REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026, AT 6 P.M. PLEASANT HILL BRANCH LIBRARY 211 EAST WILLIAM CANNON DRIVE 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 Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Elizabeth Hansen Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Lorrie Ann Mitchel 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 March 23, 2026. DISCUSSION 2. Presentation by Authors Against Book Bans and The Library Foundation regarding Austin becoming a Book Safe Harbor. Presentation by Liz Garton Scanion, Children’s Author and leadership member of Authors Against Book Bans, and Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. Staff briefing on April 2026 Austin Public Library Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, 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 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.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, March 23, 2026 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Central Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sara Gore Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Melissah Hasdorff Lorrie Mitchell Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on February 23, 2026. The February 23, 2026, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Gururaj, seconded by Commissioners Selig, Sabiston and Vice Chair Mehta. The motion passed on a 10-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. The Commission discussed the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 3. Approval of a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget. A motion to approve the recommendation to council to support Austin Public Library's FY27 budget with continued and sufficient funding to ensure equity across all branches and support service enhancements was approved on Commissioner Selig’s motion, Commissioner Sabiston’s second on a 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 4. Staff briefing on the February APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Elections Book Safe Harbor Collaborations ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:44 p.m. without objection.
Austin as a Book Safe Harbor: Honoring Where We’ve Come From, Where We’re Going and What We Stand For L I B R A R Y C O M M I S S I O N M E E T I N G – A P R I L 2 7 , 2 0 2 6 Tonight’s Proposal 1 Introducing the Team 2 Introducing the Concept 3 Why This Matters! 4 Why Now? 5 What’s Next? Book sanctuaries (or “safe harbors”) are a proactive way to demonstrateour values as a community! Book Safe Harbors: Offer proactive protections for books and readers Reaffirm existing principles & policies of the library by enshrining them in local ordinances Protect collections, budgets and staff time Counter book bans and censorship Why This Matters! Current legislation threatens access to books Book banning has been normalized Kids aren’t seeing themselves or each other in books Literacy rates are declining Librarians need our support! Intellectual freedoms are worth standing up for Why Now? (Why Not?!) Letʼs ask the City of Austin to join us in celebrating APLʼs century-long tradition of serving readers and protecting the right to read! 1 Work with City of Austin stakeholders to create a Book Safe Harbor that’s rooted in APL’s policies and traditions 2 Aim toward October’s APL Centennial Celebration 3 Publicize and celebrate well beyond October! What’s Next? The 1st Amendment isnʼt the only way to keep books accessible to all who need them. We can continue the good work of APL into the next century by making Austin a Book Safe Harbor. Thoughts & Questions? Thank You!
Highlights & Updates Report Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries April 2026 Public Services Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Highlights Wikicurious: The History of Austin Wikicurious – The History of Austin, Texas took place on Monday, March 9, from 1–5 p.m., hosted by Wikimedia NYC and the Austin Public Library’s Central Library during SXSW EDU. The community editing event welcomed both new and experienced Wikipedia editors to collaborate on improving articles related to Austin’s history. Experts from the Austin History Center shared insights on archiving, research methods, and local artifacts, while Austin Typewriters Ink. provided vintage typewriters and historical context. The program aligned with Wikipedia’s 25th anniversary and APL’s Centennial Celebrations. Central Texas Learning Festival at Milwood Branch Austin Public Library partnered with the Austin Japan Community (AJC) to host a cultural program at Milwood Branch on Saturday, March 14 as part of the Central Texas Learning Festival, welcoming 232 community participants. The event provided hands-on opportunities for families and visitors to explore elements of Japanese culture, including traditional toys, calligraphy, origami, and Yukata dressing in collaboration with Kimono Mosaique. The program highlighted the Library’s ongoing commitment to cultural learning and community partnerships that bring diverse educational experiences to Austin residents. 3 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Centennial Planning Updates During the weekend of April 4–5, the Austin Public Library participated in the third annual Austin Book Trail. The event aligned with the launch of the Centennial Library Card Art Contest, which invited current APL cardholders within our service area to submit original designs in three categories: Child (ages 0–12): “The Library’s 100th Birthday Party”; Teen (ages 13–17): “Austin Public Library’s Next Century”; and Adult (18+): “Inspiring All to Discover, Learn, and Create.” One winning design will be selected per age group. This was APL Shop’s first year taking part in the Book Trail. The shop was open on Saturday only and closed Sunday. To mark the occasion, staff distributed free limited‑edition stickers to anyone who requested one, no purchase necessary, limited to one per person. Trail maps were also available for visitors throughout the day, as well as the APL Adventure Book. Special Events Updates The Central Library Special Events hosted 12 events in March 2026, with an estimated total attendance of 2,199. Event types included 9 rentals (one spanning four days), 2 co‑sponsorships, 1 internal event, and 1 film/photo request. • Co‑sponsorships: – Texas …
Book Safe Harbor Presenta(cid:415)on and FAQs Library Commission Mee(cid:415)ng, 4/27/2026 What IS a Book Safe Harbor (or Book Sanctuary City)? A municipal, physical and/or digital space that ac(cid:415)vely protects the right to read and ensures access to banned or challenged books. • The movement started in Chicago. • Harris County established the first Book Sanctuary in Texas! • The Book Sanctuary movement is on fire in New Jersey. What are the goals of a Book Safe Harbor? • Reaffirming the policies and principles of the library • Protec(cid:415)ng “endangered” books and keeping them accessible • Providing community educa(cid:415)on around book banning and intellectual freedoms • Suppor(cid:415)ng library collec(cid:415)ons, staff and budgets What Steps Do We Need to Take to Make Aus(cid:415)n a Book Safe Harbor? • Connect with City stakeholders (such as Council members or representa(cid:415)ves and the Human Rights Commission) • Dra(cid:332) an ordinance to explicitly include the principles of the library, including protec(cid:415)ng intellectual freedom, open access and a collec(cid:415)on that serves every reader • Create ac(cid:415)on items and (cid:415)meline with an October 2026 goal to coincide with APL’s centennial celebra(cid:415)on • Work with the Library Founda(cid:415)on around displays, presenta(cid:415)ons, promo materials, and more.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2026, AT 6 P.M. AUSTIN CENTRAL LIBRARY, 4TH FLOOR DIRECTOR’S CONFERENCE ROOM 710 WEST CESAR CHAVEZ 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. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston AGENDA 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 February 23, 2026. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 3. Approval of a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget. STAFF BRIEFINGS 4. 5. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library’s Innovate Program by Will Harlan, Innovate Supervisor. Staff briefing on March 2026 Austin Public Library Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, 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 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.
BYLAWS OF THE Library Commission ARTICLE 1. NAME. The name of the board is Library Commission. ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose and duties of the board are as follows: To make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150 ARTICLE 3. MEMBERSHIP. (A) The board is composed of eleven members appointed by the city council. (B) A member serves at the pleasure of the city council. (C) Board members serve for a term of four years beginning March 1st on the year of appointment. (D) An individual board member may not act in an official capacity or speak on behalf of the board except through the action of a majority of the board in which the board identifies who is authorized to speak and identifies the actions the individual board member is authorized to take or topics on which the individual board member is entitled to speak. (E) A board member who is absent for three consecutive regular meetings or one-third of all regular meetings in a “rolling” twelve month timeframe automatically vacates the member’s position subject to the holdover provisions in Section 2-1-27 of the City Code. This does not apply to an absence due to illness or injury of the board member, an illness or injury of a board member’s immediate family member, active military service, or the birth or adoption of the board member’s child for 90 days after the event. The board member must notify the staff liaison of the reason for the absence not later than the date of the next regular meeting of the board. Failure to notify the liaison before the next regular meeting of the board will result in an unexcused absence. (F) At each meeting, each board member shall sign an attendance sheet (or if participating virtually via videoconference, send an email as provided by City Code Section 2-1-24(D)) which indicates that the member does not have a conflict of interest with any item on that agenda, or identifies each agenda item on which the member has a conflict of interest. Failure to sign the sheet results in the member being counted as absent and his/her votes are not counted. (G) A member who seeks to resign from the board shall submit a written resignation to the chair of the board, the staff liaison, or the city …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2026 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, February 23, 2026 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Little Walnut Creek Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Library Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2026 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on December 15, 2025. The December 15, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioners Hasdorff and Gore. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion of items for inclusion in a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget, including potential elements such as increased funding for library collections, expanded community support resources, safety and security resources and bond development engagement. The Commission discussed potential items for inclusion in a recommendation supporting the Austin Public Library FY27 Budget. Chair Infante Huerta appointed a working group, of which she will serve as a member, along with Commissioners Sabiston, Gore, and Selig, to draft the FY27 budget recommendation. The working group will present a draft recommendation at the March Commission meeting. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on the February APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Security ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:27 p.m. without objection.
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Library Commission Recommendation Number: [20260323-003]: Support for Austin Public Library FY27 Budget Date of Approval: March 23, 2026 Recommendation: Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2027 with continued and sufficient funding to ensure equity across all branches and support service enhancements. This includes an increase to the books and materials budget, sustained security and law enforcement presence, sustained funding for technology initiatives such as hotspot lending, and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies to meet the goals of the Council-approved Strategic Plan. Description of Recommendation to Council: Requesting the Austin City Council to approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2027. The Library Commission also supports a one-time $200,000 increase to the books and materials budget, sustained funding for library security staff and the law enforcement partnership with Travis County, and $350,000 in one-time funding for feasibility studies related to upcoming library facilities projects. Furthermore, we recommend sufficient FY27 funding to ensure equitable digital access across all 21 library branches by expanding the hotspot lending program, modernizing infrastructure and service standards, and investing in comprehensive technology training for both library staff and the diverse Austin community. Rationale: The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, remains the roadmap for meeting the needs of our growing city. To implement this plan and maintain high-quality service, the Library requires stable, ongoing investment. Data from 2025 highlights the massive scale of community reliance on these services: APL welcomed 3 million visitors and gained 100,000 new cardholders, bringing the monthly average to 356,000 active cardholders. This growth is supported by a dedicated community, including an average of 169 volunteers each month. While physical circulation remains strong at 3.73 million items, digital circulation has now surpassed it at 4 million items. The rising costs of e-book licenses, inflation, and the growth of the Austin population have strained the collection. The Library Commission has heard from the public regarding complaints about hold time and material availability. The robust use of the Austin Public Library, as indicated by the statistics above, necessitates an increase in funding to support the same level of service patrons have come to expect and the growing digital needs of the Austin community. Therefore, we support a one-time $200,000 increase to the books and materials budget, in addition to an annual percentage increase in line …
APL Innovate An overview Welcome! I’m W ill. Today I’ll review: - Who is APL Innovate? - Who do we serve? - What do we have? Who we are APL Inno va te is a d ig ita l m a ke rs p a c e . W e p ro vid e the p ub lic with fre e c la s s e s a nd a c c e s s to c re a tive te c hno lo g ie s . Our values In a d d itio n to lib ra ry va lue s , o ur te a m e s p e c ia lly up ho ld s : • ne ig hb o rly c o lla b o ra tio n • unq ue nc ha b le c urio s ity • p a s t-t he -ho rizo n e xp lo ra tio n • a nd a ne ve r-e nd ing d rive to p us h the lim its o f wha t lib ra rie s c a n p ro vid e the p ub lic . Who Do We Serve The upcoming and established artists, the newly -minted and time - tested coders, and more. In other words: you! Our Partners Our partners and patrons make APL Innovate what we are. Our Partners We’ve proudly partnered with local artists and visionaries, Austin Public Access and the Austin Film Society, and various local community organizations. What we offer • Working space • Hardware and software • Equipment • 3D Printing • Educational programming Working Space • Inno va tio n La b ⚬ Dro p in • Inno va tio n S tud io ⚬ Re s e rva tio n o nly Hardware • Lab ⚬ 8 M3 iMa c s ⚬ 8 Pre c is io n De lls • Stud io ⚬ 2 Ma c Pro s Software From Adobe to Audacity! Equipment Camera Kits, Laptops, Studio Microphones, 3D Printing Pens, and more! Available to COA employees or to patrons in the Studio. 3D Printing 3 MakerBot Method X 3D printers. And, eventually, a path to 3D printing for the public. Educational Programs Our regular menu of programs: • Intro to Ableton • Intro to GarageBand • Intro to Digital Media • Intro to 3D …
Highlights & Updates Report Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries March 2026 Public Services Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Highlights Lunar New Year at Spicewood Springs The Spicewood Springs Branch hosted a vibrant 2026 Lunar New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 28. Guests enjoyed hands‑on activities including crafts, calligraphy, games, red envelopes, and a Lucky Magnets workshop with Rita Wang. The Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team performed a lively Lion Dance, with the program interpreted in Chinese Mandarin, Spanish, and Vietnamese to support multilingual access. Library staff also highlighted the Centennial program to attendees, helping connect the community with ongoing Austin Public Library initiatives. Author Event: The Future Book On March 3, Austin Public Library, in coordination with the Texas Book Festival and First Light Books, conducted a family-oriented author program at the Austin Public Library Special Events Center to mark the release of The Future Book by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris. The program featured structured activities including dramatic readings, musical components, stage presentations, author photo stations, and hands-on engagement areas. The event delivered a coordinated literary experience for families and demonstrated the Library’s ongoing collaboration with local organizations to advance youth literacy and community participation. 3 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights Centennial Planning Updates The Austin Public Library Centennial celebration has launched! A press release was issued on February 16, officially announcing the campaign to the public, accompanied by a kickoff video featuring Van and Director Terrell that was shared on the APL Instagram page. At the same time, the Centennial main landing page at library.austintexas.gov/100 went live, providing campaign information and a listing of upcoming Centennial‑themed programs. Additionally, the APL Adventure Book, which is part of the system‑wide Centennial Celebrations, was introduced on March 2. This free, passport‑style booklet, available in English and Spanish, highlights every APL location with checklists, historical notes, and a unique stamp at each branch to encourage exploration and learning about APL’s history and neighborhoods. Participants were also invited to find Page B. Turner, APL’s mascot, at four locations to earn a prize. Digital versions were made available through Beanstack, with related challenges active from March 2 through December 31, 2026. Special Events Updates For February 2026, the Central Library Special Events team hosted 16 events with an estimated total attendance of 2,550. The month’s activity included 14 rentals, 1 co‑sponsorship (Headwaters School – Civil Rights Day on 2/4), 1 …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20260323-3 Date: 03/23/2026 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY27 Budget Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2027 with continued and sufficient funding to ensure equity across all branches and support service enhancements. This includes an increase to the books and materials budget, sustained security and law enforcement presence, sustained funding for technology initiatives such as hotspot lending, and one-time funds for site analysis and feasibility studies to meet the goals of the Council-approved Strategic Plan. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting the Austin City Council to approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2027. The Library Commission also supports a one-time $200,000 increase to the books and materials budget, sustained funding for library security staff and the law enforcement partnership with Travis County, and $350,000 in one-time funding for feasibility studies related to upcoming library facilities projects. Furthermore, we recommend sufficient FY27 funding to ensure equitable digital access across all 21 library branches by expanding the hotspot lending program, modernizing infrastructure and service standards, and investing in comprehensive technology training for both library staff and the diverse Austin community. Rationale: The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, remains the roadmap for meeting the needs of our growing city. To implement this plan and maintain high-quality service, the Library requires stable, ongoing investment. Data from 2025 highlights the massive scale of community reliance on these services: APL welcomed 3 million visitors and gained 100,000 new cardholders, bringing the monthly average to 356,000 active cardholders. This growth is supported by a dedicated community, including an average of 169 volunteers each month. While physical circulation remains strong at 3.73 million items, digital circulation has now surpassed it at 4 million items. The rising costs of e-book licenses, inflation, and the growth of the Austin population have strained the collection. The Library Commission has heard from the public regarding complaints about hold time and material availability. The robust use of the Austin Public Library, as indicated by the statistics above, necessitates an increase in funding to support the same level of service patrons have come to expect and the growing digital needs of the Austin community. Therefore, we support a one-time $200,000 increase to the books and materials budget, in addition to an annual percentage increase in line with previous years. The need for facility …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, March 23, 2026 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Central Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sara Gore Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Melissah Hasdorff Lorrie Mitchell Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on February 23, 2026. The February 23, 2026, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Gururaj, seconded by Commissioners Selig, Sabiston and Vice Chair Mehta. The motion passed on a 10-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. The Commission discussed the updates to the Library Commission Bylaws. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 3. Approval of a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget. A motion to approve the recommendation to council to support Austin Public Library's FY27 budget with continued and sufficient funding to ensure equity across all branches and support service enhancements was approved on Commissioner Selig’s motion, Commissioner Sabiston’s second on a 10-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFING 4. Staff briefing on the February APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Elections Book Safe Harbor Collaborations ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:44 p.m. without objection. Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 23, 2026 The March 23, 2026, minutes were approved at the April 27, 2026, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Mitchel, seconded by Commissioner Hasdorff. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2026, AT 6 P.M. LITTLE WALNUT CREEK BRANCH 835 W RUNDBERG LN 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. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston AGENDA 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 15, 2025. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion of items for inclusion in a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget, including potential elements such as increased funding for library collections, expanded community support resources, safety and security resources and bond development engagement. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Programming Update by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and Partnerships; Bryana Salcido, Program Development Coordinator - Adults, Programs and Partnerships; and Tucker “Troy” Troy, Program Development Coordinator - Youth, Programs and Partnerships. Staff briefing on February 2026 Austin Public Library Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, 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 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.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 15, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, December 15, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Central Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Mehta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Magen Davis Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León – APL Director Search APPROVAL OF MINUTES Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 15, 2025 1. Approve the revised minutes of the Library Commission Special-Called meeting on August 2, 2025. The August 2, 2025, revised minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioner Carlile. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. Chair Infante Huerta absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on November 17, 2025. The November 17, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Gururaj, seconded by Commissioner Carlile. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. Chair Infante Huerta absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation’s programs and services. Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, presented regarding The Library Foundation’s programs and services. 4. Presentation by Adam Powell, Executive Director, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association’s programs and services. Adam Powell, Executive Director, and Charles Petevo, Board President, Austin History Center Association, presented regarding Austin History Center Association’s programs and services. STAFF BRIEFING 5. Staff briefing on the December APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Library Centennial Programming ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Mehta adjourned the meeting at 7:14 p.m. without objection. Library Commission Meeting Minutes December 15, 2025
Library Highlights & Updates Hannah Terrell, Director February 2026 Public Services Highlights AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Highlights Tosho-Con 2026 at APL Austin Public Library hosted Tosho-Con, a teens-only Anime & Manga Convention for ages 13–18, at the University Hills Branch on January 4, 2026. The event drew 115 teens from across Austin and surrounding areas, who enjoyed cosplay, crafting, gaming, karaoke, treats, and panels by special guests on anime voice acting, manga art, and cosplay. Highlights included the Iron Cosplay Challenge, a Cosplay Contest, and a mascot art contest won by a 17-year-old whose characters appeared throughout the event. Teens rated ToshoCon 4.75/5, with 100% recommending it to a friend, and many calling it their favorite library event. Recycled Reads Farewell Recycled Reads Bookstore bid farewell on January 17, 2026, closing its doors for the final time with a spirited Going-Out-of-Business Sale, including live music, poetry reading, activities. After years of serving the community with affordable books and sustainable practices, the store wrapped up its chapter with one last opportunity for customers to stock up and celebrate its legacy. 3 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates The Holding Spaces Project The Holding Spaces Project is a heartfelt tribute to the Black entrepreneurs who make Austin feel like home. Through striking portraits and powerful stories, it celebrates local visionaries who have created spaces that nourish, inspire, and reflect their communities amid a city in constant change. Featuring businesses like Riches Art Gallery, Kicking It ATX, Luv Fats Ice Cream, Shag Noir, Cajjun Eats, and Black Pearl Books, the project explores what it means to belong, to be resilient, and to hold space for one another. On view January 15 – March 29, 2026 Central Library | 2nd Floor Southwest Gallery Curated by Taylor Danielle Davis Sponsored by _OFCOLOR, Black Pearl Books, The Library Foundation, Steven Hatchett photos below courtesy of Chris C & Nicole P 4 AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Special Events Updates In January 2026, Central Library Special Events hosted 12 events, marking a strong start to the new year. These included 11 rentals and 1 co-sponsorship, with an estimated total attendance of 1,800 guests. One rental originally scheduled for January 26 was rescheduled due to a facility closure and will be counted in February’s report. Co-sponsorship highlight: City Manager’s Office – Department Directors …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2026 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, February 23, 2026 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Little Walnut Creek Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Sara Gore Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston Edward Selig Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Andrea Herrera Moreno Commissioners Absent: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Library Commission Meeting Minutes February 23, 2026 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on December 15, 2025. The December 15, 2025, minutes were approved on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioners Hasdorff and Gore. The motion passed on a 9-0 vote. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion of items for inclusion in a recommendation supporting Austin Public Library’s FY27 budget, including potential elements such as increased funding for library collections, expanded community support resources, safety and security resources and bond development engagement. The Commission discussed potential items for inclusion in a recommendation supporting the Austin Public Library FY27 Budget. Chair Infante Huerta appointed a working group, of which she will serve as a member, along with Commissioners Sabiston, Gore, and Selig, to draft the FY27 budget recommendation. The working group will present a draft recommendation at the March Commission meeting. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on the February APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Security ADJOURNMENT Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:27 p.m. without objection. The February 23, 2026, minutes were approved at the March 23, 2026, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Gururaj, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, and Commissioners Selig and Sabiston. The motion passed on a 10-0 vote.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2026, AT 6 P.M. MILWOOD BRANCH LIBRARY 12500 AMHERST DRIVE 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. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Holly Sabiston CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig AGENDA 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 15, 2025 DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on anticipated legislative issues for the 90th Texas Legislative Session and potential advocacy actions, including a potential letter supporting public library principles such as intellectual freedom, free speech, libraries in mobility pathways, broadband connectivity, etc. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Programming Update by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and Partnerships; Bryana Salcido, Program Development Coordinator - Adults, Programs and Partnerships; and Tucker “Troy” Troy, Program Development Coordinator - Youth, Programs and Partnerships Staff briefing on January 2026 Austin Public Library Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, 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 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.
