1. International award-winning author Lilas Taha will visit the library Feb. 6 to share her experience as a writer, electrical engineer and advocate for domestic abuse victims. She is the author of "Shadows of Damascus," "Bitter Almonds" and "Lost in Thyme." Taha was born in Kuwait to a Syrian mother and a Palestinian father, and immigrated to the U.S. as a result of the Gulf War in 1990. She earned a master’s degree in human factors engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Pursuing her true passion for creative writing, Taha brings her professional interests and Middle Eastern background together in her novels. 5 p.m. Free. Laura’s Library, 9411 Bee Cave Road, Austin. 512- 327-3045. www.westbanklibrary.com/calendar
2. The city of Lakeway Arts Committee invites guests to enjoy music by Founders Andrew and Sari Pearce, who will be performing alongside guest musicians from the Dallas Symphony. The program for the evening will include Mozart's viola quintet in G minor, K516; and Tchaikovsky's "Souvenir de Florence" for string sextet. A reception will follow the concert. Feb. 12 from 4-5 p.m. Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek. 512-261-1010. https://lakeway-tx.gov/2045/Masterpiece-Concert-Series
3. Westbank libraries will host a college admission presentation for The University of Texas and Texas A&M University on Feb. 23. Parents are welcome to attend. Presented by Dale Price, founder and owner of Access College America, a college planning agency. 6 p.m. Free admission. Westbank Library, 1309 Westbank Drive, Austin. 512- 327-3045. https://accesscollegeamerica.org
4. The Modern Architecture and Design Society will be hosting their annual modern home tour Feb. 25-26. The tour will take place across Austin in several neighborhoods, including Cat Mountain Estates, Allendale, Bouldin Creek, Whisper Valley, Govalle, Canyon Rim, Rosedale, Hyde Park, Balcones Woods and Heritage Neighborhood. This year, the Hill Country tour in locations like Spicewood, Driftwood and other Hill Country locations will also have an extended home tour Sunday. Different designers and architecture firms such as Tornbjerg Design, Studio Momentum Architects with Newcastle Homes, Joseph Design Build, and Thurman Homes will be featured. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., TBD Sun. $15 per child 10-17, $45 general admission for adults, $60-$110 packages and tours available. Locations vary. https://mads.media/2023-austin-modern-home-tour
