Closing party. Photo by Peter Linenthal.

June 2008

Potrero Library Closes for Renovation

By Jim Van Buskirk

Last month the Potrero Branch Library closed for what’s likely to be a two-year renovation process.  Built in 1957, at a cost of $97,000, the building is slated for a $5 million face-lift, including seismic, technological, and accessibility upgrades.

A closing party was held on May 17, a suitably beautiful afternoon to enjoy the Branch’s breathtaking cityscape view. Steve Stein and Bob Rumello played guitar while Ellen Kerr performed a wonderfully eclectic selection of songs.  A copious array of victuals was provided by local food purveyors, including The Ramp, Thinker’s Café, Jay’s Deli, Baraka, Goat Hill Pizza, and Good Life Grocery.  It was a festive atmosphere as library lovers came to pay their respects to the venerable building filled with decades of memories.

Several parents reminisced about library-sponsored lap sits for their now college-age kids.  A magician kept everyone entertained, while upstairs children were encouraged to draw on the walls or paint on canvas book bags.  Those in attendance were delighted to make new friends or connect with those they hadn’t seen in ages, as they inspected the floor plans, elevations and samples of construction materials that will be used in the new facility.

The speechifying was kept to a minimum. City Librarian Luis Herrera enthusiastically emphasized the importance of the community celebration, as did Supervisor Gerardo Sandoval.  Branch Manager Lia Hillman, Northeast District Manager Terry Gwiazdowski, Chief of Branches Brian Bannon and Branch staff were on hand, all happily looking forward to finally clearing out the Branch after more than a year delay.

Renovation highlights include seismic strengthening, improved heating and ventilation, a designated teen area, accessible restrooms, new elevator and stairs to an expanded second floor with a program room with after-hours access for community meetings.

Because the public bonds approved by voters to fund the renovation cannot be used for the furniture, fixtures and equipment, the Potrero Hill Library Campaign, part of the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library’s Neighborhood Library Campaign, is working to raise an additional $500,000. The funds will be used to purchase more computers with access to library online resources and the Internet, Wi-Fi, new furniture and shelving. Naming opportunities for tax-deductible donations, which will be acknowledged on a plaque in a particular room or piece of furniture, range from a children’s chair ($700) to the program room ($50,000).  Those donating $1,000 or more will see their names on a plaque prominently displayed in the Branch. A recent book swap netted an estimated $4,000 and a silent art auction another $3,000.

In conjunction with the San Francisco Arts Commission, the Potrero Branch Community Artist Selection Panel chose Gina Telcocci to create a piece of art especially for the renovated branch.  Telocci, an Oakland-based artist, works in wood and other natural materials to create elegant sculptural pieces.

During the renovation, library service will be available in the bookmobile two afternoons a week, or at the Main, Mission and Mission Bay branches.  Preschool story times for children up to five will take place on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. in St. Teresa of Avila Church’s community room, and the Neighborhood House will host other children’s summer programs. For more information about temporary services, visit www.sfpl.org or call 557.4353.

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