26-2404: Approve a resolution declaring the City of Austin as a Book Safe Harbor, signifying the City’s commitment to safeguarding equitable access to library materials, protecting the community’s freedom to read, and upholding established policies and processes that ensure thoughtful and transparent consideration of any concerns regarding library materials.

Description

Approve a resolution declaring the City of Austin as a Book Safe Harbor, signifying the City’s commitment to safeguarding equitable access to library materials, protecting the community’s freedom to read, and upholding established policies and processes that ensure thoughtful and transparent consideration of any concerns regarding library materials.

Summary

Austin Resolution No. 26-2404 would designate the City of Austin as a “Book Safe Harbor.” The measure applies primarily to the Austin Public Library and its users, reaffirming residents’ equitable access to library materials and freedom to read across a wide range of viewpoints and subjects. It supports APL’s existing collection-development and reconsideration policies, professional standards, and trained staff responsible for selecting and evaluating materials. Any concerns would continue to be handled through established, thoughtful, and transparent processes rather than removal based solely on viewpoint. The resolution also recognizes libraries’ civic role in supporting learning, informed participation, and open inquiry, and builds on Austin’s 2022 Freedom to Read resolution. It coincides with APL’s 100th anniversary in 2026.