The Sunnyvale Sun

News

Proposed branch library draws mixed reactions

By Cody Kraatz

Sunnyvale loves its library and would love to have more of it, but only if there is a cost-effective way to do it.

That's according to the 30 residents who showed up at a May 29 meeting at the Sunnyvale Public Library that explored the possibility of leasing office space for a branch library.

They were divided on the branch idea, and the consensus was that if one is opened, it should not detract from addressing deficiencies at the main library, located at 665 W. Olive Ave.

Some of the ideas and concerns from the meeting:

* Multiple, smaller libraries near parks, schools and the new downtown.

* The city's northern neighborhoods are underserved.

* Partnerships with schools and the city's parks and recreation department and with technology companies on a shared technical/public library in the north.

* Transportation is a barrier for some and needs to be addressed.

* There may be support for another library bond measure if it is smaller and funds a different kind of project.

Library staff will present a report on leased space available, costs and public input in September and the council is set to make a decision in November.

E-mail your ideas to futurelib@ci.sunnyvale.ca.us or to ckraatz@community-newspa
pers.com.