Cindy Jackson, Board Member, Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries
The June ballot will include a parcel tax measure designed to provide funds for significant capital improvements to the ten libraries in the Santa Cruz Public Libraries System. The $62 million dollars generated will upgrade facilities to meet the needs of library patrons who come to the library to use computers they don’t have at home, who meet to discuss books and receive technical assistance and who participate in the many programs for children and adults.
The parcel tax would be a flat $49.50 per year. Many of our libraries have aged from constant use and need renovations to properly utilize changing technologies and provide comfortable spaces.
Our branches are busier than ever and in fact, the Aptos Branch is the second busiest branch in the entire system on any given day. The Aptos Branch would receive a complete overhaul to modernize the building, to provide separate areas for children and teens and to upgrade 40 year old wiring that is completely inadequate for current use of the library’s computers and patrons’ laptops and tablets.
The list of programs that take place in Aptos and all branches is extensive and includes all kinds of programs to promote childhood literacy beginning with Toddler Time. Teens and children can participate in Minecraft, Tales to Tails and a Youth Chess Club. The branches provide a safe place for children and teens to meet, practice reading and develop problem-solving skills which is critical for our community.
The La Selva Beach Branch provides free weekly Homework Help with a California certified teacher every week for elementary students. It is a community center for La Selva Beach and surrounding neighborhoods by hosting 2 adult book clubs, a movie discussion group and a monthly movie matinee. Children enjoy Minecraft, Tales to Tales and the Lego building workshops. Like many of the branches, the La Selva Beach Branch needs upgrades to provide comfortable spaces for its activities and technological upgrades for increased usage.
The measure needs a 2/3 majority to pass so your vote is critical. All renovations that are planned are a result of a lengthy study of all 10 libraries in a Facilities Master Plan conducted by the library. The goal is to have all branches be able to take advantage of the most modern technology by upgrading outdated, inadequate wiring. Worn out, leaky roofs would be replaced where they exist. Spaces would be redesigned and remodeled to accommodate the very busy list of programs and activities that take place in the libraries every single day. Older bathrooms would be replaced, as would outdated boilers and inefficient heating systems.
If you have question, additional information may be found at the Measure S campaign site: ourlibrariesourfuture.org. You may also contact the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries at 831-621-0800.
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Editor’s Note: We invite other viewpoints on this issue. Maximum of 180 words sent to [email protected]