Austin, Texas, December 17, 2025
The Austin History Center has officially reopened after a substantial renovation costing $14.5 million. Located at 800 Guadalupe Street, the facility’s grand reopening on December 7 showcases enhanced capabilities to preserve Austin’s heritage, including a new exhibit titled ‘Unboxing the Archives: Our Records, Our Stories.’ With an expanded space of 60,000 square feet, the center aims to better serve the community and visitors by providing ample opportunities to engage with Austin’s rich historical records.
Austin History Center Reopens After $14.5 Million Renovation
Austin, Texas – The Austin History Center has reopened its doors following an extensive $14.5 million renovation, marking a significant milestone in preserving the city’s rich history. The grand reopening ceremony took place on December 7, 2025, at the center’s new location in the John Henry Faulk Building at 800 Guadalupe Street. The event featured remarks from local officials highlighting the center’s expanded capacity to showcase Austin’s heritage.
Renovation Details
The renovation project, which began in 2017, included the relocation of the center’s archives and reading room to the John Henry Faulk Building. This move has provided approximately 60,000 additional square feet for collections and public use, significantly enhancing the center’s ability to accept larger community donations, host more rotating exhibits, and expedite digitization efforts. The upgraded facility now offers improved climate control, storage shelving, and exhibition spaces for archival collections, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of Austin’s historical records.
New Exhibits and Public Access
As part of the reopening, the center introduced the exhibit “Unboxing the Archives: Our Records, Our Stories,” which explores how archives shape our understanding of the past and the stories we carry forward. This exhibit is scheduled to remain on view through May 2026. The center is open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m., providing ample opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with Austin’s history.
Background
Established in 1933, the Austin History Center serves as the local history collection of the Austin Public Library, housing thousands of documents, photographs, maps, artifacts, and personal histories. The center’s mission is to collect and preserve information about local governments, businesses, residents, institutions, and neighborhoods, ensuring that generations to come have access to Austin’s rich history. The recent renovation and expansion are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to invest in cultural facilities that celebrate Austin’s diverse communities and heritage.
Visitor Information
For those interested in visiting, the Austin History Center is located at 800 Guadalupe Street. Parking is available at the Frost Bank Tower Garage, located at 112 E. 4th St., with one-hour complimentary validation provided to Visitor Center guests. For the most current hours and access rules, please check the Austin Public Library’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Austin History Center?
The Austin History Center is the local history collection of the Austin Public Library, housing thousands of documents, photographs, maps, artifacts, and personal histories. It serves to collect and preserve information about local governments, businesses, residents, institutions, and neighborhoods, ensuring that generations to come have access to Austin’s rich history.
When did the Austin History Center reopen after its renovation?
The Austin History Center reopened on December 7, 2025, following an extensive $14.5 million renovation.
What is the current exhibit at the Austin History Center?
The current exhibit is “Unboxing the Archives: Our Records, Our Stories,” which explores how archives shape our understanding of the past and the stories we carry forward. This exhibit is scheduled to remain on view through May 2026.
What are the operating hours of the Austin History Center?
The Austin History Center is open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m.
Where is the Austin History Center located?
The Austin History Center is located at 800 Guadalupe Street in Austin, Texas.
Key Features of the Austin History Center
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 800 Guadalupe Street, Austin, Texas |
| Renovation Cost | $14.5 million |
| Exhibit | “Unboxing the Archives: Our Records, Our Stories” (on view through May 2026) |
| Operating Hours | Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. |
| Parking | Frost Bank Tower Garage at 112 E. 4th St. (one-hour complimentary validation provided) |
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