Public libraries are popular, accessible resources available to those of any socioeconomic background. The city council granted people living outside city limits free access to the city’s public library system after a city council vote in March.
Before the vote, those living outside Austin’s city limits were required to pay an annual fee of $120. The waiving of this fee was the latest development after a history of expansions to increase equitability. Now, these residents are free to take advantage of the knowledge-expanding resources and necessities that the system and its buildings offer.
“This nonresident 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,” the Library Commission said in their recommendation for the change.
The commission said the decision was based on precedent and referenced broader policy when state funding allowed all Texas residents free access to the library system’s benefits. Houston and various other library systems currently operate under the same policy. Austin reinstated the non-resident fee in 2015.
The Austin Public Library system has over 20 branches, including a mobile library and the Recycled Reads Bookstore. The most popular location is the Central Library on 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. The building is six stories high and hosts scenic, panoramic views of Downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake. Creators often feature this branch on social media as a hotspot for remote work and studying. The eye-catching architecture and lush rooftop garden attracts tourists in the area to visit. Will Harlan works at this location as an Austin Public Library Innovate Manager and Librarian III, a more senior-level employee.
“We have absolutely noticed that there have been more people coming into the library because of [the expansion], and we’re so thrilled,” Harlan said. “If it were up to libraries, we would give resources to everyone for free all the time.”
Though the library offers some online resources, the branch locations serve as a community center for those who visit in person. The system hosts numerous events a day, for all ages. While many are traditional story times and book clubs, there are also music lessons, art clubs, yoga sessions and movie nights.
“People think that the public library doesn’t have something for them, when the truth of the matter is, it does,” Harlan said. “If you get in contact with us, we’ll be sure to highlight the things that would be relevant to you.”
The library system offers personal finances, career counseling, technological skills and literacy resources. During tax season, the library partnered with AARP to host tax preparations at no cost. They also offer step-by-step instructions on writing emails, cover letters, and preparing for job interviews. If someone needs personalized help with any of these services or another project, they can schedule an appointment through the library system’s “Ask a Librarian” feature.
“There are people who need help using electronic devices and sometimes we meet with folks in order to help them locate crucial resources they need in order to find housing opportunities, or to get unemployment information filled out. It really runs a pretty wide cannon,” Harlan said.
Reflecting the city it represents, the Central Library building boasts colorful designs and art. Behind the reserve desk, there is an art gallery that is currently showcasing Leta Harrison’s exhibit “Black Girls Don’t Wear Red Lipstick” until April 21.
Each floor houses specific genres and niches. Children are encouraged to use the third floor’s homework computers and puppet show theater. Harlan manages the media equipment and Innovation Lounge on another floor. The area hosts their technology-based events, such as the “Coding 4 All” class.
In every nook and cranny of the library, there are people reading books, watching movies on the computers available, using the free access to the internet to answer texts or simply seeking a moment of quiet in the middle of Austin’s bustling downtown. For each person needing help, there’s a librarian nearby ready to contribute, like Harlan and his coworkers. Harlan said he enjoys his job and how it helps others.
“One stereotype is that librarians are not ‘people’ people, but I think that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, we work with people all the time,” Harlan said. “Every single day, you’re helping someone with a different background get information and learn things that otherwise they wouldn’t have access to. It’s very rewarding. It feels like every single day you make a tangible impact on your community.”