STC Mid-Valley Campus Strengthens Community Ties Through Reading

Texas Border Business

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Keeping a long-standing tradition alive, South Texas College’s (STC) Mid-Valley Library collaborated with other community partners to host its annual “Family Literacy Night” event, in conjunction with Reading Week at the Weslaco campus.  

Eager to foster a love for reading, Mid-Valley Campus Librarian Lillian Carrillo expressed her excitement for bringing families together. 

“We host this event annually because we want to support children in developing a love for reading and to encourage Rio Grande Valley parents to read with their children,” Carrillo explained. “We look forward to this night every year because not only is it our biggest event, but there’s something heartwarming about seeing the kids light up with their parents, enjoying our library.” 

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Supported by local organizations such as H.E.B., Weslaco Museum and Mayor Joe V. Sánchez Public Library, the event featured a book distribution by the South Texas Literacy Coalition, and families also got to enjoy craft activities provided by various STC departments and The StoryBook Garden.

Weslaco Police Department’s K-9 Officer Shayne also paid community members a special visit. 

Mid-Valley Campus Administrator Daniel Montez highlighted the deep-rooted connection the event fosters between the college and among families. 

“Family Reading Night is one of our favorite traditions and a huge part of the Mid-Valley campus’ connection to the community,” Montez explained. “As an institution, we take pride in emphasizing the importance of reading and moreover, the importance of getting the whole family involved.”

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Among those attending was Donna native Crissy Rivera who brought her children out to the event, sharing how much it means to her family.  

“We were so excited to attend the event, I brought along my kids and mom to come enjoy what they have to offer,” Rivera stated. “We appreciate nights like these where we can join in on family fun, especially when the event is something my kids and I value very much. My daughter excels in her school’s Accelerated Reader (AR) program so any opportunity we get to motivate her passion for reading is something we want to be a part of. It makes it even more special that we get to celebrate this at the college.” 

Reflecting on the broader goals of the institution, Montez emphasized the importance of outreach efforts and how they strengthen the community to the college.  

“We intentionally work with local businesses, public service organizations and local families to continue building a bridge to the college, all on the foundation of education and community support. Collectively as an institution, our main goal is to open that passageway to the college, and traditions like these are a good start.”

In support of this mission, the college’s libraries are open to the public and offer free services like community user cards for visitors 18 years or older, designated computer spaces to access and free book check-outs. 

“This event is a wonderful reminder that our college libraries are gateways to keep us connected,” Carrillo expressed. “We hope that participants not only took advantage of the free books, fun activities and sweet treats, but that they also walk away with a love for reading and a good understanding about the great services the library and college has to offer.” 

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