At the heart of Al Otro Lado/The Other Side lies the convergence of individual stories and geographical context. This exhibition features the work of photojournalist Raquel Natalicchio, focusing on her portraits and interviews of people who have migrated to the United States. Their personal narratives, highlighting their diverse experiences and journeys, are paired with historical maps highlighting regions along the U.S.-Mexico border, sourced from the Houston History Research Center. These maps not only chart physical landscapes but also document the history leading up the establishment of the border and the socio-political complexities surrounding immigration. 

About the Photojournalist

Raquel Natalicchio is a bilingual photojournalist originally from Los Angeles, now based in Houston as a staff photojournalist for the Houston Chronicle. Her work focuses on social issues, migration, political mobilization, and community-driven stories across the U.S.–Mexico border. Her long-term project Borderlands explores the cultural and human complexity of border life. A passionate educator, she has developed photography curricula for Las Fotos Project and the Houston Center for Photography, empowering youth through self-expression. Natalicchio has organized exhibitions and talks in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and London. She is South Regional Chair of the National Press Photographers Association and founder of The Open Door Gallery, a roaming gallery dedicated to supporting artists and building community. 

CHECK OUT OUR CATALOG

• Border Land, Border Water: A History of Construction on the U.S.-Mexico Divide by C.J. Alvarez
• Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza by Gloria Anzaldúa
• Contours of Discovery: Printed Maps Delineating the Texas and Southwestern Chapters of Cartographic History of North Americaby James C. Martin and Robert Sidney Martin
• The Death and Life of Aida Hernandez: A Border Story by Aaron Bobrow-Strain
• Detained: A Boy’s Journal of Survival and Resilience by D. Esperanza
• Frontera: A Journey Across the US-Mexico Border by Sergio Chapa
• Going to Texas: Five Centuries of Texas Maps published by Texas Christian University, Center for Texas Studies
• Let’s Talk About Your Wall: Mexican Writers Respond to the Immigration Crisis edited by Carmen Boullosa and Alberto Quintero
• The Line Becomes a River: Dispatches from the Border by Francisco Cantú
• The Mapping of the Entradas into the Greater Southwest by Dennis Reinhartz
• Mapping Texas and the Gulf Coast: The Contributions of Saint-Denis, Oliván, and Le Maire
• Maps of Texas and the Southwest, 1513 – 1900 by James C. Martin and Robert Sidney Martin
• On the Plain of Snakes: A Mexican Journey by Paul Theroux
• Unaccompanied by Javier Zamora
• Undocumented: How Immigration Became Illegal by Aviva Chomsky

• Indocumentos: Cómo la inmigracion se volvió illegal por Aviva Chomsky
• La línea se convierte en río: Una crónic de la frontera por Francisco Cantú
• Te vas, o te quedas?: Historias para leer antes de cruzar la frontera por Claudia Palacios

Watch

• Birth on the Border
• Children in No Man’s Land
• The River and the Wall

Besides Math is an exhibition dedicated to providing a platform for young, second-generation Asian American artists where they can express their concerns, issues, and voices. Sponsored and curated by the Asian American Art & Culture Initiative, this open call exhibit highlights the rich, multifaceted narratives that define the Asian American experience, pushing back against the narrow image of being solely academically inclined or good at math.

The works reflect a diverse group of young artists through a variety of artistic expressions and addresses cultural identity, generational challenges, societal expectations and the personal struggles and triumphs of growing up as a second-generation immigrant. By giving voice to young artists, the hope is to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the varied experiences within the community and celebrate the power of art to break down barriers and build connections.

About the Asian American Art & Culture Initiative

Established by Houston artist June Xu, the Asian American Art & Culture Initiative was created as a platform where Asian Americans could authentically showcase their artistic work and amplify their voices.  The Initiative exists to break down barriers, challenge misconceptions and provide opportunities for Asian American artists to express their identities, share their stories and contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant cultural dialogue. For more information about Asian American Art & Culture Initiative, please visit www.aaartculture.org.

CHECK OUT OUR CATALOG

Library of Things

• Sumi-e Kit
• Electric Yarn Winder
• Wood Carving Kit
• Watercolor Markers
• Floral Rubbing Plates
• Abstract Rubbing Plates

Kid/Juvenile

• The ABCs of Asian American History by Renee Macalino Rutledge
• A Boy Named Isamu: A Story of Isamu Noguchi by James Yang
• The Dot by Peter Reynolds (Flip Kit)
• Excellence in the Arts by Virginia Loh-Hagan
• Girls to the Front: 40 Asian American Women Who Blazed a Trail by Nina Mata
• The Magic Paintbrush: The Guardian's Quest by Kat Zhang
• Made in Asian America: A History for Young People by Erika Lee
• Red is a Dragon: A Book of Colors by Roseanne Thong
• Roots and Wings: How Shahzia Sikander Became an Artist by Shahzia Sikander
• Wei Skates On by Nathan Chen

Teen/Young Adult

• Beating Heart Baby by Lio Min
• David Tung Can't Have a Girlfriend Until He Gets Into an Ivy League College by Ed Lin
• I'll Be the One by Lyla Lee
• I'm Not Here to Make Friends by Andrew Yang
• Not Your Average Jo by Grace Shim
• The Queens of New York by E. L. Shen
• Becoming Asian American: Second-Generation Chinese and Korean American Identities by Nazli Kibria
• Chinese Prodigal: A Memoir in Eight Arguments by David Shih
• Docile: Memoirs of a Not-So-Perfect Asian Girl by Hyeseung Song
• Fresh Off the Boat: A Memoir by Eddie Huang
• An Inconvenient Minority: The Attack on Asian American Excellence and the Fight for Meritocracy by Kenny Xu
• The Making of Asian America: A History by Erika Lee
• Ordinary Disasters: How I Stopped Being a Model Minority by Anne Anlin Cheng
• They Called Us Exceptional: And Other Lies that Raised Us by Prachi Gupta
• Uncommon Measure: A Journey Through Music, Performance, and the Science of Time by Natalie Hodges
• The Verifiers by Jane Pek

Watch

• Good Americans
• Not Your Model Minority
• Pass or Fail in Cambodia Town

I Am Texas is the “largest published book in the world,” according to representatives from the Guinness World Records™. Measuring seven feet tall and weighing 496 pounds, the book is an ode to Texas from the perspective of students in grades 3-12 from over 80 school districts. I Am Texas captures what the Lone Star State means to 1,000 young Texans through stories, poetry, and artwork.

The giant book has traveled all over Texas since breaking the Guinness World Record™ in Houston in November 2022. Take your picture with I Am Texas and pick up a free copy of the book while supplies last (one per family).

RELATED MEDIA

This exhibition is in partnership with the iWrite Organization and The Bryan Museum.

This exhibition features over 100 paintings, sculptures, and objects created in Houston by more than 30 Houston artists from 1945 to 1961, a period of rapid growth that transformed the regional Magnolia City into the internationally known metropolis of Space City. Between the end of World War II in 1945 to the 1961 decision to locate the headquarters of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in Houston, the city underwent radical social and economic changes. The influx of new people, fortunes, and influences impacted all aspects of the city, including the arts.

View works by David Adickes, Gertrude Levy Barnstone, Alan Bean, Forrest Bess, John Biggers, Jack Boynton, Nione Carlson, Gene Charlton, Emma Richardson Cherry, Lowell Daunt Collins, Pat Colville, William (Bill) Condon, Mildred Wood Dixon-Sherwood, Frank Dolejska, Margaret Webb Dreyer, Don Edelman, Frank Freed, Henri Gadbois, Dorothy Hood, Ruth Laird, Paul Maxwell, Leila McConnell, Herbert Richard Mears, Kermit Oliver, Charles Pebworth, Anna Belle Peck, Robert Ormerod Preusser, Stephen Rascoe, Edward (Buck) Muegge Schiwetz, Frances Skinner, Chester Snowden, Erik Sprohge, Richard Gordon Stout, Stella Sullivan, Robert Weimerskirch, MIgnon Weisinger, Dan Wingren, and Dick Wray.

Pick up a FREE copy of the accompanying 80-page art catalogue while supplies last!

CHECK OUT OUR CATALOG

• The Art of Found Objects: Interviews with Texas Artists by Robert Craig Bunch
• The Art of John Biggers: View from the Upper Room by Alvia Wardlaw
• Adickes: A Portfolio with Critique by David Adickes
• Alan Bean: Painting Apollo - First Artist on Another World by Alan Bean
• Buck Schiwetz' Memories by E. M. Schiwetz
• Forrest Bess: Seeing Things Invisible by Clare Elliott
• Midcentury Modern Art in Texas by Katie Robinson Edwards
• More than a Constructive Hobby: The Paintings of Frank Freed by William A. Camfield
• Remembering Frank Dolejska: A Memoir by Shirley Nelson
• Texas: 150 Works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston by Alison de Lima Greene
• Texas Women: Interviews & Images by Patricia Lasher
• Till Freedom Cried out: Memories of Texas Slave Life edited by T. Lindsay Baker and Julie P. Baker
• Wildwood Friends by Royal Dixon

EXPLORE SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

• Oral History: Gertrude Barnstone, August 6, 1974
• Oral History: John Biggers, September 15 and 19, 1975
• Oral History: Margaret Webb Dreyer, July 8, 1976
• Oral History: Richard Stout, December 4, 1975

Central Library will be closed due to a systemwide staff event on December 19th, 2025, and the Stretch and Breathe: Yoga for Youngsters program has been canceled.  We 
apologize for any inconvenience. For a list of future events, please visit our website: www.houstonlibrary.org/events.

Looking to ace your job application or polish up your resume? Open Lab for Job Help is here to support you! Drop by and get one-on-one assistance from our experienced staff. Whether you need help with crafting a standout resume, writing a compelling cover letter, or preparing for interviews, we’re here to guide you through every step of the job search process.

Why you should attend:

• Personalized support: Receive tailored advice and assistance for your job application needs.
• Expert guidance: Get help from knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and provide valuable tips.
• Boost your job search: Improve your resume, cover letter, and interview skills to increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your job search skills! Join us at the Open Lab for Job Help and take the next step towards your career goals.

Ready to enhance your English skills? Join our engaging English Language Learning Classes and improve your speaking, reading, and writing abilities in a supportive environment. Each class is designed to build confidence, featuring pronunciation practice, themed conversations, and cross-cultural exchanges. This 16-week course meets once a week for 90 minutes, giving you the tools to grow your language skills steadily and meaningfully.

Why attend?

• Practical learning: Improve real-life English skills with speaking, reading, and writing exercises.
• Pronunciation focus: Gain confidence in pronunciation with practice in each session.
• Cultural exchange: Connect with others and learn about different cultures along the way.

Start your journey to stronger English skills—sign up today and reserve your spot for this 16-week course!

Classes are in person and student books will be provided. Registration and placement testing is required. Take our HPL Placement Test to find the right level of class for you.  

Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience! Movies Beyond the Pages invites you to join us for a special screening of a fantastic film adaptation. Watch as your favorite stories—from beloved novels to historical tales—come to life on the big screen. Whether you're a book lover, movie enthusiast, or both, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Let the magic of film take you on a journey beyond the pages of a book. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, powerful storytelling, and unforgettable performances that bring literary classics to life.

Why You Should Attend:

• Witness Books Transformed: See how the magic of literature is reimagined in cinematic form.
• Escape into the Story: Experience a captivating movie that transports you into another world.
• Engage with Fellow Movie Lovers: Share your thoughts and enjoy the experience with a community of fellow film and book enthusiasts.

Register today and secure a spot for an unforgettable film! This Christmas

Unleash your strategic side at our Chess Club! Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete beginner, come play with friends, learn new skills, and enjoy a great time. Chess not only sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but also provides valuable learning opportunities for youth of all ages.

Ready to make your move? Sign up now and join friends that love chess as much as you do.

Get ready for a relaxing and enjoyable family movie! Join us as we screen a fun, family-friendly film that everyone will love. With movies rated G to PG, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Sit back and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

Why attend?

• Enjoy a family-friendly movie perfect for all ages.
• Spend quality time with your loved ones in a fun environment.
• Free event in a safe, welcoming space for the whole family.

Register now to reserve your seats for family movie night! Today's movie is The Muppets.

Attention, gamers! Get ready for epic gaming fun! Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive pro, this is your chance to showcase your skills and connect with fellow gamers.

Why Attend?

• Show Off Your Skills: Compete against other players and prove you’re the best!
• Play Your Favorites: Enjoy a variety of popular games in a friendly atmosphere.
• Meet Fellow Gamers: Make new friends who share your passion for gaming.

Don’t miss out on this exciting gaming event! Game on!

Take a break and find your center at our Stress Relief Meditation Session! This unique practice focuses on using natural energy to calm the mind, reduce stress, and restore peace—all without the need for yoga mats. Join us to learn meditation techniques that help you achieve a balanced state of wellness and mindfulness. Perfect for beginners and experienced meditators alike!

Why attend?

• Reduce stress: Learn practical meditation techniques for a calmer mind.
• Enhance wellness: Support mental and emotional well-being in a relaxed setting.
• Easy access: No special equipment needed—just bring yourself and an open mind!

Ready to embrace relaxation? Reserve your spot now and join us for this free, stress-relief meditation experience!