Item 27: Draft Recommendation — original pdf

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COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Inclusion Committee Subject: Budget Recommendation to the City Council Regarding Far Southeast Library Branch Site Selection WHEREAS, the current Southeast Branch Library is undersized for community demand. The need for a full-service Far Southeast Branch Library is grounded first and foremost in (1) long-standing neighborhood need, (2) obligations to historically underserved residents, and (3) the necessity of accessible, community-serving infrastructure where families already live; WHEREAS, for people with disabilities, libraries are essential access infrastructure— providing assistive technology, inclusive programming, safe indoor space, and digital connectivity. A Far Southeast Branch must be planned with accessibility from the beginning, which requires immediate investment in site selection and predevelopment; and WHEREAS, funding site selection and predevelopment is needed so the community can begin shared investment and fundraising; WHEREAS, the new library should have digital accessibility and assistive technology including computers with screen readers; accessible printers and adaptive equipment; and free internet access for households without reliable service; WHEREAS, the new library should be a safe, climate-controlled public space that can serve as a cooling center; provide a safe daytime space; and serve as a refuge for medically vulnerable residents; WHEREAS, the new library should have inclusive learning and programming including sensory-friendly story times; accessible teen spaces; adult literacy and lifelong learning; and community classes without cost barriers; WHEREAS, the new library should encourage employment and independence through job applications and workforce training; benefits navigation; and quiet, inclusive workspaces; WHEREAS, the new library should encourage social connection and community belonging. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $500,000 for site selection and predevelopment of the Far Southeast Branch Library. The $500,000 should include digital access and assistive technology; safe, climate-controlled public space; inclusive learning and programming; and social connection and community belonging.