DATE: April 13, 1999
TO: Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT: RANCHO SAN DIEGO LIBRARY

SUMMARY:
Overview
On September 15, 1998, the Board of Supervisors unanimously supported the concept of building a new Rancho San Diego library. On December 15, 1998, the Board appropriated $465,000 for design of the Rancho San Diego library. Since December, community residents have been meeting with County staff on the design elements of this new 20,000 square foot library. However, as San Diego County communities plan for future libraries, it is imperative that new facilities conform to the needs of area residents and take advantage of all opportunities to do this. I have recently been made aware of private sector interest in exploring a partnership for the proposed Rancho San Diego library. Today's action will explore this possibility and possibly be a model for future libraries.

Recommendation:
SUPERVISOR DIANNE JACOB

Authorize the Director of General Services to develop and issue a Request for Information/Statement of Qualifications (RFI/SQ) that will explore private/public sector development of a new Rancho San Diego Branch Library.

Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this request. Costs can be absorbed through use of existing staff.

BACKGROUND:
On September 15, 1998, the Board of Supervisors unanimously supported the concept of building a new Rancho San Diego library. On December 15, 1998, the Board voted unanimously to appropriate $465,000 for design of the Rancho San Diego library. Since December, residents of the community have been meeting with County staff on the design elements of this new 20,000 square foot library. The new facility could include a children's department, community meeting room, as well as room for a large book collection and at least 25 public computer workstations. However, as San Diego County communities plan for future libraries, it is imperative that new facilities conform to the needs of area residents. For instance, with technological improvements, and computers playing a more central role to both our youth as well as adults - libraries must adapt to these needs. Rancho San Diego has the opportunity to be a model for future libraries. I have recently been made aware of private sector interest in exploring a partnership for the proposed Rancho San Diego library. Possible partnerships include incorporating a retail bookstore, cafe and technology center as a part of the library design. Such a partnership could incorporate compatible activities that broaden the scope of services available to residents far beyond traditional library services. Libraries are the cornerstone of our communities. They are one of the rare assets in our society that provide healthy after school activities for children, satisfy the thirst for knowledge and provide a central location for easy access to the Internet for children, families and seniors. Today's proposal will explore possibilities to broaden and expand traditional library services for area residents. I urge your support.

Respectfully Submitted,

DIANNE JACOB
Vice Chairwoman