Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 _______________Library Commission__________ (Official Name of Board or Commission) Mission Statement: The Library Commission shall make recommendations to the city council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. City Code Section 2-1-150 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. a. Commissioners were briefed about the library operations so as to be able to answer questions from the City Council members and their constituents. i. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library FY25 APL Proposed Budget by Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II Annual Review and Work Plan 2024/2025 Page | 2 ii. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library Bond Projects and Advocacy Timelines by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager iii. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Security by St. John Requejo, Facilities Services Manager, Ida Garza, Central Security Supervisor, and Lloyd Black, Branch Security Supervisor. iv. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Partnerships by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. v. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. vi. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. vii. Staff briefing on Library Community Engagement by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library viii. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. ix. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. x. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. xi. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. Annual Review and Work Plan 2024/2025 Page | 3 xii. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. xiii. Presentation by Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. xiv. Staff briefing on Summer at Austin Public Library and …
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: INTEGRATING DIGITAL CONTENT & PRINT RESOURCES August 2, 2025 WELCOME Christina Nelson, MSIS Customer Access Division Manager christina.nelson@austintexas.gov TODAY'S AGENDA Selection Process Factors to Consider Licensing Models Borrowing Privileges Circulation Trends User Hold Analysis Director’s Dashboard SELECTION PROCESS Materials Selection Policy Submit a Suggestion Availability of highly anticipated releases Community needs & trends Support for programming & events Multiple formats Contracted vendor inventory Budgetary allocations FACTORS TO CONSIDER Cultural & Local Trends Fluidity of Target Purchasing Models Pay-per-Unit Pay-per-Use Average Cost of Materials $20.75 / print book t $60.00 / digital content Holds Ratio Goals Licensing Models LICENSING MODELS: PAY-PER-UNIT Overdrive (Libby) LICENSING MODELS: PAY-PER-USE Hoopla Kanopy Check out 4 items per month Movies & TV shows check out for 3 days Music CDs check out for 7 days Audiobooks, eBooks and comics / graphic novels check out for 21 days BingePasses check out for 7 days Videos use different ticket amounts depending on running time Videos have different viewing gg periods depending on running time Each video is labeled with ticket amount, viewing period and running time hh Tickets reset on the 1st of each month tto Unused tickets don't roll over to the next month COLLECTION 411 Check out limits Print – 50 / Digital –10 Holds limits & Pick-up Time Frames Print – 15 / Digital – 7 Print – 10 days / Digital – 72 hours Average wait time Print – 15 days / Digital – 33 days Renewals Assistive tech tools CIRCULATION TRENDS FY23 (10/01/2022 - 09/30/2023) Print Circulation-- 4,271,321 Digital Circulation --3,108,163 FY24 (10/01/2023 - 09/30/2024) Print Circulation -- 3,898,850 Digital Circulation --3,859,682 FY25 so far (10/01/2024 - 06/30/2025) Print Circulation -- 2,744,463 Digital Circulation -- 2,981,925 USER HOLD ANALYSIS DIRECTOR’S DASHBOARD T HANK T YOU Austin Public Library
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION June 30, 2025 – 6 P.M. Yarborough Branch Library 2200 Hancock Drive Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Immigrant Services, provided by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Austin Public Library. 3. Staff briefing on the June APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and Approval of the Date, Time and Agenda for a Special Called Library Commission Retreat. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director June 2025 HIGHLIGHTS Roots Unveiled Showcases 200 Years of Chinese American Stories The exhibition reception for Roots Unveiled: Chinese American History 1783–1945 was held on May 18 at the Central Library Gallery, drawing more than 200 attendees. As the first major institutional exhibition in Texas to explore the 200-year journey of Chinese Americans, it features over 60 historical artifacts, rarely seen archival materials, oral histories, and contemporary artworks. Highlights include Texas Roses, a collaborative portrait created by 71 local residents, and Cousins, a photo series reconnecting branches of the Lung family across the U.S. and China. The event brought together artists, scholars, and descendants of Austin’s earliest Chinese American families, alongside special guests such as Texas State Representative Gene Wu, Dr. Mitchel Wong, and leaders from the Austin Chinese American Network. Together, they helped underscore the powerful message that Chinese American history is an essential part of American history. Families Gather for a Fun-Filled Kids Block Party The Kids Block Party on Saturday, June 7 brought energy and excitement to the Central Library and Seaholm Intake Facility. Families participated in outdoor games, nature play, crafts, puppet- making, and STEM activities, with support from Parks and Recreation, the Austin Park Rangers, and other community partners. Highlights included storytimes, a laser light show, typewritten poems from Typewriter Rodeo, and photos with HEB Buddy. Inside the library, kids explored 3D pens, Makey Makey banana pianos, and a sensory-friendly room for quiet breaks. With something for every age, the event welcomed families into a summer of creativity, learning, and connection. The Reading and Badge Challenge 2025 The Reading and Badge Challenge 2025 launched on June 7 as part of Summer at Austin Public Library, inviting readers of all ages to explore the theme “Color Our World”. Participants are encouraged to read or be read to for at least 20 minutes a day—or a total of 600 minutes—and complete three activity badges by August 10. Starting June 10, readers can claim a prize at any APL branch while supplies last: a free book for ages 0–17 and a free mug for adults. The challenge is available online through Beanstack or in print at all library locations. APL Strategic Plan We are continuing the implementation phase of our strategic plan. Currently, we are customizing the tool provided by UT to ensure it aligns with …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Southeast Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Mehta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Magen Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 The April 28, 2025, minutes were approved at the May 19, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on an 8–0 vote. Chair Infante Huerta and Commissioner Davis were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, presented information on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on Summer at Austin Public Library and Kids Block Party, by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Language Access, by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. 5. Staff briefing on the May APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Mehta adjourned the meeting at 7:41 p.m. without objection.
Welcoming Services at Austin Public Library Newcomer Engagement & Navigation June 30, 2025 Laura Tadena (she/her/ella) Community Engagement Librarian Austin Central Library Agenda 1 2 3 4 5 Community Context & Growth Overview of APL’s Welcoming Services Enhanced Library Cards What’s Next Q&A Austin is a Welcoming City The City of Austin is part of a Welcoming Network, a national coalition of 300+ local governments and nonprofits working to build more inclusive and welcoming communities in the United States. Austin is pursuing Certified Welcoming status, with a goal of achieving a 2-star designation The Welcoming Standard recognizes public libraries as essential infrastructure for: Hubs for language access and learning Facilitators of civic participation Anchors of cultural connection and trust- building Why this work matters. Austin is rapidly changing: One of the fastest-growing and most diverse cities in the U.S. Immigrants make up 14% of Austin’s population. Nearly 1 in 3 children in Austin has at least one immigrant parent. Libraries are already essential to this populations: According to ALA’s New Americans Library Project White Paper: Over 55% of new Americans use their public library weekly. Vera Institute (n.d.). Profile of the foreign-born population in Austin, Texas: https://vera-institute.files.svdcdn.com/production/downloads/publications/profile-foreign- born-population-austin.pdf Language Access & Community Need What is “Linguistic Isolation”? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a household is considered linguistically isolated if: “No person age 14 or older speaks English at least ‘very well.’” What does this mean? No one in the home can confidently navigate forms, services, or institutions in English. These households are more likely to face barriers to education, health care, housing, and civic participation. Darker areas = higher levels of linguistic isolation; helps to identify residents who may need: Translated information In-language services Bilingual or multilingual staff Outreach that is culturally and linguistically responsive Map: 2020 ACS Linguistic Isolation by Census Tract What are Welcoming Services? Austin Public Library plays a vital role in helping all Austinites, regardless of language, status, or origin, feel welcomed and empowered to discover, learn and create. Welcoming Services are: Rooted in trust, safety, and dignity Designed to support newcomers and multilingual communities Moves beyond access to foster belonging, leadership, and connection Strategic Alignment APL’s Strategic Plan City of Austin Alignment Certified Welcoming Standards SG1 Provide Community-Centric Programs & Services: We design services with and for our diverse communities. SG3 Foster Stakeholder Relationships: We build partnerships that strengthen community trust and connection. SG4 …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION May 19, 2025 – 6 P.M. Southeast Branch Library 5803 Nuckols Crossing Road Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating via video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. 4. 5. Staff briefing on Summer at Austin Public Library and Kids Block Party, by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Language Access, by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes April 28, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the John Henry Faulk Building in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Sara Gore Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on March 31, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes April 28, 2025 The minutes of the regular meeting held on March 31, 2025, were approved with amendments at the regular meeting of April 28, 2025, on a motion by Commissioner Herrera Moreno, seconded by Commissioner Selig. The motion passed on a 7–0 vote. Vice Chair Mehta and Commissioners Frayjo and Davis were absent. The approved amendments were as follows: • On page 1, under "Call to Order," the word Commissions was replaced with Commissioners on lines 2, 4, and 5. • On page 1, under "Approval of Minutes," line 3, the name Segil was corrected to Selig. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 4. Staff briefing on the April APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. A motion to elect Lynda Infante Huerta as Chair and Sheila Mehta as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner …
Language Access at Austin Public Library Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager Presentation to Austin Library Commission, May 2025 Contains slides by Diania Miranda-Murillo, World Languages Selector Overview: • Language Access requirements and processes for City of Austin Departments • Unique situations and challenges for Austin Public Library • Programming in languages other than English. Language Access at City of Austin Language Access policy set forth in Administrative Bulletin Number 22-02 The City of Austin Communication and Public Information Office (CPIO), through its Language Access Program, oversees and coordinates all language access services for City departments. The program provides support, guidance, and assistance, staff training, as well as a wide range of resources. Services & Resources through CPIO • Supports all city departments in development and implementation of Department-specific Language Access Plans, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and policies, incl. CoA Language Access Policy and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 • Negotiates and contracts with vendors for interpretation and translation services. • Coordinates and leads quarterly meeting with department Language Access SPOCs. • Administers the “iSpeak Austin” live remote interpretation service • Collects and reports language access data iSpeak Austin Austin Public Library Language Access Plan • Last updated January 2023 (due for revision this year) • Sets forth Library’s goal and strategies around language access “The Library’s Goal is to provide meaningful access for customers to successfully use and benefit from Library information, programs, services, and materials.” Austin Public Library Language Access SPOC: Baylor Johnson, Public Info. & Mktg. Pgm. Mgr. Language Access at APL Language Service Interactions, By the Numbers: In the first 3 months of 2025, APL Staff reported: •2,061 Direct Service language interactions (communicating directly with a customer in a language other than English) •17 in-person interpretation interactions (staff or a contractor interpreting between an English and non-English speaker) •13 phone interpretation interactions (an interpreter over the phone, interpreting between an English-speaking employee and a non-English speaking customer, such as through the iSpeak Austin service) •1 video-based ASL interpretation The overwhelming majority of these interactions took place in Spanish, but other languages represented include ASL, Japanese, French, Portuguese, and Tamil The primary objective of the World Language Collection is to support and serve the informational needs of migrant groups, refugee communities, international students, second and subsequent generations to preserve the language, culture and identity of these communities. APL’s World Languages …
Alanna Graves Librarian III: Summer Experience Coordinator alanna.graves@austintexas.gov | 512-974-7311 Program features a summer learning challenge, prizes, and over 350 free events from June 7th - August 10th 2025 Summer Reading & Badge Challenge THIS SUMMER, WE CHALLENGE YOU TO READ, LEARN, AND EARN FREE PRIZES READ COMPLETE EARN 600 Minutes Learning Badges Free Prizes Learning badges are scaled for each age group: babies & toddlers, kids & tweens, teens, and adults HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE Online Paper Logs Available at APL Locations or PDF download at library.austintexas.gov/summer FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! QUESTIONS? OVER 350 SUMMER EVENTS Animal Visits Dance & Fitness Workshops Musical & Theatre Performances STEM & Coding Workshops Arts & Crafts Environmental Workshops Storytime s Trivia Nights library.austintexas.gov/events ...and more! Special thanks to our partners & presenters! T E R R E N C E T A P S
1 APL Public Programming Highlights & Facilities Updates Hannah Terrell, Interim Director May 2025 HIGHLIGHTS Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest 2025 Brings Authors and Community Together The second annual Greater Austin Book (GAB) Fest was held at the Central Library on April 26, bringing together more than 85 authors for a two-day celebration of literature, creativity, and community. The event kicked off on Friday evening with a welcome reception, offering authors a relaxed space to connect, network, and settle in after setting up their tables. Saturday was lively and energetic, with hundreds of attendees exploring every floor of the library, visiting author tables, participating in panel discussions, purchasing books, and engaging in a wide range of literary activities. The event underscored APL’s ongoing commitment to supporting writers and fostering a love of reading across the community. John Gillum Branch Renaming Ceremony The John Gillum Branch renaming ceremony was held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Formerly known as the North Village Branch, the event honored Mr. John Gillum, former Facilities Manager of Austin Public Library. Gillum Branch staff organized an afternoon of activities and festivities to commemorate the occasion. Mr. Gillum was joined by family, friends, former and current council members, Library Administration, and staff in a formal celebration recognizing his lasting contributions to the library system. June 7th: Kids Block Party Austin Public Library will host its annual Kids Block Party on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Central Library. This free, family-friendly event is geared toward children ages 0–12 and their caregivers and will serve as the official launch of the 2025 Summer at Austin Public Library. The event will feature six themed activity blocks, including storytimes, puppet-making, a laser light show, hands-on science, nature-based fun, and a family resource fair. APL Strategic Plan We are continuing the implementation phase of our strategic plan. Currently, we are customizing the tool provided by UT to ensure it aligns with our departmental needs and priorities. As part of this process, we are beginning to populate the tool with feasible, relevant data points. In parallel, we are also collecting qualitative stories from across the department to highlight progress and successes that may not be fully reflected through quantitative metrics alone. These efforts aim to create a more comprehensive and meaningful picture of our advancement toward strategic goals. Special Events Updates In April 2025, …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Southeast Branch Library in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Mehta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Dr. Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Andrea Herrera Moreno Edward Selig Board Members/Commissioners Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Magen Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 The April 28, 2025, minutes were approved at the May 19, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioner Gore. The motion passed on an 8–0 vote. Chair Infante Huerta and Commissioner Davis were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Wendy Woodland, Director of Advocacy & Communications for the Texas Library Association, presented information on legislative issues impacting libraries and TLA’s work in this area. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. STAFF BRIEFING 3. Staff briefing on Summer at Austin Public Library and Kids Block Party, by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Alanna Graves, Librarian III, Austin Public Library. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Language Access, by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. 5. Staff briefing on the May APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Mehta adjourned the meeting at 7:41 p.m. without objection. Library Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2025 The May 19, 2025, minutes were approved at the June 30, 2025, regular meeting on a motion by Commissioner Selig, seconded by Commissioners Gore and Hasdorff. The motion passed on a 7–0 vote. Commissioners Frayjo, Gururaj …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE LIBRARY COMMISSION April 28, 2025 – 6 P.M. John Henry Faulk Building 800 Guadalupe Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Pamela Carlile Kezia Frayjo Sara Gore Andrea Herrera Moreno CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Magen Davis Suchitra Gururaj Melissah Hasdorff Edward Selig PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Library Commission regular meeting on March 31, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library School Partnerships by Jenny Stirrat, School Partnerships Librarian, Austin Public Library. 3. 4. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian, Austin Public Library. Staff briefing on APL Public Programming Highlights and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If you require Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Austin Public Library Nature Smart Libraries Initiative Cities Connecting Children to Nature Laura Tadena Community Engagement Librarian Nature Smart Library Strategy Chair Austin Public Library OVERVIEW Background and Overview of CCCN APL’s Nature Smart Library Initiative Future Plans & Opportunities CITIES CONNECTING CHILDREN TO NATURE (CCCN) AUSTIN Cities Connecting Children to Nature is a national initiative initiative that seeks to create more equitable and abundant access to nature in cities through a partnership between The National League of Cities Institute for Youth, Education, and Families and the Children & Nature Network. CCCNS VISION AND MISSION Cities Connecting Children to Nature strives to ensure every child has access to and connection with nature every day. WE ARE COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH THE NATURAL SPACES WHERE THEY LIVE, LEARN, AND PLAY, WHICH FOSTERS LIFELONG BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH NATURE. CCCN COLLABORATES ACROSS INSTITUTIONS AND SYSTEMS, AMPLIFYING EFFORTS, SHARING RESOURCES, AND CREATING PARTNERSHIPS THAT DEEPEN OUR COLLECTIVE VISION AND ADVANCE OUR MISSION. CCCN AUSTIN: OUR EVOLUTION City adopts Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights & begins collection of nature deficient area data Four focal strategies with Outdoor Learning Environments (OLE!) Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position funded through WPD; FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position reclassified as Program Manager 2016 2018 2020 2022 Critical look at integration of racial equity lens to all strategies; Integration into City-wide plans; new NSL Strategy Chair & adoption of new APL Strategic Plan 2017 2019 2021 2023-PRESENT Austin receives strategic planning & implementation grant from CCCN Focus on Green School Parks, Nature Play, Youth Leadership & FTE CCCN Program Coordinator position through PARD Five focal strategies with addition of Nature Smart Libraries Temp, Full-Time Coordinator position becomes FTE, funded through WPD + PARD; Dedicated funding for Nature Play and Joint-Use sites in City Budget CCCN AUSTIN: 2022 ACCESS TO NATURE MAP ZIPCODE ANALYSIS: MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, CHILD POPULATION, INVERSE TREE CANOPY, WATERWAYS, & PARKLAND DISADVANTEGED ACCESS TO NATURE 5%-15% 16%-30% 31%-50% 50%-97% AUSTIN CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR BILL OF RIGHTS The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) illustrates what equitable access to nature should look like in Austin and establishes a common foundation and high aspirations for nature connection in the community. Austin City Council unanimously voted to pass the COBOR on January 26, 2017. Sign The Austin COBOR CCCN AUSTIN: FIVE STRATEGIES Green School Parks Nature Play Early Childhood Emerging Green Leaders Nature Smart Libraries SYSTEMS CHANGE APPROACH The Cities Connecting Children …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 31 MARCH 2025 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Menchaca Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissions in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Edward Selig, Pamela Carlile, Kezia Frayjo Commissions in Attendance Remotely: Mark Smith, Sara Gore Commissions Absent: Andrea Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj, Melissah Hasdorff PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the December 16, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes from the regular meeting on December 16, 2024, were approved on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Segel abstaining and Commissioners Herrera Moreno, Suchitra Gururaj and Hasdorff absent. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes March 31, 2025 STAFF BRIEFING 2. Staff briefing on City of Austin Bond Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. The briefing was presented by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. 3. Staff briefing of the March APL Public Programming Highlights, and Facilities Updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The briefing was presented by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion of library-related bills in the current legislative session. Commissioner Smith provided information on library-related bills in the current legislative session. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS 5. Report from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Commissioner Smith provided the Final Report and Recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding various concerns. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and approval of the report and recommendations from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group regarding advocacy and engagement to support the Austin Public Library. A motion to approve …
