Alpine Independent School District and the Educational Partnership of the Permian Basin have announced a $10,000 investment in the Alpine Public Library to expand community storytelling, civic engagement and outreach programs throughout the Big Bend region.
The funding, provided through the Trust for Civic Life Re-Grant, will support the Big Bend Community Media Showcase Events, an initiative intended to bring residents together through storytelling, shared experiences and community participation.
Planned activities include community showcase events, civic storytelling nights, public listening sessions and outreach opportunities in Alpine and surrounding communities.
The investment builds on the library’s existing role as a community gathering place offering educational, recreational and social programs for residents of all ages.
Current library offerings include Spanish classes, English as a second language conversation groups, citizenship classes, children’s activities, senior gatherings, LEGO Club, community organization meetings and health and wellness programs.
Alpine ISD Superintendent Michelle Rinehart said the partnership reflects the importance of community institutions in rural areas.
“Strong rural communities depend on places where everyone can learn, connect, and feel a sense of belonging. Here in Alpine, our public schools and our public library are excellent examples of these anchor institutions,” Rinehart said.
“This $10,000 investment reflects our shared commitment to opportunities that benefit Alpine’s children, families, and neighbors across generations.”
Shannon Torres, executive director of the Educational Partnership of the Permian Basin, said the investment aligns with the organization’s broader mission of supporting education and community development.
“Our mission at EPPB is rooted in creating opportunities for learners from cradle to career, and community spaces like the Alpine Public Library are an important part of that work,” Torres said.
“We’re grateful to partner with Alpine ISD on an investment that supports learning and strengthens the community beyond the walls of the classroom.”
The initiative is intended to strengthen connections among Alpine ISD, the Educational Partnership of the Permian Basin, the Alpine Public Library and other local organizations.
Organizers said the funding will help expand opportunities for residents to share their experiences, participate in community discussions and contribute to conversations about issues affecting the region.
The $10,000 award also recognizes the library’s existing work in providing educational resources, public programming and community gathering opportunities.
The Alpine Public Library will announce additional information about upcoming events and activities as programming is scheduled.
Photo caption: From left, Jarrett Vickers, BB-RISE regional director; Don Wetterauer, director of the Alpine Public Library; and Micella Salcido, chief financial officer of Alpine ISD. The school district and Educational Partnership of the Permian Basin announced a $10,000 investment in the library to support community storytelling and outreach programs.
Alpine ISD, education partnership invest $10,000 in Alpine Public Library
