goal

State of the art libraries for everyone in Berkeley

The Campaign sets one common goal for our four Branch Libraries: to ensure that our treasured community institutions are equipped to meet the needs of all Berkeley residents — especially those who face economic challenges — by providing help, information and services for free.

Each of Berkeley’s four unique branches has filled its shelves and set up its programs so that everyone from children to the elderly can make discoveries, deepen personal interests, access crucial resources and strengthen their connections to the community.

Background

In 2008, Berkeley voters generously passed Measure FF, a $26 million bond for rebuilding, structurally renovating and improving accessibility at the four branch libraries: Claremont, North, South — including the popular Tool Lending Library — and West, home of Berkeley Reads, the life-changing adult literacy program.

Now we are taking the next step. As construction on the four branches begins, we are planning ahead for crucial interior improvements, which by law are not covered by the bond measure:

• Computers
• Lamps
• Bookshelves
• Magazine racks
• Furniture (new and restored)

Need

The Neighborhood Libraries Campaign is a $3.5 million drive led by the Berkeley Public Library Foundation. With your help, the Campaign will:

• Improve seating and table space
• Replace or refurbish furniture and fixtures
• Add necessary safety upgrades
• Modernize technology (computers, check-out machines and more)

Neighborhood libraries are oases of freedom that give equal access to all.

Won’t you donate to the campaign today?

FAQs about The Neighborhood Libraries Campaign.
View the Berkeley Public Libraries latest plans for the Branch Improvement program.

Capital Campaign Committee

Linda Schacht Gage, Chair
Christopher Adams
Donna Corbeil
Fredrica Drotos
Abigail Franklin
Pamela C. Grossman
Sophie Hahn
Trish Hawthorne
Mary O’Neill
Trina Ostrander
Terry Powell
Amy Roth
Stephen Silberstein
Elisabeth Watson