Fiona Ma: Improving Community Resources

In November 2000, San Francisco voters overwhelmingly passed Proposition A, the Branch Library Improvement Program, totaling $105.9 million. Combined with other state and local, public and private funds, the program will restore our neighborhood branch libraries.

However, these bond monies can only be used to finance capital improvements, leaving other critical service needs without funding. As a result, the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library are working with committees of local residents, library staff and representatives from neighborhood and merchant associations on a capital campaign to raise funds for the remaining expenses, including furniture, fixtures and equipment.

In the Sunset, immediate capital improvements are slated for late 2004 and early 2005 for the Sunset and West Portal branch libraries. Library services will be increased at nearby branches, with some programs being held at neighboring schools, community centers and bookmobiles during the renovations.

The Branch Library Improvement Program (the bond management program) will make West Portal handicap accessible, reduce seismic risk and preserve the historic elements and character of the existing building. Additional plans include a small expansion on the Ulloa side of the building for a new elevator, restoration of some original light fixtures, increased seating, stroller parking within the newly landscaped front garden and an area for chairs that are more comfortable for longer-term sitting and reading.

The Sunset Branch Library was seismically upgraded and made ADA compliant in 1992. Proposed renovations include more comfortable seating areas with lounge chairs and end tables, improved lighting, heating and ventilation and a dedicated space downstairs for student homework, story time and other library and community programs.

Plans for renovations for other Sunset District libraries include a modernization improvement plan at the Parkside Library in 2005. This will involve a complete renovation and seismic upgrade of the building's interior, including improved disabled access inside and outside the library. The interior renovation will involve a complete redesign of public spaces, staff work areas and public amenities to improve service and access for patrons.

A modernization of the Ortega Branch Library is also in preliminary stages and will include a renovation and expansion of the existing building and seismic strengthening. The expansion will allow the library to increase staff work area, increase the size of the teen/children area, add a multi-purpose program room, increase storage space and the size of the library's collection.

For more information or to make a donation to the capital campaign for the West Portal and Sunset branches, contact Chris Leishman at the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library at (415) 437-4853. Comments or questions about the Branch Library Improvement Program can be sent to blip@sfpl.org or (415) 557-4354.

Fiona Ma is a San Francisco supervisor representing District 4.