The Semmes Branch Library celebrated its 20th anniversary, highlighting its role as a community hub with inclusive family fun and interactive activities.
SAN ANTONIO — The Semmes Branch Library marked a major milestone on Saturday, Dec. 13, celebrating 20 years of serving the community with a birthday bash packed full of family fun.
Located at 15060 Judson Road, the celebration kicked off with a special ceremony reflecting on the library’s history and its lasting impact on generations of readers, learners, and neighbors. From there, the party spilled outdoors as families enjoyed a variety of free activities designed for all ages.
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Semmes Library celebrates 20 years as vibrant community hub with family festivities
Children and adults alike stopped by a goat petting zoo, tested their skills with outdoor yard games, and watched colorful creations come to life through balloon art. Kids got hands-on with crafts like building bird feeders and making festive paper streamers, while a photo booth captured smiles throughout the afternoon. Adding to the excitement, SAPL’s beloved mascot, Smarty, made special appearances to greet young guests.
Several activities highlighted the library’s newly renovated patio, now featuring interactive outdoor musical instruments, expanded seating, and two outdoor chess tables—creating an inviting space for learning and play beyond the library walls.
The Semmes Branch first opened on Nov. 5, 2005, and is named in honor of Julia Yates Semmes, a woman who overcame vision loss and became a strong advocate for resources for people with visual disabilities. Her legacy continues through the Semmes Foundation, which donated $1 million to the San Antonio Public Library Foundation to support a special collection of books and equipment for the visually impaired.
After two decades, the Semmes Branch Library continues to prove it’s more than just a place to check out books—it’s a vibrant community hub where learning, inclusion, and celebration come together.