Coastside Committee For a New Library

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HMB LIBRARY

Half Moon Bay Building Project Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do we need a new library?
A: Our library, built more than 30 years ago, does not meet today's needs. The library was built with a capacity for 26,000 books; it now holds more than 60,000 volumes, and new books cannot be added unless other books are withdrawn to make room for them. Nearly 600 people a day visit the library, but there are only 50 seats. There is often a waiting list for the library's computers, but there is no space to add more workstations.

Q: What are some of the benefits of the new library?

• Expanded collections of books, magazines, CDs, videos, DVDs
• Adequate seating
• Dedicated space for library programs and community meetings
• Expanded children's area
• Homework Center
• Quiet study rooms
• 65 computer workstations
• Project Read adult literacy tutoring space
• Comfortable periodical lounge with fireplace
• Cafe with indoor and outdoor seating

Q: Where will the new library be?
A: The new library will be at the same location, at the corner of Correas and Purissima Streets.

Q: How big will the new library be?
A: 33,260 square feet. It will be two stories high, with underground parking.

Q: How much will it cost to build the new library?
A: The estimated total cost is $14,000,000.

Q: Where will the money come from to build the new library?
A: The City of Half Moon Bay applied for State funding through the Library Bond Act of 2000. There were 72 projects under consideration. Although the HMB's grant proposal received the highest rating for the third and final round of grants, it was not funded at the end of November. Another $300 million library bond is to be on the state ballot in 2006. If passed by voters, half the money will be allocated to the outstanding grant requests that weren't funded in 2004. If this money is received by HMB, the city would still need to provide approximately $3 million in matching funds. This would likely come from a bond passed by voters. Donations may be sent to Friends of the HMB Library / Building Fund, 620 Correas Street, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019.

Q: What will the money raised by CCFNL be used for?
A: Fundraising helps cover the City's part of the matching funds, as well as things that are not covered by the State Library Bond, including the expanded collection of books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, etc.

Q: What will the new library look like?
A: There have been several meetings to gather community input. The last was February 5, 2003. The most recent plans may be seen by viewing the SLIDESHOW or the PDF, (4.9 MB).