Versión en español a continuación. Library Commission Special Called Meeting THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2020, 3-4:30 PM Library Commission meeting to be held December 17, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance no later than Wednesday, December 16 by Noon. All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the December 17, 2020 Library Commission Meeting, members of the public must: •Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov no later than noon, Wednesday, December 16. The following information is required: speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, email address and telephone number (must be the same number that will be used to call into the meeting). •Once a request to speak has been made to the board liaison, the information to call on the day of the scheduled meeting will be provided either by email or phone call. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start time in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov by Noon the day before the scheduled meeting. This information will be provided to Board and Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If the meeting is broadcast live, it may be viewed here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Reunión del Library Commission FECHA de la reunion Thursday, December 17, 2020, 3-4:30 PM La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación Wednesday, December 16 antes del mediodía. Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los miembros del público deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). Se requiere la siguiente información: nombre del orador, número (s) de artículo sobre el que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutral, dirección de correo electrónico (opcional) y un número de teléfono (debe ser el número que se utilizará para llamar …
Director’s Report November 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights ____________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services _____________________________________________________________ 6 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 6 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 8 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch (Site/Civil) Report ___________________________________________ 13 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report ___________________________________________ 15 Interior Renovations Monthly Report _________________________________________________________ 17 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report________________________________________ 19 Austin History Center _________________________________________________________ 22 Library Priorities _____________________________________________________________ 23 Literacy Advancement ____________________________________________________________________ 23 Digital Inclusion & STEM __________________________________________________________________ 23 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ________________________________________________________________ 24 Civic and Community Engagement __________________________________________________________ 24 Staff Development _______________________________________________________________________ 24 Workforce and Economic Development _______________________________________________________ 24 APL By the Numbers __________________________________________________________ 25 Virtual Collections Usage October ___________________________________________________________ 25 HIGHLIGHTS Digital Inclusion 3 One of the many things that has become apparent during the pandemic is the still large digital divide that exists in communities across the country – and Austin is no different. The digital divide is the gap between those who have reliable access to the internet, devices to access the internet, and the knowledge to use the devices and information on the internet – and those who don’t. The Austin Public Library has an important role to play in closing the digital divide and staff around the organization have been working diligently to affect change in Austin. Some of those projects include: • Hotspots and laptops/Chromebooks for Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) and Foundation Communities are being deployed to five different sites in early December so that residents can access the internet for school, job opportunities and more. • A CARES Act Grant is providing funding for hotspots for students. The Outreach team is working with Del Valle ISD and charter schools to distribute these hotspots in the coming weeks to students who • A team of staff are developing a digital inclusion strategy for the Library which includes a flexible curriculum for digital literacy training for customers, a bank of resources for instructors, and an need reliable internet access. evaluation plan. • And, hotspots are still available for checkout to APL card holders through our curbside service. COVID-19 Update – Library Book Drops Open & Curbside Service Enhancements Austin Public Library is providing a roadmap for future service changes as they relate to operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The multi-phase approach outlines several possible reopening scenarios, each dependent on factors such as recommendations from county, state and federal health …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 28 October, 2020 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 28 October, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Special Called Meeting on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, and Lily Trieu Board Members Absent: Commission Member Chad Williams Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the September 30, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Dabbert’s motion and Vice Chair Self’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commission Member Williams absent. 2. Staff Briefing: Austin Public Library Investigative Audit Report Roosevelt, Weeks, Director of Libraries, gave the briefing. 3. Old Business None 4. New Business: a. Discussion and possible action on meeting schedule for 2021 The 2021 schedule was approved on Commission Member Dabbert’s motion and Commission Member Dwyer’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commission Member Williams absent. b. Discussion and possible action on eliminating non-resident fees for student library cards. A geographic area to be included will be determined, and a draft recommendation from the existing working group will be presented at a future meeting. c. Discussion and possible action on canceling the November 16, 2020 meeting. No action taken. 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for October 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Library Commission Meeting Minutes 28 October, 2020 Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans and talked about APL locations that will be voting sites for the November 2020 election. 6. Future Agenda Items Continuation of discussion on eliminating non-resident fees for student cards Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 6:52 p.m. without objection.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20201217-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources for Students Seconded By: Date: December 17, 2020 Subject: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources for Students Motioned By: Recommendation Give student library cards to every student in districts with Austin addresses. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council do away with non-resident library card fees for students who do not reside in the City of Austin, but who are enrolled in school districts that have some part of their district in the City of Austin. This would include students who live in Lago Vista Independent School District, Lake Travis Independent School District, Manor Independent School District, Pflugerville Independent School District, and Round Rock Independent School District, as well as Harmony Charter Schools. The number of students affected is approximately 52,883. Rationale: The Austin Public Library has a commitment to equity, to assure that all members of the Austin community have equal access to Library services and programs. However, the American Library Association and numerous public library systems around the country have recognized the challenge that economic barriers to access of library materials and services pose. This barrier is especially true for students. In a Resolution passed on January 27, 2019, the American Library Association urged libraries to scrutinize their practices of imposing fines on library patrons and actively move towards eliminating them. On June 22, 2020, this Commission unanimously passed a recommendation that City Council eliminate these late fees. Since October 1, 2018, the Austin Public Library has not charged fees for late returns of children’s materials. While the elimination of late fees on children’s materials is a good step in the right direction, many students in Austin and surrounding areas face another economic barrier to access in the form of the non- resident card fee of $120 annually. Currently, only Austinites living in Austin’s “full purpose” jurisdiction are entitled to receive a library card free of charge. This non-resident fee affects students of families who live in Austin’s extra-territorial jurisdiction as well as those who work in Austin but live in the surrounding areas. The revenue the non-resident cards provides is relatively insignificant. In FY ‘17, the revenue was $101,002 and in FY ’18, it was $135,681. As of September 30, 2020, the Library has 7,099 Non-Resident Youth Cardholders. 1 of 2 Currently, the Austin Public Library provides …
School Partnerships Student Cards December 2020 Library Commission SCHOOL YEAR 2018 2019 2020 CARDS 80,000 10,000 2,000 2021 Efforts Travis County 4 school districts within Travis County are outside of COA’s legal service area Staffed Public Library 1. Pflugerville ISD (26,000) 2. Lake Travis ISD (11,000) 3. Lago Vista ISD (1,500) Council Action ≈ 48,000 students (x $120 NR fee) Manor ISD $1.14M revenue ≈ $5.76M revenue Volunteer-run Library 4. Manor ISD (9,500) Amend fee schedule to allow students enrolled in a school district within Travis County to be exempt from the Non-Resident User Fee.
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20201217-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources for Students Seconded By: Commissioner Trieu Date: December 17, 2020 Subject: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources for Students Motioned By: Commissioner Dabbert Recommendation Give student library cards at no cost to every student in Travis County enrolled in a K-12 educational institution or home school. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council do away with non-resident library card fees for students who do not reside in the City of Austin, but who do reside in Travis County and are enrolled in a K-12 educational institution including home schools. Rationale: The Austin Public Library has a commitment to equity, to assure that all members of the Austin community have equal access to Library services and programs. However, the American Library Association and numerous public library systems around the country have recognized the challenge that economic barriers to access of library materials and services pose. This barrier is especially true for students. In a Resolution passed on January 27, 2019, the American Library Association urged libraries to scrutinize their practices of imposing fines on library patrons and actively move towards eliminating them. On June 22, 2020, this Commission unanimously passed a recommendation that City Council eliminate these late fees. Since October 1, 2018, the Austin Public Library has not charged fees for late returns of children’s materials. While the elimination of late fees on children’s materials is a good step in the right direction, many students in Austin and surrounding areas face another economic barrier to access in the form of the non- resident card fee of $120 annually. Currently, only Austinites living in Austin’s “full purpose” jurisdiction are entitled to receive a library card free of charge. This non-resident fee affects students of families who live in Austin’s extra-territorial jurisdiction as well as those who work in Austin but live in the surrounding areas. Benefits that will be achieved by offering greater access to students far outweigh the potential loss of revenue. The revenue from non-resident youth cards, inclusive of these students was $101,002 in FY ‘17 and $135,681 in FY ’18. Currently, the Austin Public Library provides full-access library cards to all students enrolled in the Austin Independent School District and the Del Valle Independent School District regardless of their home address. As Director of Libraries Roosevelt Weeks said …
Special Meeting of the Library Commission WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2020, 5:30 – 7 PM Library Commission meeting to be held October 28, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance no later than Tuesday, October 27 by Noon. All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the October 28, 2020 Library Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov no later than noon, Tuesday, October 27. The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov by Noon on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. This information will be provided to Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Reunión del Library Commission FECHA de la reunion WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2020, 5:30 – 7 PM La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación Tuesday, October 27 antes del mediodía. Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de la junta, los residentes recibirán …
MEETING DATES & TIMES LOCATION 2021 Meeting Schedule for the Library Commission The Library Commission meets monthly 6-:30-8:30 PM Terrazas Branch | 1105 E Cesar Chavez St (3) 6:30-8:30 PM Yarborough Branch | 2200 Hancock Dr (7) 6:30-8:30 PM Old Quarry Branch | 7051 Village Center Dr (10) Monday, January 25 Monday, February 22 Monday, March 22 Monday, April 26 Monday, May 17 Monday, June 28 Monday, July 26 Monday, August 23 Monday, September 27 Monday, October 25 Monday, November 15 Monday, December 14 6:30-8:30 PM Central Library | 710 W Cesar Chavez St 6:30-8:30 PM Little Walnut Branch | 835 W Rundberg Ln (4) 6:30-8:30 PM Twin Oaks Branch | 1800 S 5th St (9) 6:30-8:30 PM Hampton Branch | 5125 Convict Hill Rd (8) 6:30-8:30 PM Central Library | 710 W Cesar Chavez St 6:30-8:30 PM Manchaca Road Branch | 5500 Manchaca Rd (5) 6:30-8:30 PM Southeast Branch | 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd (2) 6:30-8:30 PM Windsor Park Branch | 5833 Westminster Dr (1) 6:30-8:30 PM Central Library | 710 W Cesar Chavez St _______________________________________ The purpose of the board is make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 30 September, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 30 September, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 3:06 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos; and Lily Trieu Board Members Absent: Commission Member Chad Williams Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the June 22, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Vice Chair Self’s motion and Commission Member Pardo-Kaplan’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commission Member Williams absent. 2. Staff Briefing: Austin Public Library FY21 Budget Update Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II, presented the Austin Public Library FY21 approved budget update. Staff Briefing: Curbside Services Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library, gave the briefing. 3. Old Business None 4. New Business: None 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for September 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans, APL staff helping with emergency operations, and voting at APL locations; and he introduced APL’s new Assistant Director for Public Services, Dana Eure. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 30 September, 2020 6. Future Agenda Items Non-Resident Library Cards for Students – possible fee elimination Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 4:06, p.m. without objection.
Thursday, October 22, 2020 As September 30, 2020, the Library has 7,099 Non-Resident Youth Cardholders. 5-Year Trend New NR Youth Cards Created Annually FY 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 11 42 84 52 62 Thursday, October 22, 2020 Thursday, October 22, 2020
October 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights ____________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services _____________________________________________________________ 6 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 6 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 8 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch (Site/Civil) Report ___________________________________________ 13 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report ___________________________________________ 15 Interior Renovations Monthly Report _________________________________________________________ 17 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report________________________________________ 19 Austin History Center _________________________________________________________ 22 Library Priorities _____________________________________________________________ 24 Literacy Advancement ____________________________________________________________________ 24 Digital Inclusion & STEM __________________________________________________________________ 24 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ________________________________________________________________ 24 Civic and Community Engagement __________________________________________________________ 24 Staff Development _______________________________________________________________________ 24 Workforce and Economic Development _______________________________________________________ 25 APL By the Numbers __________________________________________________________ 26 Virtual Collections Usage September ________________________________________________________ 26 HIGHLIGHTS Summer Reading Wrap-Up 3 When the Austin Public Library (APL) closed for public safety in the COVID-19 Austin Stay-at-Home order in March 2020, APL librarians quickly realized that we would have to pivot and present an entirely online virtual summer reading program. Librarians and library staff collaborated and created quests, or activities, for all age groups that would engage and entertain the public. We provided activities for all age groups such as sharing their COVID-19 story with the Austin History Center for their living-story archive, recreating book covers with found items, learning to draw a landscape, building forts, APL staff-written “Choose Your Own Adventure” interactive stories, and early learning singing time – in conjunction with guided reading activities and suggested reading lists by age group. 2020’s APL Virtual Summer Reading program, themed “Imagine Your Story” provided new virtual activities each month for the public in a way that allowed for social distancing and Austin’s Stay at Home order. Notably, the virtual format enabled APL to provide all summer reading programs and materials in both Spanish and English. APL saw a 39% increase in APL Summer Reading site views alone for the month of June 2020 (as compared to June 2019 site views), with nearly 10,000 individual views between June – August 2020. On October 15, City Council approved a $49,975 CARES (IMLS/TSLAC) grant for the Austin Public Library. The funding will be used to buy laptops and hotspots for low income students in the Austin area. In October, the City Audit department found fraud and waste in the Austin Public Library. We appreciate the work of the Auditor’s Office on this investigation and accept their findings. We take fraud, waste, and abuse seriously, and while participating in the …
Special Meeting of the Library Commission WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2020, 3 – 4:30 PM Library Commission meeting to be held September 30, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance no later than Tuesday, September 29 by Noon. All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the September 30, 2020 Library Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov no later than noon, Tuesday, September 29. The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov by Noon on Tuesday, September 29, 2020. This information will be provided to Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Reunión del Library Commission FECHA de la reunion WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2020, 3 – 4:30 PM La junta se llevará con modificaciones de distanciamiento social Se permitirán comentarios públicos por teléfono; no se permitirá ninguna entrada en persona. Todos los oradores deben registrarse con anticipación Tuesday, September 29 antes del mediodía. Todos los comentarios públicos se producirán al comienzo de la reunión. Para hablar de forma remota en la reunión, los residentes deben: • Llame o envíe un correo electrónico al enlace de la junta en 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov a más tardar al mediodía (el día antes de la reunión). La información requerida es el nombre del orador, los números de artículo sobre los que desean hablar, si están a favor / en contra / neutrales, y un número de teléfono o dirección de correo electrónico. • Una vez que se haya llamado o enviado por correo electrónico una solicitud para hablar al enlace de la junta, los residentes recibirán …
Austin Public Library Fiscal Year 2020-21 Approved Budget The Operating Budget for Austin Public Library in the General Fund (1000) includes an increase of $4,182,715 or 7.6%. The increase in Materials budget, including books and subscriptions, is $168,653, or 3.6% for inflation. FY 2019 Budget FY 2020 Budget FY 2021 Budget Expenditures Revenues Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs): Materials Budget: $52,168,472 $776,845 443.55 $4,477,635 $54,685,661 $577,258 443.55 $5,232,169 $58,868,376 $239,815 445.55 $5,400,823 Highlights of FY 2021 Operating Budget – General Fund Requirements FTEs CITY-WIDE Personnel Wage increase of 2.0% for eligible employees and adjustments $ 1,343,938 .00 for accrued payroll, insurance & market adjustments Vacancy savings adjustment Internal Support Services allocation changes Administrative Support Communications & Technology Management (CTM) Capital Projects Management Fund (CPMF) Fleet Maintenance & fuel DEPARTMENT-WIDE ($ 102,383) $ 94,057 $ 2,675,356 ($ 83,886) $ 14,644 Facility Services Representative positions added to change from contract $ 128,362 2.00 to employees for parking attendant services at Central Library Reimbursement for Facilities Service Representative positions from ($ 128,362) parking revenue in Special Revenue Fund Materials Budget (Books and Subscriptions): 3.5% increase for materials, due to inflation & population growth 5.0% increase for subscriptions/databases to fund rising costs $ 147,845 $ 20,808 Cataloging/Processing – increase based on cost of Materials $ 29,569 IT software – increase for hardware & software licenses and contracts $ 301,100 Vacancy savings funded expenditures – Contingent upon vacancy rate Materials Budget (Books and Subscriptions) Programs Cataloging/Processing Security Cameras Internships - temporary employees Furniture Training $ 584,000 $ 275,384 $ 116,000 $ 100,000 $ 99,900 $ 183,300 $ 30,000 Austin Public Library Fiscal Year 2020-21 Approved Budget FY 2021 Operating Budget - Library Facilities Maintenance and Improvements Fund The Operating Budget in the new Library Facilities Maintenance and Improvements Fund (7LIB) is $911,422 in expenditures. This includes $411,422 in operating costs for the Central Library gift shop, facility rentals, and parking garage, as well as facilities maintenance that were previously reported in unbudgeted Special Revenue Funds. Consultant fees of $500,000 are appropriated to update the strategic plan for the Library system and facilities. Revenues from Central Library operations including gift shop, facility rentals, parking garage fees, and café rental are budgeted at $667,556, plus a one-time transfer of $2,142,934 from the unbudgeted Special Revenue Funds for these operations. FY 2021 Operating Budget – Historic Preservation Fund The Operating Budget in …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 22 June, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 22 June, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, June 22, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 3:12 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Lily Trieu, and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: Commission Members Aguilar and Ramos Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the April 27, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Dabbert’s motion and Commission Member Williams’ second on an 6-0 vote. Commission Member Trieu abstained. Commission members Aguilar and Ramos absent. 2. Staff Briefing: Reopening Phase 3 – Curbside Services Patti Fowler, Interim Assistant Director, Public Services, gave the briefing. Staff Briefing: Update on City of Austin FY21 Budget Process Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II, presented the Austin Public Library FY21 proposed budget update. 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation Recommendation 20200622-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources was approved on Commission Member Dwyer’s motion and Commission Member Williams’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commission Member Trieu abstained. Commission members Aguilar and Ramos absent. 4. New Business: None Library Commission Meeting Minutes 22 June, 2020 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for May 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans. Commissioner Dwyer asked if there was an update to proposed changes to youth policies. 6. Future Agenda Items Plans for Austin History Center expansion, Lee Cooke AHCA President Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 4:38 p.m. without objection.
September 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights ____________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services _____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 7 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch (Site/Civil) Report ___________________________________________ 12 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report ___________________________________________ 14 Interior Renovations Monthly Report _________________________________________________________ 16 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report________________________________________ 18 Austin History Center _________________________________________________________ 20 Library Priorities _____________________________________________________________ 21 Literacy Advancement ____________________________________________________________________ 21 Digital Inclusion & STEM __________________________________________________________________ 21 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ________________________________________________________________ 21 Civic and Community Engagement __________________________________________________________ 21 Staff Development _______________________________________________________________________ 22 Workforce and Economic Development _______________________________________________________ 22 APL By the Numbers __________________________________________________________ 23 Virtual Collections Usage August ____________________________________________________________ 23 HIGHLIGHTS 3 COVID-19 Update – Library Book Drops Open & Curbside Service Enhancements Austin Public Library is providing a roadmap for future service changes as they relate to operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The multi-phase approach outlines several possible reopening scenarios, each dependent on factors such as recommendations from county, state and federal health agencies, social distancing protocols, critical community needs, and logistical and budgetary considerations. Phase 2 – BOOK DROPS OPEN began on Monday, June 1. Phase 3 – CURBSIDE SERVICE began on Monday, June 8 at select locations, beginning with Central, Manchaca, Ruiz, Carver, Windsor Park, University Hills, North Village, Spicewood Springs and Milwood. The Hampton Branch at Oak Hill began curbside service on July 27. Old Quarry began curbside service on August 10. This will bring the total curbside locations to eleven. Additional locations will be added as health and safety precautions allow. The Austin History Center began remote reference and e-document service on June 1. Library cards are now issued Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM outside at the Austin Public Library locations providing curbside service. On Monday, September 14, all locations providing curbside service extended hours to 8 PM on alternating evenings. Extending curbside hours gives customers more flexibility in retrieving reserves. During all phases, the following practices will be in place: • Enhanced procedures for frequent cleaning and disinfecting common areas • Use of protective gear such as masks and gloves by all staff – masks or face coverings are required, • Implementation of a teleworking policy that makes sense operationally and allows for social distancing in • Adherence to existing policies for sick leave • Frequent communication at all levels to facilitate cooperation and consistent best practices throughout gloves are …
Special Meeting of the Library Commission MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2020, 3 – 4:30 PM Library Commission meeting to be held June 22, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance no later than Sunday, June 21 by Noon. All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the June 22, 2020 Library Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov no later than noon, Sunday, June 21. The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov by Noon on Sunday, June 21, 2020. This information will be provided to Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live LIBRARY COMMISSION June 22, 2020 – 3 PM VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING The Library Commission shall make recommendations to the city council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. Section 2-1-150 of the City Code. CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Julia Aguilar; Patricia Dabbert; JC Dwyer; Catherine Hanna, Chair; Deborah Pardo-Kaplan; Daniella Ramos; Steven Self, Vice-Chair; Lily Trieu; and Chad Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 1. Approval of Minutes from the April 27, 2020 Regular Meeting 2. Staff Briefing: Reopening Phase 3 – Curbside Service, Patti Fowler, Interim Assistant Director, Public Services Staff Briefing: Update on City of Austin FY21 Budget Process, Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group 3. Old Business Recommendation 4. New Business None facilities, and APL Priorities 6. Future Agenda Items 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for May covering programming highlights, ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 April, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 27 April, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, April 27, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 3:04 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: none Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the February 24, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Aguilar’s motion and Commission Member Ramos’ second on an 8-0 vote. 2. Staff Briefing: FY21 Proposed Budget Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II, presented the Austin Public Library FY21 proposed budget. 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation No action taken. b. Discussion and possible action on an FY21 Library Budget Recommendation Recommendation 20200427-3b: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget was approved on Commission Member Williams’ motion and Commission Member Dabbert’s second on an 8- 0 vote. 4. New Business: a. Election of Officers: Elections for Chair – Commission Member Dabbert nominated Chair Hanna with a second by Commission Member Williams. Having no other nominations, Catherine Hanna was elected Chair on an 8-0 vote. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 April, 2020 Elections for Vice Chair – Chair Hanna nominated Vice Chair Self for Vice Chair with a second by Commission Member Ramos. Having no other nominations, Steven Self was elected Vice Chair on an 8-0 vote. Elections for Parliamentarian – The Parliamentarian position will be left open for now. 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for April 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans. 6. Future Agenda Items Commission Retreat Update on Recycled Reads Plans Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 4:23 p.m. without objection.
May 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights ____________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services _____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 7 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch (Site/Civil) Report ___________________________________________ 12 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report ___________________________________________ 14 Interior Renovations Monthly Report _________________________________________________________ 17 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report________________________________________ 19 Austin History Center _________________________________________________________ 21 Library Priorities _____________________________________________________________ 22 Literacy Advancement ____________________________________________________________________ 22 Digital Inclusion & STEM __________________________________________________________________ 22 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ________________________________________________________________ 22 Civic and Community Engagement __________________________________________________________ 22 Staff Development _______________________________________________________________________ 22 Workforce and Economic Development _______________________________________________________ 23 APL By the Numbers __________________________________________________________ 24 Virtual Collections Usage April ______________________________________________________________ 24 HIGHLIGHTS 3 Austin Public Library Announces Plan for Service Changes Austin Public Library has provided a roadmap for future service changes as they relate to operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The multi-phase approach outlines several possible reopening scenarios, each dependent on factors such as recommendations from county, state and federal health agencies, social distancing protocols, critical community needs, and logistical and budgetary considerations. Phase 2 – BOOK DROPS OPEN will begin June 1. Phase 3 – CURBSIDE SERVICE will begin on Monday, June 8 During all phases, the following practices will be in place: • Enhanced procedures for frequent cleaning and disinfecting common areas • Use of protective gear such as masks and gloves by all staff – masks or face coverings are required, • Implementation of a teleworking policy that makes sense operationally and allows for social distancing in • Adherence to existing policies for sick leave • Frequent communication at all levels to facilitate cooperation and consistent best practices throughout gloves are not our facilities the organization The phases outlined above are subject to change as the pandemic environment evolves. For the most current information regarding Library services, please visit library.austintexas.gov . Austin Public Library Launches APL+ The newest addition to Austin Public Library’s Virtual Collection, APL+, is now available at library.austintexas.gov. APL+ provides Austin Public Library programming and information literacy in video shorts accessible via the internet. Content is searchable by target audience – Adult, Teen, or Child – and covers topics such as sing-a-longs, crafting, book talks, cooking, virtual library navigation, and digital scavenger hunts. Virtual Job Assistance Take advantage of the resources available at Austin Public Library’s Job Portal, available at library.austintexas.gov. Jump start your job search with a 30-minute, 1-on-1 job coaching session; …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20200622-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Seconded By: Date: June 22, 2020 Subject: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Motioned By: Recommendation Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their budgetary authority to make access to library resources more equitable by eliminating late fees for the return of adult library materials and non- resident library card fees for all Austinites residing in Travis, Williamson, and Hays Counties. Rationale: The Austin Public Library has a commitment to equity, to assure that all members of the Austin community have equal access to Library services and programs. However, as the American Library Association and numerous public library systems around the country have recognized, monetary fines present an economic barrier to access of library materials and services, especially among low-income patrons. In a Resolution passed on January 27, 2019, the American Library Association urged libraries to scrutinize their practices of imposing fines on library patrons and actively move towards eliminating them. At a time when Austinites are both facing serious economic disruption and calling on the City to invest more heavily in social services benefiting communities of color, the Austin Public Library remains a place where Austinites can seek information, services and entertainment free of charge. However, the current City policy imposes a fine on adult materials returned after their due date of $ .25 per day / per item.1 APL blocks access to library materials when a fine reaches $10. This policy imposes a significant barrier to access to the population that needs these services the most. It is an inequitable policy. 1 Since October 1, 2018, the Austin Public Library has not charged fees for late returns of children’s materials. The Austin Public Library also imposes several other late fees, as reflected on the attached chart. This recommendation does not pertain to late fees on materials other than adult materials. In addition, the Commission does not recommend a change to the APL policy relating to lost or damaged items. If an item is lost or damaged, the account is billed the amount to replace it, as determined by the Library. The Austin Public Library does not accept replacement copies for lost or damaged items. 1 of 2 Studies have shown that fines and late fees do not impact …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20200622-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Seconded By: Commissioner Williams Date: June 22, 2020 Subject: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Motioned By: Commissioner Dwyer Recommendation Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their budgetary authority to make access to library resources more equitable by eliminating late fees for the return of adult library materials. Rationale: The Austin Public Library has a commitment to equity, to assure that all members of the Austin community have equal access to Library services and programs. However, as the American Library Association and numerous public library systems around the country have recognized, monetary fines present an economic barrier to access of library materials and services, especially among low-income patrons. In a Resolution passed on January 27, 2019, the American Library Association urged libraries to scrutinize their practices of imposing fines on library patrons and actively move towards eliminating them. At a time when Austinites are both facing serious economic disruption and calling on the City to invest more heavily in social services benefiting communities of color, the Austin Public Library remains a place where Austinites can seek information, services and entertainment free of charge. However, the current City policy imposes a fine on adult materials returned after their due date of $ .25 per day / per item.1 APL blocks access to library materials when a fine reaches $10. This policy imposes a significant barrier to access to the population that needs these services the most. It is an inequitable policy. Studies have shown that fines and late fees do not impact rates of return and may in fact discourage the return of library materials. As the ALA Resolution recognized, “there is mounting evidence that indicates eliminating fines increases library card adoption and library usage.” 1 Since October 1, 2018, the Austin Public Library has not charged fees for late returns of children’s materials. The Austin Public Library also imposes several other late fees, as reflected on the attached chart. This recommendation does not pertain to late fees on materials other than adult materials. In addition, the Commission does not recommend a change to the APL policy relating to lost or damaged items. If an item is lost or damaged, the account is billed the amount to replace it, as …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 22 June, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 22 June, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, June 22, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 3:12 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Lily Trieu, and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: Commission Members Aguilar and Ramos Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the April 27, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Dabbert’s motion and Commission Member Williams’ second on an 6-0 vote. Commission Member Trieu abstained. Commission members Aguilar and Ramos absent. 2. Staff Briefing: Reopening Phase 3 – Curbside Services Patti Fowler, Interim Assistant Director, Public Services, gave the briefing. Staff Briefing: Update on City of Austin FY21 Budget Process Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II, presented the Austin Public Library FY21 proposed budget update. 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation Recommendation 20200622-3a: Support for Equitable Access to Austin Public Library Resources was approved on Commission Member Dwyer’s motion and Commission Member Williams’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commission Member Trieu abstained. Commission members Aguilar and Ramos absent. 4. New Business: None Library Commission Meeting Minutes 22 June, 2020 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for May 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans. Commissioner Dwyer asked if there was an update to proposed changes to youth policies. 6. Future Agenda Items Plans for Austin History Center expansion, Lee Cooke AHCA President Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 4:38 p.m. without objection.
Special Meeting of the Library Commission MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2020, 3-4:30 PM Library Commission meeting to be held April 27, 2020 with Social Distancing Modifications Public comment will be allowed via telephone; no in-person input will be allowed. All speakers must register in advance no later than Sunday, April 26 by Noon. All public comment will occur at the beginning of the meeting. To speak remotely at the April 27, 2020 Library Commission Meeting, residents must: •Call or email the board liaison at 512-974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov no later than noon, Sunday, April 26. The information required is the speaker name, item number(s) they wish to speak on, whether they are for/against/neutral, and a telephone number or email address. •Once a request to speak has been called in or emailed to the board liaison, residents will receive either an email or phone call providing the telephone number to call on the day of the scheduled meeting. •Speakers must call in at least 15 minutes prior to meeting start in order to speak, late callers will not be accepted and will not be able to speak. •Speakers will be placed in a queue until their time to speak. •Handouts or other information may be emailed to sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov by Noon on Sunday, April 26, 2020. This information will be provided to Commission members in advance of the meeting. •If this meeting is broadcast live, residents may watch the meeting here: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live LIBRARY COMMISSION April 27, 2020 – 3 PM VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING The Library Commission shall make recommendations to the city council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. Section 2-1-150 of the City Code. CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Julia Aguilar; Patricia Dabbert; JC Dwyer; Catherine Hanna, Chair; Deborah Pardo-Kaplan; Daniella Ramos; Steven Self, Vice-Chair; and Chad Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 1. Approval of Minutes from the February 24, 2020 Regular Meeting 2. Staff Briefing: FY21 Proposed Budget, Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group b. Discussion and possible action on an FY21 Library Budget Recommendation Recommendation 4. New Business a. Election of Officers 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for April 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities 6. Future Agenda Items ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 24 February, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 24 February, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, February 24, 2020 at the North Village Branch, 2505 Steck Ave, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna, Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: Commission Member Deborah Pardo-Kaplan Staff in Attendance: Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries, Dana McBee, Assistant Director for Support Services, John Daniels, Facilities Planning Manager; Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships; Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Service; and Joe Faulk, Director of Technology Citizen Communication: Carlos León spoke about the 2020 census. 1. Welcome and Introduction of North Village Branch Manager. Branch Manager Michael Abramov gave an overview of services and programs at the North Village Branch. 2. Approval of Minutes from the January 27, 2020 Regular Meeting: Carlos León spoke. The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Williams’ motion and Commission Member Dabbert’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Pardo-Kaplan absent. 3. Briefing: FY1 Budget Process. Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager gave the briefing.. 4. Old Business a. Update on status of implementing revised Youth Policies. Discussion of Austin Youth Council, Dr. Chiquita Eugene. Discussion and possible action on youth participation on Library Commission. Carlos León spoke. Dr. Eugene was unable to attend and will be invited to a future Library Commission meeting. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 24 February, 2020 b. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation Carlos León spoke. Chair Hanna gave the working group report. At a future meeting, the group will present a draft recommendation to eliminate library fines. A draft recommendation proposing the elimination of non-resident library card fees for the Austin Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) may also be presented. 5. New Business: Carlos León spoke. Commission Member Dabbert nominated Commission Member Self with a second by Commission Member Ramos. Having no other nominations, Steven Self was elected Vice Chair on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Pardo-Kaplan absent. 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for February 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities: Carlos León spoke. Director Weeks reported on the Growing Your Roots African American a. Election …
April 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights ____________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services _____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ____________________________________________________________ 7 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch (Site/Civil) Report ___________________________________________ 12 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report ___________________________________________ 14 Interior Renovations Monthly Report _________________________________________________________ 16 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report________________________________________ 18 Austin History Center _________________________________________________________ 20 Library Priorities _____________________________________________________________ 22 Literacy Advancement ____________________________________________________________________ 22 Digital Inclusion & STEM __________________________________________________________________ 22 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ________________________________________________________________ 22 Civic and Community Engagement __________________________________________________________ 22 Staff Development _______________________________________________________________________ 23 Workforce and Economic Development _______________________________________________________ 23 APL By the Numbers __________________________________________________________ 24 Performance Indicators for February _________________________________________________________ 24 Revenue _______________________________________________________________________________ 24 Volunteers ______________________________________________________________________________ 24 HIGHLIGHTS 3 Our doors are closed, but our collections are open! In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, all Austin Public Library locations, The Austin History Center and Recycled Reads are closed to the public. While we can’t visit with you in person, we encourage you to visit Austin Public Library’s Virtual Library and take advantage of the many digital resources available for all our customers. Access Virtual Resources Take advantage of the library’s eCard. This card provides access to the library’s digital materials and can be acquired without visiting a library location. (The card is free for Austin residents and costs $22 for non-resident.) To apply visit: https://library.austintexas.gov/mylibrarycard All Ages Virtual Resources Austin Public Library’s Virtual Library provides all-ages access to eBooks, audiobooks, eLearning, entertainment, magazines and newspapers, homework help, and research and databases. Looking for another good book, but having trouble narrowing it down? Let the Library tailor a list to your interests. Please not that while the library remains closed, we will only recommend titles that are available through the Virtual Library: https://library.austintexas.gov/recommended/personal-picks The following service extensions have been added to virtual resources: KANOPY – play credits extended to 5 per month CLOUDLIBRARY – checkouts extended to 10 days HOOPLA – checkouts extended to 5 per month ANCESTRY LIBRARY EDITION access from home for a limited time FOUNDATION DIRECTORY ONLINE – access from home for a limited time Service Changes The following service changes are effective until further notice: Due dates for items due during the closure have been extended and will be modified as needed while the Austin Public Library remains closed. All programs and events at libraries are CANCELED, such as story times, club meetings, community …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20200427-3b: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget Seconded By: Date: April 27, 2020 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget Motioned By: Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library proposed budget for FY2021 Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council vote in favor of the proposed Austin Public Library budget of $54,414,837 for FY2021, an increase of 3.2% or $1,729,176 million from FY20, including an increase to the materials budget by 3.6% or $168,653. Rationale: Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries. - Anne Herbert The Austin Public Library is a vital part of the City of Austin and it continues to make a significant contribution to Culture and Lifelong Learning in the City. APL operates and maintains 20 branches, Central Library, Austin History Center, Recycled Reads and a Bookmobile and hosts over 250,000 visits a month. APL provides cardholders access to over 1.5 million items, including conventional and digital format books, magazines, periodicals, music, films and online databases. APL also provides innovative programming. The Urban Libraries Council recently announced APL as one of 10 Top Innovators during the 2019 Innovations Celebration held in Salt Lake City. During the current shelter-in-place, APL has continued to provide Austin residents free access to a wealth of digital materials including e-books, audio books, e-learning, homework help, and entertainment, including its Electric Lady Bird digital music streaming program, which delivers commercial-free, curated music from Central Texas artists. APL also continues to provide staff development training to support the ability of all employees to provide a welcoming, equitable, and safe environment for customers even during the shelter-in-place order. APL’s Organizational Development Office is linking staff with online training opportunities related to COVID-19. Examples include: Public Libraries Respond to COVID-19; Innovative Solutions in Times of Crisis; Why and How to Promote Your Online Services During the Quarantine; Serving Patrons in Crisis; and Preparing Your Digital Branch for Increased Use. 1 of 2 In keeping with the City of Austin’s hiring freeze, the APL proposed budget does not include any additional FTEs. The proposed budget includes a 3.6% increase in the budget for materials, including digital materials, subscriptions and databases. These increases are necessary to keep up with inflation, the increasing cost of materials, and Austin’s population growth, which is currently averaging 1.5% per year. The …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20200427-3b: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget Seconded By: Commission Member Dabbert Date: April 27, 2020 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget Motioned By: Commission Member Williams Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library proposed budget for FY2021 Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council vote in favor of the proposed Austin Public Library budget of $54,414,837 for FY2021, an increase of 3.2% or $1,729,176 million from FY20, including an increase to the materials budget by 3.6% or $168,653. Rationale: Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries. - Anne Herbert The Austin Public Library is a vital part of the City of Austin and it continues to make a significant contribution to Culture and Lifelong Learning in the City. APL operates and maintains 20 branches, Central Library, Austin History Center, Recycled Reads and a Bookmobile and hosts over 250,000 visits a month. APL provides cardholders access to over 1.5 million items, including conventional and digital format books, magazines, periodicals, music, films and online databases. APL also provides innovative programming. The Urban Libraries Council recently announced APL as one of 10 Top Innovators during the 2019 Innovations Celebration held in Salt Lake City. During the current shelter-in-place, APL has continued to provide Austin residents free access to a wealth of digital materials including e-books, audio books, e-learning, homework help, and entertainment, including its Electric Lady Bird digital music streaming program, which delivers commercial-free, curated music from Central Texas artists. APL also continues to provide staff development training to support the ability of all employees to provide a welcoming, equitable, and safe environment for customers even during the shelter-in-place order. APL’s Organizational Development Office is linking staff with online training opportunities related to COVID-19. Examples include: Public Libraries Respond to COVID-19; Innovative Solutions in Times of Crisis; Why and How to Promote Your Online Services During the Quarantine; Serving Patrons in Crisis; and Preparing Your Digital Branch for Increased Use. 1 of 2 In keeping with the City of Austin’s hiring freeze, the APL proposed budget does not include any additional FTEs. The proposed budget includes a 3.6% increase in the budget for materials, including digital materials, subscriptions and databases. These increases are necessary to keep up with inflation, the increasing cost of materials, and Austin’s population growth, which is …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 April, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 27 April, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, April 27, 2020 via videoconferencing. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 3:04 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair, Catherine Hanna; Vice Chair, Steven Self; Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: none Citizen Communication: None 1. Approval of Minutes from the February 24, 2020 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Aguilar’s motion and Commission Member Ramos’ second on an 8-0 vote. 2. Staff Briefing: FY21 Proposed Budget Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II, presented the Austin Public Library FY21 proposed budget. 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation No action taken. b. Discussion and possible action on an FY21 Library Budget Recommendation Recommendation 20200427-3b: Support for Austin Public Library FY21 Budget was approved on Commission Member Williams’ motion and Commission Member Dabbert’s second on an 8- 0 vote. 4. New Business: a. Election of Officers: Elections for Chair – Commission Member Dabbert nominated Chair Hanna with a second by Commission Member Williams. Having no other nominations, Catherine Hanna was elected Chair on an 8-0 vote. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 April, 2020 Elections for Vice Chair – Chair Hanna nominated Vice Chair Self for Vice Chair with a second by Commission Member Ramos. Having no other nominations, Steven Self was elected Vice Chair on an 8-0 vote. Elections for Parliamentarian – The Parliamentarian position will be left open for now. 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for April 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL priorities Director Weeks went over the Library’s phased re-opening plans. 6. Future Agenda Items Commission Retreat Update on Recycled Reads Plans Adjournment: Chair Hanna adjourned the meeting at 4:23 p.m. without objection.
LIBRARY COMMISSION February 24, 2020 – 6:30 PM North Village Branch 2505 Steck Ave. AUSTIN, TEXAS The Library Commission shall make recommendations to the city council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. Section 2-1-150 of the City Code. General Communication & Communication on Agenda Items: The first 5 speakers signed up for citizen communication 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 during the time set aside for general citizen communication. Those who wish to speak on agenda items must be signed up prior to the meeting being called to order and will be allowed three minutes to speak when the agenda item comes up. Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Catherine Hanna, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, and Chad Williams CALL TO ORDER Citizen Communication: General AGENDA 1. Welcome and Introduction of North Village Branch Manager Michael Abramov 2. Approval of Minutes from the January 27, 2020 Regular Meeting 3. Briefing: FY21 Budget Process, Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager 4. Old Business a. Update on status of implementing revised Youth Policies. Discussion of Austin Youth Council, Dr. Chiquita Eugene. Discussion and possible action on youth participation on Library Commission. b. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for February 2020 covering programming 5. New Business a. Election of Vice Chair to fill vacancy highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities. 7. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries 8. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days before the meeting date. Please call Sharon Herfurth at the Library Department, at 512- 974-7420 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Sharon Herfurth at 512- 974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 January, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 27 January, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, January 27, 2020 at the Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna, Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, and Steven Self Board Members Absent: Commission Members Daniella Ramos and Chad Williams Staff in Attendance: Dana McBee, Assistant Director for Support Services, John Daniels, Facilities Planning Manager; Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships; Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; and Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Service Citizen Communication: Carlos León spoke about computers at branch libraries. 1. Welcome and Introduction of Ruiz Branch Manager. Branch Manager Carlos Pin was unable to attend. Youth Librarian Heather Athas gave an overview of services and programs at the Ruiz Branch. 2. Approval of Minutes from the December 16, 2019 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Dabbert’s motion and Vice Chair Finney’s second on a 7-0 vote. 3. Briefing: The Library Foundation Update. Cecily Sailer, Programs & Events Director for the Foundation gave the update. Briefing: Austin Strategic Direction 2023 – Economic Opportunity and Affordability. Sharon Herfurth, Office of Programs & Partnerships and Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant gave the briefing. 4. Old Business a. none Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27 January, 2020 5. New Business: a. Discussion and possible action on Fine Free Libraries. Chair Hanna appointed a working group consisting of Chair Hanna and Commission Members Dwyer and Self. 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for December 2019 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities: Carlos León spoke. Questions were asked about the status of the proposed renovations for the Old Quarry Branch and about the process for public input in the design phase of renovations. A question was asked about the new “APL for All” equity, diversity, and inclusion training for staff. 7. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries: Commissioner Self visited the Manchaca Road Branch and found it a busy as he had ever seen it. Commissioner Aguilar commented on her visit to the Recycled Reads Gift Shop at Central. SD2023 Alignment – Mobility 8. Future Agenda Items: …
February 2020 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights __________________________________________________________________ 3 Exhibits ________________________________________________________________________________ 4 Facilities Services ____________________________________________________________ 5 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ___________________________________________________________ 5 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ___________________________________________________________ 7 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch Monthly Report _____________________________________________ 12 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report __________________________________________ 14 Interior Renovations Monthly Report ________________________________________________________ 16 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report _______________________________________ 20 Austin History Center ________________________________________________________ 22 Library Priorities ____________________________________________________________ 22 Literacy Advancement ___________________________________________________________________ 22 Digital Inclusion & STEM _________________________________________________________________ 22 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion _______________________________________________________________ 22 Civic and Community Engagement _________________________________________________________ 23 Staff Development ______________________________________________________________________ 23 Workforce and Economic Development ______________________________________________________ 25 APL By the Numbers ________________________________________________________ 24 Performance Indicators for August _________________________________________________________ 24 Revenue ______________________________________________________________________________ 24 Volunteers ____________________________________________________________________________ 24 3 HIGHLIGHTS It’s Your Lucky Day on cloudLibrary Check out cloudLibrary for popular eBooks and audiobooks. The Lucky Day collection features high-demand titles for immediate checkout with no holds, no renewals, and a 7-day loan period. In the cloudLibrary Lucky Day collection, you can: • Borrow 1 item at a time • Check out for 7 days • Login with your Austin Public Library card number and password • “Save for Later” if the title isn’t available • Check the app often for popular books – it could be your Lucky Day! The Lucky Day collection features high-demand titles for immediate checkout. Grow Green on ECO Day Join us for ECO Day with the City of Austin's Grow Green Team for tips on gardening, recycling, and reuse at Central Library on Sunday, March 8 from 1 to 4 PM. Our Green Resource Fair includes presentations, demonstrations, and exhibits on planting, seed saving, mycology, sustainability, recycling and reuse, alternative transportation and all things green! Come early for a Wildflower Seeds giveaway—and a chance to win a Grow Green Garden Tool Kit! Party Sustainably with Recycled Reads Recycled Reads celebrates 11 Years of Green on Saturday, March 7, from 12 to 5 PM with live music, back room tours, and a reuse craft activity Come In, Be Counted All Austin Public Library locations are offering workstations for filling out 2020 US Census forms. Library staff will be available to help residents through the process. The census workstations are available daily from 10 AM to 6 PM starting March 12 through July 31. Exhibits 4 Daniel Johnston: Jeremiah the Innocent & Friends in Zilker Park Austin Public Library commemorates the life and …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 24 February, 2020 REGULAR MEETING 24 February, 2020 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, February 24, 2020 at the North Village Branch, 2505 Steck Ave, in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna, Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: Commission Member Deborah Pardo-Kaplan Staff in Attendance: Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries, Dana McBee, Assistant Director for Support Services, John Daniels, Facilities Planning Manager; Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships; Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Service; and Joe Faulk, Director of Technology Citizen Communication: Carlos León spoke about the 2020 census. 1. Welcome and Introduction of North Village Branch Manager. Branch Manager Michael Abramov gave an overview of services and programs at the North Village Branch. 2. Approval of Minutes from the January 27, 2020 Regular Meeting: Carlos León spoke. The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Williams’ motion and Commission Member Dabbert’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Pardo-Kaplan absent. 3. Briefing: FY1 Budget Process. Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager gave the briefing.. 4. Old Business a. Update on status of implementing revised Youth Policies. Discussion of Austin Youth Council, Dr. Chiquita Eugene. Discussion and possible action on youth participation on Library Commission. Carlos León spoke. Dr. Eugene was unable to attend and will be invited to a future Library Commission meeting. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 24 February, 2020 b. Discussion and possible action on a Fine Free Libraries Working Group Recommendation Carlos León spoke. Chair Hanna gave the working group report. At a future meeting, the group will present a draft recommendation to eliminate library fines. A draft recommendation proposing the elimination of non-resident library card fees for the Austin Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) may also be presented. 5. New Business: Carlos León spoke. Commission Member Dabbert nominated Commission Member Self with a second by Commission Member Ramos. Having no other nominations, Steven Self was elected Vice Chair on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Pardo-Kaplan absent. 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for February 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities: Carlos León spoke. Director Weeks reported on the Growing Your Roots African American a. Election …
LIBRARY COMMISSION January 27, 2020 – 6:30 PM Ruiz Branch 1600 Grove Blvd. AUSTIN, TEXAS The Library Commission shall make recommendations to the city council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. Section 2-1-150 of the City Code. General Communication & Communication on Agenda Items: The first 5 speakers signed up for citizen communication 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 during the time set aside for general citizen communication. Those who wish to speak on agenda items must be signed up prior to the meeting being called to order and will be allowed three minutes to speak when the agenda item comes up. Julia Aguilar, Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Aimee Finney, Catherine Hanna, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, and Chad Williams CALL TO ORDER Citizen Communication: General AGENDA 1. Welcome and Introduction of Ruiz Branch Manager Carlos Pin 2. Approval of Minutes from the December 16, 2019 Regular Meeting 3. Briefing: The Library Foundation Update, Cecily Sailer, Programs & Events Director Briefing: Austin Strategic Direction 2023 – Economic Opportunity and Affordability, Sharon Herfurth, Office of Programs & Partnerships 4. Old Business a. none 5. New Business a. Discussion and possible action on Fine Free Libraries 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for January 2020 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities. 7. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries 8. 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. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days before the meeting date. Please call Sharon Herfurth at the Library Department, at 512- 974-7420 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Sharon Herfurth at 512- 974-7420 or sharon.herfurth@austintexas.gov
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 16 December, 2019 REGULAR MEETING 16 December, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, December 16, 2019 at the Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna, Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Julia Aguilar, Pat Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, and Chad Williams Board Members Absent: none Staff in Attendance: Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries; Anne Bramblett, Assistant Director for Public Services; Dana McBee, Assistant Director for Support Services; Rachel Nguyen, Communications Manager, John Daniels, Facilities Planning Manager; Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships; Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; and Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Service Citizen Communication: Carlos León spoke about citizen engagement with the Library Commission. 1. Approval of Minutes from the November 18, 2019 Regular Meeting: Carlos León spoke. The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Williams’ motion and Commission Member Ramos’ second on a 9-0 vote. 2. Briefing: Recycled Reads Bookstore Marketing Plan. A report prepared by Lindsay Pease, Marketing Manager, was distributed to the Commission. An in-person briefing is postponed. Briefing: Revenue Generation, Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager. Wendy Harrison gave a report about current APL revenue streams and projected revenue streams. 3. Old Business a. Discussion and possible action on Youth Participation on the Library Commission. Carlos León spoke. Chair Hanna reported on her discussion with Dr. Chiquita Eugene about the City’s Youth Council. Dr. Eugene will be invited to an upcoming meeting. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 16 December, 2019 4. New Business: none 5. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for December 2019 covering programming highlights, facilities, and APL Priorities: Questions were asked about the status of the proposed fence at the Austin History Center and the status of youth cards for all AISD students. 6. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries: Carlos León spoke. Commissioner Ramos hosted a performance by APL’s puppet troupe Literature Live at her school. Eighty-four third graders attended. Deborah Pardo-Kaplan attended the APL History Then & Now program. Chair Hanna reported on Spicewood Springs staff members’ friendliness and courtesy toward patrons. Library Foundation Update Fine Free Libraries SD2023 Alignment – Economic Opportunity and Affordability 7. …
