Get involved
The Society for Special Collections of the Houston Public Library recognizes and celebrates those who make a gift on an annual basis in support of the special collections of the Houston Public Library. The Society allows for the continued preservation, conservation, and exhibition of materials with the Library’s Special Collections—all held in the public trust.
The Houston Public Library houses significant special collections in trust for the people of Houston. The Society for Special Collections is dedicated to providing private funds to support the needs of the Special Collections of the Houston Public Library: the Rare Books Collection (dating back over 5,000 years); the Dr. James & Betty Key Map Room (with 2,200 maps covering 500 years of cartography); the Architectural Archive (150,000 items comprising the largest architectural archive in Texas); the Hispanic Collection; the 4+ million photographic collection; the Houston History Research Center; the African American History Research Center at the Gregory Campus; and the Family History Research Center at the Clayton Campus.
We are particularly grateful to the honorary chairs of the Society for Special Collections: Dr. James & Betty Key; Mr. Stephen Fox; and Hon. David W. Robinson.
Membership Levels
Society Leaders – $5,000+
- All benefits of preceding levels
- 2 complimentary tickets to the annual Society Dinner featuring a major speaker
Society Members – $1,000-$4,999
- All benefits of preceding levels
- Invitations to special events
- Behind-the-scenes opportunities on HPL’s archival work
Society Associates – $500-$999
- Invitations to events and demonstrations of the archival teams of the Houston Public Library
For those wishing to join the Society for Special Collections via check payment, please make the check payable to “Houston Public Library Foundation” and send it to our attention at 550 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77002. Thank you for your support!