A master plan to modernize and expand the Palo Alto (Calif.) Public Library that would shutter three lesser-used branches has drawn fire from residents who feel that all six of the existing branches are needed to attain the city's goal of creating livable, walkable neighborhoods.
The multimillion-dollar modernization would add 40% more floor space at the main and two branches. Library and city officials say the consolidation would allow the library to provide a broader selection of titles and services such as Internet access, according to the March 17 San Francisco Chronicle.
At its March 16 meeting the city council referred the proposal for public hearings before taking any final action.
Posted March 23, 1998.