TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute an agreement, and any necessary amendments, with California Humanities to accept and expend grant funding in the amount of up to $5,000, for a Library Innovation Lab Grant Project, for the period ending December 31, 2019; and
Increase appropriations in the General Grants Fund Group in the Library Services Department by up to $5,000, offset by grant revenue. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Library Services Department (Library) grant application to California Humanities was approved. The Library was awarded grant funding for a “Exploring New Ways of Engaging Immigrant Communities” Library Innovation Lab Grant Project, in the amount of up to $5,000 for the grant period ending December 31, 2019.
This project provides a “learn by doing” professional development experience for a cohort of programming library staffers over the course of a year. With support from peers, mentors, and consultants, participants will research, plan, implement, and assess a new public humanities program to engage a target immigrant population in their community. Hands-on practice and reflection will develop participants’ skills and confidence, and advance the mission of California libraries to serve their communities. At the close of the project, the Library will have gained a much greater understanding of the needs of our immigrant communities. Additionally, oral history stories from local immigrants will be collected and housed by the Library, becoming a part of the Immigrant Services Collection at the Main Library.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber on April 2, 2019 and by Budget Analysis Officer Julissa José-Murray on April 18, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on May 7, 2019, to receive and expend grant funding by December 31, 2019.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will receive grant funding in the amount of up to $5,000 for a Library Innovation Lab Grant Project. An appropriation increase is requested in the amount of up to $5,000 in the General Grants Fund Group in the Library Services Department (36), offset by grant revenue. Participating in this project is anticipated to require a moderate level of staff hours beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
GLENDA WILLIAMS
DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY SERVICES
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER