July 2019 Director's Report — original pdf

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HighlightsCity of Austin Budget Calendar Upcoming Dates• August 5 - Proposed Budget Presentation to Council• August 20, 29 & September 4 - Council Budget Work Sessions• August 22 & 28 - Budget and tax public hearings• September 10 - Budget readingsPrograms• Austin Symphony Art Park presents the Symphony’s chamber ensembles bringing classic and original children’s tales to life through music and narration so children can learn about both literary and musical devices in an enjoyable and engaging manner. Arrive early to visit the Instrument Zoo, where kids can see, touch and try to play instruments of the orchestra; talk to symphony musicians and hear them play their instruments. Wednesday, July 24, 10 AM - 12 Noon. Central Library Special Event Center.• Vinyl Night returns to the Carver Branch. Bring a friend, grab your vinyl, and enjoy an evening of great music. Light bites will be served. Performers are DJ Knowledge and Andes Junca of La Frenetika and Wache. Friday, August 9, 7-9 PM. Carver Branch.• Watch for the APL vehicle in the Austin Pride Parade. August 10, 8-11 PM. Congress Ave. / Warehouse District.• Woodstock 50: Tribute Concert will showcase a special Woodstock-inspired lineup by local Austin musicians featured in Electric Lady Bird, the library’s music streaming platform. The line-up of local musicians includes Guy Forsyth, Sho Humphries, Deezie Brown, SaulPaul, Sarah Sharp, Brian Scartocci, Bob Cheevers, and Rochelle and the Sidewinders. All ages are welcome. And while you’re waiting for the concert to start, we’ll be serving ice cream and making groovy spin art outside, Saturday, August 17, 1-2 PM, Ice Cream Social & 2-6 PM, Concert. Central Library Special Event Center.• Master Pancake Presents: The Martian. Join local comedy favorites Master Pancake for an evening of intergalactic hilarity as they bring Matt Damon down to earth with their relentless mocking of selected scenes of the Martian. Ages 18+ only for adult humor. Thursday, August 22, 7:30 PM, Central Library Special Event Center.• Low Sensory Youth Code Jam ATX. At this Jam for teens, young neurodiverse students can learn to code and be inspired to pursue jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields. Saturday, August 24, 1-4 PM, Central Library Event Center.Exhibits• Larry Thomas’ exhibition They Took an Oath showcases the ongoing effort to commemorate the 19th Century Texas Black Legislators and Constitutional Convention Delegates, focusing on their 19th century legislation. Central Library, Shared Learning Room 531, Floor 5. • On Water, an Elizabeth Chiles Exhibition, features two series of her photographs and photographic collages. Figs from Thistles and On Water. Dried native grasses and improbably hopeful wildflowers are juxtaposed with lush plant life and vivid colors, revealing how water – or the lack thereof – has the ability to shape our surrounding landscape. Central Library Gallery, July 16 – August 16.To see the complete up to date listing of events visithttp://library.austintexas.gov/eventsFacilities ServicesNew Central LibraryScope of Work • Design / Build of 200,000sf State-of-the-Art New Central Library FacilityStatus• Post Warranty Phase - several large warranty items remain outstanding.• Stair treads – The JV is finalizing redesign of the main stair fasteners. Engineering design and approval in process.• 6th Floor HVAC – The JV continues to work with the builder and sub-contractors in an attempt to identify the cause of issues with high temps on the 6th floor during warm months.Budget / Cost • Appropriation $125,658,658; Obligated $124,729,016.73; Balance $929,641.27 Other IssuesParking sign • The large counter sign for the parking garage does not keep accurate count due to our staff parking being part time as well as network issues the managing City department is having. The sign was struck by a vehicle, and staff is working with the Transportation department to have it removed so repairs to the stone work can proceed.• A preliminary bid of $22,500 was obtained for repair of stone work.City of Austin 2012 Bond ProgramProposition 18: Library, Museums and Cultural Facilities $13.4 millionCepeda BranchScope of Work • Site Drainage Remediation and Interior Renovation of 8,110sf FacilityStatus• Bid / Award Phase 50% Complete. • Facilities Services anticipates a fully executed construction contract by mid-August and can move as swiftly as Launch Team procedures allow.• It is further anticipated that the Construction Period will take 90 Calendar DaysBudget / Cost • Appropriation $1,049,839; Obligated $379,458.36; Balance $670,380.64 Other Issues• Project Manager is currently negotiating with General Contractor to reduce scope of project to fiscal constraints and the Bond’s original intent. Once scope is agreed upon, we will circle back with the architect to confirm FFE and plan feasibility. AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARYDIRECTOR’S REPORT July 2019Zaragosa Technical Support WarehouseScope of Work• Replacement of Sprinkler System (life safety) in 20,000sf FacilityStatus• 50% Complete, Ready to submit 95% drawings and specs to Quality Management Division (QMD)Budget / Cost• Appropriation $711,736; Obligated $293,379.35; Balance $418,356.65Other Issues• Construction estimate is $452,000. Project currently in holding pattern until funding is balanced.University Hills BranchScope of Work• The work of this project comprises the construction of a new asphalt 29 parking space parking lot expansion at the existing University Hills Branch Library.Status• 100% Construction Documents with the Public Works Dept. Quality Management Division for review.• Also, plans are concurrently with the Development Review Dept. for completeness check.Budget / Cost• Appropriation $1,532,458.00; Obligated $688,083.52; Balance $844,374.48Other Issues• If the 100% Construction Documents are accepted with the Development Review Dept for site plan review and approved by October 2019, then the project is projected to begin construction by November 2019.Faulk Building (Re-Roof Funded by CoA Deferred Maintenance)Scope of Work• The project will provide for the removal of the existing, built-up roof at the Faulk Central Library and its replacement with a modified bitumen, built-up roof (approx. 29,000 sq. ft.)Status• Bid/Award Phase 100 % Complete. Facilities Services anticipates a fully executed Construction Contract with Tebben Company Inc. by July 30, 2019 • It is further anticipated that the Construction Period will take 60 Calendar Days (Start date: August 19, 2019)Budget / Cost• Appropriation $1,002,434; Obligated $84,946.81; Balance $917,487.19Other Issues• A portion of parking spaces will be closed off for the staging area for the duration of construction.Pleasant Hill BranchScope of Work• Roof replacement and HVAC system overhaul for 8,851sf facilityStatus• 65 % Construction began Monday July 8Budget / Cost• Appropriation $1,226,799; Obligated $997,083.05; Balance $229,790.95Hampton Branch at Oak HillScope of Work• The project includes replacement of the deteriorated roof, new skylight and interior renovation 8,580sfStatus• Construction phase at 90 % Complete• Substantial Completion is anticipated by July 30, 2019Budget / Cost• Appropriation $1,490,000; Obligated $1,363,953.72; Balance $126,046.28 Other Issues• Due to unforeseen rains this summer, roof replacement and new skylight installation were delayed.Twin Oaks BranchScope of Work• Installation of Solar Shades for outdoor amphitheaterStatus• 60 % Complete, • Project is anticipated to take 90 days and does not require Branch shut-downBudget / Cost• Appropriation $54,544.87; Obligated $54,544.87; Balance $0.00Other Issues• Received drawings necessary for permitting from Rotation List Civil Engineer July 5 and sent to General Contractor. Waiting to hear from them about permitting and start of work.Yarborough Branch Scope of Work• Interior Renovation of 15,120 sf FacilityStatus• Construction Period 40 % Complete• Substantial Completion is anticipated by Sept 27Budget / Cost• Appropriation $984,066; Obligated $869,641.21; Balance $114,424.79Other Issues• Structure of light fixture in the lobby, electrical wiring for security gates, main signs in front, under stairs panel structure. Southeast Branch Scope of Work• Replacement of the failed precast retainers at the perimeter of the building’s pier and beam foundation. Status• Warranty towards the end of it periodBudget / Cost• Appropriation $838,289; Obligated $838,286.94; Balance $2.06 Other Issues• A list of items that need to be corrected has been submitted by the Consultants to the GC.City of Austin 2018 Bond ProgramProposition B: Library, Museums and Cultural Arts FacilitiesBranch Library Renovations $34.5 millionPackage A - Site / CivilScope of Work• Cepeda Branch Trail will connect the Cepeda Branch to the Govalle Neighborhood.• Hampton Branch will add 22 additional parking spaces to the existing parking lot.Status• CCO made a Rotation List Assignment to Espy Consultants on 28 June 2019• The development of the A & E Proposal is in the Preliminary Phase Budget / Cost • Appropriation $77,349; Obligated $0.00; Balance $77,349 Other Issues• None to datePackage B - Austin History Center / Faulk Library CM@RScope of Work • Select renovation of Austin History Center• Select retrofit and upgrade to Faulk Bldg.Status• CM@R Kick-off/W CCO scheduled for 12 July 2019• Project is in Preliminary PhaseBudget / Cost • Appropriation $3,401,590; Obligated $479,545; Balance $2,922,045 • Includes appropriation from FY2012 Bond• Includes appropriation from the Historic Preservation Fund Other Issues• None to datePackage C - Interior Renovatiopns CSPScope of Work • Interior Renovation Old Quarry Branch • Interior Renovation Little Walnut Creek• Interior Renovation, HVAC and Controls Upgrades & Roof Replacement Manchaca Branch• Interior Renovation Willie Mae Kirk• Interior Renovation St. John BranchStatus• Kick-off/W CCO scheduled for 19 July 2019Budget / Cost • Appropriation $745,261; Obligated $30,722; Balance $714,539 Other Issues• None to datePackage D - Roof Replacement & System Upgrades (IFB Tentative)Scope of Work • Roof Replacement Ruiz Branch (sq. ft.)• Roof & Mechanical Replacement Carver Branch• Roof Replacement University Hills Branch• HVAC & Controls Replacement / Upgrades Howson Branch• Roof Replacement Spicewood Springs • Roof & HVAC Replacement Yarbrough BranchStatus• Kick-off/W CCO scheduled for 19 July 2019Budget / Cost • Appropriation $673,169; Obligated $0.00; Balance $673,169 Other Issues• None to dateAustin History CenterProgramming & Outreach• The District 6 “Know Your District History” program was held at the Spicewood Springs branch on June 8. 47 people attended the event, and the AHC added 2 oral histories to the collection as well as a video donation from the Travis County Historical Commission on the history of Defeat Hollow. • African American Community Archivist kYmberly Keeton hosted a number of programs for the month of June – at the AHC as well as throughout the community. Highlights of the programming include: Juneteenth ART SALON featuring Dawn Okoro, Liz Mokowitz, and Dave McClinton on June 5; Juneteenth Jazz Notes: African American Women in Jazz on June 12; L.C. Anderson Class of 1969 Alumni Day Presentation on June 15; and Juneteenth The Negro Green Book, Austin’s Documentation & Conversation on June 17 at the Central Library and June 19 in Pflugerville. • On June 26, Asian Pacific American Community Archivist Ayshea Kahn represented the AHC at the Thinkery’s Community Night Spotlight: Asian/Pacific Heritage by tabling and sharing selections from the APA archives with attendees. 750 were in attendance and she connected with Vietnamese organization Truc Viet and a longtime Cambodian Austinite.• On June 27 the AHCA hosted the 2nd of its new “Spotlight On …” series of programs. “Kum Bak to the 60s: Dirty’s 93rd Birthday Kick Off Party” featured Martin’s Kum Bak Burgers on Guadalupe, and over 200 people came out to help celebrate.Collections• AHC staff finished processing 5 collections, the John Reynolds Hughes Papers, the Travis County Democratic Women’s Committee Records, the East Austin Tri-Ethnic Oral History Project Records, the Flash Collective “Meander” Project Portraits, and the Flatbed Press Records. The finding aids are available online at: http://www.lib.utexas.edu/taro/browse/browse_ahc1.html.• The AHC acquired 2 separate donations documenting the performing arts in Austin. Playbills, photos, clippings One collection is from the Ken Johnson estate. Johnson died last year but was an active participant in the Austin theater scene since 1965 and was instrumental in building the Austin Civic Theatre, now the Zachary Scott Theatre. He was also involved with Center Stage and the Hyde Park Theatre. We also received a separate donation of playbills dating from the 1980s and 1990s. Both donations were added to AR.1991.001 Austin Performing Arts Collection.Exhibits• The AHC contributed over 40 documents and images for a new installation at the Bob Bullock State History Museum, “Sister Suffragists: A Celebration of the Suffrage Centennial,” which opened on June 15. The exhibit, on the 3rd floor of the Bullock, tells the story of the Texas suffrage campaign from the 1880s to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1919. The exhibit runs through August 2020. The AHC opened its newest Holt Gallery exhibit, “Austin Icons of the 80s: Photos from the Bill Leissner Collection,” on May 7. The exhibit features the work of Austin photographer Bill Leissner, who documented Austin’s music, politics and the arts in the 1980s. The exhibit, which accompanies a new book from Waterloo Press, runs through July 21. A book launch event will be held in the gallery at 2 PM on June 29.Reference• Research was conducted at the AHC and photos from the AHC were purchased for use in a multimedia research initiative on South Asian immigrant history, numerous Austin American-Statesman articles on Austin history, a story for the August issue of Austin Monthly, a story on Isamu Taniguchi for Tribeza magazine, and for display at the Austin Club and Treaty Oak Distillery. And, to show how small the world really is, we even answered a genealogy research question from a researcher in Israel. Upcoming Programs• July 30, 2019. 6:30 PM. AHC. Opening Reception for Cindy Light photo exhibit.• August 3, 2-4 PM, AHC. Story Slam with the South Asian American Digital Archive• August 22, 2019, 6-10 PM. Thinkery. “Forces of Nature” at Thinkery 21.• August 24, 2019, 10 AM -2 PM, AHC. ACTV Collection Pop-Up Exhibit• September 22, 2019. 12-4 PM, AHC. Know Your District History – District 9• October 8, 2019. 6:30 PM. JHF. Mayor’s Book Club/APL History, in partnership with the Library Foundation.• October 19, 2019. 12-4 PM, Old Quarry Branch. Know Your District History – District 10• October, date and time TBD. “Unearthing Haunted Austin.”• November 4, 2019. 6:30 PM. AHC. Opening Reception for St. Edward’s University “Documenting Austin” photography exhibit.• November 12, 2019. 2-4 PM. University Hills Branch. Know Your District History - District 1.• December 7, 2019. 12-4 PM. Hampton Branch at Oak Hill. Know Your District History - District 8.Library PrioritiesLiteracy Advancement• APL’s Summer Reading Program for Youth is in full swing! Programs at the branches have included: Austin Reptile Show, Austin Opera, Buffalo Soldiers, Magician, Puppet Shows, Art Programs, Silent Rave . . . And More! SRP participants get to choose a new book to take home and keep.• Our ever popular “Austin Symphony Art Park” kicked off with members of the Austin Symphony bringing classic and original children’s tales to life through music and narration. In addition to performing these wonderful pieces, members of the Austin Symphony also brought along other musical instruments to educate youth on the variety of devices and how to identify, both in sight and sound. The Austin Symphony will perform on Wednesdays for a total of six times this summer.• Author Nicole Dennis-Benn read from and discussed her new novel Patsy. Historian Rick Atkinson read from and discussed his new book The British Are Coming: the War for America, Lexington to Princeton 1775-1777, which is the first book in his Revolution trilogy.Digital Inclusion & STEM• APL welcomed members of the Austin Film Society and other guest experts as they presented “APL Studios.” In this program teens learned how to write a screenplay, and produce, edit, and market a movie. The screenwriting instructor was impressed with the talent and the creativity in the group.• “Stop the Upside Down from Spreading,” in APL’s Stranger Things themed Escape Room. Nearly forty participants worked together to solve a series of puzzles to stop the “Return of the Demogorgon!”Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion• The second PRIDE celebration was held on Friday, June 21. The highly successful event, Pride Prom: Queer Space welcomed 322 people with music and dancing. This event received 187 evaluations and were all positive, with some commenting on how inclusive, diverse, and safe the event was. Workforce and Economic Development• “Google Tool” was held on June 11, 2019 and was led by Google partner, Brent Werbeck. This program, attended by twelve entrepreneurs, focused on learning about Google’s ecosystem of tools and strategies for maximizing the use of small tools. Civic and Community Engagement• Dual language storytime and Summer Reading Program outreach is being provided at the Southeast Health & Wellness Center on Montopolis Drive. Trilingual storytimes (English/Spanish/American Sign Language) which were offered at Pleasant Hill will continue at the Manchaca Road Branch through the summer, with the assistance of volunteers from Austin Community College who provide ASL translation. • ESL (English as a Second Language) classes for Chinese speakers are being offered to residents at Rebekah Baines Johnson Senior Housing Center. One APL staff member and a volunteer who speaks Mandarin Chinese are taking this service to RBJ weekly.• In a partnership with the Parks Department, staff from the Southeast branch is taking storytime poolside at the Dove Springs Pool. During this program children and their caregivers listen to stories, songs, and rhymes while having fun in the pool. Attendees also practice basic water safety including front floats and back floats.Staff Development• Eleven Austin Public Library staff participated in the American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition held in Washington, D.C. APL had a recruitment table to inform job applicants from across the U.S. about our current professional openings. Staffing UpdateAfter nearly forty years, John Gillum, Manager, Facilities Process, is retiring July 31. Patti Fowler is now the Division Manager for the Central Library. Halley Grogan is the new Archives Media Specialist at the Austin History Center, and Lindsay Pease is the new Marketing Supervisor for Austin Public Library.APL By the NumbersPerformance Indicators for JuneVisitors 313,352Circulation 489,964Number of computer sessions 44,539Number of wifi sessions 43,777Program attendance 17,606RevenueDuring June, Recycled Reads Bookstore generated $13,500, and received and sorted 72,000 items, keeping 23 tons of materials out of the landfill.Gift Shop revenue was $23,454.* Events Revenue was $21,693.*Parking Revenue was $37,741.**These numbers are not from the official accounting record.All revenue comes back to the Library.VolunteersJune Number of Volunteers 250Total Volunteer hours 1870Total Value* $46,170.30*Volunteer Value Rate $24.69 per hour.PoliciesThe APL Youth Policies Task Force has completed their study. Findings and recommendations will be presented at the August 26 Library Commission meeting.Roosevelt WeeksDirector of Libraries