Richmond Library Gets New Name

In a popular decision, the SF Library Commission voted Jan. 6 to rename the Richmond Branch Library after the late state Sen. Milton Marks.

Marks, who was born in 1920, passed away in 1998 after serving back-to-back terms in the state assembly, from 1962-66, and multiple terms in the California senate, from 1967-96. He was also a candidate for mayor of San Francisco in 1975.

Marks was known for his enthusiastic support of California's public library system.

A plaque reading "Richmond/Senator Milton Marks Branch Library" will be installed in the interior of the library after renovations to the Carnegie-built library are completed, according to city Librarian Susan Hildreth.

The Richmond Branch Library is scheduled for major renovations, including a 4,000-square-foot expansion, as a result of a bond measure passed by voters in 2000.

The commission's decision came after a full year of public discussion, during which time residents gave their overwhelming approval. State Librarian Dr. Kevin Starr also endorsed the idea of adding the late senator's name to the Richmond Branch Library.

The process to rename the library was initiated by Carolene Marks, the wife of the late senator, who was at the January meeting when commissioners voted to rename the library.