Support YOUTH AND FAMILIES
A thriving community needs robust support systems and an environment where residents can prosper. Arlington supports our educational institutions at all levels and will continue to collaborate with them. Additionally, the City will offer programs and services to directly aid youth and their families, helping them achieve their fullest potential.
ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY PATRONS CHECK OUT NEARLY 1.7 MILLION ITEMS IN 2024
Arlington Public Library patrons kept their library cards handy in 2024, checking out an impressive 1,660,777 books, movies, e-books, digital audiobooks and e-magazines. Overall last year, the Library welcomed 735,602 visitors to its seven locations and signed up 14,388 new library card holders. Book club meetups, crafting events, technology classes and storytime sessions were among the 2,333 free programs that drew nearly 62,147 attendees last year. The Library features 522,943 items in its collection, offering its more than 135,000 library card holders with plenty of options for entertainment and enrichment.
2024
Also in 2024
• Downtown Arlington launched its First Thursdays event, which features live music, artistic experiences and exploration at various businesses in Downtown. First Thursdays seeks to engage the community and activate Downtown by creating a walkable, familyfriendly atmosphere with a variety of activities.
MISSION JOY TOY DRIVE A SUCCESS
The Arlington ISD Board of Trustees recognized the City of Arlington, the Arlington Fire Department, the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce and CBS 11 at the January 16 school board meeting for their partnership with the inaugural Mission Joy Toy Drive. With toy donation boxes available at all Arlington Public Library locations, recreation centers, fire stations, South Service Center and City Hall, Arlington employees and residents donated hundreds of toys to benefit families served by the Mission Arlington Christmas Store. In all, Arlington ISD said nearly 34,000 of its students received toys and bicycles through Mission Arlington in December 2024.