Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 23 SEPTEMBER 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the Affrican American Cultural and Heritage Center, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa, Mark Smith, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Kezia Frayjo Commission Members Absent: Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the August 26, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes of the September 23, 2024, special called meeting were approved with the following amendments on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera-Moreno’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Masters absent. The amendments were: the removal of the wording, “Criminal Trespass Notices received.on May 9, 2024, at the Old Quarry and May 13, 2024, at the Howson branch libraries.”, and the addition of the wording, “various concerns.” STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 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. Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 The presentation was made by St. John Requejo, Facilities Services Manager, Ida Garza, Central Security Supervisor, and Lloyd Black, Branch Security Supervisor. Carlos León provided public comment to the commission regarding security concerns. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Partnerships by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. The presentation was made by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. 4. Staff briefing on the September Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and creation of a working group to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council. The Commission approved the creation of a working group to include Commissioner Herrera- Moreno as chair, with Commisisoner Smth, and Commissioner DeRosa to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council with Commissioner Davis’ motion and Vice Chair Mehta’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION October 28, 2024 – 6P.M. John Gillum Branch Library 2502 Steck Ave. Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Andrea Herrera Moreno Kezia Frayjo Mark Smith Melissah Hasdorff Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Cristina Masters Magen Davis Steve DeRosa AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER 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's special called meeting on September 23, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Staff briefing on the October Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approval of the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Proposed Scope for Library Commission Working Group Working Group Members: Smith, DeRosa, Herrera Moreno Directive from October 23, 2024, Commission Meeting “Working group to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council.” Working Group Proposed Scope The Library Commissioners seek ways to better advocate for APL and strategically connect with City Council members and other Commissioners to support the library's financial and collaborative efforts. Strategic Area: Galvaze support for the Library’s financial plans Understand the annual budgeting cycle and create a calendar to help Commissioners communicate with their City Council members and others to support APL’s goals Understand the 2026 Bond plan as it pertains to the APL and create a calendar for activation, communication, and advocacy by Commissioners Draft up a request for a new/improved section in the monthly Directors Report that includes APL’s priorities that can assist commissioners in focusing their advocacy message Strategic Area: Galvanize support for the Library’s priorities by communicating and collaborating with other Commissions and City Council meetings Identify CoA Commissions that have overlapping interests and initiatives - Running list: CTCC, PARD, PUBLIC HEALTH, AFD, APD, African American Resource Advisory Streamline and clarify the process for Library Commission members to represent at other CoA Boards and Commissions Assign board member to contact other commissions Identify individual point of contact in each commission Work with other commission board members to identify and prioritize common goals. Identify a way for the APL team to share with the Library Commission when Library business is part of City Council agendas Draft up a request for a new/improved section in the monthly Directors Report that includes APL’s priorities that can guide Commissioners activation Establish a process to communicate inter-commission collaborations to the Council. - - - - - - Identify and nurture APL advocates within the City Council members - - - - - -
2025 Meeting Schedule for the Library Commission The Library Commission meets on the last Monday of each month. LOCATION DISTRICT 6 PM Carver Branch | 1161 Angelina St Little Walnut Branch | 835 W Rundberg Ln Menchaca Rd Branch | 5500 Menchaca Rd 1 4 5 9 2 7 3 9 10 10 3 Faulk | 800 Guadalupe Street Southeast Branch | 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd Yarborough Branch | 2200 Hancock Dr Cepeda Branch | 651 N Pleasant Valley Rd Twin Oaks Branch | 1800 S 5th St Howson Branch | 2500 Exposition Blvd Old Quarry Branch | 7051 Village Center Dr Ruiz Branch | 1600 Grove Blvd. MEETING DATES & TIMES 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM Monday, January 27 Monday, February 24 Monday, March 31 Monday, April 28 Monday, May 19* Monday, June 30 Monday, July 28 Monday, August 25 Monday, September 29 Monday, October 27 Monday, November 17* 6 PM Monday, December 15* 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM Central | 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 9 *Date Change Due to Holiday The purpose of the board is to make recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the public libraries. § 2-1-150
1 Director’s Report October 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 HIGHLIGHTS Leadership Update At the end of September, Hannah Terrell, former Assistant Director, transitioned to Acting Director of Libraries. Hannah brings 20 years of library experience, both in school and public libraries, and has been with Austin Public Library for the last three years. Hannah will serve in an interim capacity while the City of Austin hosts a search for the next Director of Libraries. Banned Books Week In 1982, the rise in book challenges led to the creation of Banned Books Week, an annual celebration of the freedom to read. This year, The Library Foundation, in partnership with PEN America Austin and Austin Public Library, supported events and Banned Book Club Kits. These kits, available in all APL libraries, contain books frequently targeted for censorship and are designed for ongoing discussions about banned books all year long. Most kits have 8 copies of the same book. Banned Books Week ran from September 22-28, 2024 APL Vinyl Brunch Carver branch had its first Sunday Vinyl Brunch series on September 8. The event had a total of 53 in attendances and showcased DJ Boozwa. APL’s Carver Branch location houses a vinyl record collection of a few hundred records, spanning from a pressing of the first album from The Jackson 5 to jazz collections from the 60s and 70s. The Carver Branch is the only one of Austin Public Library’s system of 20 locations that has vinyl records available for checkout. Recycle Reads Guitar Meetups Recycled Reads will start a monthly meet up of guitar students to practice and learn from each other. The first meet up took place at the end of September, where participants met to choose a song or songs to practice with a group. In October, they will host Voces y Guitarras, a monthly meeting where participants can perform and play their chosen songs. Menchaca Turns 50 Menchaca Branch Library celebrated 50 years on September 28! This branch has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s. The establishment of this branch was initiated as a component of a comprehensive effort aimed at extending library services and materials to underprivileged communities in …
Ala nna Gra ves Libra ria n III: Summer Experience Coordina tor a la nna .gra ves@a ustintexa s.gov | 512-974-7311 Program features a summer learning ch a lle n ge , pr iz e s, a n d ov e r 3 0 0 f r e e e v e n t s f r o m J u n e 1st - Au gu st 10 t h 2 0 2 4 Summer Learning Ch a lle n ge 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 T O PART ICIPAT E Online Pa pe r Logs Available at APL Locations or PDF download at library.austintexas.gov/summer FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! FREE PRIZES! CHALLENGE FINISHER STATS 2023 2024 % difference Minutes Logged 2,157,070 3,383,106 +56.83% increase Readers Enrolled 4,256 6,265 +47.2% increase Prizes Distributed 2,763 4,145 +50.01% increase *CONGRATS TO RUIZ FOR GIVING OUT THE MOST PRIZES (435)! CHALLENGE FINISHER STATS 2023 2024 % difference Babies, Toddlers & Pre -K 776 1,012 +30.4% increase Kids & Tweens 1,331 1,712 +28.6% increase Teens Adults 146 512 173 +18.5% increase 1,248 +143.75% increase TOP 5 BOOKS LOGGED BY AGE GROUP by Bill Martin Jr. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Giraffes Can’t Dance Llama Llama Red Pajama The Very Hungry Caterpillar Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Giles Andreae by Anna Dewdney by Eric Carle by Bill Martin Jr. The Chalice of the Gods Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix b y Re b e c c a Ro s s Ruthless Vows The Summer I Turned Pretty Heartstopper b y A lic e O s e m a n b y J e n n y Ha n b y Ric k Rio r d a n b y J . K. Ro w lin g Babies & Toddlers Kids & Tweens Teens Adults Dog Man : The Scarlet Shedder b y D a v P ilk e y The Wild Robot b y P e t e r Br o w n Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets b y J . K. Ro w lin g Wings of Fire: The Lost Heir New Dragon City b y M a r i …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES 28 OCTOBER 2024 The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the John Gillum Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Library Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice- Chair, Melissah Hasdorff, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Magen Davis, Mark Smith Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa, Kezia Frayjo, Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the September 23, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes from the special called meeting of September 23, 2024, were approved with amendments on a motion by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Vice Chair Mehta, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioners DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. The amendments were as follows: 1. Corrections to the spelling of “African” in the first sentence of the minutes. Library Commission Meeting Minutes October 28, 2024 2. Correction of Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s name in the Approval of Minutes and Discussion and Action Items sections’ 3. Capitalization of the word “Commission” in the Public Comment and Staff Briefing Sections 4. Addition of the statement, “Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns” in the Approval of Minutes section. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns. STAFF BRIEFINGS Librarian III. 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Summer 2024 Programming by Alanna Graves, The presentation was made by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Bond Progress Update by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The presentation was made by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 4. Staff briefing on the October Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Hannah Terrell, Interim Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approval of the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule The motion to approve the 2025 Library Commission Meeting Schedule was approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s second, on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa, Frayjo, and Masters absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. Update from the Strategic Advocacy Working Group. The update was given by Commissioner Herrera Moreno. Carlos León provided public …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION September 23, 2024 – 6P.M. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility 912 E 11th Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Andrea Herrera Moreno Kezia Frayjo Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Cristina Masters Magen Davis Steve DeRosa The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on August 26, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 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. 1. 2. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Partnerships by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. Staff briefing on the September Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and creation of a working group to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov. 3. 4. 5.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, August , 2024 REGULAR MEETING 26 August 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, August 26, 2024, at the St John Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, , Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa, Mark Smith, Kezia Frayjo, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Christina Masters Commission Members Absent: none PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos Leon spoke to the commission regarding Criminal Trespass Notices received.on May 9, 2024, at the Old Quarry and May 13, 2024, at the Howson branch libraries. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the August 3, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes of the August 3, 2024, special called meeting were approved on Commisison Member DeRosa’s motion and Commisison Member Davis’ second on a 7-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on the City of Austin Mentor and Tutor Program by Odera Anyasinti, Program Administrator, COA Mentor/Tutor. The presentation was made by Odera Anyasinti, Program Administrator, COA Mentor/Tutor. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, August , 2024 3. Staff Staff briefing on the August Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion on Board and Commission recommendations related to the Austin Public Library provided in the City of Austin Public Engagement Report. The Commission reviewed the Board and Commission recommendations related to the library in the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Public Engagement Report. The discussion focused on how to strategically advocate for the library, including providing public comment at council meetings and potentially forming a future workgroup. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval on a library commission member on the Poet Laurette Committee. The Commission approved Commission Member Frayjo to participate on the Poet Laurette Committee with Commission Member Smith’s motion and Commission Member Herrera Moreno’s second on a 7-0 vote. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Working Group for Budget Recommendations Advocating at City Council Meetings Library Safety and Security Summer Reading Recap Adjournment: Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:13 p.m. without objection.
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Commission Reception September 23, 2024, at 5:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility 912 E 11th Street Laura Polio 512-974-9624 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur.
Director’s Report September 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 HIGHLIGHTS Leadership Transitions This month marks the end of the tenure of Roosevelt Weeks as Director of Libraries at Austin Public Library. Having served as Director of Austin Public Library since 2017, Roosevelt Weeks has accepted the position of Library Director for Fort Bend County Libraries in Fort Bend County, Texas. Mr. Weeks’ final day as Austin Public Library Director will be September 27, 2024. Beginning September 28, 2024 current Assistant Director Hannah Terrell will become Acting Director for Austin Public Library. North Village Branch Renamed John Gillum Branch The Austin City Council has passed an ordinance renaming the North Village Branch Library on Steck Avenue after former Austin Public Library Facilities Manager John Gillum. John Gillum worked for Austin Public Library from 1979 until his retirement in 2019. He was the Facilities Planning Manager and later the Facilities Process Manager, overseeing every aspect of the planning design, construction, and renovation of all Austin Public Library facilities and playing a significant role in the relocation and development of the North Village Branch Library. APL Staff Development Day Austin Public Library leadership hosted a Staff Development Day themed “URL: Unreal, Relearn, and Learn” where all staff attended a day-long virtual working session. The day-long working session included a keynote speaker, leadership presentations, and 14 different cohort groups with 30+ staff in each group. The cohort groups were administered by leadership and guided staff through three themed learning sessions focused on adaptability and resilience. I.D.E.A.L. Summer Workshop Series This summer, APL's Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access in Libraries (I.D.E.A.L.) office hosted the summer series "Organizational Culture Transformation” workshop. I.D.E.A.L partnered with AISD's Organizational Transformation Team to facilitate and explore essential topics of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in libraries. The collaborative series offered a dynamic range of thoughtfully designed sessions to deepen understanding and enhance daily operations by creating an inclusive library experience for all. Through interactive workshops and expert-led discussions, 1 participants were able to gain insight and learn practical tools to adopt equitable practices and policies that embrace differences and diverse communities. Spicewood Springs Branch Expand Language Learning Programs Over the past year, the number language learning …
S U P P O R T I N G C O M M U N I T Y T H R O U G H P A R T N E R S H I P S J e n n i f e r P e t e r s D i v i s i o n M a n a g e r , P r o g r a m s & P a r t n e r s h i p s L a u r a T a d e n a C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t L i b r a r i a n S E P T E M B E R 2 3 , 2 0 2 4 WHY PARTNERSHIPS MATTER L e v e r a g e R e s o u r c e s E n h a n c e s e r v i c e o f f e r i n g s B r o a d e r c o m m u n i t y r e a c h S t r e n g t h e n c o m m u n i t y i m p a c t H e l p u s b u i l d c o m m u n i t y t r u s t L e a d t o c r e a t i v e a n d i n n o v a t i v e o p p o r t u n i t i e s PARTNERSHIPS AT APL W H A T I S A P A R T N E R S H I P A p a r t n e r s h i p i s a f o r m a l c o l l a b o r a t i o n b e t w e e n t w o o r m o r e o r g a n i z a t i o n s w o r k i n g t o g e t h e r t o w …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 23 SEPTEMBER 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a special called meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the African American Cultural and Heritage Center, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair, Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa, Mark Smith, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Kezia Frayjo Commission Members Absent: Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Carlos León spoke to the Commission regarding various concerns. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the August 26, 2024, special called meeting. The minutes of the September 23, 2024, special called meeting were approved with the following amendments on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera Moreno’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Masters absent. The amendments were: the removal of the wording, “Criminal Trespass Notices received.on May 9, 2024, at the Old Quarry and May 13, 2024, at the Howson branch libraries.”, and the addition of the wording, “various concerns.” Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding approval of minutes concerns. Library Commission Meeting Minutes September 23, 2024 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 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. The presentation was made by St. John Requejo, Facilities Services Manager, Ida Garza, Central Security Supervisor, and Lloyd Black, Branch Security Supervisor. Carlos León provided public comment to the Commission regarding security concerns. 3. Staff briefing on Austin Public Library Partnerships by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. The presentation was made by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs & Partnerships and Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian. 4. Staff briefing on the September Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and creation of a working group to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council. The Commission approved the creation of a working group to include Commissioner Herrera Moreno as chair, with Commisisoner Smth, and Commissioner DeRosa to bring forward recommendations on strategic advocacy for library budget and initiatives to City Council …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION August 26, 2024 – 6P.M. St. John Branch Library 7500 Blessings Ave. Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Andrea Herrera Moreno Kezia Frayjo Mark Smith AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Cristina Masters Magen Davis Steve DeRosa The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's special called meeting on August 3, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on the Poet Laureate Committee by Patti Fowler, Austin Public Library Division Manager. Staff briefing on the City of Austin Mentor and Tutor Program by Odera Anyasinti, Program Administrator, COA Mentor/Tutor. 1. 2. 3. Staff briefing on the August Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and approval on a library commission representative on the Poet Laurette Committee. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov. 4. 5.
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION August 26, 2024 – 6P.M. St. John Branch Library 7500 Blessings Ave. 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 to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, telephone. To register laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair Andrea Herrera Moreno Kezia Frayjo Mark Smith Sheila Mehta, Vice Chair Cristina Masters Magen Davis Steve DeRosa AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's special called meeting on August 3, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on the City of Austin Mentor and Tutor Program by Odera Anyasinti, Program Administrator, COA Mentor/Tutor. 1. 2. Staff briefing on the August Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 3. DISCUSSION 4. Discussion on Board and Commission recommendations related to the Austin Public Library provided in the City of Austin Public Engagement Report. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval on a library commission member on the Poet Laurette Committee. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Budget Public Engagement Report Fiscal Year 2025 African American Resource Advisory Commission African American Resource Advisory Commission FY 25 Budget Recommendations Elaina Fowler, Chair (District 10) Charelle Vanbrakle, Vice Chair (District 4) Budget Recommendation #1 Austin Public Library Black Literature Expansion: $1.5M Justification: The current political climate has had a detrimental impact on youth who seek to connect with and learn from their cultural heritage through literature. This issue is particularly evident in the realm of African American authors and their works, which shed light on the struggles and experiences of African American communities. Public libraries are an integral part of our society, nurturing the minds of future generations. As Public Schools continue to reclaim their library autonomy it is vital Austin Public libraries expand their catalog to educate and inspire all individuals through the power of cultural reading. Public libraries serve as a vital resource for African American communities, offering summer reading programs and access to culturally specific literature and media. Therefore, the insufficient amount of African American literature in Austin Public Libraries would be a disservice to African Americans residing within the city limits and to all who have the curiosity to embrace diversity and learn from their stories. Investing in culturally significant African American literature would be a positive step for the Austin Public Library system, reinforcing Austin's commitment to inclusivity and diversity by addressing challenging topics such as institutional racism and implicit bias. It is essential for the City of Austin to increase the budget of the Austin Public Library beyond the zero-based budget to support a meaningful investment in African American literature within the library's collection. This investment would not only benefit the African American community but also underscore Austin's dedication to embracing diversity and promoting equitable access to valuable literary resources. Budget Recommendation #6 Establish an Austin Texas Poet Laureate Program: $50,000 (per Annum) Justification: Since the 1600’s, poet laureate positions have existed in cities, states, and countries to be stewards of poetry in their communities through programs that positively impact the public. As of 2022, Austin is the only major city in Texas without a Poet Laureate program, and we, the undersigned, are of the belief that Austin could benefit from a socio-politically engaged Poet Laureate who uses poetry to promote literacy across the city and to integrate poetry into the fabric of Austin’s history, politics, and culture. According to the National Assembly …
1 Director’s Report August 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 Programs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………….6 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………….……………………………………………….7 Circulation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………..8 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..10 Volunteers.………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….………………….11 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 HIGHLIGHTS APL Welcomes African American Cultural & Heritage Facility (AACHF) On July 1st, the AACHF began working under the Austin Public Library. AACHF plays an integral role in the City of Austin’s long-term commitment to protecting and enhancing the quality of life for African Americans. Named after the state-designated African American Cultural Heritage District, the AAHCF adds to the area’s cultural significance by offering arts, business, cultural and entertainment programming. They are currently distributing public surveys to gather feedback on how to improve services and offerings. This data will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of AACHF based on community input and needs. Strategic Plan Summit On July 11th, the Department held a Strategic Plan Summit to introduce the implementation phase of the process. Over 80 staff members attended, representing various parts of the department. They learned about the different methods we will use to measure our success in achieving our 5 Strategic Goals, the process we followed to develop these metrics, and how our Strategic Goals align with the City's objectives. School Supply Drive On July 26th, the COA Mentor/Tutor program organized a School Supply Drive at the Palmer Events Center to support the Austin Independent School District and Gardner Betts Juvenile Detention Center. Seventy-seven volunteers collected, sorted, and packaged donations, resulting in 663 backpacks (a 44% increase from the previous year) and 287 boxes of supplies. The initiative also provided 17 students from the Boys and Girls Clubs with backpacks, supplies, and tours of City Hall, the Palmer Events Center, and the Austin Public Library’s Central Branch. APL Pride 2024 The Library celebration planning team created an evening for the LGBTIA+ community to participate in activities focused on self-expression and nurturing. Over 155 attendees participated in 13+ stations. Stations and activities included movie watching, reading, coloring, a plant talk, photo workshops, tarot reading, button making, tabling partners, maps, and a Pride Walk. The team connected activities to library services and the collection to show it is a place for all. Passport Service Passport Services has hit some important milestones this month. By close of business on August 6th, we reached …
