Montgomery County Memorial Library System To Launch Innovate@MCMLS Initiative

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Montgomery County Memorial Library System is proud to announce its new “Innovate@MCMLS” initiative. This system-wide initiative supports the library’s vision to be a leading resource for information, education, culture, and innovation.

“Innovate@MCMLS” will offer community members new opportunities and spaces to explore digital media production, design, hands-on learning, and expanded access to tools and technology that foster creativity, innovation, collaboration, and STEM and other skill development for users of all ages and backgrounds. The Innovate@MCMLS spaces will serve as multidisciplinary learning environments and feature various advanced equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics, audio and video production, and other fabrication tools.

“Our libraries are an important part of our community. They are community hubs where everyone may connect, create, and learn,” Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough said. “The new initiative ‘Innovate@MCMLS’ ensures that our county library continues to be a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and inspired to grow.”

With “Innovate@MCMLS,” the library system wants to help spark learning and creativity for all ages by inviting patrons to utilize the library’s unique resources - tools and creative spaces they might not normally have access to.

Executive Library Director Dr. Janna Hoglund noted that this new initiative supports one of the Library System’s organizational priorities – strategic innovation. “As information technology and public expectations continue to evolve, we need to invest wisely in digital resources, advanced technology, flexible spaces, and comprehensive programming that meet current needs while planning for the future.”

The initiative will begin with the addition of Innovation Space at the Kevin Brady Library in The Woodlands. The first phase of the Space will include a professional podcast studio with audio and video production capabilities, as well as a makerspace with advanced equipment for hands-on learning with 3D modular printers, 3D scanners, sublimation printers, and other equipment.

Commissioner Ritch Wheeler celebrated the new initiative coming to The Woodlands. “I’m excited about the new ‘Innovate@MCMLS’ program at the Kevin Brady Library. Bringing in fresh ideas and new ways to learn gives everyone a chance to build new skills. When we work together and share what we know, we can tackle challenges and make real improvements that benefit the whole community. The new podcast studio and creative space will be an awesome addition for everyone!”

MCMLS has partnered with Howard Hughes Communities and Vogt Engineering to start the “Innovate@MCMLS” initiative at Kevin Brady Library. Both organizations directly contributed to the planning and construction of the library. "As the civil engineers for the Kevin Brady Library & Community Center and connected retail center, partnering with MCMLS to support the new Innovation Space is a perfect fit for Vogt Engineering,” noted Sergio Van Dusen, President of Vogt Engineering. “We are honored to contribute to this meaningful initiative to encourage innovation and inspire creativity in our community." The Vogt Engineering team will also support the library Innovation Space by providing classes and activities on various STEM related topics.

The expected launch of the Innovation Space at Kevin Brady Library is January 2026.

MCMLS believes in innovation. It means personal and professional growth. By providing the resources and environment for creative thinking and experimentation, the library empowers individuals to develop new skills, explore ideas, and become active in the modern world.

“We invite all innovators to innovate @MCMLS,” Laci Martinez, Kevin Brady Library Manager, said. “We want to provide the opportunities and technical resources to inspire our community members. We are thankful to Howard Hughes Communities and Vogt Engineering for their support of this initiative. Come to our library and imagine, discover, create, and collaborate!"

For more information about the future grand opening, upcoming workshops, hours, equipment, and other “Innovate@MCMLS” locations, stay connected with MCMLS via our social media and website.

Photos