Named Most Beautiful Library in Texas (2016)
Main Library was named the Most Beautiful Library in Texas by Tech Insider, which recognized standout libraries across the country for their architecture and design.
Cover of Texas Architecture Magazine (2013)
The March/April 2013 issue of Texas Architect not only features an article detailing MPL’s achievements, our unique teen wall that borders our teen social space, Area 3918, is featured on the cover of the issue.
Top 100 Libraries to Follow on Facebook (2013)
MPL was ranked among the top 100 libraries in the world to follow on Facebook by library marketing expert Matt Anderson, recognizing the library’s growing online presence and community engagement.
AIA Honor Award (2013)
Main Library received the American Institute of Architects Honor Award, an international recognition awarded to only a select number of projects worldwide. The library’s architecture & adaptive reuse design also gained national attention through features in architecture and design publications.
Winner of the Library Interior Design Competition (2012)
Main Library won the Library Interior Design Competition for Public Libraries over 30,000 square feet, awarded by the International Interior Design Association and the American Library Association. The recognition highlighted the library’s innovative interior design, functionality, and transformation of a former retail building into a public library.
Library Excellence Awards
Library Director Receives Lifetime Achievement Award (2025)
Library Director Kate P. Horan received the Texas Library Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her leadership and contributions to McAllen Public Library and the library profession.
Achievement of Library Excellence Award (2014–Present)
McAllen Public Library has received the Achievement of Library Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association for multiple consecutive years. The award recognizes excellence in programming, literacy support, workforce development, digital inclusion, outreach, and public service.
Lark Branch Library Receives Reader’s Choice Award (2018)
Lark Branch Library received a Reader’s Choice Award for Best Customer Service in Hidalgo County from "The Monitor."