Houston Public Library Expands Citizenship Classes with New Grant

For many families in Houston, the dream of becoming a U.S. citizen is deeply personal. It’s about opening doors to new opportunities, securing a better future, and becoming more connected to the community they call home. The Houston Public Library (HPL) understands this journey and has been there to help.

Since 2023, HPL’s Journey to Citizenship classes have guided residents through the naturalization process. These classes cover reading, writing, and civics—the core parts of the test—while also teaching the responsibilities of citizenship. Most importantly, they give participants the confidence to reach this milestone.

More Support for a Growing Need

Thanks to a $400,000 grant from the Houston Endowment, this program is expanding to help even more people. The funding will allow HPL to:

• Hire more instructors
• Provide additional training for teachers
• Offer classes in new formats, including online and hybrid options

With these improvements, more Houstonians—from Sharpstown to Gulfton, East End to Alief—will have access to the support they need to move forward.

Library Director Sandy Gaw shared her excitement:

“I am thrilled that our organization will have the chance to expand this crucial program and continue to improve the quality of life for the customers we serve.”

A Partnership That Benefits the Community

The Houston Endowment, founded in 1937 by Jesse H. Jones and Mary Gibbs Jones, has long invested in projects that strengthen Greater Houston. Their continued support makes it possible for programs like Journey to Citizenship to reach even more people who need them.

HPL serves one of the most diverse populations in the country, with 44 locations that offer resources, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities. These spaces are more than libraries—they are welcoming hubs where Houstonians can learn, connect, and build their futures.

Building Stronger Futures, One Class at a Time

For many in Houston’s Hispanic community, these classes are an important step toward citizenship and a deeper connection to the city they love. With this expansion, the Journey to Citizenship program will open more doors and help more families take that next step.

Ready to begin your own journey? Find a class near you at houstonlibrary.org and start with the support you deserve.