Public Invited To Share Barbara Bush Memories At Houston Library

HOUSTON, TX — Former first lady Barbara Bush was a staunch advocate for literacy in America, in both children and their parents. She wrote books and donated proceeds to literacy organizations. She read to children and read at home all the time. The City of Houston has found yet another way to pay respects and to remember Mrs. Bus, who died Tuesday afternoon at her River Oaks home.

The Houston Public Library sent this statement as a way for the community to share their memories of the first lady who was also affectionately known as "everybody's grandmother." This memorialization is in addition to the Celebration of Life that's planned for 6 p.m. Tuesday night at City Hall.

"The Houston Public Library joins Mayor Sylvester Turner and our fellow Houstonians in expressing our sorrow to hear of the passing of First Lady Barbara Bush. The entire HPL team expresses our heartfelt condolences to Former President George H.W. Bush and their family. Barbara Bush’s kindness and dedication to literacy will continue to touch lives and influence change for years to come.

HPL stands alongside Mayor Sylvester Turner in celebrating Bush's accomplishments and legacy; and reaffirming the city’s commitment to creating a lasting tribute. The city, with her blessing, envisioned a vibrant and inspiring tribute to Mrs. Bush through the creation of the Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza, located at the Houston Public Library’s downtown Central Library.

“We knew the space between the Julia Ideson Building and the Central Library needed to be vibrant and inspiring. It was in envisioning this enriching space for people of all ages, that we thought of Mrs. Bush and asked to name it in her honor. I cannot think of anyone who is more deserving of this honor," Turner said.

The Houston community is invited to the Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza to pay tribute and share their memories of the First Lady. HPL's Houston Metropolitan Research Center will preserve these memories in a memory book and posters and through recordings in its archives. The tribute will be available through Monday, April 30.

And lastly, check out this touching tribute to Barbara Bush by the AOS/Yellowstone Chorus.

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Top image via Houston Public Library's YouTube channel