Central Houston neighborhoods consistently outpace outlying areas for city library card registrations, which advocates say can serve as a gateway to education, technology and essential resources.
A Houston Chronicle analysis of library card registrations per 100 residents — based on ZIP code-level data obtained through public records requests — shows that for the last decade, 77006 (Montrose), 77008 (The Heights), and 77030 (Museum District) recorded some of the highest per-capita registration rates in the city, with more than 25 new cards issued for every 100 residents.
By contrast, several ZIP codes on Houston’s outskirts, including some with sizable populations, recorded far fewer signups. In 77060, which encompasses the Aldine area and has more than 42,000 residents, only 1,176 new library cards were issued over the past decade. That’s less than 3 cards per 100 residents…