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Updated 8/3/16 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About the Ballot Measure for a Safe Modern El Cerrito Library Q: What are the demands on our Library? A: The current El Cerrito Library located on Stockton Avenue was built in 1948, and does not currently meet the earthquake safety standards or energy-efficiency standards of libraries built today. When school gets out, the Library is packed with school children and simply too small for what our community needs. In the last decade, Library visits have increased 26% since 2006 and circulation is up over 27%. Q: Why was the Library funding measure placed on the ballot? A: For years, the City has been working with the community to evaluate El Cerrito’s Library service priorities and potential funding of a safe, modern Library. In 2016, over 2,000 community members provided their feedback about their priorities for our Library, including an energy-efficient Library that meets earthquake and fire codes, and updated wiring to accommodate computers and technology. To address community priorities for an up-to-date, 21st century Library, the the El Cerrito City Council unanimously placed measure on the November ballot to fund an earthquake-safe Library that meets our community’s needs, for years to come. Q: How can the measure for a Safe Modern Library meet community needs? A: A safe, modern Library that meets the community’s educational and informational needs will provide public access computers, a computer learning center, and free Wi-Fi as well as a children’s area with space for story times and improved access for seniors and disabled residents. The new Library would provide space for programs for children and teens, including homework help and reading resources that are critical to providing our students with the resources they need. According to standard Library best practices, the current Library does not meet the space, technological, educational, or safety needs of El Cerrito residents. Q: How can voters be sure the funds will be spent as promised? A: The library funding measure includes strict fiscal accountability provisions including independent citizen oversight, mandatory financial audits, and yearly reports to the community ensure all funds are spent as promised. No funding from the measure can be used for City administrator salaries. The Measure requires that all funds be spent locally and, by law, cannot be taken by the State. Q: What will the measure for a Safe Modern El Cerrito Library cost? A: The measure is a $30 million bond to fund a seismically-safe, energy efficient library that meets 21st century community needs. Q: How can I find out more information? A: If you would like to find out more about the needs of our library, please visit the City’s website at www.el-cerrito.org/libraryneeds or contact Karen Pinkos, Assistant City Manager at [PHONE REDACTED] or [EMAIL REDACTED].