ADA-compliant space will expand inclusive learning, wellness and community programs at library annex
ROUND TOP The Round Top Family Library soon will build an ADA-accessible deck and outdoor classroom space at its community center annex, thanks to a $17,478 grant from the Lower Colorado River Au - thority and Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative.
The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $6,000 in matching funds from the Round Top Library Association, will help create a welcoming outdoor environment for educational programs, wellness activities and community events. The space will connect the library’s education annex and agriculture building.
"Like many nonprofits, we've made the most of the spaces we’ve had, but they haven’t always been open to all," said Craig Moreau, executive director of the Round Top Family Library. “This grant is helping us create a space that reflects our core values: a great library, a center for education and a true community gathering place for all abilities. We’re so proud to partner with LCRA and Bluebonnet on this."
The outdoor classroom will support programs such as Ju- nior Master Gardener, yoga and STEM classes, while also serv ing as a meeting space for book clubs, wellness programs and inclusive events. The deck’s design emphasizes accessibility and sustainability, including a rainwater catchment system, enhancing agricultural programming and conservation education.
“Our patrons, from the youngest students to the seniors, are incredibly excited about this new space," Moreau said. "It opens up more opportunities to host our free weekly programs, support workforce development and help people reconnect with nature and the outdoors. We expect to welcome more than 8,000 participants this year, and this project helps us serve them better than ever.”
Round Top Family Library is an independent nonprofit that serves Fayette County and the surrounding counties. In addition to traditional library services, the organization offers free educational and enrichment programs year-round to people of all ages and backgrounds.
The community grant is one of 45 grants awarded recently through LCRA's Community Development Partnership Pro - gram, which helps volunteer fire departments, local governments, emergency responders and non- profit organizations fund eligible capital improvement projects in LCRA's wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.
The program is part of LCRA's effort to give back to the com- munities it serves. Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative is one of LCRA's wholesale electric cus tomers and is a partner in the grant program Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in July 2025. Visit lcra.org/grants.
