27 from 6-8 p.m.
Participants who complete these classes become eligible to use equipment at Harris County Public Library locations and MakerCentral facilities.
Seniors Can Explore Houston History
Residents ages 55 and older can participate in the library's popular Timeless Travelers program.
This month's excursion takes participants to the historic Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a former City of Houston drinking water reservoir built in 1926 and now transformed into a unique cultural and educational destination. The trip departs July 14, with registration taking place June 29 through July 2.
Book Lovers Won't Want to Miss the Friends Book Sale
One of the month's most anticipated events arrives July 25 when the Friends of the Maud Smith Marks Library Book Sale returns from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Shoppers can browse a large selection of hardback fiction and nonfiction titles, children's books, paperbacks, and other hidden treasures at bargain prices. A Friends Members-Only Preview Sale will take place July 24 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Holiday Closure Reminder
Residents should note that the library will close early at 5 p.m. on July 2 and remain closed July 3-5 in observance of the Independence Day holiday.
Why It Matters for Oak Park Trails
As families across Oak Park Trails look for affordable summer activities, educational enrichment opportunities, and ways to stay connected locally, Maud Smith Marks Branch Library continues to serve as a valuable community resource. From early literacy programs and STEM education to arts, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities, the library's July schedule offers something for virtually every age group.
For many residents, these programs provide not only entertainment and learning, but also opportunities to build friendships, discover new interests, and strengthen connections within the broader northwest Harris County community.
For additional information or registration details, residents can contact Maud Smith Marks Branch Library at 832-927-7860.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more local events, family activities, and community updates impacting Oak Park Trails.
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.
