REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION March 25, 2024 – 6 P.M. Pleasant Hill Branch Library 211 E. William Cannon Drive Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on February 26, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on the March Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 1. 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of a recommendation supporting the Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2025 with additional funding for unmet needs around books and materials, social workers, security and custodial positions, feasibility studies, and enhanced library cards. Discussion and approval for Commission Members to represent the Library Commission at multiple Board and Commission Meetings to advocate for support and funding for Austin Public Library Initiatives. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov. 3. 4.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION # Support for Austin Public Library FY25 Budget Seconded By: Date: March 25, 2024 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY25 Budget Motioned By: Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2025 with additional funding for unmet needs around books and materials, social workers, security and custodial positions, feasibility studies, and enhanced library cards. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2025. Additionally, increased funding is requested for an increase of 6% to the books and materials budget, the addition of two, (2) FTE social worker positions, three, (3) FTE of additional security and three (3) FTE of additional custodial positions, $1.5 million for feasibility studies of new and expanded facilities, and the expansion of the enhanced library card initiative. Rationale: In FY 2023, the Austin Public Library completed a year-long strategic planning process to shape the work of the library for years to come. Input was provided for the plan through a community survey that received more than 5,400 responses, pop-up community events in 20 locations throughout Austin, as well as a series of surveys, workshops, and listening sessions with APL staff and external community stakeholders. The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, lays out new strategic goals for the Austin Public Library, aligned with the City of Austin’s Imagine Austin 30-year strategic plan and the SD28 5-year strategic plan. Our recommended budget provides Austin Public Library with the resources needed to advance the five strategic goals laid out in that plan document, as well as to achieve the Library’s new Mission Statement: “Inspiring all to discover, learn, and create.” The proposed budget includes a 3% increase in the budget for materials, including digital materials, subscriptions, and databases. Austin’s population growth, and the increased cost of materials – especially e-books, which represent a fast-growing share of APL’s circulation and require expensive licenses. These proposed increases are necessary to keep up with inflation but do not represent a growth budget and may, in fact, lead to a reduction of e-resources and increased patron wait times to access materials. An additional 3% increase for a total of 6% to the books and materials budget would help close the gap. The Commission also supports funding the listed unmet needs of the library. 1 of …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 26, February 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Smith called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Magen Davis, Kezia Frayjo Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Sheila Mehta Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 29, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the January 29, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Rosenthal’s motion and Vice Chair Infante Huerta's second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager The presentation was made Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 3. Discussion of the February Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendation by the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. Vice Chair Infante Huerta reported on the Unmet Needs Working Group Recommendation to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. A motion to approve the recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel was made by Commissioner Davis and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. 6. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to rename the North Village Branch Library. …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION # 20240325-3 Support for Austin Public Library FY25 Budget Seconded By: Vice Chair Infante Huerta Date: March 25, 2024 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY25 Budget Motioned By: Commissioner Masters Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2025 with additional funding for unmet needs around books and materials, social workers, security and custodial positions, feasibility studies, and enhanced library cards. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council approve the proposed Austin Public Library budget for FY2025. Additionally, increased funding is requested for an increase of 6% to the books and materials budget, the addition of two, (2) FTE social worker positions, three, (3) FTE of additional security and three (3) FTE of additional custodial positions, $1.5 million for feasibility studies of new and expanded facilities, and the expansion of the enhanced library card initiative. Rationale: In FY 2023, the Austin Public Library completed a year-long strategic planning process to shape the work of the library for years to come. Input was provided for the plan through a community survey that received more than 5,400 responses, pop-up community events in 20 locations throughout Austin, as well as a series of surveys, workshops, and listening sessions with APL staff and external community stakeholders. The Austin Public Library Comprehensive Library Strategic and Facilities Plan, adopted by the City Council in March 2023, lays out new strategic goals for the Austin Public Library, aligned with the City of Austin’s Imagine Austin 30-year strategic plan and the SD28 5-year strategic plan. Our recommended budget provides Austin Public Library with the resources needed to advance the five strategic goals laid out in that plan document, as well as to achieve the Library’s new Mission Statement: “Inspiring all to discover, learn, and create.” The proposed budget includes a 3% increase in the budget for materials, including digital materials, subscriptions, and databases. Austin’s population growth, and the increased cost of materials – especially e-books, which represent a fast-growing share of APL’s circulation and require expensive licenses. These proposed increases are necessary to keep up with inflation but do not represent a growth budget and may, in fact, lead to a reduction of e-resources and increased patron wait times to access materials. An additional 3% increase for a total of 6% to the books and materials budget would help close the gap. The Commission also supports funding the listed …
1 Director’s Report March 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Update __________________________________________________________________________ 5 Capital Projects Update _________________________________________________________________5 Gallery ______________________________________________________________________________ 6 Active Project Timelines _________________________________________________________________ 7 Project Highlights ______________________________________________________________________ 8 APL by the Numbers _____________________________________________________________________ 9 Programs and Outreach__________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder ___________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors _____________________________________________________________________________ 11 Circulation and Collections _____________________________________________________________ 12 Express Checkout and Holds ___________________________________________________________13 Technology _________________________________________________________________________ 14 Budget, Volunteers and Meeting Rooms ___________________________________________________ 15 3 HIGHLIGHTS March into Women’s History Month with APL Celebrate Women’s History Month in March with APL with an array programs spanning our library system. Special programs include a writing series by local author Spike Gillespie, opportunities to celebrate heroines with author talks, storytimes, book club discussions, and a kaleidoscope of arts and crafts, ignited by the brilliance of women artists. Join us as we embark on a global celebration of female achievement at our captivating library events! APL Total Eclipse Programming APL is hosting a cosmic extravaganza of events and experiences across the system leading up to the mesmerizing total solar eclipse set to race the skies over Austin on April 8, 2024. From out-of-this-world crafts and story times to inflatable Stars and Science Planetariums and visits from NASA; we are gearing up for this historic event. Solar Glasses will be distributed to the public (2 per person) starting on Thursday, April 4, 2024, until supplies last at all Austin Public Library locations. Once we are out, we will not be replenishing our quantities. APL has also partnered with CapMetro to provide free bus passes to people needing transportation to APL Watch Parties on the day of the eclipse. Passes are available through a QR code on flyers available at branches. APL is hosting ten (10) Total Eclipse Watch Parties taking place around Austin on Monday, April 8th. There will be a limited number of glasses, but lots of crafts and treats for participants to enjoy as we witness this extraordinary event together. Central Library / 12 – 2 PM Menchaca Branch / 11:30 AM – 2 PM North Village Branch / 11 AM – 2 PM Oak Hill Branch / 12-2 PM Pleasant Hill Branch / 12:30-2:30 PM Willie Mae Kirk Branch / 12 -2 PM Old Quarry Branch / 12-2 PM Twin Oaks Branch / 12 – 2 PM Windsor Park Branch / 12-2 PM Cepeda Branch / 12 – 2 PM 4 APL Summer Youth Volunteer Program The application …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 29, January, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 29, January 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, January 29, 2024, at the Milwood Branch Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Steve DeRosa, Sheila Mehta, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: None Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the December 18, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the December 18, 2023, regular meeting were approved with the following amendment on Commission Member Master’s motion and Commission Member Mehta’s second on an 8-0 vote. The amendment is to change Commissioner Masters from the Absent line to the In Attendance line on the December 18, 2023 meeting minutes. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding Immigrant Services by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Branch Library Branch Manager, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Librarian II, Spanish and World Language Selector. The presentation was made Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Branch Library Branch Manager, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Librarian II, Spanish and World Language Selector. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 29, January, 2024 3. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Unmet Needs Working Group The report of the Unmet Needs Working Groups was given by Vice-Chair Infante Huerta. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Facilities Update Report and recommendation from Unmet Needs Working Group Budget Recommendation Discussion Bond Funding Toolkit North Village Branch Renaming Adjournment: Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:24 p.m. without objection.
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION February 26, 2024 – 6 P.M. Terrazas Branch Library 1105 E Cesar Chavez Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on January 29, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Staff briefing on the February Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 1. 2. 3. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendation by the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval of a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to rename the North Village Branch Library. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion regarding potential recommendations related to the Austin Public Library’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Library Commission Recommendation Number: 20240129-6: Renaming of North Village Branch Library WHEREAS, on August 2, 1971, the Austin Public Library inaugurated its North Village Branch, initially situated in a storefront property within the North Village Shopping Center; and WHEREAS, the 3,000-square-foot facility replaced an Austin Public Library mobile trailer that had previously served as a busy hub for book checkouts from the shopping center parking lot; and WHEREAS, In 1990, the library relocated a few doors down to a more spacious area within the Center, expanding to 5,000 square feet; and WHEREAS, in the 1998 City of Austin Bond Election, voters approved funding for the land acquisition, design, and construction of the North Village Branch Replacement Project, aiming to better accommodate the growing populations of the north-central Austin neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the grand opening of the new North Village Branch, patterned after the "library for the future" green model, drawing inspiration from upscale bookstores in its design concept, took place on Saturday, May 30, 2009; and WHEREAS, John Gillum commenced his employment with the Austin Public Library as the Facilities Planning Manager on August 16, 1979, and then Facilities Process Manager, in 2011 until his retirement on July 31, 2019; and WHEREAS, Gillum assisted in the development of new libraries in the 1980s, and oversaw every aspect of the planning, design, construction, and renovation of all Austin Public Library following successful bond packages in 1992, 1998, 2018; and WHEREAS, Gillum dedicated 39 years, 11 months, and 16 days to his service with the City of Austin/Austin Public Library; and WHEREAS, Gillum played a significant role in the development of the North Village Branch Library. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Library Commission wholeheartedly supports and recommends to the Austin City Council that the North Village Branch Library be renamed to the John Gillum Branch Library. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: Attest:
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240226-5 02/26/2024 Seconded By: Date: Subject: Improving library safety and holistic services for library patrons Motioned By: Recommendation Provide two (2) FTE or contract Social Work positions and three (3) Security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by Library personnel. [Brief description of the Board’s recommendation] Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to amend the FTE policy around Social Work titles and support the relevant ~$419,000 budget increase needed to add new positions. Rationale Austin Public Library facilities represent some of the only places in the city of Austin where people can go daily and stay for long periods of time. The library’s operational needs are unique and evolving, especially considering the rapid change in the city. City Council and other City of Austin departments recognize the critical role that our libraries play in nurturing and strengthening the safety for all residents as evidenced by the City Council’s 2019 expansion of the Safe Place program for LGBTQIA+ residents extending to the Austin Public Libraries. The presence of social workers and security personnel enhances the library by making it a safer place for residents to connect the resources they may need. With limited shelters in the most populous parts of the city, the library is sometimes the only safe place our unhoused neighbors can go where they are welcomed in for free. The library is also often used as a warming or cooling shelter for all Austin residents during times of extreme temperatures that are occurring more and more frequently. In response and shared responsibility to library customers and residents we must be aware of these evolving needs of the communities and seek combined solutions. The library currently has partnerships with Austin Public Health and with other community-based providers of wraparound services to help address some of the gaps but they are limited in scope and are present in a few library locations for short increments of time. The library commission has heard from members of the public, staff, and library leadership and we feel that the current model is not sufficient or sustainable. Social Workers in public libraries is a growing trend across the United States and many large cities have found the addition of social workers to library staff to be integral to the delivery of day-to-day services. Many library patrons are coming in …
1 Director’s Report February 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Update __________________________________________________________________________ 5 Capital Projects Update __________________________________________________________________5 Gallery _______________________________________________________________________________ 6 Active Project Timelines _________________________________________________________________ 7 Project Highlights _______________________________________________________________________ 8 APL by the Numbers _____________________________________________________________________ 9 Programs and Outreach__________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder ___________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors _____________________________________________________________________________ 11 Circulation and Collections ____________________________________________________________ 112 Express Checkout and Holds ___________________________________________________________113 Technologyy _________________________________________________________________________ 14 Budget, Volunteers and Meeting Rooms ____________________________________________________ 15 3 HIGHLIGHTS APL Non-Resident Fees on February 29, 2024 City Council Agenda The Austin Public Library, (APL) eagerly awaits the Austin City Council meeting on February 29, 2024, where City Council is set to consider the final resolution that will lead to waiving the non-resident fees for APL Library Cards for all individuals who reside in Austin’s limited purpose jurisdictions (LTD) and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). APL is excited to provide free library access to a wider area of the community. Terrazas Branch Library Refresh Terrazas branch library is getting a refresh in preparation for our summer programming and services. The capital improvement project (CIP) work, funded in the FY 2024 budget for APL's deferred maintenance projects will facilitate upgrades to the facility, potentially encompassing interior & exterior painting, carpet replacement, security and fire panel upgrades, and HVAC improvements. The branch will be closed from early March to early May during the refresh. Howson CIP Work Underway Capital improvement project (CIP) work commenced on February 12, 2024, at the Howson branch library. The project, executed in three phases, started with the installation of new HVAC systems, which is expected to be completed in two to three weeks. There will be no need for closure during this phase, as units will be replaced one at a time to maintain a comfortable temperature inside Howson. The second phase involves re-roofing the library and is scheduled to begin approximately six weeks later, with a projected duration of two to three weeks and no anticipated closure. The third phase, involving interior renovations, including the circulation desk, meeting room, and reading room, is still in the design phase with lead times for materials being finalized. In January, Recycled Reads welcomed 5,664 customers, marking a 22% increase to December’s visitor count. This upswing continues a trend of escalating foot traffic and we are thrilled to witness more individuals discovering and frequenting Recycled Reads! 4 Black Girls Don't Wear Red Lipstick Step into a world of audacious beauty and empowerment with …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240226-5 02/26/2024 Seconded By: Vice Chair Infante Huerta Date: Subject: Improving library safety and holistic services for library patrons Motioned By: Commissioner Davis Recommendation Provide two (2) FTE or contract Social Work positions and three (3) Security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by Library personnel. [Brief description of the Board’s recommendation] Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to amend the FTE policy around Social Work titles and support the relevant ~$419,000 budget increase needed to add new positions. Rationale Austin Public Library facilities represent some of the only places in the city of Austin where people can go daily and stay for long periods of time. The library’s operational needs are unique and evolving, especially considering the rapid change in the city. City Council and other City of Austin departments recognize the critical role that our libraries play in nurturing and strengthening the safety for all residents as evidenced by the City Council’s 2019 expansion of the Safe Place program for LGBTQIA+ residents extending to the Austin Public Libraries. The presence of social workers and security personnel enhances the library by making it a safer place for residents to connect the resources they may need. With limited shelters in the most populous parts of the city, the library is sometimes the only safe place our unhoused neighbors can go where they are welcomed in for free. The library is also often used as a warming or cooling shelter for all Austin residents during times of extreme temperatures that are occurring more and more frequently. In response and shared responsibility to library customers and residents we must be aware of these evolving needs of the communities and seek combined solutions. The library currently has partnerships with Austin Public Health and with other community-based providers of wraparound services to help address some of the gaps but they are limited in scope and are present in a few library locations for short increments of time. The library commission has heard from members of the public, staff, and library leadership and we feel that the current model is not sufficient or sustainable. Social Workers in public libraries is a growing trend across the United States and many large cities have found the addition of social workers to library staff to be integral to the delivery of day-to-day services. …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Library Commission Recommendation Number: 20240226-6: Renaming of North Village Branch Library Motioned By: Commissioner Rosenthal Seconded By: Commissioner Frayjo WHEREAS, on August 2, 1971, the Austin Public Library inaugurated its North Village Branch, initially situated in a storefront property within the North Village Shopping Center; and WHEREAS, the 3,000-square-foot facility replaced an Austin Public Library mobile trailer that had previously served as a busy hub for book checkouts from the shopping center parking lot; and WHEREAS, In 1990, the library relocated a few doors down to a more spacious area within the Center, expanding to 5,000 square feet; and WHEREAS, in the 1998 City of Austin Bond Election, voters approved funding for the land acquisition, design, and construction of the North Village Branch Replacement Project, aiming to better accommodate the growing populations of the north-central Austin neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the grand opening of the new North Village Branch, patterned after the "library for the future" green model, drawing inspiration from upscale bookstores in its design concept, took place on Saturday, May 30, 2009; and WHEREAS, John Gillum commenced his employment with the Austin Public Library on August 16, 1979, and then as Facilities Process Manager, in 2011 until his retirement on July 31, 2019; and WHEREAS, Gillum assisted in the development of new libraries in the 1980s, and oversaw every aspect of the planning, design, construction, and renovation of all Austin Public Library following successful bond packages in 1992, 1998, 2012, 2018; and WHEREAS, Gillum dedicated 39 years, 11 months, and 16 days to his service with the City of Austin/Austin Public Library; and WHEREAS, Gillum played a significant role in the development of the North Village Branch Library. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Library Commission wholeheartedly supports and recommends to the Austin City Council that the North Village Branch Library be renamed to the John Gillum Branch Library. Date of Approval: February 26, 2024 Record of the vote: Unanimous on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa were absent from the meeting Laura Polio, Library Commission Staff Liaison Attest:
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 26, February 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Smith called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Magen Davis, Kezia Frayjo Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Sheila Mehta Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 29, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the January 29, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Rosenthal’s motion and Vice Chair Infante Huerta's second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager The presentation was made Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 3. Discussion of the February Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendation by the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. Vice Chair Infante Huerta reported on the Unmet Needs Working Group Recommendation to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. A motion to approve the recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel was made by Commissioner Davis and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. 6. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to rename the North Village Branch Library. …
1. 2. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION January 29, 2024 – 6 P.M. Milwood Branch Library 12500 Amherst Dr. AUSTIN, TEXAS This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov . CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta 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 Approve the minutes of the library commission regular meeting on December 18, 2023. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Immigrant Services by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Branch Library Branch Manager, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Librarian II, Spanish and World Language Selector. 3. Staff briefing on the January Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Unmet Needs Working Group FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 18, December, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 18, December 2023 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, December 18, 2023, at the Austin Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Board Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Steve DeRosa, Sheila Mehta, Victoria Vogel, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo Commission Members Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Christina Masters Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 27, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the November 27, 2023, regular meeting were approved with the following amendment on Commission Member Mehta’s motion and Commission Member Vogel’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Infante Huerta and Commission Member Masters absent. The amendment is the removal of “Herrera” on the 2nd line of the approval of the minute’s item. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 18, December, 2023 4. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement. The presentation was made by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission. 5. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. 6. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Services to Immigrant Populations Report from Unmet Needs Committee Adjournment: Chair Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m. without objection.
Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Library Branch Manager Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian 1. Multilingual Materials and Resources 2. Programming 3. Partnerships 4. Public Services 6. Language Access 7. Q&A 5. Community Services & Outreach Multilingual Collections • Books (Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Marathi, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese) • Magazines, and newspapers • Audiovisual materials • Multilingual learning resources (physical and digital) Year-round cultural programs and events • Celebrations and cultural festivals • Guest Speakers • Workshops • Workforce development classes • Digital Literacy programs • Storytimes in different languages • Talk Time • Practiquemos español • ESL Classes Home Baking Business Management Course in Spanish Computer Classes in Spanish and Tutoring in Spanish, English and Tamil Through Austin Free Net • Colocation services through Goodwill and Work Force Solutions • Tabling at the General Consulate of Mexico • Vaccination Clinic and Resource information through APH • Enhanced Library Card • Access to Legal Aid Clinics • Social Service Information Referral • • Naturalization Ceremonies • Resource Clinics • Vaccination clinics Job Portal SOCIAL SERVICES & LIFE SKILLS • Lance Gentles provides 1:1 support to immigrant customers securing their Texas driver’s license and seeking employment, M-F • Team provides monthly ELC sign up to unhoused immigrants at Pop Up Resource Clinics • CSCs provide social services coordination for unhoused immigrant customers at Terrazas and Little Walnut Libraries, M-F CIVICS •7 Naturalization Ceremonies hosted in 2023 •858 attendees provided with voter registration and Passport Services information VIRTUAL & IN PERSON PROGRAMS •Ambray Gonzales provides in person cultural programs at libraries, Title 1 schools and museums •Heidy Urbina provides virtual/in person dual language and Spanish language programs at libraries, community centers, and parks • College Program Students visit to the library • Early Childhood literacy workshop and library services presentation Voiance: Interpretation services over the pone iSpeak Language Access Cards and Materials Library Catalog: • supports searches in languages using different characters. • Interface availble in Spanish • Website information in Spanish: translated in house, not by machine • Social media accounts in Spanish: Facebooks and X (Twitter) • Interpretation services available by request Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Library Branch Manager Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Reception for Library Commission, Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association December 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Laura Polio 512-974-9624
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION December 18, 2023 – 6 P.M. Austin Central Library Special Event Center 710 W Cesar Chavez St. AUSTIN, TEXAS This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov . CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta Victoria Vogel AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve Derosa Melanie Haupt Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal 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 Approve the minutes of the library commission regular meeting on November 27, 2023. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Immigration Services, by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector, Librarian II, Carmaleta McKinnis-Williams, Equity Inclusion Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at …
