Library Opening Literary Event

Pictured above is the main entrance to the Mission Branch Library located on the site of the Mission Drive- In in southeast San Antonio. They had the grand opening for it this past Saturday with a variety of activities and entertainment. I was amongst a number of writers and illustrators there for readings and book signings. I was pleased to see that there was a good sized crowd present. There were things to see and do both inside and outside as well as check out books or apply for a library card and then check out books (which a lot of people did that day).

One of the movie screens of the old drive-in still remains and I understand that it will be preserved and converted into an outdoor stage and who knows, perhaps also a screen. I've got some fond memories of that drive-in going back to 1985 when I was a student at UTSA. I remember going to the drive-in and enjoying the concession food which included chili dogs. Back when I was a kid in Laredo, they still served chili dogs at the movies not to mention the fact that most theaters in my hometown had huge single screens and balcony seating. fast forward to San Antonio 1985 where huge movie screens are few and far between and chili dogs are definitely a thing of the past...except at the Mission Dive-In Theater.

I was in heaven anytime I saw a movie there. There's nothing quite like watching a movie under the stars and chowing down on a chili dog. Sitting in the car was totally optional as well. One could sit on the hood or if you had a truck, turn it around to face the screen then sit or lay in the bed. Some folks would bring lawn chairs with them if they had a large number in their group. We were there last to watch Wallace and Gromit's Curse of the Wererabbit.

So when I was invited by Scholastic Books to do a reading for the event I immediately said yes though being there was a bittersweet experience for me. As much as I love books and libraries I wish they could have saved the drive in and built the library too only elsewhere. Still, it is a pretty spiffy library and it was much needed on that side of town.

Library courtyard with craft activities by volunteers.

Author and recording artist Jose Luis Orozco got kids and adults on their feet and dancing.

Xavier Garza, children's book author and illustrator, had everyone's attention with his spooky tale, "Llorona 911".


The only remaining structure from the Mission Drive In Theater left standing.


Another view of the screen taken by the front entrance to the library.



Here's the street-side view of that huge screen. They don't make them like that anymore. Oh, and in case your wondering why there aren't any photos of myself it's because my friend and art director Art Avila forgot to snap some shots with my camera though he did mention he knew the photograher roaming around taking photos for the library and might be able t get a copy from him. Keep your fingers crossed.