REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION April 28, 2025 – 6 P.M. John Henry Faulk Building 800 Guadalupe Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on March 31, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative Cities Connecting Children to Nature Laura Tadena Community Engagement Librarian Nature Smart Library Strategy Chair Austin Public Library OVERVIEW Background and Overview of CCCN APL’s Nature Smart Library Initiative Future Plans & Opportunities CITIES CONNECTING CHILDREN TO NATURE (CCCN) AUSTIN Cities Connecting Children to Nature is a national initiative initiative that seeks to create more equitable and abundant access to nature in cities through a partnership between The National League of Cities Institute for Youth, Education, and Families and the Children & Nature Network. CCCNS VISION AND MISSION Cities Connecting Children to Nature strives to ensure every child has access to and connection with nature every day. WE ARE COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH THE NATURAL SPACES WHERE THEY LIVE, LEARN, AND PLAY, WHICH FOSTERS LIFELONG BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH NATURE. CCCN COLLABORATES ACROSS INSTITUTIONS AND SYSTEMS, AMPLIFYING EFFORTS, SHARING RESOURCES, AND CREATING PARTNERSHIPS THAT DEEPEN OUR COLLECTIVE VISION AND ADVANCE OUR MISSION. CCCN AUSTIN: OUR EVOLUTION City adopts Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights & begins collection of nature deficient area data Four focal strategies with Outdoor Learning Environments (OLE!) Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position funded through WPD; FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position reclassified as Program Manager 2016 2018 2020 2022 Critical look at integration of racial equity lens to all strategies; Integration into City-wide plans; new NSL Strategy Chair & adoption of new APL Strategic Plan 2017 2019 2021 2023-PRESENT Austin receives strategic planning & implementation grant from CCCN Focus on Green School Parks, Nature Play, Youth Leadership & FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position through PARD Five focal strategies with addition of Nature Smart Libraries Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position becomes FTE, funded through WPD + PARD; Dedicated funding for Nature Play and Joint-Use sites in City Budget CCCN AUSTIN: 2022 ACCESS TO NATURE MAP ZIPCODE ANALYSIS: MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, CHILD POPULATION, INVERSE TREE CANOPY, WATERWAYS, & PARKLAND DISADVANTEGED ACCESS TO NATURE 5%-15% 16%-30% 31%-50% 50%-97% AUSTIN CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what equitable access to nature should look like in Austin and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for nature connection in the community. Austin City Council unanimously voted to pass the COBOR on January 26, 2017. Sign The Austin COBOR CCCN AUSTIN: FIVE STRATEGIES Green School Parks Nature Play Early Childhood Emerging Green Leaders Nature Smart Libraries SYSTEMS CHANGE APPROACH The Cities Connecting Children …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 31 MARCH 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Menchaca Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissions in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Edward Selig, Pamela Carlile, Kezia Frayjo Commissions in Attendance Remotely: Mark Smith, Sara Gore Commissions Absent: Andrea Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj, Melissah Hasdorff PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the December 16, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on December 16, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Segel abstaining and Commissioners Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj and Hasdorff absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing of the March APL Public Programming Highlights, and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. Commissioner Smith provided information on library-related bills in the current legislative session. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Commissioner Smith provided the Final Report and Recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. A motion to approve …
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director April 2025 HIGHLIGHTS APL Welcomes Zell Miller III Zell Miller III is a poet, theater artist, creative force, and now the City of Austin’s first ever Poet Laureate. He is known for his thought-provoking works that explore identity, culture, and the human experience. With a passion for storytelling and performance, Miller has made significant contributions to the arts, particularly in the realms of poetry and theater. In 2004, he was voted the best/poet writer in the Austin Chronicle. In 2017, he was inducted into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame. Through his work, Zell Miller III continues to inspire others to explore their own creativity and question the world around them. His dedication to using art as a platform for dialogue and change has made him a distinctive and influential voice in the contemporary arts scene. On April 14, APL hosted Zell’s welcome reception at the Special Events Center. It was a night of poetry, connection, celebration, and fun. He is an excellent and exciting addition to Austin Public Library! April 26: Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest The Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest invites our community of readers, writers and illustrators from Travis, Williamson, and Hays Counties to come together for a full day celebration of books. At GAB Fest you can meet participating authors, buy books and get them signed, explore the Central Library, and enjoy a full day of panels, workshops, and programs. This event fosters an environment of inclusivity, encouraging individuals to come together, and celebrate their appreciation for literature. This year’s GAB Fest will be held at the Central Library on Saturday, April 26. APL Celebrates National Library Week National Library Week, which this year took place from April 6-April 12, is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. Austin Public Library Staff prepared activities in all of our locations tied to this year’s theme of “Drawn to the Library.” Each location was given a board to display in a common area where members of the public could post sticky notes answering the question: “Why are you drawn to your library?” Additionally, the marketing team tagged along to an outreach event with the Mobile Library to create a video to celebrate National Library Outreach Day. National Library Week also includes National …
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS GOALS Ensure easy and equitable access to library resources Support students, schools, educators, and families Create life-long library users OUTREACH & SUPPORT STUDENT ACCOUNTS Student Accounts From Director Weeks’s October 4, 2021 Memorandum As of October 1, 2021, any student who either lives in or is enrolled in any school in Travis County – including public, private, daycare, charter, and homeschool – is eligible for a free Student Card. Cards are valid for three years from date of issue/renewal. Student Accounts No physical cards, just account numbers Borrow 50 items Access all Digital Resources Checkout Hot Spots No fines for late materials Student Accounts exist alongside Youth Accounts 26% of APL Accounts are Student Accounts Account Number Format School District Acronym followed by Student ID Number Ex: AISD10123456 Tier 1 School Partners Number of Student Accounts 83,630 10,063 11,726 3,535 Tier 2 School Partners Number of Student Accounts 582 237 213 481 Student Account Hurdles Student (and staff) Mobility Incomplete and Inconsistent Student Data Files Low Account Usage/School Buy In Student Account Improvements Custom Report to Automate Account Creation Standardized and Limited Required Student Data Targeted Approach to School Outreach Educator Outreach & Support Group Library Cards Professional Development Sessions Direct connection for troubleshooting library issues Subject-specific flyers and communication Co-Sponsor Events at APL Stickers & Posters Educator Outreach & Support Educator & Student Resources BrainFuse HelpNow - Live, online tutoring and writing lab staffed by humans JSTOR and Gale - Research databases Transparent Language and Mango Languages - Language learning SkillMill - skilled trades training including HVAC, solar, plumbing, electrical Student Outreach & Support Instructional Videos Victory Tutoring Free printing Safe Spaces AVID Career Talks Level Up Campaign Level Up with APL Campus Visit Sign up 18yo Seniors for Adult Library Cards Ensures future library access Helps maintain account accuracy Caregiver Outreach & Support Parent Support Specialists Parent Meetings AISD Tools for Success District-Wide Events, Back to School Bash Future Goals Regularly Scheduled Account Updates Improve onboarding process for smaller schools Improved usage & engagement Thank you! Jenny Stirrat, MSIS School Partnerships Librarian jenny.stirrat@austintexas.gov lib.studentcards@austintexas.gov library.austintexas.gov | ADA accommodations: 512-974-7400
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION March 31, 2025 – 6 P.M. Menchaca Branch Library 5500 Menchaca Road AUSTIN, TEXAS This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on December 16, 2024. 2. 3. 6. 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Discussion and approval of a recommendation supporting additional funding to support Austin Public Library's service enhancements, including a 6% increase to the books and materials budget, 2 FTE social worker positions, menstrual equity supplies, enhanced law enforcement presence and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give …
Strategic Advocacy Working Group Report Background The Library Commissioners expressed a desire to be better equipped to advocate for issues of importance to the Austin Public Library (APL) with their Council Members and other City of Austin Boards and Commissions during important City Council meetings and efforts such as the budgeting and bond approval process. A special Strategic Advocacy Working Group was asked to research and identify the Commission's next steps. This document, structured as a guide, results from this working group's research. Working Group Scope The Library Commissioners seek ways to better advocate for APL and strategically connect with City Council members and other Commissioners to support the library's financial and collaborative efforts. List of Resources to Commissioners General ● Boards and Commissions ○ Website, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/boards-and-commissions/boards ○ Boards and Commissions Information Center, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/boards-and-commissions-information-center ○ Workbook, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/workbooks ○ Contact: stephanie.hall@austintexas.gov ● City Council ○ City Information Center, https://www.austintexas.gov/department/city-council/council/council_meeting_info_center .htm ○ General guidelines on public hearings and communications with City Council (Ordinance No. 20240926-112) ○ Participate in a City Council Meeting https://www.austintexas.gov/services/participate-city-council-meeting ○ How to Register to Speak (bilingual), https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=437389 ● Budget Process ○ 2025-26: https://publicinput.com/budget25-26 ○ FY 2024-25 Unmet Needs Report, https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Finance/Financial%20Transparency/P roposed%20Budget/FY25%20Unmet%20Needs%20Report.pdf ● Speak Up Austin: online home for community engagement, https://publicinput.com/Hub/Index/1178#events ● 2026 Bond Election ○ 2026 Bond Election Advisory Task Force, https://www.austintexas.gov/content/2026-bond-election-advisory-task-force ○ 2026 Bond Program Update Memo, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/pio/document.cfm?id=443881 1 ○ Article on Community Impact, https://communityimpact.com/austin/south-central-austin/government/2025/01/13/austin-l ooks-to-2026-for-next-major-bond-vote-more-than-1b-in-approved-debt-unspent/ ○ Specific to Library Commissioners ● Library Commission Website, https://www.austintexas.gov/content/library-commission ● Library Commission Bylaws, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=387465 ● Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=404379 Important Dates for Library Commission Commissions & Boards Annual Budget 2026 Bond Cycle October 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Public input sessions (pending presentation from APL Team) November ● 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting ● Intercommission Social (informal gathering) December 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Public input sessions January 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting February 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting March 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting April 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Community Budget Conversations Community Budget Conversations ● Community Budget Conversations ● Budget Survey ● Community Budget Conversations ● Budget Survey 2 May June July 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Budget Survey 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting City Council Community (District) Meetings 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting ● City Council Community (District) Meetings ● City Manager's Proposed Budget Released August 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting September 4th Monday: Library Commission Meeting Recommendations The …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 16, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 16 DECEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Austin Central Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on November 18, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION ITEMS December 16, 2024 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Discussion of the December APL Report covering public programming highlights, and facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The report was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. Commissioner Herrera Moreno provided an update. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS School Partnerships Library Legislative Advocacy in February ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:03 p.m. without objection.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250331-7 Date: 03/31/2025 Recommendation Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY26 Budget Motioned By: Commissioner Davis Seconded By: Commissioner Selig Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2026 with additional funding to support Austin Public Library's service enhancements, including an increase to the books and materials budget, social worker positions, menstrual equity supplies, enhanced law enforcement presence, and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting the Austin City Council approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2026. Additionally, increased funding is asked for an increase of 6% to the books and materials budget, the addition of two FTE social worker positions, funds to continue the law enforcement partnership with Travis County, ongoing funding to provide menstrual equity supplies, and $1.5 million for feasibility studies of new and expanded facilities. Rationale In FY 2023, the Austin Public Library completed a year-long strategic planning process to shape the work of the library for years to come. Input was provided for the plan through a community survey that received more than 5,400 responses, pop-up community events in 20 locations throughout Austin, as well as a series of surveys, workshops, and listening sessions with APL staff and external community stakeholders. The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, lays out new strategic goals for the Austin Public Library, aligned with the City of Austin’s Imagine Austin 30-year strategic plan and the SD28 5-year strategic plan. To implement this City Council-approved Strategic Plan, Austin Public Library needs one-time funding of $1.5 million for feasibility studies for new and expanded facilities to meet the infrastructure objectives contained in the strategic planning process completed in 2023. The proposed Austin Public Library budget includes a 3% increase for materials, which include digital materials, subscriptions, and databases. Austin’s population growth and the increased cost of all materials, especially e-books, which represent a fast-growing share of APL’s circulation and require expensive licenses, have put a strain on the materials budget. These proposed increases are necessary to keep up with inflation, but do not represent a growth budget and may lead to a reduction of e-resources and increased patron wait times to access materials. An additional 3% increase for a total of 6% to the books and materials budget would help close the gap to prevent the library from …
Austin Public Library 2026 Bond Proposal Updated Presentation, March 2025 library.austintexas.gov Agenda • Our Story: Values, History, and Previous Bonds • Current and Future Library Needs • Technical Criteria JB0 Our Core Values Who We Serve – We Welcome Everyone What we Provide – We safeguard access to information resources and spaces. How We Do It – We provide excellence in service and build trust through integrity, accountability, and teamwork History: A Century of Service 1926 – First Austin Public Library established by Grace Delano Clark. Opens with 500 donated volumes in rented space. 1928 Bond – First Permanent buildings - $150,000 1933 – First permanent Central Library building opens at 401 W. 9th St. (current Austin History Center Building). First branch opens – George Washington Carver Branch. 1934 – First APL Summer Reading Program 1933-1951 – Austin Public Library services and facilities racially segregated. 1951 – First Austin Public Library Bookmobile launches 1956-1968 – 12 new branches and locations added 1972 Bond – New Central Library (current John Henry Faulk building) and 4 new branches - $6 M 1979 – New Central Library opens 1980–1992 – Multiple branches open or are relocated/expanded JB0 History, continued: 1992 Bond - New branches and renovations - $8M 1998 Bond - Expansion, renovations, and tech improvements - $13M 2004 – Daniel Ruiz Branch grand opening; most recent all-new branch 2006 Bond – Funding approved for a new central library – $125 M 2010 – New Twin Oaks Library opens; most recent branch building 2012 Bond - Library Facility improvements - $13.4 M 2017 – New Austin Central Library opens at 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 2018 Bond – Library Infrastructure Improvements - $34.5 M 2023 – City Council Approves APL Strategic & Facilities Plan 2018 Bond, Proposition B – Libraries, Museums and Cultural Centers $128,000,000 for community and cultural facilities, libraries, museums, and cultural and creative arts facilities, and land acquisitions. Department Allocations Library Proposition B Site/Civil Projects History Center & Archival Repository Complex Interior Renovation Projects Roof Replacement & System Upgrades $34.5M $1.8M $16.5M $8.1M $8.1M Economic Development Libraries PARD Total Voter-Approved $27,000,000 $34,500,000 $66,5000,000 $128,000,000 2018 Bond EDD Parks Library 2018 Bond Project Overview The 2018 Library Bond Program is $34.5M. Proposition B provided funding for: • Rehabilitation and renovations to multiple branch libraries. • The first phase of the conversion of Faulk Library for the Austin History Center Campus. APL …
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director March 2025 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ……………………………………………………………….…………………………………….……………….1 Facilities Updates ……………………………………………………………………..……………………………………4 APL Data & Numbers ..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 HIGHLIGHTS APL Celebrates Black History Month Austin Public Library was proud to celebrate Black History Month with a variety of engaging programming and community connection. The Cepeda Branch Library hosted a special collage storytelling workshop with Women & Their Work artist Moria Small. Attendees brought personal items of significance and combined them with materials provided to create meaningful collages. Using a camera, they captured their finished pieces and had the opportunity to print them as keepsakes. This hands-on experience allowed patrons to showcase their stories in a creative and personal way, making for a unique and engaging library program. Ruiz Branch hosted a program celebrating Sam Gilliam and his Drape series of art. To emulate that style, participants tried their hand at tie dye! There were kids, tweens, teens, and adults participating- truly an all-ages experience. Southeast Branch Library hosted youth participants for Crafternoon: All Ages Black History Month Edition, featuring crafts inspired by artists Augusta Savage and Jacob Lawrence. Participants enjoyed exploring clay and collage, as well as learning about the lives of these incredible black artists. APL Hosts NASA!! SXSW went to infinity and beyond March 8th and 9th by bringing Nasa House to APL with a free, no- badge-required event welcoming local families and SXSW attendees alike. Visitors explored 40 hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and immersive installations over two days and across four floors of the Central Library. Talks and screenings ran throughout both days, featuring NASA scientists, engineers, and communicators discussing the latest in space exploration and innovation. Partner additions included a Snoopy appearance, space-themed Crayola coloring sheets and materials, a LEGO Education free-build area, and Google Arts & Culture programming. We were excited to see a large turnout from bilingual and multi-generational families, kids dressed in astronaut costumes, and wide engagement from the Austin media and influencer community. Overall, nearly 23,000 people joined the fun! First Austin Poet Laureate Announced Austin Public Library has selected local poet and theater artist Zell Miller III as the City’s first ever Poet Laureate. The Austin Poet Laureate Program was established by the Austin City Council last year to be administered by Austin Public Library. The goals of the program include promoting poetry, literacy, and the literary arts in the Austin community; …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 31 MARCH 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Menchaca Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Edward Selig, Pamela Carlile, Kezia Frayjo Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Mark Smith, Sara Gore Commissioners Absent: Andrea Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj, Melissah Hasdorff PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the December 16, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on December 16, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Selig abstaining and Commissioners Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj and Hasdorff absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing of the March APL Public Programming Highlights, and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. Commissioner Smith provided information on library-related bills in the current legislative session. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Commissioner Smith provided the Final Report and Recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. A motion to approve …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION February 24, 2025 – 6 P.M. Little Walnut Creek Branch 835 W Rundberg Lane AUSTIN, TEXAS This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Magen Davis Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Mark Smith The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on December 16, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on public programming highlights and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and possible action to amend the 2025 Library Commission meeting schedule by rescheduling the regular meeting originally set for March 31, 2025, to March 24, 2025. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 7. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group on progress, delays, and updated projected timeline. 2. 3. 4. 5. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 16, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 16 DECEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Austin Central Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on November 18, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION ITEMS December 16, 2024 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The Director’s Report was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. Commissioner Herrera Moreno provided an update. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS School Partnerships Library Legislative Advocacy in February ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:03 p.m. without objection.
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS Jenny Stirra t, School Pa rtnerships Libra ria n SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS GOALS • Ensure ea sy a nd equita ble a ccess to libra ry resources • Support students, schools, educa tors, a nd fa milies • Crea te life-long libra ry users O UTREACH & SUPPO RT STUDENT ACCO UNTS Student Accounts From Director Weeks’s October 4, 2021 Memora ndum As of O ctober 1, 2021, a ny student who either lives in or is enrolled in a ny school in Tra vis County – including public, priva te, da yca re, cha rter, a nd homeschool – is eligible for a free Student Ca rd. Ca rds a re va lid for three yea rs from da te of issue/ renewa l. Student Accounts ⚬ No physica l ca rds, just a ccount numbers ⚬ Borrow 50 items ⚬ Access a ll Digita l Resources ⚬ Checkout Hot Spots ⚬ No fines for la te ma teria ls ⚬ Student Accounts exist a longside Youth Accounts Account Number Forma t School District Acronym followed by Student ID Number Ex: AISD10123456 Tier 1 School Pa rtners Number of Student Accounts 80,389 13,216 12,685 3,538 Tier 2 School Pa rtners Number of Student Accounts 582 237 213 481 Student Account Hurdles • Student (a nd sta ff) Mobility • Incomplete a nd Inconsistent Student Da ta Files • Low Account Usa ge/ School Buy In Student Account Improvements • Custom Report to Automa te Account Crea tion • Sta nda rdized a nd Limited Required Student Da ta • Ta rgeted Approa ch to School O utrea ch Educa tor Outrea ch & Support • Group Libra ry Ca rds • Professiona l Development Sessions • Direct connection for troubleshooting libra ry issues • Subject-specific flyers a nd communica tion • Co-Sponsor Events a t APL • Stickers & Posters Educa tor Outrea ch & Support Educa tor & Student Resources • Bra inFuse Help N ow - Live, online tutoring a nd writing la b sta ffed b y huma ns • JSTO R a nd G a le - Resea rch d a ta b a ses • Tra nsp a rent La ng ua g e a nd Ma ng o La ng ua g es - La ng ua g e lea rning • SkillMill - skilled tra d es tra ining includ ing …
Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative Cities Connecting Children to Nature January 27, 2025 Laura Tadena Community Engagement Librarian Nature Smart Library Strategy Chair Austin Public Library OVERVIEW Background and Overview of CCCN APL’s Nature Smart Library Initiative Future Plans & Opportunities CITIES CONNECTING CHILDREN TO NATURE (CCCN) AUSTIN Cities Connecting Children to Nature is a national initiative initiative that seeks to create more equitable and abundant access to nature in cities through a partnership between The National League of Cities Institute for Youth, Education, and Families and the Children & Nature Network. CCCNS VISION AND MISSION Cities Connecting Children to Nature strives to ensure every child has access to and connection with nature every day. WE ARE COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH THE NATURAL SPACES WHERE THEY LIVE, LEARN, AND PLAY, WHICH FOSTERS LIFELONG BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH NATURE. CCCN COLLABORATES ACROSS INSTITUTIONS AND SYSTEMS, AMPLIFYING EFFORTS, SHARING RESOURCES, AND CREATING PARTNERSHIPS THAT DEEPEN OUR COLLECTIVE VISION AND ADVANCE OUR MISSION. CCCN AUSTIN: OUR EVOLUTION City adopts Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights & begins collection of nature deficient area data Four focal strategies with Outdoor Learning Environments (OLE!) Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position funded through WPD; FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position reclassified as Program Manager Critical look at integration of racial equity lens to all strategies; Integration into City-wide plans 2016 2018 2020 2022 2017 2019 2021 2023-PRESENT Austin receives strategic planning & implementation grant from CCCN Focus on Green School Parks, Nature Play, Youth Leadership & FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position through PARD Five focal strategies with addition of Nature Smart Libraries Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position becomes FTE, funded through WPD + PARD; Dedicated funding for Nature Play and Joint-Use sites in City Budget CCCN AUSTIN: 2022 ACCESS TO NATURE MAP ZIPCODE ANALYSIS: MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, CHILD POPULATION, INVERSE TREE CANOPY, WATERWAYS, & PARKLAND DISADVANTEGED ACCESS TO NATURE 5%-15% 16%-30% 31%-50% 50%-97% AUSTIN CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what equitable access to nature should look like in Austin and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for nature connection in the community. Austin City Council unanimously voted to pass the COBOR on January 26, 2017. Sign The Austin COBOR CCCN AUSTIN: FIVE STRATEGIES Nature Smart Libraries Early Childhood Emerging Green Leaders Green School Parks Nature Play NATURE SMART LIBRARIES EXPANDING CONNECTIONS TO NATURE Library Facilities Storywalks Programming FACILITIES AND SPACES Pollinator …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 16, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 16 DECEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Austin Central Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on November 18, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION ITEMS December 16, 2024 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The Director’s Report was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. Commissioner Herrera Moreno provided an update. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS School Partnerships Library Legislative Advocacy in February ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:03 p.m. without objection.
