Well-read reptile to retire after 25 years at Round Rock Public Library

Farewell, friendly noodle! After more than two decades of captivating visitors of all ages, Rocksssanne, the Round Rock Public Library’s beloved ball python, is preparing for retirement.

Rocksssanne, a female ball python, has been a fixture of the library since she was adopted in Jan. 20, 2000, when she was estimated to be 3 years old. At that time, when Round Rock’s population was approximately half of what it is today, children across Round Rock submitted ideas for a contest to name her, with “Miss Rocksssanne NoFeet” chosen as the winner. Over the years, she has captivated young readers during storytimes, inspired art installations and made appearances at local schools.

This January, as she turns 28 years old—well into the upper range of a ball python’s lifespan—the library will honor her 25 years of service with weeks of festivities leading up to her well-deserved retirement on March 1.

“Rocksssanne has been a fixture of our library, teaching kids and adults alike about patience, curiosity and the beauty of the natural world,” said Youth Services Manager Theresa Faris. “She’s earned some peace and quiet in her golden years, and we’re thrilled to celebrate her extraordinary legacy.”

Post-retirement, Rocksssanne will enjoy a quiet life under the care of staff in a calm, private space—away from the noise and excitement of public life.

Library staff expect to transition Rocksssanne’s viewing window in the spring to an aquarium featuring an educational exhibit of fish native to Brushy Creek in partnership with The Aquarium Company, Living Waters Fly Fishing and Texas Parks and Wildlife.

The Round Rock Public Library invites the community to celebrate Rocksssanne’s retirement with several weeks of special activities throughout January and February 2025, leading up to a retirement celebration. The community is also invited to share photos and stories of Rocksssanne at roundrocktexas.gov/librarysnake.

More Rocksssanne-themed activities and events, such as a poetry collection and themed scavenger hunt, will be available starting in January. Learn more at roundrocktexas.gov/librarysnake.

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Source: City of Round Rock