The dark blue circles indicate new branches in the long-range plan and the new Far Northwest branch appears to be around the Concordia University Texas area. “Concordia is pleased that the city of Austin has brought us to the table to address issues in this part of the city. We want to serve our students and our community and look forward to continued participation in plans for library services in NW Austin. “ said Beth Atherton, senior vice president for external affairs. Austin Public Library officials said new facilities could be either brand-new construction or remodels of existing buildings.
By YNESS MARTINEZ, Vandegrift Voice
The Austin Public Library announced its plan for a large-scale upgrade of its libraries as well as new branches. This would include a new branch in the Four Points area.
The blueprint was voted on by thousands of Austinites and finally adopted by the Austin City Council earlier this year.
“It’s nice that they’re trying to expand and make libraries more accessible with resources and location,” said Sierra Allen, Vandegrift senior.
In 2022 Allen read about 30 books throughout the whole year. She’s excited that the library will make books more accessible to the community year-round.
The main issue facing Austin Public Library is its need for more space. As the Austin community grows, the libraries can’t accommodate the need for common community centers and meeting spaces with their current floor plans. The new blueprint discloses funds to revamp existing libraries as well to incorporate more learning spaces indoors and outdoors for the surrounding neighborhoods to use for a variety of activities.
“This will open up opportunities for kids and adults on the weekends or during summer break,” Allen said about the Austin Public Library plans. “It’ll be a good community learning place for all ages.”
Yness Martinez is Editor in Chief and it is her third year on the Voice. She loves hiking and reading in her free time. It is her fourth year rowing for Texas Rowing Center’s Varsity Women’s team. She has two small dogs and one sibling. In her senior year she hopes to create powerful and thought-provoking stories for the Voice.