1. Investing in teen voices
Launched the groundbreaking Teen Library Fellowship with a $25,000 investment, selecting 10 extraordinary teens to help shape Austin Public Library’s future.
2. Hosting Austin’s big free family party
Nearly 4,000 people filled the Central Library for the annual Kids Block Party, celebrating community and curiosity.
3. Elevating young poets
Named the 5th Austin Youth Poet Laureate and recognized five finalists, showcasing powerful young voices in our city.
4. Expanding Central Library's Innovation Lab
Provided $5,000 for two sound-proof audio booths in the Innovation Lab, enabling audio recording and creative production for the public.
5. Fueling young writers
Awarded $3,000 in scholarships so more students could access our popular Badgerdog Creative Writing Workshops.
6 Championing creative educators
Hired 24 teaching artists to lead Badgerdog workshops, supporting local talent.
7. Breaking attendance records
APL AfterDark sold out in record time! 650 attendees enjoyed an unforgettable, grown-ups-only experience at the Central Library.
8. Deepening community connections
Partnered with independent bookstores — Black Pearl, Reverie, BookPeople, and Alienated Majesty — to help Austin’s book culture thrive.
And joined Texas Tribune, UT Press, and PEN America to offer thought-provoking programs..
9. Celebrating literary stars
Honored acclaimed local poets Carrie Fountain and Cecily Parks through the Mayor’s Book Club, along with Pulitzer finalist Lydia Millet. Hosted events for New York Times bestselling authors Bryan Burrough and Austin Channing Brown.
10. Fostering international exchange
- Provided $10,000 to bring intricate bead artwork from Nigeria for an exhibition in The Gallery by Austin-bat Austin Central produced by Austin-based Nigerian artist Moyo Okediji.
- Partnered with the Austin Asian American Film Festival to present National Book Award-winning author Yáng Shuāng-zǐ for a bilingual event.
