Welcome Back – Progress Over the Summer
Three major City developments have propelled us this summer toward the goal of funding and building a new modern Larkspur library:
- In June, the State passed a budget that included a matching grant program for public library capital needs;
- In July, the City announced they had received a $1M gift from the State for the Library (not related to the matching grant program);
In August, the City announced that they will be vacating City Hall due to building integrity issues and the Council expressed a consensus that the library would not move back into the building later.
Moving Forward
One, the City is committed to moving out of City Hall and may not be moving the library back in; and two, the City now has financial resources it can use to pay for moving out and possibly help with the new building in terms of paying for infrastructure (utilities and parking).
However, there are many unknowns at this point and the City will hold a series of public meetings to discuss all of the ramifications of a plan to move out of City Hall.
However, there are many unknowns at this point and the City will hold a series of public meetings to discuss all of the ramifications of a plan to move out of City Hall.
Learn More - Stay Informed
5 Reasons Why Libraries Are Essential To Have
The Princh blog has an interesting and timely posting on why libraries are essential. In summary they list five reasons:
1. Libraries maintain history, and more importantly, truth
2. Libraries offer free educational resources
3. Libraries help to build communities
4. Libraries are transparent with all the services they provide
5. Libraries contribute to increasing economy
The Larkspur Library has a long history of upholding these values and doing it with both high touch, person to person help; and access to technology. As we work together to address the City’s issues to facilitate moving out of City Hall it is important to remember that libraries provide essential public service; we have managed to stay open through the pandemic; and the demand for those services will continue to grow in the coming years.
What Can You Do?
Monitor and participate in the public process to discuss and plan the City’s move out of City Hall and the future plans of the library. To attend the future City Council meetings that have the City Hall issue on the agenda go to:
https://www.ci.larkspur.ca.us/288/Agendas-and-Minutes
The instructions to attend a City Council online meeting are included in every agenda.
The Commons Foundation Co-Sponsors Larkspur Loop Kickoff
The Larkspur Loop!
If you missed this event, it isn’t too late – so be sure to bike, walk or run the Larkspur Loop. The scenery is stunning and the route is safe.