Awareness for an inaugural event is always a challenge. With a limited timeframe and budget, an in-house committee including “Block captains” built a multifaceted program for kids ages birth to 12. Leveraging existing community partners like United Way, the Library Foundation, local author/illustrator chapters and local entertainers and artists, library staff created a robust half day of programming. Staff identified transportation as another challenge early on in the planning.

The block party met several strategic priorities in a one-day, high-impact event including STEM, outreach and engagement and literacy advancement. Community partnerships were leveraged including with CapMetro, who helped provide free bus passes from park-n-ride locations at local library branches. Marketing materials were delivered to 80+ Austin ISD elementary campuses and other area schools. The block party utilized the library’s space, staff, volunteers and community partners in a highly impactful, concentrated way.

Attendance surpassed expectations, bringing in 7,000 guests from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with an air of electricity and buzz. Volunteers and partner organizations have expressed interest in a 2020 event. Guests used the bus passes and alternative transportation. APL intends to expand the event to include food, more outdoor activities and more transportation partnerships. The event took the best our library has to offer for families and packed it into a meaningful experience from which we can build and grow.