The Richmond branch of the San Francisco Public Library is expected to close in mid-2005 to undergo renovations to improve building safety and accessibility and expand library services.
“(It’s) a wonderful validation that our services to our patrons are worthy of a multimillion-dollar investment,” said Jane Bao, branch librarian.
The renovation and restoration project will bring patrons a larger collection, including more teen, audiovisual, and Chinese and Russian materials, reflecting the interests of the neighborhood. It will add 4,000 square feet of space and provide seismic upgrades, energy-efficient building systems and technology upgrades.
“My children and I visit the library every week, at least, to check out 20 to 30 books and to attend the fantastic free programs,” said Camille She, who traveled to Sacramento to urge the state to allocate the funding. “The library is always packed with all ages of kids reading, studying or just enjoying with friends. In fact, our library is one of the busiest branches, second only to Chinatown.”
Seating capacity will remain approximately the same, with the addition of some lounge seating. Other features include two new study rooms, a glassed-in winter garden, additional public restrooms and a new teen area. The building’s historic design elements will be restored and preserved. Project plans are available at the branch.
Angela Chen hailed the Richmond branch as “an absolute[ly] beautiful place” and “a gathering spot for the community to learn and grow.”
Funding for the project comes from a $106 million bond measure passed by San Francisco voters in November 2000. The system also received a grant from the state from Proposition 14 funds. That March 2000 measure sold $350 million of general obligation bonds for libraries throughout California.
The Friends of the San Francisco Public Library is raising funds from private donations for new furniture, fixtures and equipment for the branch library. For information on the Richmond neighborhood campaign, e-mail marian.ctaylor@friendssfpl.org.