DATE: October 24, 2006
TO: Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT: EXPANSION OF THE DESCANSO LIBRARY

SUMMARY:
Overview
Today’s action will Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to work with the Friends of the Descanso Library to develop a cost estimate to expand the Descanso Library by approximately 500 square feet.

Recommendation:
SUPERVISOR DIANNE JACOB:

Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to work with the Friends of the Descanso Library to develop a cost estimate to expand the Descanso Library by approximately 500 square feet and return to the Board with a report in 90 to 120 days.

Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact.

BACKGROUND
Back in 1997, the Descanso Library was one of the smallest in the County, with only 192 square feet. In May of that year, a new library opened, ten times the size of the old one. Naturally, the library became very popular with the community, and the increased usage created a need for even more space.

On June 11, 2003, the Board of Supervisors approved $152,000 in District Two Community Projects funds to construct a 500 square foot addition, which was comprised of a community room and an additional restroom for the library. With book circulation up 34 percent, the library is once again not large enough for the community and is in need of expansion.

Today’s action will Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to work with the Friends of the Descanso Library to develop a cost estimate to expand the Descanso Library by approximately 500 square feet and return to the Board with a report in 90 to 120 days.

I urge your support.

Respectfully submitted,

DIANNE JACOB
Supervisor, Second District