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Library leaders cite outreach and signage discussions as English‑learner attendance lags
Summary
Library officials told the committee that attendance at literacy programs for English learners has declined amid concerns about civil immigration enforcement; staff said they are leaning on community partners, considering signage and have sought Office of Law guidance on posting enforcement policies.
Council members raised a decline in attendance at literacy workshops for English learners and asked whether increased civil immigration enforcement in the community was affecting participation. Library staff said outreach through community partners and word‑of‑mouth, plus signage discussions, are part of the response.
"So we're leaning heavily on our community partners and feedback from customers," a library official said, explaining that some programs have been removed from the public calendar and that partners have lost funding that had previously supported free offerings at libraries.
On weekend hours, library staff reported that Saturday hours are offered at all 19 locations and Sunday hours at 10 locations (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.), with usage varying by branch and staff paid at a higher rate for Sunday service.
Council members and library leadership discussed posting notices on county property about civil immigration enforcement; library officials said they have sought guidance from the Office of Law and had preliminary signage discussions but are awaiting formal direction. Staff emphasized continuing commitment to programming while trying to reach populations that may feel unsafe attending.
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