Fort Bend County libraries still struggling with network outage after ‘cybersecurity incident’

Library (Jordan Vonderhaar For The Texas Tribune, Jordan Vonderhaar For The Texas Tribune)

FORT BEND COUNTY – If you’ve been trying to get a new library card or renew an old one at a Fort Bend County library, you’ve probably run into some frustrating roadblocks.

That’s because the library system has been dealing with a major network disruption since February 24, 2025, and it’s still not fully resolved.

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A concerned viewer brought attention to the issue via Click2Houston Help Desk, pointing out that all Fort Bend County libraries have been down for over two and a half weeks.

The disruption has impacted multiple services, including web access and issuing new library cards.

What’s going on?

County Librarian Roosevelt Weeks addressed the situation in a letter dated March 12, 2025.

Weeks confirmed that the library became aware of a cybersecurity incident affecting its services.

The IT team took immediate action to restore most online resources, and cybersecurity professionals have been brought in to investigate further.

“We recognize that this may cause concern regarding the security of patrons’ personal information,” Weeks stated.

However, he reassured the public that the library does not collect or store highly sensitive personal information like Social Security numbers or financial details.

Their top priority remains restoring full services while keeping the network secure.

Why is this taking so long?

Many patrons are frustrated, especially since other library systems, like Houston’s, are fully operational.

Fort Bend County officials explained that each library system operates on a separate network, and restoring services safely takes time.

While most online resources are back, there’s still no set timeline for when everything will be fully functional.

What can you still access?

Despite the network issues, library branches are open, and patrons can still check out physical books.

Online services like eBooks via OverDrive/Libby and Hoopla remain accessible.

Plus, all overdue fines are being waived until the issue is fully resolved.

Need help?

Library staff are available to assist with any questions. You can contact them in person, via phone, email, or through the online chat feature.

For the latest updates, check the Fort Bend County Libraries website.


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