The current class of Leadership Gainesville, a program of the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the completion of its 2026 class project: the installation of two new community benches accompanied by mini lending libraries.
Leadership Gainesville is a year-long program that selects community members to learn about the history, businesses, organizations, and civic structure that make Gainesville unique. Participants meet once a month, visiting local businesses and institutions to gain a deeper understanding of the community and how they can better serve it.
As part of the program, each class collaborates on a project designed to give back to the community in a meaningful and lasting way.
This year’s class selected a project focused on accessibility, literacy, and creating welcoming public spaces. The group installed:
• A bench with a gravel pad and lending library on the northwest side of the Cooke County Courthouse lawn in downtown Gainesville.
• A second bench and lending library at Head Start to serve local children and families.
The courthouse installation offers residents and visitors a place to sit, relax, and enjoy downtown while encouraging the simple joy of sharing books. The Head Start location provides families with easy access to free books, promoting early literacy and creating opportunities for children to take home stories to read together.
“Installing a bench at the downtown courthouse creates a welcoming place to rest and connect in our community,” said Janna Cunningham, Leadership Gainesville participant. “The lending libraries are intentionally placed to encourage parents to engage a little further with their children whether it’s helping them pick a book or reading with them,” said another participant, Shea Shaffer.
The benches and libraries were made possible by the generous donations from Gainesville’s local businesses including Glenn Polk Auto Group, First United Bank, Employees of Safran, 4U Credit Union, Muenster State Bank, First State Bank, Goodies on Commerce, Hardrock Materials, Circuit Breaker Sales LLC, and McCoy’s Building Supply.
Leadership Gainesville continues to equip and inspire local leaders while fostering projects that strengthen the fabric of the community. The Class of 2026 is honored to leave a lasting contribution that reflects the spirit of service and connection that defines Gainesville.
For more information about Leadership Gainesville, please contact the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce at (940) 665-2831 or gainesvillecofc.com
