By Chris Shadrock
The Patrick Heath Public Library marked a major milestone Sept. 27 with the grand opening of its new Memory Lab, made possible by a $694,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation. The grant is the largest private foundation contribution ever received by the library.
The Memory Lab provides a dedicated space for individuals to digitize family videos, photographs, recordings, and negatives. From floppy disks to VHS tapes and audio recordings, the lab and its equipment are dedicated to helping patrons preserve their histories for generations to come.
“At the heart of our mission is a profound belief in the transformative power of human stories,” Library Director Natalie Shults said. “This grant from the Mellon Foundation aligns seamlessly with our goals, enhancing our ability to provide equitable access to resources and serving as a dynamic force within our community.”
The project was developed with support from the Boerne Area Historical Preservation Society, Kendall County Historical Commission, and other local organizations. The Memory Lab supports the work of the library’s Dietert Community Archives to preserve historical materials, including articles, recordings, photos, and maps that highlight the town’s rich history.
“Our community is steeped in stories – stories of resilience, creativity, and tradition,” Boerne Mayor Frank Ritchie said. “With the Memory Lab, we are making a commitment to ensure that these stories are not only preserved but also made accessible to everyone.”
Special recognition was given during the ceremony to former library director Kelly Skovbjerg and current Adult Services Librarian Robin Stauber for their efforts in shaping the project. Their dedication to preserving Boerne’s history and collaborating with local organizations was instrumental in launching the initiative.
The Memory Lab aims to expand public knowledge and ensure that Boerne’s stories – past, present, and future – are preserved and accessible for all. Patrons who utilize the lab have the option to contribute their newly digitized materials to the library’s archives, though it is not required.
The Memory Lab will be led by Lab Coordinator Sarah Habeeb, who was hired through the grant from the Mellon Foundation to spearhead the new initiative.
For more information about the Memory Lab and its hours of operation, visit the Patrick Heath Public Library website.
