281-874-2131
Branch Manager, Aldine Branch Library
Hershiira talked with us about her passion for serving children in the local community, the recognition that the Harris County Public Library system is getting for its innovative and expansive work, and how she’s working to make the Aldine Branch Library a true community hub.
Aldine Branch Library
832-927-5410
11331 Airline Drive
Houston, TX 77037
As Branch Manager, Hershirra Boone-Rodgers oversees daily operations at the library, serving the community through various support services and engaging programming. She joined the branch in March of 2024.
Boone-Rodgers earned her Master’s in Library and Information Science from Texas Woman’s University in 2018, but was involved with the Houston Public Library long before that as a student volunteer and as a Library Science Intern. She would later be hired as a Harris County Youth Services Librarian before becoming Assistant Branch Manager and now Branch Manager. We’re proud to feature Hershirra’s story as part of our Leading Ladies of North Houston District series, which highlights the bold, visionary women shaping our community.
“Library systems have evolved. There’s an old stigma about having to be quiet, and it being a boring place that’s only about books and research. But libraries are very different than they were 20 years ago,” Boone-Rodgers explains. “It’s still a place to read and learn, but it’s also a place to connect, play, and experience new things.”
Public Libraries Have Turned a New Page
In an effort to serve North Houston community members, the Aldine Branch Library offers a wide array of educational and social services, including ESL classes, assistance with the citizenship process, access to computers and other technology, assistance with passport applications, enhanced library card assistance, and much more.
Other impactful programs include bilingual storytimes for early literacy, self-care sessions, gardening, yoga, and crafting for all ages.
Staff work hard to create programs around community interests for working class families. Recently in October, Aldine Branch Library hosted nearly 400 community members at its 2024 Fall Fest, an exciting turnout for this free annual event.
“Library systems have evolved. There’s an old stigma about having to be quiet, and it being a boring place that’s only about books and research. But libraries are very different than they were 20 years ago,” Boone-Rodgers explains. “It’s still a place to read and learn, but it’s also a place to connect, play, and experience new things.”
Serving a diverse community and meeting them where they are, with the resources they need, is Boone-Rodgers’ ultimate goal. “This area is similar to the community that I grew up in. I understand the struggles that many are facing,” Boone-Rodgers says.
Inspiring Future Librarians of Color
Describing her leadership style as agile and ambitious, Boone-Rodgers is aiming to change the trajectory of what a typical librarian looks like. “Growing up, I often didn’t see librarians that looked like me. Diversity really matters, and I would like to be that role model for somebody else.”
To young women who aspire to be librarians or in public service, Boone-Rodgers encourages:
“Keep going and keep your eyes on the prize. Never be complacent. Keep setting goals and achieving them.”
As for her own professional growth and leadership development, she credits two mentors —Theodora Muokebe and Elizabeth Hunt—with helping her gain experience, build confidence, and step into the role of branch manager within a system of 27 libraries.
“Keep going and keep your eyes on the prize. Never be complacent. Keep setting goals and achieving them.”
Innovative Offerings at Aldine Branch Library
In 2024, Harris County Public Library was named a recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The organization describes the recognition as “the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.”
Along with this national recognition, Boone-Rodgers is excited about implementing new additions at Aldine Branch Library as part of the Family Place Libraries grant from the Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation. The funds will provide brand new furniture for a designated family area and new play area, as well as parenting books and early literacy books. Additionally, two workshops will be offered per year where five different paraprofessionals—ranging from nutritionists and speech pathologists to early literacy experts and more—give parents access to high-quality information from professionals while their kids play.
“All communities deserve to have nice things! We were not first on the list to receive upgrades, but I know that the Aldine community needs this and will make good use of it,” she tells us. The first workshop will take place this December, and the new family area will be ready for use in the New Year.
“Please come check out the library! Make use of our services. Even if we don’t have what you’re looking for, we can point you in the right direction or connect you to it. We are here to assist and support you,” Boone-Rodgers emphasizes.
When she’s not at the Library, the former college basketball player enjoys staying active and loves to travel abroad. Her passion for serving the local community makes her an asset to North Houston and an impactful advocate for positive change. Thank you, Hershiira, for all that you do!
Connect with Hershiira on LinkedIn to see what she does from here.
