STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Quality of Life
AGENDA DATE: October 13, 2021
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): All
DEPARTMENT: Library
EXECUTIVE: Joey Zapata
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SUBJECT
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An ordinance amending Chapter 24, "Library," of the Dallas City Code, by amending Sec.24-3; providing that all students or teachers at any educational institution located in the city are exempt from nonresident user fees - Financing: No cost consideration to the City
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BACKGROUND
The Dallas Public Library continues striving towards more equitable access. Its mission is to make information and materials free and accessible to all residents. Whether helping to close the digital divide by offering free Wi-Fi access, helping immigrants learn English, offering free citizenship classes, helping to close the reading gap by providing early literacy programs, or simply loaning books; libraries ensure that all residents can overcome barriers to learning, growing, and strengthening their communities.
Under city code, currently non-resident library cards are only available to “a student or teacher in a public elementary or secondary school located in the city of Dallas.” This ordinance limits who can use the numerous services offered by the Dallas Public Library. By amending the ordinance, those eligible for a Dallas Public Library card will extend to anyone who attends an educational institution in the City of Dallas. This increases access to services and resources provided by the library and promotes equity in access to City resources while also further supporting a service first approach.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
The Quality of Life, Arts & Culture Committee was briefed on the “Dallas Public Library Services Update” on August 16, 2021.
FISCAL INFORMATION
No cost consideration to the City.