CITY OF AUSTIN MENTOR/TUTOR PROGRAM Odera Anyasinti, MPA Youth/Family Outreach Administrator COA Mentor and Tutor Program odera.anyasinti@austintexas.gov What is the City of Austin Mentor and Tutor (COAMT) Program? The City of Austin Mentor and Tutor Program allows City employees to volunteer in mentoring and tutoring roles with any of the seven programs approved by the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and surrounding districts. COAMT Cont’d Created in 2002 Focuses on low performing schools At its height nearly 400 COA volunteers participated each academic year City provides up to two hours of administrative leave per week during the workday Benefits of COAMT Offers employees an opportunity to give back during the workday Improves the quality of life of Austin-area students Provides community partners with quality volunteers Introduces students to careers in public service Community Partners How it works 1. 2. 3. 4. Obtain Supervisor Approval and Select a Community Partner Complete COA Mentor/Tutor and Community Partner Applications Fulfill Community Partner Orientation Requirements Recieve student match and Begin Regular Meetings with the Student APL Department Liasion Lee Dawson Jr. Received the 2024 APIE Mentor Superstar Award Has been mentoring at Blackshear Elementary for 30 years 18 years through COAMT WHEREAS, all children have the potential to succeed in life and contribute to society but not all children get the support they need to thrive; and WHEREAS; mentoring by caring individuals is just one way to provide children with the support, counsel, friendship, reinforcement and a constructive example that can help them find the best in themselves and live to their potential - RESOLUTION NO. 020425-46 Thank You! Questions?
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 León spoke to the commission regarding various concerns. 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. The minutes from the meeting of August 26, 2024 were approved on September 23, 2024, on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Herrera-Moreno’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Masters absent.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION August 3, 2024 – 10A.M. Austin Central Library, 4th Floor 710 West Cesar Chavez Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: 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 July 29, 2024 STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library FY25 APL Proposed Budget by Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II 1. 2. 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 Discussion on the Library Commission long-range objectives for the next year Discussion on ways to support the priorities of the Austin Public Library through advocacy for the next year. DISCUSSION ITEMS 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 24, June, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 24, June 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, June 24, 2024, at the Hampton at Oak Hill Branch Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Mark Smith, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Kezia Frayjo, Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa Commission Members Absent: Christina Masters Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the May 13, 2024, special called meeting The minutes of the May 13, 2024, special called meeting were approved on Commisison Member Herrera Moreno’s motion and Commission Member DeRosa’s second on a 6-0 vote. Vice Chair Mehta and Commission Member Masters absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Partnerships 2. Staff briefing on Programs Update, by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and The presentation was made by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and Partnerships. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 24, June, 2024 3. Discussion of the June Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the date, location and agenda for the Library Commission retreat The commission will hold a retreat at the Central Library, date and time to be determined. Items on the agenda may include an update on the APL Strategic Plan, APL Advocacy and Community Engagement, Financial Outlook, and Partnership Opportunities DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of the 2023 Library Commision Report A motion to approve the 2023 Library Commission Report was made by Commission Member Smith and seconded by Commission Member Davis. Vice-Chair Mehta and Commission Member Masters absent FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Appointment for Poet Laurarte Committee Budget Adjournment: Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 6:58 p.m. without objection.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 03, August , 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 03 August 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a special called meeting on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the Austn Central Library, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Infante Huerta called the Commission Meeting to order at 10:15 a.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Lynda Infante Huerta, Chair, Sheila Mehta, Vice-Chair Christina Masters, Magen Davis, Steve DeRosa Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members Absent: Mark Smith, Kezia Frayjo PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the June 24, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes of the June 24, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commisison Member DeRosa’s motion and Vice Chair Mehta’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commission Member Smith and Frayjo absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Financial Manager II. 2. Staff briefing on the Austin Public Library FY25 APL Proposed Budget by Wendy Harrison, The presentation was made by Wendy Harrison, Financial Manager II. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 03, August , 2024 3. 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 The presentation was made by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager, and Baylor Johnson, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the Library Commission long-range objectives for the next year The Library Commission identified key long-range objectives for the upcoming year, including: • Suppoprt for the Austin Public Library budget and department Unmet Needs • Advocacy efforts for library initiatives • Enhanced support for social issues faced by patrons in libraries and integrating social workers into library services. • Strategic Engagement in alignment with the library department to promote support for bond measures. • Access and barriers in the Library the next year. 5. Discussion on ways to support the priorities of the Austin Public Library through advocacy for The Commission discussed the following strategies to support the Austin Public Library's priorities for the next year: • Continue to actively advocate for the integration of social workers into library services to address and assist with the social challenges faced by patrons. • Create opportunities for partnerships to collaborate and advocate for the Austin Pubic Library with city department groups and other boards and commissions. • Community Engagement through active community involvement by attending events and …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION June 24, 2024 – 6 P.M. Hampton at Oak Hill Branch Library 5125 Convict Hill 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 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 May 13, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Programs Update, by Jennifer Peters, Division Manager, Programs and Partnerships Staff briefing on the June Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and department facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 1. 2. 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion on the date, location and agenda for the Library Commission retreat DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of the 2023 Library Commision Report 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.
Programs Update June 24, 2024 Jennifer Peters, Div Mgr, Programs & Partnerships Office of Programs & Partnerships (AOPP) • Develops and manages a programming plan that aligns with the mission, vision, and strategic goals of Austin Public Library • Creates system-wide processes that enable programming staff to develop, execute, and evaluate high-quality programs • Sets standards and measures effectiveness so that Library and COA leadership recognize the value of library programming to the Austin community. FY23 Changes and Updates • Developed New Program Priorities • Created Programming Manual • AOPP Team Responsibilities • Defined Program, Priorities, & AOPP Scope • Program Planning and Purchasing Processes • Revised Program Plan Submission Form • Replace “how” with “why” • Evaluation • Updated AOPP Sharepoint Landing Page • Developed Online Program Plan and PRF Submission Process • Created Trackers for Program Plans and PRFs • Providing Trainings Impact Percentage Change Oct 2022-Mar 2023 to Oct 2023-May 2024 Total Programs 2212 3860 Oct 22- Mar 23 Oct 23- May 24 % Change 75% Total Attendance 52555 102305 95% Number of Programs 2 2 - t c O 2 2 - v o N 2 2 - c e D 3 2 - n a J 3 2 - b e F 3 2 - r a M 3 2 - r p A 3 2 - y a M 3 2 - n u J 3 2 - l u J 3 2 - g u A 3 2 - p e S 3 2 - t c O 3 2 - v o N 3 2 - c e D 4 2 - n a J 4 2 - b e F 4 2 - r a M 4 2 - r p A 4 2 - y a M Program Attendance 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 2 2 - t c O 2 2 - v o N 2 2 - c e D 3 2 - n a J 3 2 - b e F 3 2 - r a M 3 2 - r p A 3 2 - y a M 3 2 - n u J 3 2 - l u J 3 2 - g u A 3 2 - p e S 3 2 - t c O 3 2 - v o N 3 2 - …
1 Director’s Report June 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1 Facilities Update ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Capital Projects Update …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 Gallery ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..5 Active Projects Timelines ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6 Project Highlights………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….7 APL Data & Numbers ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9 Programs ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….10 Cardholders & Visitors …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11 Circulation …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….12 Check Outs & Conference Rooms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13 Platforms & Tech ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..14 Budget & Expenditures .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….15 HIGHLIGHTS 1 Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Month Austin Public Library proudly celebrated Asian, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, Asian, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AHPI community in our nation’s history. As part of the up to 30+ programs across the library system to celebrate AANHPI, the Central Library hosted a community celebration with programs and activities including: · Storytime, "Celebrating Asian Dragons", featuring dragon folklore and myths, shadow puppet show, flannel stories and songs and rhymes and dragon art activities. · Carnatic music (a form of Indian classical) with Nischal Ananda, South Asia Institute of Austin, performing on the Carnatic Violin. · Bollywood Improv Show, an improvised Bollywood-style "rom-com", led by Director, Sid Desai, a veteran Hideout improvisor and director. · Paper Lei Making with Austin History Center · Gift shop items featuring AANHPI brands Terrazas Reopens! Terrazas branch library reopened on May 18, 2024, revealing a fresh new appearance following a two-month revitalization project led by the APL Facilities and Information System teams. We are excited to offer an updated facility to the community as we head into our summer programming. Inaugural GABFest a Success Austin Public Library hosted the first-annual Greater Austin Book Festival on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Central Library. The intention behind the Greater Austin Book Fest was to provide a valuable opportunity for authors, illustrators, and readers from Hays, Williamson, and Travis Counties to establish meaningful connections and engage with their community. The day-long event featured over 80 local authors hosting panel discussions and book signings, Storytimes from over a dozen local children’s authors, as well as interactive writing, bookbinding, and storytelling sessions for all ages. 2 Bike to Work Day 2024 The Bike to Work Day Team welcomed 138 bikers who stopped by the Library’s fueling station on their bike route. Participants engaged with a selection of books displayed, played with a “bike journey” spinner, and contributed to the APL bike zine. There was also APL-branded swag and a bike …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 13, May, 2024 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING 13, May 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, May 13, 2024, at the Central Library, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street, 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, Steve DeRosa, Mark Smith Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Chistina Masters, Magen Davis, Commission Members Absent: Kezia Frayjo, Andrea Herrera Moreno, PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the April 29, 2024, regular meeting. The minutes of the April 29, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commission Member DeRosa's motion and Commission Member Smith’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commission Member Frayjo and Herrea Moreno absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Librarian III. 2. Staff briefing on Kids Block Party and Summer at Austin Public Library, by Alanna Graves, The presentation was made by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 13, May, 2024 3. Staff briefing regarding Cooling and Warming Center Activation, by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. The presentation was made by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 4. Discussion of the May Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. The presentation was made by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Commisison Retreat Programs Update Budget Update in July App Update once available Adjournment: Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 7:18 p.m. without objection.
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2023 to 6/30/2024 Library 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 regarding Austin Public Library’s Community Service Coordinators. ii. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Public Library’s Proposed FY24 Budget iii. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library marketing iv. Staff briefing regarding an update on Austin Public Library’s current facilities projects and new construction/expansion v. Staff briefing regarding People Experiencing Homelessness and the Austin Public Library vi. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Programming Annual Review and Work Plan 2023/2024 vii. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Digital Services viii. Staff briefing on updated reconsideration procedures for Austin Public Library team staff and upcoming reconsideration committee ix. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services x. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services xi. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement xii. Staff briefing regarding Immigration Services xiii. Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds xiv. Staff briefing on Kids Block Party and Summer at Austin Public Library Report. xv. Staff briefing regarding Cooling and Warming Center Activation xvi. Staff briefing on Programs Update, by Jennifer Peters xvii. Monthly briefings regarding the Austin Public Library Director’s b. Commissioners voted to create the following working groups: i. Unmet Needs Working Group c. Commissioners informed their respective City Council members about major issues facing the library. d. Commissioners served as liaisons to branches within their respective council districts. joining remotely. e. All meetings were held in-person with some commissioners occasionally f. Commissioners acted to appoint a member of the library commission to the Austin Public Library reconsideration committee. 2 Annual Review and Work Plan 2023/2024 g. Commissioners reviewed and passed the below recommendations: i. LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231127-05 - Expand library …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION May 13, 2024 – 6 P.M. Austin Central Library, 4th Floor 710 West Cesar Chavez Street Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: 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 April 29, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on Kids Block Party and Summer at Austin Public Library, by Alanna Graves, Librarian III. Staff briefing regarding Cooling and Warming Center Activation, by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. 1. 2. 3. Staff briefing on the May Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and department facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the 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.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 29, April, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 29, April 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, April 29, 2024, at the Windsor Park Branch Library, 5833 Westminster Drive, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Smith called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Kezia Frayjo, Sheila Mehta, Steve DeRosa, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: None Commission Members Absent: Christina Masters PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the March 25, 2024, regular meeting The minutes of the March 25, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Vice Chair Infante Huerta's motion and Commission Member Frayjo’s second on a 8-0 vote. Commission Member Masters absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Discussion of the April 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. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 29, April, 2024 3. Discussion and approve a recommendation to support Austin Public Library establishing a City Poet Laureate Program and Committee A motion to approve the recommendation to support Austin Public Library establishing a City Poet Laureate Program and Committee was made by Commission Member Mehta and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 8-0 vote with Commissioner Member. 4. Discussion and conduct elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Library Commission. A motion to nominate Vice Chair Infante Huerta as Chair was made by Chair Smith. Commissioner Mehta agreed to accept the nomination as Vice Chair. No other nominations were made. Lynda Infante Huerta was elected as Chair and Sheila Mehta was elected as Vice Chair on a 8 – 0 vote. Commission Member Masters absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Kids Block Party and Summer Reading Programming at May Meeting Cooling/Warming Centers at Library Facilities Adjournment: Chair Infante Huerta adjourned the meeting at 6:50 p.m. without objection.
1 Director’s Report May 2024 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 Facilities Update __________________________________________________________________________ 5 Capital Projects Update __________________________________________________________________5 Gallery _______________________________________________________________________________ 6 Active Project Timelines _________________________________________________________________ 7 Project Highlights _______________________________________________________________________ 8 APL by the Numbers _____________________________________________________________________ 9 Programs and Outreach__________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder ___________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors _____________________________________________________________________________ 11 Circulation and Collections ____________________________________________________________ 112 Express Checkout and Holds ___________________________________________________________113 Technologyy _________________________________________________________________________ 14 Budget, Volunteers and Meeting Rooms ____________________________________________________ 15 3 HIGHLIGHTS African American Cultural & Heritage Facility Joins APL The Austin Public Library (APL) is thrilled to announce the inclusion of the African American Cultural & Heritage Facility (AACHF) to our team. Formerly housed under the Economic Development Department (EDD), the African American Cultural & Heritage Facility is home to the historic Dedrick Hamilton House, built around 1880 in an early African American community in East Austin. Now restored, it serves as an African American Visitors Center and Art Studio, central to the facility's activities. This relocation signifies a strategic move aimed at bolstering the AACHF's financial resources, facility management, and marketing support capacity. We are confident that these changes will empower us to better serve our stakeholders and further our vision to be a model of equity, inclusion, access. Summer at Austin Public Library & Kids Block Party Summer at Austin Public Library programming starts June 1, 2024, and we are kicking it off with APL’s Kids Block Party this year! Summer is almost here and we are ready to start with a bang. Summer at Austin Public Library is our summer program, challenging kids, and adults alike to read or to be read to at least 20 minutes a day from June 1, 2024 - August 10, 2024. This is a time to encourage all readers and engage with them in multiple ways through programs and literary opportunities. Special programs throughout our library system will range from themed crafts to performances by the Austin Opera and Austin Symphany. A full list of events can be found at Summer at Austin Public Library. And be sure to join us at the Central Library on June 1, 2024, for Austin Public Library’s Kids Block Party, the city’s festival celebrating children, literacy, and learning through play. The FREE event is perfect for children 0-12 and their families! Terrazas Reopens! Terrazas will reopen on May 18, 2024, revealing a fresh new appearance following a revitalization project led by the ALP Facilities and Information System …
REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION April 29, 2024 – 6 P.M. Windsor Park Branch Library 5833 Westminster Drive Austin, Texas This meeting is being held in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online virtual participation. Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Laura Polio, 512-974-9624, laura.polio@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Kezia Frayjo Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Library Commission's regular meeting on March 25, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing on the April Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 1. 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and approve a recommendation to support Austin Public Library establishing a City Poet Laureate Program and Committee 4. Discussion and conduct 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 requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Laura Polio at the Austin Public Library Department, at 512-974-9624 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Library Commission, please contact Laura Polio at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov.
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 25, March, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 25, March 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, March 25, 2024, at the Pleasant Hill Branch Library, 211 E. William Cannon Drive, in Austin, Texas. CALL TO ORDER Chair Smith called the Commission Meeting to order at 6:12 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Christina Masters Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Steve DeRosa, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members Absent: Courtney Rosenthal, Kezia Frayjo, Sheila Mehta PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Daniel Ronan, Austin History Center Association Interim Director, gave public comment to the commission regarding the Austin History Center Association's mission and goals. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 29, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the February 26, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Master’s motion and Vice Chair Infante Huerta's second on a 6-0 vote with Commissioners Rosenthal, Frayjo, Mehta absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Discussion of the March 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. Library Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 25, March, 2024 3. Discussion and approval of a recommendation supporting the Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2025 with additional funding for unmet needs around books and materials, social workers, security and custodial positions, feasibility studies, and enhanced library cards. A motion to approve the recommendation supporting the Austin Public Library's proposed budget for FY2025 with additional funding for unmet needs around books and materials, social workers, security and custodial positions, feasibility studies, and enhanced library cards was made by Commissioner Davis and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 7-0 vote with Commissioners Rosenthal, Frayjo, Mehta absent. 4. Discussion and approval for Commission Members to represent the Library Commission at multiple Board and Commission Meetings to advocate for support and funding for Austin Public Library Initiatives. A motion to approve Commission Members to represent the Library Commission at multiple Board and Commission Meetings to advocate for support and funding for Austin Public Library Initiatives was made by Chair Smith and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 6-0 vote with Commissioners Rosenthal, Frayjo, Mehta absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Officer Elections Recommendation for Library participation in future City Homelessness Planning and Studies Kids Block …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240429-3 Establish an Adult Poet Laureate Program for the City of Austin Date: April 29, 2024 Library Subject: Establishing an adult Poet Laureate program to be managed by the Austin Public Motioned By: Commissioner Mehta Seconded By: Vice Chair Infante Huerta Recommendation Establish an adult Poet Laureate program for the City of Austin to be housed and managed by the Austin Public Library Department. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to direct the City Manager to establish an adult Poet Laureate program to be housed in and managed by the Austin Public Library department, and add additional budget funds as needed to create and support this program. Rationale: The City of Austin is known for its love and celebration of the arts. For decades many local organizations have developed Austin’s poetry scene. Additionally, the University of Texas at Austin is a nationally recognized Masters of Fine Arts program that nurtures and produces many wonderful artists and poets. Poet Laureate positions have existed in cities, states and countries since the 1600s, and are designed to be stewards of poetry, art and storytelling. Austin is the only major city in Texas without an adult Poet Laureate program. An adult Poet Laureate can use this role to promote literacy across the city, use poetry to engage with Austin’s history, politics and culture, as well as continue to grow and support Austin’s community of artists, with the potential to amplify Austin poets of all ages. Austin Public Library is a natural home for a program like this. A Poet Laureate has the potential to encourage via performances, teaching and public speaking the importance of reading, writing and literacy. Reading and information literacy are core to the library’s mission and the library is a well known and trusted institution in the city. According to Literacy Texas, Texas ranks 46/50 for adult literacy. The adult literacy rate is 81%, with 19% of adults lacking basic prose literacy skills. Creating this program can help close the gap, and inspire Austin residents to read and write. Austin Public Library has branches strategically located across the city and is accustomed to creating programs and events across all of its branches allowing for maximum impact for this new program. They have also proven to be good stewards of city funds, and have many collection, personnel and budget needs to …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240429-3 Subject: Establishing an adult Poet Laureate program to be managed by the Austin Public Library Date: 04/29/2024 Recommendation Establish an adult Poet Laureate program for the City of Austin to be housed and managed by the Austin Public Library Department. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to direct the City Manager to establish an adult Poet Laureate program to be housed in and managed by the Austin Public Library department, and add additional budget funds as needed to create and support this program. Rationale: The City of Austin is known for its love and celebration of the arts. For decades many local organizations have developed Austin’s poetry scene. Additionally, the University of Texas at Austin is a nationally recognized Masters of Fine Arts program that nurtures and produces many wonderful artists and poets. Poet Laureate positions have existed in cities, states and countries since the 1600s, and are designed to be stewards of poetry, art and storytelling. Austin is the only major city in Texas without an adult Poet Laureate program. An adult Poet Laureate can use this role to promote literacy across the city, use poetry to engage with Austin’s history, politics and culture, as well as continue to grow and support Austin’s community of artists, with the potential to amplify Austin poets of all ages. Austin Public Library is a natural home for a program like this. A Poet Laureate has the potential to encourage via performances, teaching and public speaking the importance of reading, writing and literacy. Reading and information literacy are core to the library’s mission and the library is a well known and trusted institution in the city. According to Literacy Texas, Texas ranks 46/50 for adult literacy. The adult literacy rate is 81%, with 19% of adults lacking basic prose literacy skills. Creating this program can help close the gap, and inspire Austin residents to read and write. Austin Public Library has branches strategically located across the city and is accustomed to creating programs and events across all of its branches allowing for maximum impact for this new program. They have also proven to be good stewards of city funds, and have many collection, personnel and budget needs to consider. We ask that you also provide financial support to create and sustain this much needed program so this does not impact the …
