The new Traphene Hicks Library in the Park, a groundbreaking addition to its community nestled within the serene expanse of seven-acre Signature Park, includes the Hill Museum of History. More that simply a repository of books, the cultural hub celebrates both knowledge and nature.

Holistic approach: The library’s design seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces. Visitors can immerse themselves in literature while surrounded by the natural beauty of Signature Park.

Community-driven: Named “Library in a Park” by local residents, it reflects their desire for a harmonious blend of education and environmental consciousness.

Two decades in the making: The library’s journey began in 2003 with a bond referendum. Despite setbacks, including the 2008 market crash, community resilience fueled its revival. In 2017, the $20 million bond referendum was overwhelmingly approved, paving the way for this visionary project.

Sustainability features: The project adheres to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. From construction materials to energy-efficiency, every aspect was meticulously planned.

Preserving trees: Existing trees were cherished and preserved. Those removed were repurposed for infrastructure. Additionally, more than 14,000 different types of native plants and 200 trees were used in the park’s design.

Energy-efficient design: The library maximizes natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Energy-efficient HVAC systems and insulation minimize energy consumption.

Electric vehicle charging stations: There are four charging stations, as well as bike racks and bike repair stations.

Rooftop event space: The rooftop doubles as an event space, harnessing solar energy for gatherings and programs.

Nature trails: Visitors can walk, run or bike the paved 1.4-mile trail that starts off Pioneer Trail, with convenient parking available.

Native plants: As visitors walk along the pathways, they can scan QR codes on plant ID signs to learn more about specific species.

The Traphene Hicks Library in the Park is located at 450 Pioneer Trail, in Cedar Hill. For more information, visit CedarHillTX.com.