1 Director’s Report February 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 APL Non-Resident Fees on February 29, 2024 City Council Agenda The Austin Public Library, (APL) eagerly awaits the Austin City Council meeting on February 29, 2024, where City Council is set to consider the final resolution that will lead to waiving the non-resident fees for APL Library Cards for all individuals who reside in Austin’s limited purpose jurisdictions (LTD) and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). APL is excited to provide free library access to a wider area of the community. Terrazas Branch Library Refresh Terrazas branch library is getting a refresh in preparation for our summer programming and services. The capital improvement project (CIP) work, funded in the FY 2024 budget for APL's deferred maintenance projects will facilitate upgrades to the facility, potentially encompassing interior & exterior painting, carpet replacement, security and fire panel upgrades, and HVAC improvements. The branch will be closed from early March to early May during the refresh. Howson CIP Work Underway Capital improvement project (CIP) work commenced on February 12, 2024, at the Howson branch library. The project, executed in three phases, started with the installation of new HVAC systems, which is expected to be completed in two to three weeks. There will be no need for closure during this phase, as units will be replaced one at a time to maintain a comfortable temperature inside Howson. The second phase involves re-roofing the library and is scheduled to begin approximately six weeks later, with a projected duration of two to three weeks and no anticipated closure. The third phase, involving interior renovations, including the circulation desk, meeting room, and reading room, is still in the design phase with lead times for materials being finalized. In January, Recycled Reads welcomed 5,664 customers, marking a 22% increase to December’s visitor count. This upswing continues a trend of escalating foot traffic and we are thrilled to witness more individuals discovering and frequenting Recycled Reads! 4 Black Girls Don't Wear Red Lipstick Step into a world of audacious beauty and empowerment with …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240226-5 02/26/2024 Seconded By: Vice Chair Infante Huerta Date: Subject: Improving library safety and holistic services for library patrons Motioned By: Commissioner Davis Recommendation Provide two (2) FTE or contract Social Work positions and three (3) Security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by Library personnel. [Brief description of the Board’s recommendation] Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to amend the FTE policy around Social Work titles and support the relevant ~$419,000 budget increase needed to add new positions. Rationale Austin Public Library facilities represent some of the only places in the city of Austin where people can go daily and stay for long periods of time. The library’s operational needs are unique and evolving, especially considering the rapid change in the city. City Council and other City of Austin departments recognize the critical role that our libraries play in nurturing and strengthening the safety for all residents as evidenced by the City Council’s 2019 expansion of the Safe Place program for LGBTQIA+ residents extending to the Austin Public Libraries. The presence of social workers and security personnel enhances the library by making it a safer place for residents to connect the resources they may need. With limited shelters in the most populous parts of the city, the library is sometimes the only safe place our unhoused neighbors can go where they are welcomed in for free. The library is also often used as a warming or cooling shelter for all Austin residents during times of extreme temperatures that are occurring more and more frequently. In response and shared responsibility to library customers and residents we must be aware of these evolving needs of the communities and seek combined solutions. The library currently has partnerships with Austin Public Health and with other community-based providers of wraparound services to help address some of the gaps but they are limited in scope and are present in a few library locations for short increments of time. The library commission has heard from members of the public, staff, and library leadership and we feel that the current model is not sufficient or sustainable. Social Workers in public libraries is a growing trend across the United States and many large cities have found the addition of social workers to library staff to be integral to the delivery of day-to-day services. …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Library Commission Recommendation Number: 20240226-6: Renaming of North Village Branch Library Motioned By: Commissioner Rosenthal Seconded By: Commissioner Frayjo WHEREAS, on August 2, 1971, the Austin Public Library inaugurated its North Village Branch, initially situated in a storefront property within the North Village Shopping Center; and WHEREAS, the 3,000-square-foot facility replaced an Austin Public Library mobile trailer that had previously served as a busy hub for book checkouts from the shopping center parking lot; and WHEREAS, In 1990, the library relocated a few doors down to a more spacious area within the Center, expanding to 5,000 square feet; and WHEREAS, in the 1998 City of Austin Bond Election, voters approved funding for the land acquisition, design, and construction of the North Village Branch Replacement Project, aiming to better accommodate the growing populations of the north-central Austin neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the grand opening of the new North Village Branch, patterned after the "library for the future" green model, drawing inspiration from upscale bookstores in its design concept, took place on Saturday, May 30, 2009; and WHEREAS, John Gillum commenced his employment with the Austin Public Library on August 16, 1979, and then as Facilities Process Manager, in 2011 until his retirement on July 31, 2019; and WHEREAS, Gillum assisted in the development of new libraries in the 1980s, and oversaw every aspect of the planning, design, construction, and renovation of all Austin Public Library following successful bond packages in 1992, 1998, 2012, 2018; and WHEREAS, Gillum dedicated 39 years, 11 months, and 16 days to his service with the City of Austin/Austin Public Library; and WHEREAS, Gillum played a significant role in the development of the North Village Branch Library. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Library Commission wholeheartedly supports and recommends to the Austin City Council that the North Village Branch Library be renamed to the John Gillum Branch Library. Date of Approval: February 26, 2024 Record of the vote: Unanimous on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner DeRosa were absent from the meeting Laura Polio, Library Commission Staff Liaison Attest:
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 26, February 2024 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 Cesar Chavez St., 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, Magen Davis, Kezia Frayjo Commission Members in Attendance Remotely: Christina Masters, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Sheila Mehta Commission Members Absent: Steve DeRosa PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the January 29, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the January 29, 2024, regular meeting were approved on Commission Member Rosenthal’s motion and Vice Chair Infante Huerta's second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding APL Facilities Project Updates, Feasibility Studies & Future Bonds by Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager The presentation was made Cody Scott, Facilities Process Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 26, February, 2024 3. Discussion of the February 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. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendation by the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. Vice Chair Infante Huerta reported on the Unmet Needs Working Group Recommendation to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and approval of a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group for the addition of social workers, security personnel, and other social support resources in libraries. A motion to approve the recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group to improve library safety and holistic services for library patrons through the addition of two (2) full-time employees or contract social workers and three (3) security positions to the Austin Public Library department to be managed by library personnel was made by Commissioner Davis and seconded by Vice Chair Infante Huerta on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner DeRosa absent. 6. Discussion and approval of a recommendation to rename the North Village Branch Library. …
1. 2. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION January 29, 2024 – 6 P.M. Milwood Branch Library 12500 Amherst Dr. 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 Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve DeRosa Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta 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 regular meeting on December 18, 2023. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Immigrant Services by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Branch Library Branch Manager, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Librarian II, Spanish and World Language Selector. 3. Staff briefing on the January Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 5. Update from the Unmet Needs 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
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 18, December, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 18, December 2023 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, December 18, 2023, at the Austin Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St., in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Board Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission Members in Attendance: Mark Smith, Chair, Courtney Rosenthal, Steve DeRosa, Sheila Mehta, Victoria Vogel, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno, Kezia Frayjo Commission Members Absent: Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice-Chair, Christina Masters Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the November 27, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the November 27, 2023, regular meeting were approved with the following amendment on Commission Member Mehta’s motion and Commission Member Vogel’s second on a 7-0 vote. Vice Chair Infante Huerta and Commission Member Masters absent. The amendment is the removal of “Herrera” on the 2nd line of the approval of the minute’s item. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. The presentation was made by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation. 3. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. The presentation was made by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 18, December, 2023 4. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement. The presentation was made by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission. 5. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. 6. Discussion of the December 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 Services to Immigrant Populations Report from Unmet Needs Committee Adjournment: Chair Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m. without objection.
Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Library Branch Manager Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian 1. Multilingual Materials and Resources 2. Programming 3. Partnerships 4. Public Services 6. Language Access 7. Q&A 5. Community Services & Outreach Multilingual Collections • Books (Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Marathi, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese) • Magazines, and newspapers • Audiovisual materials • Multilingual learning resources (physical and digital) Year-round cultural programs and events • Celebrations and cultural festivals • Guest Speakers • Workshops • Workforce development classes • Digital Literacy programs • Storytimes in different languages • Talk Time • Practiquemos español • ESL Classes Home Baking Business Management Course in Spanish Computer Classes in Spanish and Tutoring in Spanish, English and Tamil Through Austin Free Net • Colocation services through Goodwill and Work Force Solutions • Tabling at the General Consulate of Mexico • Vaccination Clinic and Resource information through APH • Enhanced Library Card • Access to Legal Aid Clinics • Social Service Information Referral • • Naturalization Ceremonies • Resource Clinics • Vaccination clinics Job Portal SOCIAL SERVICES & LIFE SKILLS • Lance Gentles provides 1:1 support to immigrant customers securing their Texas driver’s license and seeking employment, M-F • Team provides monthly ELC sign up to unhoused immigrants at Pop Up Resource Clinics • CSCs provide social services coordination for unhoused immigrant customers at Terrazas and Little Walnut Libraries, M-F CIVICS •7 Naturalization Ceremonies hosted in 2023 •858 attendees provided with voter registration and Passport Services information VIRTUAL & IN PERSON PROGRAMS •Ambray Gonzales provides in person cultural programs at libraries, Title 1 schools and museums •Heidy Urbina provides virtual/in person dual language and Spanish language programs at libraries, community centers, and parks • College Program Students visit to the library • Early Childhood literacy workshop and library services presentation Voiance: Interpretation services over the pone iSpeak Language Access Cards and Materials Library Catalog: • supports searches in languages using different characters. • Interface availble in Spanish • Website information in Spanish: translated in house, not by machine • Social media accounts in Spanish: Facebooks and X (Twitter) • Interpretation services available by request Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector Irene Magana-Noverola, Southeast Library Branch Manager Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian
Library Commission Community Interest Announcement Reception for Library Commission, Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association December 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Laura Polio 512-974-9624
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION December 18, 2023 – 6 P.M. Austin Central Library Special Event Center 710 W Cesar Chavez St. 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 Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta Victoria Vogel AGENDA CALL TO ORDER Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Steve Derosa Melanie Haupt Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal 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 regular meeting on November 27, 2023. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Tim Staley, Executive Director, The Library Foundation, regarding The Library Foundation programs and services. Presentation by Charles Peveto, President, Austin History Center Association, regarding Austin History Center Association programs and services. Presentation by Nehemiah Pitts, Chair, Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission, regarding Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Engagement. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Immigration Services, by Laura Tadena, Community Engagement Librarian III, Diana Miranda-Murillo, Spanish and World Languages Selector, Librarian II, Carmaleta McKinnis-Williams, Equity Inclusion Program Manager, Austin Public Library. Discussion of the December Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL 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 Library Department, at 512-974-9624 or laura.polio@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 27, November 2023 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, November 27, 2023, at the Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Board 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, Victoria Vogel, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members Absent: Melanie Haupt, Christina Masters Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the October 23, 2023, regular meeting were called for approval on Vice Chair Infante Huerta’s motion and Commission Member Herrera Mehta’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Haupt and Masters absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Resources Librarian. 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Digital Services, by Amy Mullin, Electronic The presentation was made by Amy Mullin, Electronic Resources Librarian. 3. Staff briefing on updated reconsideration procedures for Austin Public Library team staff and upcoming reconsideration committee, by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 The presentation was made by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendations by the Unmet Needs Working Group. The report of the Unmet Needs Working Groups was given by Vice-Chair Infante Huerta, including a recommendation to expand library access by eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions. Chair Smith appointed the working group to work on additional issues of unmet needs and bring updates and recommendations to future meetings. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group regarding expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra- territorial jurisdictions. The motion to approve expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions was approved on a motion by Vice Chair Infante Huerta and seconded by Commission Member Davis on a 6-1 vote, with Commission Member Courtney Rosenthal voting against, Commission Members Melanie Haupt and Christina Masters absent and Commission Member Kezia Freyjo off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. 7. Staff briefing on …
2 Director’s Report December 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS Highlights _______________________________________________________________________________ 3 CIP and Small Projects_____________________________________________________________________5 APL by the Numbers ______________________________________________________________________ 9 Cardholder __________________________________________________________________________ 10 Visitors ____________________________________________________________________________11 Circulation and Collections_____________________________________________________________ 12 Express & Holds ____________________________________________________________________13 Technology ________________________________________________________________________ 14 Programs and Outreach________________________________________________________________ 15 Volunteers and Meeting Rooms__________________________________________________________ 16 HIGHLIGHTS APL at Texas Book Festival APL Central Teen Librarians Letty Leal and Kathleen Houlihan continued their outstanding efforts by actively promoting APL Teen Services and the highly successful Banned Camp program within the community. At the recent Texas Book Fest, Leal and Houlihan engaged approximately 300 participants in bookmark art-making at their teen activity tent. They also conducted two lively rounds of Youth Author literary trivia. This outreach initiative resulted in meaningful connections with teens who were previously unfamiliar with Teen Central, generating interest in the library's programs and volunteer opportunities. Several parents expressed enthusiasm about bringing their teens downtown to Teen Central after the positive engagement at the event. APL Strategic Plan Workgroups We are thrilled to announce the commencement of the implementation phase of our Strategic Plan. The department is currently establishing cross-functional workgroups of APL staff with diverse skill sets and expertise to collaborate on goal-driven initiatives and measures. The teams will kick-off in January 2024. Passport Services APL Passport Services has processed over 7,600 applications this year and is 31% over initial projections for fiscal year 2023-24. Passport Services continues to participate in the monthly naturalization ceremonies hosted at APL, which adds an additional 10-15 applications in the weeks following these events. Howson November Dig It: Gardening in Texas Howson Library partnered with Austin Resource Recovery for their November Dig It: Gardening in Texas monthly event. Local gardener Austin Davenport taught attendees about soil health and composting processes and ARR provided each attendee with a kitchen compost collector to empower everyone to start the process of reducing waste, while making nutrient rich soil. Gardener Ila Falvey commented that “Class was great! I love the mini compost bins. I can't wait to start composting at home! “ 3 Portuguese-English Storytime at Milwood Austin Public Library staff at Milwood are excited to bring Portuguese-English storytime sessions to Milwood. Through a collaboration with Cultral Brasil, the storytimes aim to accommodate the sizable Brazilian community in proximity to the library and North Austin. Cultura Brasil's staff members are enthusiastic volunteers who will conduct a monthly storytime similar to the model by the Austin …
Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) & Public Comment Opportunity Update Nehemiah Pitts III, Chairman Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission (CTTC) City of Austin 1 Agenda 1. Introduction & Overview 2. Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) Preview 3. Public Comment Information Session 4. CTTC Outreach Plans 2 1. Introduction & Overview Digital Equity & Inclusion The All Together For Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 successfully convened in the aftermath of significant federal funding ($3.3 Billion) being released to Texas for broadband infrastructure and equitable access, as well as the creation of the Broadband the Texas Infrastructure Fund Constitution in November of 2023. in spotlight The Summit aimed to educate participants about the various organizations Digital Divide, committed to achieving Digital Inclusion in Central Texas, and catalyze a call to action for collaboration, partnership, and public comment in response to the recently released Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program 5-year plan draft and the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP). Digital Equity & Inclusion The Digital Empowerment Community of Austin (DECA) constitutes a network of nonprofits, educational institutions, stakeholders other businesses, including the Community Technology & Commission Telecommunications Technology (CTTC), Division (CTD), Austin Public Library (APL), and the Library Commission working together every day to enhance our community's engagement in a digital society, thereby fostering a more digitally inclusive Austin. Community Digital Equity is “a condition in which individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society,democracy, and economy; Necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services” according to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). Broadband Equity, Access, & Deployment (BEAD) - $3.3B Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP) Expands high-speed internet access by funding planning, deployment, and adoption Ensure people and communities have the skills and tech to participate in the digital economy $5M in planning funds to: $3M in planning funds to: ● ● ● ● Help close the availability gap Develop 5-year action plan Conduct research and data collection Facilitate publications, outreach and communications support Source: IIJA Statute Connect Texas, Digital Opportunity Plan and Public Comment Preview, BDO 11/16/2023 Presentation ● ● ● ● Help close the digital opportunity gap Develop Digital Opportunity Plan Reach covered populations Foster partnerships through engagement; establish a planning coalition What is Digital Opportunity? ❖ Digital Literacy ❖ Affordable Service ❖ Applications and online content ❖ Internet-enabled devices ❖ Quality technical support …
Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit 2023 Summary Report Nehemiah Pitts III, Chairman Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission (CTTC) City of Austin 1 1. Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit Historical Framing Agenda 2. Call(s) to Action: Public Comment, Collaboration, & Education 3. Thank yous & Acknowledgements 4. Next Steps 2 1. Digital Inclusion Stakeholder Summit Overview Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 - Summary Report The All Together For Digital Inclusion - Stakeholder Summit 2023 successfully convened in the aftermath of significant federal funding ($3.3 Billion) being released to Texas for broadband infrastructure and equitable access, as well as the creation of the Broadband Infrastructure Fund in the Texas Constitution in November of 2023. The Summit aimed to educate participants about the Digital Divide, spotlight various organizations committed to achieving Digital Inclusion in Central Texas, and instigate a call to action for collaboration, partnership, and public comment in response to the recently released Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program 5-year plan draft and the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP). Held on Friday, December 1st, at the Austin Public Library Special Events Center downtown, the inaugural Summit achieved these goals by assembling a diverse group of representative stakeholders, including community leaders, public officials, digital inclusion practitioners, governmental and NGO leaders, city service providers, internet services providers, nonprofit entities, industry thought distinguished researchers, technology experts, and leaders—all rallying under the theme… The event commenced with an indigenous people's land acknowledgment, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, partnership, civic engagement, and funding-focused public comment submissions. The focus of the event briefly remained on the history of Austin after the US. Civil War and the formation of a municipal strategy for growth and development. 5 6 A City Plan for Austin Texas (1928) We then delved into the root causes of the Digital Divide in Austin, TX, tracing historical challenges stemming from the 1928 City Plan, which led to racial segregation, restrictive covenants, industrial zoning, and decades of infrastructure underinvestment for marginalized groups. Disparate Outcome Areas for Marginalized Communities ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Gaps in Wealth and Income Health Disparities Educational Attainment Disparate Impacts in Housing Gentrification and Displacement Climate Resilience Public Safety Access to Opportunity includes Digital Redlining and the ensuing This inequalities infrastructure, device access, and capabilities that endure to this day. in 7 2. Call(s) to Action: Public Comment, Collaboration, & Education Why attend a Stakeholder Summit focused on …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the LIBRARY COMMISSION NOVEMBER 27, 2023 – 6 P.M. CARVER BRANCH LIBRARY 1161 ANGELINA 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: Mark Smith, Chair Magen Davis Melanie Haupt Cristina Masters Courtney Rosenthal AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Lynda Infante Huerta, Vice Chair Kezia Frayjo Andrea Herrera Moreno Sheila Mehta Victoria Vogel 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 regular meeting on October 23, 2023. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 8. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Digital Services, by Amy Mullin, Electronic Resources Librarian. Staff briefing on updated reconsideration procedures for Austin Public Library team staff and upcoming reconsideration committee, by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendations by the Unmet Needs Working Group. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group regarding expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions. Discussion and possible action on the Library Commission’s appointment of a library commission representative to the Austin Public Library reconsideration committee. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion of the November Director’s Report covering public programming highlights, and APL facilities updates, by Roosevelt Weeks, Director of Libraries. 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 …
Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 27, November 2023 THE LIBRARY COMMISSION MINUTES The Library Commission convened in a meeting on Monday, November 27, 2023, at the Carver Branch Library, 1161 Angelina Street, in Austin, Texas. Chair Smith called the Board 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, Victoria Vogel, Magen Davis, Andrea Herrera Moreno Commission Members Absent: Melanie Haupt, Christina Masters Public Communication: General None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2023, regular meeting The minutes of the October 23, 2023, regular meeting were called for approval on Vice Chair Infante Huerta’s motion and Commission Member Herrera Mehta’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commission Member Haupt and Masters absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Resources Librarian. 2. Staff briefing regarding Austin Public Library Digital Services, by Amy Mullin, Electronic The presentation was made by Amy Mullin, Electronic Resources Librarian. 3. Staff briefing on updated reconsideration procedures for Austin Public Library team staff and upcoming reconsideration committee, by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. Library Commission Meeting Minutes 27, November, 2023 The presentation was made by Christina Nelson, Customer Access Division Manager. WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATION 4. Report of recommendations by the Unmet Needs Working Group. The report of the Unmet Needs Working Groups was given by Vice-Chair Infante Huerta, including a recommendation to expand library access by eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions. Chair Smith appointed the working group to work on additional issues of unmet needs and bring updates and recommendations to future meetings. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a recommendation from the Unmet Needs Working Group regarding expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra- territorial jurisdictions. The motion to approve expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited-purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions was approved on a motion by Vice Chair Infante Huerta and seconded by Commission Member Davis on a 6-1 vote, with Commission Member Courtney Rosenthal voting against, Commission Members Melanie Haupt and Christina Masters absent and Commission Member Kezia Freyjo off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discussion regarding Library Commission outreach and community engagement opportunities. Discussion was held regarding recent outreach and community engagement opportunities by Library Commission Members. 7. Staff briefing on …
LIBRARY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231127-05 Date: 11/27/2023 Subject: Expanding library access and eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited purpose and extra-territorial jurisdictions. Motioned By: Vice Chair Infante Huerta Seconded By: Commission Member Davis Recommendation Expand library access by eliminating the non-resident fee for those who live in limited purpose and extra- territorial jurisdictions. Description of Recommendation to Council Requesting that the Austin City Council use their authority to amend the fee and fine ordinance (Ordinance No. 20230816-007) to remove the non-resident library card fee for residents of the Austin LTD and Austin ETJ from the fee schedule. Rationale: Austin Public Library (APL) has had a longstanding commitment to equity which includes examining where barriers exist that prevent community members from obtaining equal access to important resources and services. As Austin has become increasingly unaffordable, many people who work in Austin and contribute to its thriving culture and economy have been forced to relocate to surrounding areas and commute to the city to work12. Ongoing gentrification and increased costs of housing, as well as the continued influx of new residents will only exacerbate this trend and have a more significant effect on traditionally marginalized and underserved communities3. 1 Egan, J. (2022, September 14). Austin ranks among 20 U.S. cities where middle class can’t afford housing anymore. CultureMap Austin. https://austin.culturemap.com/news/real-estate/03-01-22-austin- middle-class-cannot-afford-housing-study/ 2 Charpentier, M., & McGlinchy, A. (2023, June 28). Two paragraphs forced black residents to East Austin. exploding real estate prices forced them out. KUT Radio, Austin’s NPR Station. https://www.kut.org/austin/2023-06-22/two-paragraphs-forced-black-residents-to-east-austin-exploding- real-estate-prices-forced-them-out 3 Charpentier, M., & McGlinchy, A. (2023, June 28). Two paragraphs forced black residents to East Austin. exploding real estate prices forced them out. KUT Radio, Austin’s NPR Station. Currently only Austinites living in Austin’s full purpose jurisdiction are entitled to receive a library card free of charge. Surrounding areas, including Austinites who live in the limited purpose jurisdiction (LTD) and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) must pay a non-resident card fee of $120 annually. This non- resident fee creates an economic barrier to all individuals who may work in Austin and have been forced to relocate to surrounding areas due to gentrification and increased costs of housing that commute into Austin for work4. Some constituents of Districts 6, 2 and 8 also fall outside of the full purpose jurisdiction areas and are negatively affected by this fee. Austin Public Library access supports workforce and economic development, digital inclusion, …
