1 of 3 LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20191118-5a: Support for Austin Public Library’s Assistance with the Decennial Census Date: November 18, 2019 Subject: Support for Austin Public Library’s Assistance with the Decennial Census Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Support for Austin Public Library’s Assistance with the Decennial Census Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that Austin City Council maintain awareness of and support the Austin Public Library’s efforts to assist local efforts to ensure a complete census count in 2020. Rationale: As a vital public space and community hub, the Austin Public Library supports and advances the City’s Strategic Direction, including the following goals and metrics: • Enhance communication and collaboration between City Council, City staff, and community members to enhance transparency, trust, and shared decision making. Ensure collaboration is strengthened by accessible, timely, and accurate information sharing. (GTW#5) • Engage community members on the matters that impact them in ways that are timely, convenient, meaningful, and honor their communication preferences; and equip employees to better engage vulnerable and historically marginalized communities. (GTW#6) • Create a new integrated approach to managing community members’ multiple relationships with different City departments to strengthen feedback loops, build trust, and improve satisfaction. (GTW#8) • Percentage of eligible residents who are registered to vote and who participate in City elections (disaggregated by race and geography). (GTW.E.1) • Percentage of residents who express high levels of satisfaction with the outcomes of their engagement with the City. (GTW.E.2) • Percentage of residents who believe Austin values dialogue between residents and government. (GTW.E.3) • Number of [stakeholder] engagement/outreach activities by department, Council district, time and type of activity. (GTW.E.4) 2 of 3 These goals may be grouped under the broad definition of “civic engagement,” which centers the values of inclusion and equity in the co-creation of public understanding and public policy. Civic engagement is a rising area of interest among many library systems, funders and national associations (e.g. American Library Association, Public Library Association, Urban Libraries Council). The high degree of public trust, strategically located infrastructure and regular access to a diverse cross-section of the public enjoyed by libraries makes them strong partners in this work. Civic engagement is especially relevant in the context of the decennial census. The census is a massive effort to count every person residing in our nation on April 1st, 2020. The results will be used to allocate political representation, as well as billions …
November 2019 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 _______________________________________________________ 17 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report ______________________________________ 19 Austin History Center ________________________________________________________ 21 Library Priorities ____________________________________________________________ 23 Literacy Advancement __________________________________________________________________ 23 Digital Inclusion & STEM ________________________________________________________________ 23 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion _____________________________________________________________ 23 Civic and Community Engagement ________________________________________________________ 24 Staff Development _____________________________________________________________________ 24 Workforce and Economic Development ____________________________________________________ 24 APL By the Numbers ________________________________________________________ 25 Performance Indicators for August ________________________________________________________ 25 Revenue ____________________________________________________________________________ 25 Volunteers ___________________________________________________________________________ 25 3 HIGHLIGHTS Austin Public Library Named as a Top 10 Innovator by Urban Libraries Council The Urban Libraries Council announced Austin Public Library as one of 10 Top Innovators during the 2019 Innovations Celebration held on October 17 in Salt Lake City. The annual Innovations award program recognizes leading practices from ULC’s member library systems across the U.S. and Canada. A panel of expert judges selected Austin Public Library’s Welding Class from 260 submissions in 10 categories that showcase out-of-the box thinking and creative applications of library resources. Austin Public Library won in the category of Education – Adults. Award winners were recognized for their level of creativity, ability for other libraries to adapt their work and the outcomes achieved. Austin Public Library partnered with Austin Community College (ACC) to bring vocational educational opportunities to one of its most underserved communities by offering ACC’s Welding Class that allows students to receive a Welding Certification. A generator-powered mobile education pod was brought on site to the Southeast Branch Library. Due to its mobility the classroom can be brought to students rather than the other way around. Having the classroom in one’s neighborhood made it easier to arrange for child care since the ‘college’ may be only blocks away from home. Holiday Sparkle Come celebrate the holidays with the Austin Public Library! Ancient Stories, Modern Times: Storytelling with David Thompson. A great time to relax before Thanksgiving and hear some enchanting stories from David Thompson, who has appeared on 3 continents and been featured on National Public Radio. Saturday, November 23, 11 AM – Noon, Cepeda Branch. Holidays in the Making with H-E-B. Activities will include cookie decorating, making floral arrangements, …
Library Commission Proposed Agenda Items December Marketing – APL and Recycled Reads Revenue Generation January Library Foundation Update SD 2023 Alignment – Economic Opportunity and Affordability Fine Free Libraries February SD 2023 Alignment – Mobility APL Bookmobile Services March SD 2023 – Safety Preliminary Budget Discussion – Overview of Process Discussion of Recommendations to Other Commissions April Library Foundation Update SD 2023 Alignment – Health and Environment Austin Public Library FY 2021 Budget Forecast Officer Elections May SD 2023 Alignment – Culture and Lifelong Learning Budget Process Update Summer Reading Program Preview June SD 2023 Alignment – Government that Works for All Budget Process Update Equity of Services July Library Foundation Update Collections in Foreign Languages Budget August Youth Task Force Update Library Trends and how APL can Incorporate Them September Summer Reading Wrap-up October Library Foundation Update
LIBRARY COMMISSION October 28, 2019 – 6:30 PM 4721 Loyola Ln. 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. Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Aimee Finney, Catherine Hanna, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, Beth Smyer, and Chad Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Citizen Communication: General 1. Approval of Minutes from the September 23, 2019 Regular Meeting 2. Welcome and Introduction of new Library Commission Member Julia Aguilar 3. Briefing: Library Wraparound Services: Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant 4. Old Business: a. Discussion and possible action on youth participation on the Library Commission 5. New Business: a. Discussion and possible action on meeting schedule for 2020 b. Discussion and possible action on civic engagement 6. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for October 2019 covering programming highlights, facilities, policies, 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 28 October, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 28 October, 2019 The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, October 28, 2019 at the University Hills Branch, 4721 Loyola Ln., 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, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, and Beth Smyer Board Members Absent: Vice Chair Finney and Commission Member Chad Williams Staff in Attendance: Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries; Anne Bramblett, Assistant Director for Public Services; 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; Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services; and Joe Faulk, Information Systems Manager Citizen Communication: Carlos León spoke about citizen communication on agenda items. 1. Approval of Minutes from the September 23, 2019 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Dwyers’s motion and Commission Member Dabbert’s second on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Finney and Commission Member Williams absent. 2. Introductions and Welcome: Carlos León spoke. District 9 Library Commission Member Julia Aguilar, was introduced. 3. Briefing: Library Wraparound Services Emi Johnson, Business Process Consultant, gave an overview of wraparound services throughout the Austin Public Library system. 4. Old Business: a. Discussion and possible action on youth participation on the Library Commission Carlos León spoke. No action taken. The item will be put on a future agenda when more information is available. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 28 October, 2019 5. New Business: a. Discussion and possible action on meeting schedule 2020. A draft schedule will be presented at the next meeting. Meeting locations will alternate between branches and the Central Library. b. Discussion and possible action on civic engagement Carlos León spoke. John Lawler, Census Coordinator for Travis County and the City of Austin, gave a presentation about local Complete Count Committee and their activities. Commission Members Dwyer and Smyer presented their report on civic engagement activities taking place at Austin Public Library and other peer libraries. They will write a draft recommendation supporting APL participation in 2020 census efforts. Chair Hanna appointed a civic engagement working group, including Commissioners Williams, Smyer, Dwyer, and Ramos. 6. Discussion of …
Civic Engagement and the Austin Public Library: A Preliminary Report by City of Austin Library Commissioners JC Dwyer and Beth Smyer October 22, 2019 Purpose of this report ThisreportaimstoprovidetheLibraryCommissionwithanoverviewofcivicengagementwork withintheAustinPublicLibrarysystem(APL),includingworkcurrentlyunderway,opportunitiesin FY20 and recommendations to strengthen this work in FY21 and beyond. Definition of Civic Engagement Inthisreport,“civicengagement”isdefinedasactivitiesthatfurtherthegoalofaninformedlocal citizenrythatisactivelyengagedinshapingpublicdiscourseandparticipatinginthedecisionsthat affecttheirlives.Thisworkcentersthevaluesofinclusionandequityintheco-creationofpublic understanding and public policy. Itdoesnotrefertoindividualorhousehold-levelservicestypicallyconsidered“socialwork”(suchas publicbenefitsoutreachorhomelessservices),althoughsomelibrarysystemsgrouptheseactivities together.Whileitdoesincludeactivitiesdesignedtoincreaseparticipationinpublicelections,itis never partisan or agenda-driven. Why Do This Work? Civicengagementisarisingareaofinterestamongmanylibrarysystems,funders(e.g.Kettering Foundation)andnationallibrarygroups(e.g.AmericanLibraryAssociation,PublicLibrary Association, Urban Libraries Council). According the Urban Libraries Council: 1“Publiclibraries,workinginclosepartnershipwithlocalgovernmentandthemanyavailable resourcesandexperts,arewellpositionedtoprovidetheconsistent,close-to-home, sustainedleadershipthatcontributestocommunitysuccess.Theyaretrusted,stable, apolitical,safe,andpositive—inshort,idealcivicengagementleaders.Atatimewhentrust ingovernmentremainslowandmanycitizensfeeldisconnectedfrompublicinstitutions, libraries offer a bright light for producing long-term results.” 1 ULC Civic Engagement Report, accessed 10/18/19. CivicengagementworkisbroadlyalignedwithAPL’svisiontoplayakeyrolein“makingAustina dynamiccreativecenterandthemostlivablecityinthecountry.”ItisalsocloselyalignedwithCity Council’s Strategic Direction 2023 strategies, including: 2●Enhance communication and collaboration between City Council, City staff, and community members to enhance transparency, trust, and shared decision making. Ensure collaboration is strengthened by accessible, timely, and accurate information sharing. (GTW#5) ●Engage community members on the matters that impact them in ways that are timely, convenient, meaningful, and honor their communication preferences; and equip employees to better engage vulnerable and historically marginalized communities. (GTW#6) ●Create a new integrated approach to managing community members’ multiple relationships with different City departments to strengthen feedback loops, build trust, and improve satisfaction. (GTW#8) As well as the following City Performance Metrics: 3●PercentageofeligibleresidentswhoareregisteredtovoteandwhoparticipateinCity elections (disaggregated by race and geography). (GTW.E.1) ●Percentageofresidentswhoexpresshighlevelsofsatisfactionwiththeoutcomesoftheir engagement with the City. (GTW.E.2) ●PercentageofresidentswhobelieveAustinvaluesdialoguebetweenresidentsand government. (GTW.E.3) ●Numberof[stakeholder]engagement/outreachactivitiesbydepartment,Councildistrict,time and type of activity. (GTW.E.4)\ Current Areas of Civic Engagement SeveralAPLbranchlibrariesandstaffarealreadycommittingtheirlimitedtimeandresourcesto strengthencivicengagement.Thefollowingsectionsummarizestheiraccomplishmentsand providesexamplesofhowotherlibrarysystemsandlocalorganizationsarecommittedtosimilar work. Census Outreach What is the opportunity? ThedecennialCensusisamassiveefforttocounteverypersonresidinginournationonApril1st, 2020.Theresultswillbeusedtoallocatepoliticalrepresentation,aswellasbillionsofdollarsin publicandprivateresourcesoverthefollowingdecade.TheCityofAustinisamajorparticipantin ourlocalCompleteCountCommittee(CCC),whichaimstoensureanaccuratecountbyoffering 2 Austin Strategic Direction 2023 Master List of Strategies, accessed 10/18/19 3 Austin Strategic Direction 2023 Metrics List, accessed 10/18/19 outreachandassistancetotraditionallyundercountedcommunities,includingAustiniteswith low-incomes, immigrants, LEP families and others (see Map in Appendix). What is APL doing? APLhasformedaninternalstaffcommitteetoassisttheCCC.Plansarebeingdiscussedtoinclude Censuspromotion/educationalmessaginginexistingcommunicationschannelsandevents;using librarianswithlaptopsasmobileoutreach/accesspoints;andreservingcomputerstationsinsome branchesforpatronstocompletetheCensusonline.CensusProgramManagerJohnLawlerhas suggestedthatbranchesinundercountedcommunitiescouldalsoactasclearinghousesfor promotional materials and organizing neighborhood volunteers. Who else is doing this work in Austin? TheU.S.CensusBureauhasopenedaregionalofficeinAustintodirectlocalhiringandpromotional efforts.AlocalCCCincludingpublicofficials,privatebusinessesandnonprofitshasbeenformedto coordinateworkinthisarea.TheCityofAustin/TravisCountyhasjointlyhiredaCensusProgram Manager(Lawler)toassisttheCCC.TheUnitedWayofCentralTexasisintheprocessofhiringa similarpositiontoactonaregionalbasis.Localnonprofitsandchurchesareplanningtooutreach their communities. What are other library systems doing? TheTexasStateLibraryandArchivesCommission,aswellastheAmericanLibraryAssociation haveformallyrequestedtheassistanceoftheirmembersincarryingoutthecensus(seeAppendix). TheDallasPublicLibraryhascommittedtopushingCensusmessagingthroughalltheirexisting public programs for children (e.g. storytime) and adults (e.g. ESL classes). Voter Registration & Participation What is the opportunity? Votingisthecornerstoneofcivicengagement.AlthoughAustinhasahighoverallvoterregistration rate(95%in2018),thefranchiserequiresconstantmaintenance,andisnotequitablydistributed 4amongallAustincommunities.VoterparticipationinAustinismuchlower(61%in2018).Under 5statelaw,librariesareallowedtopromotevoterregistrationaswellasserveaspollinglocationson election day. 4 Daily Texan, “Nearly 95 percent of Travis County is registered to vote, setting ‘modern-day record.’” Accessed 10/18/19. 5 Texas Tribune, “Look up Texas midterm turnout in your county against historic numbers.” Accessed 10/18/19. What is APL doing? APLcurrentlymakesmail-invoterregistrationformsavailableateverybranch,althoughtheir presenceisnotalwaysobvious.Newlibrarycardapplicantsarealsoaskedwhethertheywouldlike amail-inform.TheTravisCountyElectionsOfficehistoricallypartnerswithAPLonanannual, system-wideeventatwhichVoluntaryDeputyRegistrars(VDRs)stafftablesatseveralbranchesto assistpatronsinregistering.OnesourceinvolvedsuggestedthiseventdoesnothaveastrongROI intermsofnewlyregisteredvoters.In2019,ninebranchesalsoservedaspollinglocationson election day. Who else is doing this work in Austin? Variouspolitical,nonprofitandcivicgroupsinAustinconductvoterregistrationdrivesandturnout efforts,howevertheseareusuallyeitherpartisanorfocusedonasinglepopulationorissue.Toour knowledge,noentityengagesinauniversal,citywideturnoutstrategy.TheCityandCountymake educationalresourcesavailabletothepubliconhowandwheretovote.TheCountyconducts ongoing voter registration, primarily …
M I L E S T O N E S C O M M U N I T Y C O L L A B O R A T I O N S S T A F F T R A I N I N G S C O N F E R E N C E S Pop Up Resource Clinics Austin Yellow Bike Project Veterans Affairs American Youth Works Front Steps Austin Resource Recovery Fix-it-Clinic Refugee Round Table PROGRAM 1 Security Workshops iSpeak Language Access Trainings Texas Library Association Annual Conference Restorative Practices Community- Building Veterans and Family symposium Texas Conference on Ending Homelessness
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 23 September, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 23 September, 2019 The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, September 23, 2019 at the Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St., in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna and Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, and Steven Self Board Members Absent: Commission Members Beth Smyer, and Chad Williams Staff in Attendance: 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, Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services; and Joe Faulk, Information Systems Manager 1. Citizen Communication: Jelina Tunstill spoke about the Community Action Network (CAN). 2. Approval of Minutes from the August 26, 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. Commission Members Smyer and Williams absent. 3. Introductions and Welcome: Doreen Boyd, Carver Branch Manager, gave an update about branch activities. 4. Briefing: Summer Reading Wrap-Up Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships, gave an overview of 2019 Summer Reading for youth programs and participation. 5. Old Business: none Library Commission Meeting Minutes 23 September, 2019 6. New Business: a. Discussion of briefing and agenda topics for future meetings, October – December 2019 The following topics were suggested: Civic Engagement (October); APL Bookmobile services; Collections in foreign languages; Fine Free Libraries; APL Strategic Plan; Collection Development overview; Marketing of Recycled Reads and APL; Youth Task Force Update; Library Foundation; Revenue Generation; Equity of Services; Library Trends and how APL can Incorporate them; Library Commission Alignment with SD23 b. Discussion and possible action on a Recommendation to add a youth member to the Library Commission. No action was taken. 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for August 2019 covering programming highlights, volunteer services, revenue, and policy updates: Questions from commissioners included: How did the Library budget come out for FY20? Is there an APL organizational chart? What is planned for the Hampton Branch at Oak Hill reopening? Is there a public participation component to Library renovations? 8. …
1 October 2019 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 _________________________________________ 10 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report __________________________________________ 12 Interior Renovations Monthly Report ________________________________________________________ 15 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report _______________________________________ 17 Austin History Center ________________________________________________________ 19 Library Priorities ____________________________________________________________ 21 Literacy Advancement ___________________________________________________________________ 21 Digital Inclusion & STEM _________________________________________________________________ 21 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion _______________________________________________________________ 21 Civic and Community Engagement _________________________________________________________ 22 Staff Development ______________________________________________________________________ 22 Workforce and Economic Development ______________________________________________________ 22 APL By the Numbers ________________________________________________________ 23 Performance Indicators for August _________________________________________________________ 23 Revenue ______________________________________________________________________________ 23 Volunteers ____________________________________________________________________________ 23 3 HIGHLIGHTS Hampton Branch at Oak Hill is Now Open The Austin Public Library, Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, 5125 Convict Hill Rd., reopened to the public on Monday, Oct. 21, after being closed since last year for a complete renovation. One of the most visible interior improvements to the facility is a new Kalwall skylight that fills the main area with natural light. A new designated “quiet room” will give customers a space to read and relax away from the main area. The branch now has an improved digital infrastructure with all new data wiring and connections for faster internet service. Other improvements include a roof replacement; upgraded computers; upgraded plumbing fixtures; modernized heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls; new circulation desk and other furniture; all new carpets throughout the library as well as a fresh coat of paint. Modifications were also made to ensure compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. AVAFest Veteran Conferences Central Library will host a two-day Veteran Writers Conference offering conversation and networking with screenwriters, poets, novelists, storytellers, songwriters and more! Saturday & Sunday, October 26 & 27 A Health and Wellness Conference will follow the following Saturday & Sunday, November 2 & 3. The conference, by and for veterans and their family members, as well as the individuals and organizations who serve them, will offer information on pathways to healing through community and the arts. Mayor’s Book Club 2019 The Library Foundation & Austin Public Library invite you to join us for the final event of the 2019 Mayor’s Book Club. Author Susan Orlean will discuss her bestseller and New York Times Notable Book The Library Book with Texas Literary …
LIBRARY COMMISSION September 23, 2019 – 6:30 PM Carver Branch 1161 Angelina St. 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. Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Aimee Finney, Catherine Hanna, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, Beth Smyer, and Chad Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 1. Citizen Communication: General The first 5 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. 2. Approval of Minutes from the August 26, 2019 Regular Meeting 3. Welcome and Introduction of Carver Branch Manager, Doreen Boyd 4. Briefing: Summer Reading Wrap-Up: Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships 5. Old Business: none 6. New Business: a. Discussion of briefing and agenda topics for future meetings, October – December 2019 b. Discussion and possible action a Recommendation to add a youth member to the Library Commission 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for September 2019 covering programming highlights, facilities, policies, and APL Priorities. 8. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries 9. 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 23 September, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 23 September, 2019 The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, September 23, 2019 at the Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St., in Austin, Texas. Chair Hanna called the Board Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Board Members in Attendance: Chair Catherine Hanna and Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, and Steven Self Board Members Absent: Commission Members Beth Smyer, and Chad Williams Staff in Attendance: 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, Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services; and Joe Faulk, Information Systems Manager 1. Citizen Communication: Jelina Tunstill spoke about the Community Action Network (CAN). 2. Approval of Minutes from the August 26, 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. Commission Members Smyer and Williams absent. 3. Introductions and Welcome: Doreen Boyd, Carver Branch Manager, gave an update about branch activities. 4. Briefing: Summer Reading Wrap-Up Sharon Herfurth, Division Manager, Office of Programs & Partnerships, gave an overview of 2019 Summer Reading for youth programs and participation. 5. Old Business: none Library Commission Meeting Minutes 23 September, 2019 6. New Business: a. Discussion of briefing and agenda topics for future meetings, October – December 2019 The following topics were suggested: Civic Engagement (October); APL Bookmobile services; Collections in foreign languages; Fine Free Libraries; APL Strategic Plan; Collection Development overview; Marketing of Recycled Reads and APL; Youth Task Force Update; Library Foundation; Revenue Generation; Equity of Services; Library Trends and how APL can Incorporate them; Library Commission Alignment with SD23 b. Discussion and possible action on a Recommendation to add a youth member to the Library Commission. No action was taken. 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for August 2019 covering programming highlights, volunteer services, revenue, and policy updates: Questions from commissioners included: How did the Library budget come out for FY20? Is there an APL organizational chart? What is planned for the Hampton Branch at Oak Hill reopening? Is there a public participation component to Library renovations? 8. …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26 August, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 26 August, 2019 The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, August 26, 2019 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 and Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, Beth Smyer, 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, Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services; Mindy Reed, Manager, Recycled Reads Bookstore; Joe Faulk, Information Systems Manager; Chip Pryor, IT Supervisor Sr.; David Faulkner, Program Specialist 1. Citizen Communication: Carlos Leon spoke about limited public forums. 2. Approval of Minutes from the July 22, 2019 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Vice Chair Finney’s motion and Commission member Williams’ second on a 9-0 vote. 3. Introductions and Welcome: Michael Abramov, North Village Branch Manager, gave an update about branch activities. 4. Presentation: Austin Library Foundation Cecily Sailer, Programs & Events Director gave an overview of Foundation fundraising activities and programs. 5. Old Business: a. Discussion and possible action on Recycled Reads Working Group Recommendation. The following citizens spoke: Carlos Leon, Bob Stevens, Steve Neel, Barbara McArthur, Chip Harris, and Nancy Harris. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26 August, 2019 Library Commission Recommendation 201900826-5a: The Future of Recycled Reads was approved on Commission Member Ramos’ motion and Vice Chair Finney’s second on a 9-0 vote. b. Update, discussion and possible action on Library Youth Policies. Citizen Carlos Leon spoke. Anne Bramblett, Assistant Director for Public Services and Pam Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services gave a presentation on Positive Youth Engagement at APL. 6. New Business: none 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for August 2019 covering programming highlights, volunteer services, revenue, and policy updates: Director Weeks covered APL locations used as cooling centers; HVAC repairs at the Austin History Center, and Drag Queen Storytime. 8. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries: Chair Hanna went with her mother …
Subject: Addition of a Youth Member to the City of Austin Library Commission Motioned By: Seconded By: Recommendation Add a [voting] position on the Library Commission to be filled by a member of the Austin Public Library Teen Library Council. Description of Recommendation to Council In an effort to increase positive youth engagement, the APL Youth Advisory Task Force has recommended that the Library Commission include a youth member (someone between 13-18 years of age) from the APL Teen Library Council as a [voting?] member of the Commission. This addition will allow the Commission to more effectively include youth perspectives as they make recommendations regarding library policies and procedures. Rationale: The Austin Public Library serves all ages, but a significant percentage of library patrons are children and youth. For teens, the public library provides a safe place to be when school is not in session as well as a place to learn and develop important life skills. Recently, a Youth Advisory Task Force undertook a review of its policies and procedures surrounding children and youth in the library. One of the Youth Task Force recommendations is to have a member of the Library Commission who is between the ages of 13 and 18 years old. Having a youth member would assist the Commission in making recommendations regarding the health and safety of youth patrons as well as the best ways to foster their development into engaged and productive citizens. Adding a youth member to the Library Commission would support the Austin Public Libraries Strategic Priorities of Lifelong Learning; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; and Civic and Community Engagement. It would also support the City’s strategic priorities in the following areas: • Safety: Being safe in our home, at work, and in our community. • Health and Environment: Enjoying a sustainable environment and a healthy life, physically and mentally. • Culture and Lifelong Learning: Being enriched by Austin's unique civic, cultural, ethnic, and learning opportunities. __________________ Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: [Staff or board member can sig
1 September 2019 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS HIghlights __________________________________________________________________ 3 Exhibits ________________________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Services ____________________________________________________________ 4 FY2018 Bond Program Summary ___________________________________________________________ 4 FY2012 Bond Program Summary ___________________________________________________________ 6 Cepeda Branch / Hampton Branch Monthly Report __________________________________________ 9 Faulk Building / Austin History Center Monthly Report __________________________________________ 11 Interior Renovations Monthly Report ________________________________________________________ 14 Roof Replacements & Systems Upgrades Monthly Report _______________________________________ 16 Austin History Center ________________________________________________________ 18 Library Priorities ____________________________________________________________ 20 Literacy Advancement ___________________________________________________________________ 20 Digital Inclusion & STEM _________________________________________________________________ 20 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion _______________________________________________________________ 20 Civic and Community Engagement _________________________________________________________ 21 Staff Development ______________________________________________________________________ 21 Workforce and Economic Development ______________________________________________________ 21 APL By the Numbers ________________________________________________________ 22 Performance Indicators for August _________________________________________________________ 22 Revenue ______________________________________________________________________________ 22 Volunteers ____________________________________________________________________________ 22 Policies _______________________________________________________________________________ 22 3 HIGHLIGHTS Hampton Branch at Oak Hill Reopening October 21 The Austin Public Library, Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, 5125 Convict Hill Rd., will reopen to the public on Monday, Oct. 21, after being closed since last year for a complete renovation. The public is invited to a reopening celebration from 10 AM to 2 PM on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Hampton Branch at Oak Hill. Austin City Council Member Paige Ellis, District 8, is expected to attend. 10 10 10 Recycled Reads 10 Year Anniversary On October 10 we will be celebrating 10 years of Recycled Reads goodness! Diverting over 3000 tons of materials from the landfill since we have started, Recycled Reads has become a place where individuals, other library systems in Central Texas, and groups can drop off their books for a chance of a second life. Recycled Reads provide books and media for mostly two dollars and under, and is a fun place to hunt for book treasures. It is a gathering place for poets, re-use minded individuals, Fix-It Clinics, crafters and collectors, book and music lovers. Come join us to help us mark this 10th year of operation! We will be having: Live Music with Joe Blanda A reusable mug decorating craft A discussion about Sustainable Party Planning by Bernadette Noll And more! Exhibits Entre Líneas, curated by Coka Treviño features the work of artists María Fernanda Barrero, Luisa Duarte, and Jenelle Esparza, celebrating women in Latin American and Hispanic communities. Historically, much of this group’s contributions have fallen in between the lines. This exhibition explores displacement, labor, boundaries, and fragility, in hopes to evoke pride and empower Latinas …
Summer Reading Program 2019 Report Programs for ages 5-10 142 programs with 14,782 attendees We had a lot of fun this summer with some terrific programs! We had 7 different in-house created kit programs this year (Fairy Houses, Geronimo Stilton Party, Halloween in Summer, Magical Creatures, Space Camp, Super Narwhal and Jelly Party, Water Art). We hosted 16 different performers this year including the Austin Symphony, 123 Andres, All Rhythms, Austin Opera, Austin Reptile Show, Bernadette Nason, Bright Star Theatre, Buffalo Soldiers, Carolina Storyteller, Elizabeth Kahura, Magician John O’Bryant, Magik Theatre, Pollyanna Theatre, Rolie Polie Guacamole, Sandbank Shadow Factory, and Bill Balboa from Sea Grant Texas. APL’s in-house puppet troupe, Literature Live! also performed Jack and the Bean-stalk! Super Narwhal and Jelly Party Buffalo Soldiers Magical Creatures: How many more of these are there--can we go to all of the magical creatures programs? Halloween in Summer: "We had the best time OMG it was so much fun!!! Great program if this summer!! We have the best Library system around!!" Austin Opera: “The Austin Opera program for kids was great! Just the right mix of entertainment, fun and culture.” Buffalo Soldiers: "The Buffalo Soldiers were great. My grands loved participating in the storytelling activities. They gave informative in-formation about dangerous animals if ever in areas with them & what to do--we remained afterwards to ask more questions." Austin Symphony Partnership 7 programs at Central with 6,494 attendees “Loved having the Austin Symphony at the Milwood Library! My kids enjoyed having live music and touching/playing the instru-ments. This exposure is invaluable, and I appreciated it was available at the local library.” “A great exposure to kids to violin, cello, and other instruments in a very kid friendly manner. Thank you for the opportunity!” “We loved having Symphony events in North Austin!” Austin Symphony Art Park This was our second year of hosting this annual Austin tradition at the library and it was spectacular. We had an overwhelming response and are already planning for 2020 and 2021. The Austin Symphony creates 2 hours of programming that includes an instrument petting zoo for hands-on experience, 2 symphony performances per program, as well as storytelling and crafts. It is jam packed with experiences for all ages. This year we also had the opportunity to hold two symphony programs in the branches and they were so success-ful we are looking forward to expanding that to more …
LIBRARY COMMISSION August 26, 2019 – 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. Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Aimee Finney, Catherine Hanna, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, Beth Smyer, and Chad Williams AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 1. Citizen Communication: General The first 5 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. 2. Approval of Minutes from the July 22, 2019 Regular Meeting 3. Welcome and Introduction of North Village Branch Manager, Michael Abramov 4. Presentation: Austin Library Foundation Public/Private Partnerships: Cecily Sailer, Programs & Events Director 5. Old Business: a. Discussion and possible action on Recycled Reads working group recommendation b. Update, discussion and possible action on Library Youth Policies 6. New Business: none 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for August 2019 covering programming highlights, facilities, policies, and APL Priorities. 8. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries 9. 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 26 August, 2019 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 26 August, 2019 The Library Commission convened in a Regular Meeting on Monday, August 26, 2019 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 and Vice Chair Aimee Finney, Commission Members Patricia Dabbert, JC Dwyer, Deborah Pardo-Kaplan, Daniella Ramos, Steven Self, Beth Smyer, 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, Patti Fowler, Division Manager, Central Library; Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager; Pamela Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services; Mindy Reed, Manager, Recycled Reads Bookstore; Joe Faulk, Information Systems Manager; Chip Pryor, IT Supervisor Sr.; David Faulkner, Program Specialist 1. Citizen Communication: Carlos Leon spoke about limited public forums. 2. Approval of Minutes from the July 22, 2019 Regular Meeting: The minutes of the regular meeting were approved on Vice Chair Finney’s motion and Commission member Williams’ second on a 9-0 vote. 3. Introductions and Welcome: Michael Abramov, North Village Branch Manager, gave an update about branch activities. 4. Presentation: Austin Library Foundation Cecily Sailer, Programs & Events Director gave an overview of Foundation fundraising activities and programs. 5. Old Business: a. Discussion and possible action on Recycled Reads Working Group Recommendation. The following citizens spoke: Carlos Leon, Bob Stevens, Steve Neel, Barbara McArthur, Chip Harris, and Nancy Harris. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26 August, 2019 Library Commission Recommendation 201900826-5a: The Future of Recycled Reads was approved on Commission Member Ramos’ motion and Vice Chair Finney’s second on a 9-0 vote. b. Update, discussion and possible action on Library Youth Policies. Citizen Carlos Leon spoke. Anne Bramblett, Assistant Director for Public Services and Pam Bowles, Division Manager, Branch Services gave a presentation on Positive Youth Engagement at APL. 6. New Business: none 7. Discussion of Director’s Monthly Report for August 2019 covering programming highlights, volunteer services, revenue, and policy updates: Director Weeks covered APL locations used as cooling centers; HVAC repairs at the Austin History Center, and Drag Queen Storytime. 8. Discussion of commissioner visits to branch libraries: Chair Hanna went with her mother …
