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THE CITY OF JOINT LIBRARY AND CIVIC ARTS o„ ,,, PLEASANTON. AGENDA REPORT October 7, 2019 Item 5 TOPIC: CONSIDER POSTPONEMENT OF LITERARY ARTS AMBASSADOR RECRUITMENT SUMMARY On July 18, 2017, following the Civic Art Commission's recommendation, City Council approved the creation of the Literary Arts Ambassador position. Author Meg Fleming was appointed to serve as the City's first Literary Arts Ambassador from 2017-2019. Following the close of Meg Fleming's term, Library and Recreation staff began the process of recruitment for a new Literary Arts Ambassador. The recruitment was run throughout the month of August 2019 and information was posted on the Firehouse Arts website, through a press release and on social media. There have been no applications submitted at this present time. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Civic Arts Commission and the Library Commission discuss and approve the postponement of the recruitment for Literary Arts Ambassador to January 2020. FINANCIAL STATEMENT The City's Literary Arts Ambassador program receives no remuneration. Any expenses related to the program, i.e. supplies for workshops, readings, etc. are allocated within the Library and Recreation Department's operating budget, not to exceed $2,000. BACKGROUND On November 17, 1998, the City Council approved the Civic Arts Commission's recommendation to create the position of Pleasanton Poet Laureate. The primary role of the Poet Laureate was to provide appropriate poetry at civic events and promote the appreciation of the literary arts in the community, with a focus on poetry. These individuals established a wonderful tradition of poetry readings at the Century House, while using their unique styles in developing new programs for the community. Some of these programs included television broadcasts and the establishment of the Poetry, Prose and Arts Festival. In 2001, the City's Poet Laureate Program also won an award from the National Conference of Mayors. Past Poet Laureates include: