Empowering Communities: The Library at Cedar Creek Lake's Journey and Impact

This article originally appeared on and was written for Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation by Golden Shovel Agency.

Nestled within the heart of Seven Points, Texas, just a stone's throw away from Gun Barrel City, the Library at Cedar Creek Lake is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the enduring love for literature. This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serves as a vital educational and cultural hub for residents across Kaufman, Henderson, and Van Zandt counties, providing a treasure trove of resources and services to patrons of all ages.

A Community-Powered Institution

The Library at Cedar Creek Lake is not just a place for books; it's a community lifeline. Supported primarily by private donations, this independent library is not funded by the city or county, allowing it to tailor its offerings to the unique needs and interests of the diverse communities it serves. The library's designation as a 501(c)(3) organization opens doors for partnerships and donations that directly benefit its patrons. 
The Greater Cedar Creek Area, including Gun Barrel City and surrounding regions, finds solace in the presence of this library. A generous donation of $1,000 from the Gun Barrel Economic Development Corporation helps the library to expand its services and provide educational programs, ensuring that knowledge and opportunities flow freely within the community.

A Fairy Tale Journey 

The Library at Cedar Creek Lake's journey from a humble bookmobile in the 1970s to its present-day grandeur reads like a fairy tale. Starting in front of a grocery store in Seven Points, it gradually grew, changing locations as its collection and services expanded. In

1996, a pivotal moment came when the library transformed from the Henderson County Library-West to Cedar Creek Library. Soon after, former First Lady Laura Bush endorsed the library at a fundraiser, igniting the spark of support. 

The Economic Development Corporation of Seven Points played a pivotal role, expressing its desire to build a new library building in 1997. By 1998, the library was officially named The Library at Cedar Creek Lake. The collaborative efforts of local individuals, business leaders, volunteers, and organizations made this dream a reality, transforming the library into a cultural beacon for the entire area.

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