P.O. Box 1024, Alameda, CA. 94501
November 3, 2025
TO: Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Pryor and Members of the City Council FROM: Friends of the Alameda Free Library
RE: Agenda Item 7C – City Workshop to address Facility Needs
Friends of the Alameda Free Library strongly supports the three critical projects identified by the Alameda Free Library as part of the City’s review of unfunded facility needs. The projects listed below are part of the Library’s strategic plan as identified by Alamedans and are wholly endorsed by the Library Board.
A branch library at Alameda Point has been part of the Library's strategic plans for more than five years and was presented to City Council in 2024 as part of the RESHAP proposal. With the exciting development of new businesses and housing at Alameda Point, a library would provide essential educational resources, community engagement opportunities, and economic benefits to this growing area.
Expansion of the Bay Farm Library was discussed during planning for the Main Library renovation, but funds were only sufficient for interior upgrades. This small facility—opened in 1980—is heavily used by the community yet was sized before the continued growth of Bay Farm's residential and commercial development.
Renovating the Main Library is essential, as library use has changed dramatically over the past 20 years. The library continues to see significant growth in services and programs. Exciting new offerings—such as a library of things, maker spaces, and children's play areas—represent just a sample of what an updated facility could provide.
Friends of the Alameda Free Library will support the City’s efforts to fund library projects. Thank you for your consideration.