REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2025, AT 6 P.M. RUIZ BRANCH LIBRARY 1600 GROVE BLVD AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. 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, contact Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on September 29, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on October 27, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion on prospective advocacy initiatives to support the Austin Public Library Centennial Celebrations in 2026. 4. 5. Discussion and approval of a Library Commission representative to the Austin Public Library Honorary Centennial Planning Committee. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the Library Commission. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing on the November APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
APL CENTENNIAL GOALS • To celebrate 100 years of Austin Public Library in a variety of ways and look forward to the next century • To tell APL’s story and clearly showcase the library’s value to the public • To invite the public to collectively reflect and share what they value. about APL 2026 DATES • Kick off celebrations systemwide February 16, 2026 • Grand Celebration at Central on October 17, 2026 • End systemwide celebrations December 23, 2026
APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Highlights Spicewood Springs Branch Marks 40 Years of Community Impact The Austin Public Library welcomed the community to the Spicewood Springs Branch 40th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, November 1st, honoring four decades of service, learning, and neighborhood connection. Guests enjoyed a lively afternoon featuring family-friendly activities, special presentations including Austin’s first Poet Laureate Zell Miller III, and opportunities to reflect on the stories, people, and programs that have shaped the branch’s legacy. Finger Weaving at APL RHIZOMATIC: Essentials Creative Essentials Creative presents Rhizomatic, an immersive installation on view during October at the Central Library. This series of double-sided tapestries reimagines native Texas plants through cultural storytelling, artistic interpretation, and botanical research. Supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department, Rhizomatic honors ancestral knowledge and inspires new relationships with the Texas landscape. 3 APL hosted a hands-on finger weaving workshopat several library locations, led by Doug Martin, aCitizen of the Cherokee Nation and TERO-certifiedfinger weaver. Participants learned the traditionalloom-free weaving method and practiced thediagonal pattern by creating keychains or lanyardsto take home. Martin, who teaches Cherokeelanguage, crafts, and history in his community,shared his cultural expertise while demonstratinghow ancestral techniques continue to informcontemporary artistry. AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Special Events Updates In October 2025, Central Library Special Events hosted 18 programs, including 14 rentals and 4 co- sponsorships, with an estimated total attendance of 2,242. Co-sponsorship highlights included events with the Library Foundation (Yang Shuang-zi’s Taiwan Travelogue and The Day the Books Disappeared), the African American Heritage Network’s Speed Mentoring Event, and the City of Austin Economic Development Department’s For Women, by Women: Celebrating Women Entrepreneurship. The City’s Economic Development Department held the event For Women, by Women: Celebrating Women Entrepreneurship on October 16th. Recycled Reads Transition City Council Updates/Legislative Bills There have not been any recent Austin City Council agenda items nor have there been any legislative bills that would have a direct impact on Austin Public Library. Budget and Expenditures 4 A “Recycled Reads Transition Workgroup” has been established to develop timelines and createoperational plans for the transition of the Recycled Reads program from a single bookstore location ina leased privately-owned storefront to a systemwide program with materials sales at all Austin PublicLibrary locations. These timelines will allow for …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 27, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, at the Carver Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Melissah Hasdorff Magen Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León – TBD APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on August 25, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 27, 2025 The September 29, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Carlile, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta and Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on a 9–0 vote. The August 2, 2025, minutes were approved to be amended on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Herrera Moreno. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. The amendment was under Staff Briefing, item 7 , line 3: the word “her” was changed to “their.” The posted agenda contained an incorrect date, and actions taken on dates not on the agenda. Necessary votes will be retaken at future meetings to ensure compliance with public notice requirements. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve the 2026 annual schedule of the Library Commission. The motion to approve the Library Commission 2026 Meeting Schedule was approved with the following friendly amendments on Commissioner Selig’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Gururaj and Commissioner Carlile on a 9-0 vote. The friendly amendment from Chair Infante Herrera was to update the date and location of the March meeting to March 23, 2026, at the Central Library. This was accepted by Commissioner Selig, Commissioner Gururaj and Commissioner Carlile. STAFF BRIEFING 1. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Strategic and Administrative Services Division by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Carmaleta McKinnis-Williams, I.D.E.A.L. Program Manager, Nancie Mathis, Passport Services Administrative Supervisor and Josh Wilkinson, Sales & Events Manager. The briefing was presented by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Nancie Mathis, Passport Services Administrative Supervisor and Josh Wilkinson, Sales & Events Manager. 3. Staff briefing on the October APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 2026 Meeting …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 29, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Howson Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig Commissioners Absent: Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sara Black - Remotely Carlos León - Present APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on August 25, 2025. The August 25, 2025, minutes were approved with the following amendment at the September 29, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on a 6–0 vote. Commissioners Carlile, Gururaj Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 29, 2025 and Herrera Moreno were absent. The amendment was to correct a typographical error in Item 1, Approval of the Minutes, by changing “Commissioners” to “Commissioner” on line two. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on the Outcomes and Highlights of the Summer at Austin Public Library Program by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. The briefing was presented by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. 3. Staff briefing on the September APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the 2026 Library Commission Meeting Schedule. The Commission discussed the 2026 Library Commission Meeting Schedule. 5. Discussion regarding the Community Meeting held on September 11, 2025, by District 7 and Austin Public Library concerning the Recycled Reads program. The Commission discussed the Community Meeting held on September 11, 2025, by District 7 and Austin Public Library concerning the Recycled Reads program. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Passport Services I.D.E.A.L - Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access in Libraries ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:39 p.m. without objection.
Library Commission 2026 Meeting Schedule MEETING DATES & TIMES LOCATION DISTRICT Monday, January 26 6 PM Milwood Branch, 125 Amherst Dr Monday, February 23 6 PM Little Walnut Branch, 835 W. Rundberg Ln Monday, March 23* 6 PM Central, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St 7 4 9 Monday, April 27 6 PM Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr 2 Monday, May 18* 6 PM Old Quarry Branch,7051 Village Circle Dr 10 Monday, June 29 6 PM Hampton Branch, 5125 Convict Hill Rd Saturday, July 25* 10 AM Central, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St 8 9 Monday, August 31 6 PM Spicewood Springs, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd 6 Monday, September 28 6 PM Austin History Center Campus, 800 Guadalupe St 9 Monday, October 26 6 PM Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr Monday, November 16* 6 PM University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln 3 1 Monday, December 14* 6 PM Central, 710 W Cesar Chavez St 9 *Date Change The purpose of the board is to make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025, AT 6 P.M. CARVER BRANCH LIBRARY 1161 ANGELINA STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. 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, contact Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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 August 25, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve the 2026 annual schedule of the Library Commission. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Strategic and Administrative Services Division by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Carmaleta McKinnis-Williams, I.D.E.A.L. Program Manager, Nancie Mathis, Passport Services Administrative Supervisor and Josh Wilkinson, Sales & Events Manager. Staff briefing on the October APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Austin Public Library Strategic and Administrative Services Division (ASAS) Austin Public Library - ASAS Division Data and Strategic Planning Data and Strategic Planning Sales and Event Services Sales and Event Services Mentor/Tutor Program Mentor/Tutor Program Passport Services Passport Services I.D.E.A.L. I.D.E.A.L. Austin Public Library | October 27, 2025 Data & Strategic Planning Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer Austin Public Library | October 27 Data Management & System Improvement Reports State Accreditation Annual state and national surveys Training Track & Display Strategic Plan data City of Austin KPIs City of Austin Strategic Plan 3 APL Strategic Plan 01 02 03 04 05 Goal 1 Provide Community-Centric Programs and Services Goal 2 Design and Develop Spaces for Community Connections Goal 3 Foster Stakeholder Relationships Goal 4 Expand Library Access Goal 5 Engage Staff Sales & Events Services Josh Wilkinson, Special Events Manager Austin Public Library | October 27 Events Services Overview • Manage external rentals and co-sponsored events to generate revenue. • Support Library priorities: community programs, space development, and stakeholder engagement. • Generate $350,000+ annually in revenue to fund Library initiatives. • Ensure accessibility with a 50% discount for non-profits, educational institutions, and government agencies. Spaces SPECIAL EVENT CENTER (UP TO 450 GUESTS) ROOF GARDEN & INDOOR LIVING ROOM (UP TO 250 GUESTS) ART GALLERY (UP TO 175 GUESTS) DEMONSTRATION AREA (UP TO 80 GUESTS) OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER (UP TO 25 GUESTS OR ADD ON SPACE) Operations Customer Service: • Event planning • Contracting & invoicing Vendor & Facilities Management • A/V • Catering • Security • Custodial Co-Sponsored Events Fee waivers for events aligning with Library & City priorities 7 Results & Alignment Economic & Community Contributions 200+ events annually, generating $350,000+ in revenue 15,000 - 22,000 visitors per year, many discovering Library services for the first time Aligning with Library’s Mission & Vision Equity & Inclusion: Providing accessible spaces for all community members. Education & Engagement: Hosting diverse events that introduce attendees to Library resources. Sustainability: Revenue reinvested to enhance Library programs and spaces. 8 Mentor/Tutor Program Odera Anyasinti, Administrator Austin Public Library | October 27 CITY OF AUSTIN MENTOR/TUTOR CITY OF AUSTIN MENTOR/TUTOR PROGRAM PROGRAM The City of Austin Mentor and Tutor Program allows City employees to volunteer in mentoring and tutoring roles with any of seven programs approved by the Austin Independent School District (AISD), for up to two hours per week during the workday with supervisor …
Library Commission 2026 Meeting Schedule MEETING DATES & TIMES LOCATION DISTRICT Monday, January 26 6 PM Milwood Branch, 125 Amherst Dr Monday, February 23 6 PM Little Walnut Branch, 835 W. Rundberg Ln Monday, March 30 6 PM Menchaca Branch, 5500 Menchaca Rd 7 4 5 Monday, April 27 6 PM Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr 2 Monday, May 18* 6 PM Old Quarry Branch,7051 Village Circle Dr 10 Monday, June 29 6 PM Hampton Branch, 5125 Convict Hill Rd Saturday, July 25* 10 AM Central, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St 8 9 Monday, August 24 6 PM Spicewood Springs, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd 6 Monday, September 28 6 PM Austin History Center Campus, 800 Guadalupe St 9 Monday, October 26 6 PM Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr Monday, November 16* 6 PM University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln 3 1 Monday, December 14* 6 PM Central, 710 W Cesar Chavez St 9 *Date Change Due to Holiday or Retreat The purpose of the board is to make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150
Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 29, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Howson Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig Commissioners Absent: Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sara Black (remotely) Carlos León APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on August 25, 2025. The August 25, 2025, minutes were approved with the following amendment at the September 29, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on a 6–0 vote. Commissioners Carlile, Gururaj Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 29, 2025 and Herrera Moreno were absent. The amendment was to correct a typographical error in Item 1, Approval of the Minutes, by changing “Commissioners” to “Commissioner” on line two. Carlos León provided public communication to the Commission. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on the Outcomes and Highlights of the Summer at Austin Public Library Program by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. The briefing was presented by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. 3. Staff briefing on the September APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director. Carlos León provided public communication to the Commission. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the 2026 Library Commission Meeting Schedule. The Commission discussed the 2026 Library Commission Meeting Schedule. 5. Discussion regarding the Community Meeting held on September 11, 2025, by District 7 and Austin Public Library concerning the Recycled Reads program. The Commission discussed the Community Meeting held on September 11, 2025, by District 7 and Austin Public Library concerning the Recycled Reads program. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Passport Services I.D.E.A.L - Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access in Libraries ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:39 p.m. without objection.
APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director October 2025 Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Highlights “Unboxing the Archives” Welcomes Visitors Back to AHC On Sunday, October 7, AHC hosted Unboxing the Archives: Our Records, Our Stories, offering the public a “sneak peek” of the transformed History Center. The event’s new exhibit explored how archives preserve diverse narratives that shape our collective understanding of the past. Guests enjoyed a vibrant afternoon featuring music from DJ Chorizo Funk and DJ Hunt, catering from local vendors, and a special appearance by U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett. The event underscored the History Center’s role in connecting community through storytelling, creativity, and shared history. Austin Lima Sister Cities: “Peru Unveiled” On Saturday, September 27, Austin Public Library and the Austin Lima Sister Cities Committee presented Peru Unveiled at the Central Library. The weekend celebration honored Peruvian art, heritage, and culture through music, dance, and storytelling. Performances included traditional dances by Tusuy Sonqo Perú, Wayra Perú, and Agrupación Folclórica Orgullo y Tradición. Guests also enjoyed a theatre performance by Miki Vargas and a lively cooking demonstration by Chef Majo con Sabor, hosted by Adolfo Aguilar. Film screenings and a panel discussion on Peruvian identity and cultural storytelling rounded out the event. Hip Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit Dancers and guests celebrate Peruvian culture at Peru Unveiled. Austin Public Library is partnering with the LBJ Library and Foundation to promote Hip Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit, on loan from the GRAMMY Museum. The exhibit runs from October 4, 2025 through January 4, 2026. To celebrate, Carver Branch Library will host a Vinyl Night on November 7 with music, games, and a guest speaker. 3 The exhibit immerses visitors in hip-hop’s historythrough a 200-song playlist and rare artifacts thatshowcase the culture’s evolution. Highlights includeChuck D’s handwritten “Fight the Power” lyrics, LL CoolJ’s Kangol hat and TROOP jacket, DMC’s Adidas andfedora, Egyptian Lover’s gold Roland 808, Questlove’sdrumsticks, and signature pieces from MC Lyte, DozeGreen, and The Notorious B.I.G. AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Special Events Updates In September 2025, Central Library Special Events hosted 16 programs, including 9 rentals, 7 co- sponsorships, and 2 photography sessions, with an estimated total attendance of 2,366. Co-sponsorship highlights included the CATRAC Educational Symposium, the Texas Book Festival Lineup Reveal, and the 75th Anniversary of UT Press. City departments …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION September 29, 2025 – 6 P.M. Howson Branch Library 2500 Exposition Blvd. 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 via video conference. 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 Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno 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 August 25, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing on the Outcomes and Highlights of the Summer at Austin Public Library Program by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. Staff briefing on the September APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 5. Discussion on the 2026 Library Commission Meeting Schedule. Discussion regarding the Community Meeting held on September 11, 2025, by District 7 and Austin Public Library concerning the Recycled Reads 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 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.
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director September 2025 HIGHLIGHTS Goodbye, Summer 2025 This summer brought cooler temperatures and record- breaking engagement across the Austin Public Library system. Thanks to the leadership of Alanna Graves and the incredible efforts of youth librarians, programmers, volunteers, and staff, Summer 2025 was one to remember. Over the course of the summer, APL hosted 354 events, an 8.25 percent increase over last year, with 17,366 attendees, reflecting a 42 percent growth in participation. The reading challenge also saw a significant boost, with readers logging over 4.2 million minutes, a 25 percent increase from 2024. From Literature Live and musical performances to crafts and reading incentives, APL’s summer programming inspired thousands of families across Austin. Teen Workshop Series Puts Youth Stories at the Center APL recently hosted a three-part Teen Workshop Series inspired by KUT’s ATXplained, led by iSchool intern and KUT journalist Sarah Asch. Nearly 20 teens participated in the program, exploring topics in Austin’s culture and history through interviews, archival research, and storytelling. Working alongside mentors and staff from the Austin History Center, teens created original stories that will be on display in Teen Central through September. Five participants also submitted their pieces for consideration by KUT’s editorial team. If selected, they will have the opportunity to record their stories for broadcast at KUT’s studio. Branch Programming Highlights Yarborough Branch has been selected as one of 40 libraries nationwide to participate in the Yiddish Book Center’s Public Libraries Program, themed Between Two Worlds: Exploring Jewish Culture and Religion through Yiddish Literature. As part of the program, Interim Branch Manager Julie Brown will attend a three day workshop at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Massachusetts in November 2025. The program provides resources, training, and support for libraries to host public reading groups exploring themes of identity, religion, and immigration through translated Yiddish literature. Community programming at APL will begin following the workshop. Southeast Branch hosted a Tiny Libraries Workshop, where 26 adult participants created small book sharing structures in a hands on, community focused craft session. Ruiz Branch welcomed crowds in July with a popular Minecraft Quest session and a high energy magic show that drew nearly 120 excited attendees. University Hills Branch brought back its annual Arcade Night on August 9, serving as an end of summer celebration and back to school bash. Around 200 participants enjoyed …
Alanna Graves Librarian III: Summer Experience Coordinator alanna.graves@austintexas.gov | 512-974-7311 Program features a summer learning challenge, prizes, and over 350 free events from June 7th - August 10th 2025 Summer Reading & Badge Challenge THIS SUMMER, WE CHALLENGE YOU TO READ, LEARN, AND EARN FREE PRIZES READ COMPLETE EARN 600 Minutes Learning Badges Free Prizes Learning badges are scaled for each age group: babies & toddlers, kids & tweens, teens, and adults HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE Online Paper Logs Available at APL Locations or PDF download at library.austintexas.gov/summer FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! Adults earn an APL ceramic mug! k o o g ! e b s i n e o r o n a f r h e i r c u Y o a h h e f t t o CHALLENGE FINISHER STATS 2023-2025 COMPARISON 2023 2024 2025 % difference between 2024-2025 Minutes Logged 2,157,070 3,383,106 4,226,202 +25% increase Readers Enrolled 4,256 6,265 7,390 +18% increase Prizes Distributed 2,763 4,145 4,872 +17.5% increase *CONGRATS TO ARZ FOR GIVING OUT THE MOST PRIZES (528)! CHALLENGE FINISHER STATS 2023-2025 BY AGE GROUP 2023 2024 2025 % difference between 2024-2025 Babies, Toddlers & Pre-K 776 1,012 1,108 +9.5% increase Kids & Tweens 1,331 1,712 1,804 +5.4% increase Teens Adults 146 512 173 183 +5.8% increase 1,248 1,777 +42.4% increase *SHOUT OUTS TO BEANSTACK SPOCS! TOP 3 TITLES LOGGED BY AGE Bear’s Lost Glasses by Leo TimmersWe are Definitely Human by X. FangGoodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown Kids & TweensBabies & ToddlersScare School Diaries by Jarrett LernerDog Man: Big Jim Begins by Dav PilkeyThe Wild Robot Escapes by Peter BrownTeensSunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsPercy Jackson: Chalice of the Gods byRick RiordanThe Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny HanAdultsGreat Big Beautiful LIfe by Emily HenryJames by Percival EverettAtmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid DISCOVER, LEARN, & CREATE ACTIVITY BADGES CUSTOMER ANECDOTES (2,740 RESPONSES TOTAL) DISCOVERED LIBRARY RESOURCES “I made a castle with magnatiles I checked out from the library!” -AOK Customer, age 3 “I started to sew thanks to quilting and sewing books I checked out at the library” -AHO Customer, age 30 “We learned some basic sign language from my son (and a camp he went to) and a book we checked out from the library!” -AMI Customers, ages 8 & 38 “[I discovered] ‘Ninja Kitten’ by Colleen Venable. It was displayed at St. John’s library“ -ASJ Customer, …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes August 25, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2025 The Library Commission convened a regular meeting on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Twin Oaks Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Commissioners Absent: Magen Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Name: Carlos León Topic: Hannah Terrell APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on June 30, 2025. The June 30, 2025, minutes were approved at the August 25, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioners Hasdorff. The motion passed on a 9–0 vote. Commissioner Davis was absent. Library Commission Meeting Minutes August 25, 2025 2. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission Special Called meeting on August 2, 2025. The August 2, 2025, minutes were approved at the August 25, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Hasdorff, seconded by Commissioner Gururaj. The motion passed on a 9–0 vote. Commissioner Davis was absent. Carlos León provided public communication to the Commission. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Strategic Plan Update by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer. The briefing was presented by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer and Joe Faulk, Information Technology Manager. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Facilities Updates and Capital Improvement Projects, by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The briefing was presented by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 5. Staff briefing on the August APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director. Carlos León provided public communication to the Commission. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion on Recent Library Article by Zac Bissonnette in The Free Press. The Commission discussed the Recent Library Article, The Death of the Public Library, by Zac Bissonnette in The Free Press. Carlos León provided public communication to the Commission. 7. Discussion on Long-Range Objectives and Advocacy Strategies to Support Austin Public Library Priorities for the Next Year. The Commission discussed future objectives and advocacy strategies to support the Austin Public Library over the next year. The conversation focused on gaining deeper understanding of key …
2026 Meeting Schedule for the Library Commission MEETING DATES & TIMES LOCATION DISTRICT Monday, January 26 6 PM Milwood Branch, 125 Amherst Dr Monday, February 23 6 PM Little Walnut Branch, 835 W. Rundberg Ln Monday, March 30 6 PM Menchaca Branch, 5500 Menchaca Rd 7 4 5 Monday, April 27 6 PM Pleasant Hill Branch, 211 E. William Cannon Dr 2 Monday, May 18* 6 PM Old Quarry Branch,7051 Village Circle Dr 10 Monday, June 29 6 PM Hampton Branch, 5125 Convict Hill Rd Saturday, July 25* 10 AM Central, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St 8 9 Monday, August 24 6 PM Spicewood Springs, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd 6 Monday, September 28 6 PM Austin History Center Campus, 800 Guadalupe St 9 Monday, October 26 6 PM Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr Monday, November 16* 6 PM University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln 3 1 Monday, December 14* 6 PM Central, 710 W Cesar Chavez St 9 *Date Change Due to Holiday or Retreat The purpose of the board is make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION August 25, 2025 – 6 P.M. Twin Oaks Branch Library 1800 South 5th 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 via video conference. 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 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Dr. 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. 2. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on June 30, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission Special Called meeting on August 2, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. 5. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Strategic Plan Update by Katherine Cantrell, Interim Chief Administrative Officer. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Facilities Updates and Capital Improvement Projects, by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Staff briefing on the August APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. 7. Discussion on Recent Library Article by Zac Bissonnette in The Free Press. Discussion on Long-Range Objectives and Advocacy Strategies to Support Austin Public Library Priorities for the Next Year. 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 …
