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.
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION January 27, 2025 – 6 P.M. Carver Branch Library 1161 Angelina 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 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. 2. 3. 4. 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. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Discussion of the January Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. 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 the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Reception for Library Commission, Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association December 16, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Laura Polio 512-974-9624
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION December 16, 2024 – 6 P.M. Austin Central Library Art Gallery 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 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 Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters 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 November 18, 2024. 2. 3. 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrel, Interim Director of Libraries. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. 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 the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 18 NOVEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the University Hills Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Steve DeRosa, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on October 28, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Herrera Moreno absent during approval. Library Commission Meeting Minutes STAFF BRIEFINGS November 18, 2024 2. Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library The presentation was made by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. Staff briefing on the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation in support of Austin Public Library’s hotspot circulation program. The motion to increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract was approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Hassdorf’s second, on a 9-0 vote. The amendment was: to remove the name T-Mobile from the language. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 2026 Bond School Partnerships Nature Smart Programming Language Access Immigrant Services Passport Services Strategic Plan Roadshow Digital Inclusion Equity Initiatives Adult Programming Civic Engagement Signature Cultural Programming Budget Austin History Center Innovation Lab Poet Laureate ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:14 p.m. without objection.
Director’s Report December 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 1 HIGHLIGHTS APL Strategic Plan The implementation phase of Austin Public Library's Strategic Plan began on October 1st . This phase was launched with a Roadshow led by our Chief Administrative Officer and Business Process Consultant Senior, where they engaged with 40 different library work groups. The goal of the Roadshow was to educate staff about the Strategic Plan in a more intimate setting, fostering focused discussions and allowing for questions. Moving forward, the implementation phase will focus on identifying key data points, establishing systems, creating new policies and procedures, and collecting data to analyze during the baseline year. City Council Action On November 21, 2024, City Council authorized the negotiation and execution of an amendment to a contract for continued wireless communication services and equipment for all City departments with T-Mobile USA Inc., to increase the amount by $1,275,000 for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $1,600,000. Austin Public Library was added to the contract in order to secure the purchase of 500 T- Mobile 5G Inseego Wi-Fi Hotspots, to be added to the Library’s collection for circulation to the public. Our current collection of circulating Wi-Fi Hotspots from Moxee are reaching their end of life, and increased demand on the limited supply has resulted in long waits for the devices. The new Hotspots will be ready for circulation to the public beginning in January 2025. No upcoming scheduled council items have direct Library impact. Legislative Bills Bill pre-filing for the 89th Texas Legislature began on November 12, 2024. Austin Public Library, in conjunction with the City of Austin Intergovernmental Relations Office, have identified the following bills as having a potential positive or negative impact on APL and its operations. SB 88 - Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of sale, distribution, or display of harmful material to a minor. Potential APL impact: Negative. SB 89 - Relating to defenses to prosecution for certain criminal offenses involving material or conduct that may be obscene or is otherwise harmful to children. Potential APL impact: Negative. 2 SB 242, HB 267, HB 1434 – (identical bill language) Relating to affirmative defenses to prosecution …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION November 18 , 2024 – 6P.M. University Hills Branch Library 4721 Loyola 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 Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Melissah Hasdorff Cristina Masters 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's regular meeting on October 28, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library 1. 2. Staff briefing on the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries, Austin Public Library. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation in support of Austin Public Library’s hotspot circulation program. 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 Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 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. 3.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20241118-004 Date: 11/18/2024 Subject: Increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Motion By: Commissioner Davis Seconded By: vice Chair Mehta Recommendation Grant additional authority to increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Description of Recommendation to Council The Austin Library Commission recommends that Austin City Council supports the request for council approval from Austin Public Library and grants additional authority to increase the spending total allowed on the existing City of Austin wireless contract. Rationale: The Austin Library Commission strongly recommends that the Austin City Council approve the request from Austin Public Library (APL) to increase the spending total on the existing wireless contract. This approval would allow APL to order 500 brand-new 5G Wi-Fi hotspots and gain access to an online management portal, enhancing the Library’s ability to serve the community’s digital needs. These new devices would replace the current hotspots, which are reaching the end of their useful life and are no longer able to meet the high demand from Austin residents. APL would cover the monthly service fees for these devices through its existing budget. The demand for Wi-Fi hotspots is significant, with a current waitlist of 234 people for just 29 available devices. Originally, APL had a larger pool of hotspots, but many have been lost, damaged, or are no longer functioning. By increasing the number of available devices, APL will be better positioned to meet the needs of underserved communities, providing equitable access to digital resources for those who may otherwise have limited or no internet access. Their goal is to add at least 300 new devices into circulation by January 2025, if not sooner, and assign additional devices to library branches for outreach services that help serve the community more broadly. This initiative supports Austin's broader digital equity goals, which were recently recognized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) when the City of Austin was named a 2023 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. Austin earned this designation for its ongoing efforts to close the digital divide and provide residents with affordable internet access, devices, and digital literacy programs. The City’s commitment to digital inclusion is evident in its support of various programs, such as the Technology Opportunities Program, the Community PC Program, and digital literacy training initiatives through partners like Austin Free-Net. …
N O V E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 2 4 C O M M U N I T Y E N G A G E M E N T L a u r a T a d e n a C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t L i b r a r i a n THE POWER OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT B u i l d t r u s t a n d r e l a t i o n s h i p s F o s t e r s i n c l u s i o n a n d a m p l i f i e s v o i c e s R e f l e c t s c o m m u n i t y n e e d s D r i v e s i n n o v a t i o n a n d r e l e v a n c e I m p r o v e s a c c e s s a n d s t r e n g t h e n s o u t c o m e s STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT A P L M I S S I O N & V I S I O N M i s s i o n : I n s p i r e a l l t o d i s c o v e r , l e a r n , a n d c r e a t e . V i s i o n : B e a m o d e l o f e q u i t y , d i v e r s i t y , a c c e s s , a n d i n c l u s i o n . P U R P O S E A N D G O A L A s s e s s a n d e n h a n c e h o w e f f e c t i v e l y A P L e n g a g e s w i t h …
1 Director’s Report November 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 HIGHLIGHTS APL Hosts Netherlands & Dutch Caribbean APL hosted an International Study Visit for 24 library professionals from the Netherlands and Dutch Caribbean. The four-day event featured collaborative roundtables, in-depth discussions with APL's Executive Leadership Team, and presentations on community engagement, school partnerships, and outreach strategies led by Jennifer Peters, Laura Tadena, Jenny Stirrat, and Melissa Sanchez. The group visited library locations, including the Central Library, St. John Branch, Windsor Park Branch, Terrazas Branch, Austin History Center, and African American Cultural and Heritage Facility. The group also had the opportunity to tour Austin City Hall and view the People's Gallery. The event concluded with a reflection session, which helped to foster cross-cultural insight and innovative approaches to library services. Nature Smart Libraries New Project! Pollinator Garden at Ruiz and Cepeda Branch Libraries Austin Public Library is in the planning and design stage of installing pollinator gardens at both Ruiz and Cepeda. The gardens will serve as a resource for educating the community about the importance of pollinators and connecting people with nature APL and Roots and Wings! APL is participating in the Roots and Wings Festival and is offering a variety of programs that highlight nature, creativity, and environmental stewardship. One highlight is the Urban Forest Explorers Nature Play Kit, which was made possible by a Roots and Wings grant. The kits will circulate with PARD’s Loose Parts Kit and will also be available in the youth areas of Cepeda, Ruiz, and Twin Oak Branch Libraries throughout the festival. APL Branch and Librarian Spotlight - Kayla De La Portilla @ Terrazas Branch Terrazas recently completed its renovation and the children's area now includes elements of nature play in the space. Kayla De La Portilla, Youth Librarian, has helped transform the area by introducing engaging, hands-on activities that connect children with the natural world. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility (AACHF) The AACHF recently played host to the City of Austin's Equity Office for their "Equity 101" workshop, a pivotal event aimed at fostering, understanding and promoting inclusivity within the community. This workshop provided participants with foundational knowledge on equity principles, highlighting the importance of addressing …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 28 OCTOBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the John Gillum Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Magen Davis, Mark Smith Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the September 23, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 23, 2024, were approved with amendments on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. The amendments were as follows: 1. Corrections to the spelling of “African” in the first sentence of the minutes. Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 2. Correction of Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s name in the Approval of Minutes and Discussion and Action Items sections’ 3. Capitalization of the word “Commission” in the Public Comment and Staff Briefing Sections 4. Addition of the statement, “Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns” in the Approval of Minutes section. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns. STAFF BRIEFINGS Librarian III. 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, The presentation was made by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The presentation was made by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 4. Staff briefing on the October Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approval of the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule The motion to approve the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule was approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. The update was given by Commissioner Herrera Moreno. Carlos León provided public …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 18 NOVEMBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the University Hills Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, , Mark Smith, Magen Davis, Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Steve DeRosa, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on October 28, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Herrera Moreno absent during approval. Library Commission Meeting Minutes STAFF BRIEFINGS November 18, 2024 2. Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library The presentation was made by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. Staff briefing on the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation in support of Austin Public Library’s hotspot circulation program. The motion to increase the spending total allowed by Austin Public Library on the existing City of Austin wireless contract was approved with the following amendment on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Hassdorf’s second, on a 9-0 vote. The amendment was: to remove the name T-Mobile from the language. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 2026 Bond School Partnerships Nature Smart Programming Language Access Immigrant Services Passport Services Strategic Plan Roadshow Digital Inclusion Equity Initiatives Adult Programming Civic Engagement Signature Cultural Programming Budget Austin History Center Innovation Lab Poet Laureate ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:14 p.m. without objection. Library Commission Meeting Minutes November 18, 2024 The minutes from the November 18, 2024, regular meeting were approved at the December 16, 2024, meeting on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Smith, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa and Frayjo absent.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION October 28, 2024 – 6P.M. John Gillum Branch Library 2502 Steck Ave. 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 Andrea Herrera Moreno Kezia Frayjo Mark Smith Melissah Hasdorff AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Cristina Masters Magen Davis Steve DeRosa 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's special called meeting on September 23, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Staff briefing on the October Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approval of the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule 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 Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 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. 3. 4. 5.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 23 SEPTEMBER 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the Affrican American Cultural and Heritage Center, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa, Mark Smith, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Kezia Frayjo Commission Members Absent: Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the August 26, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes of the September 23, 2024, special called meeting were approved with the following amendments on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera-Moreno’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Masters absent. The amendments were: the removal of the wording, “Criminal Trespass Notices received.on May 9, 2024, at the Old Quarry and May 13, 2024, at the Howson branch libraries.”, and the addition of the wording, “various concerns.” STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Security by St. John Requejo, Facilities Services Manager, Ida Garza, Central Security Supervisor, and Lloyd Black, Branch Security Supervisor. Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 The presentation was made by St. John Requejo, Facilities Services Manager, Ida Garza, Central Security Supervisor, and Lloyd Black, Branch Security Supervisor. Carlos León provided public comment to the commission regarding security concerns. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Partnerships by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. The presentation was made by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. 4. Staff briefing on the September Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and creation of a working group to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council. The Commission approved the creation of a working group to include Commissioner Herrera- Moreno as chair, with Commisisoner Smth, and Commissioner DeRosa to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council with Commissioner Davis’ motion and Vice Chair Mehta’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner …
