The Need for a New Library 
The two studies which have been adopted by the City Council: Library Facility Needs Assessment Study for the San Bruno Public Library, by Raymond Holt, January 10,1986; and San Bruno Public Library Accessibility and Space Needs Study: Program of Building and Site Requirements, by Group 4/Architecture and Planning, Inc., August 1991, as well as a Needs Assessment done in September 1996, analyze the deficiencies of the present facility in terms of the ability to deliver efficient, state-of-the-art library services to the citizens of San Bruno.
Community of High Library Usage
Current statistics demonstrate that San Brunans use their Library and its services, with 59.5% of the population holding San Bruno library cards. The population of San Bruno is 40,450. 24,081 San Brunans have library cards and have used their card in the past three years. Of this number, 1,957 people got new library cards for the first time between July 1996 and June 1997. This does not include the number of people who use the Library for other services that do not require a card, such as reference and business services, newspapers, and telephone inquiries, etc.
The Books and Other Materials
Shelf space continues to be severely inadequate for the existing collections, and no space is available for future collection growth. While technology can increase our data resources, there is much needed information for which people retain a strong preference for traditional print formats. Until other formats are as convenient and usable as the book format, there will be little change in demand for print materials.
New Technology
The Library currently provides access to automated systems and their related hardware. These systems are sophisticated and require workstations and support systems considerably different than the typical library building is designed to support today. Changes in technology and electronic access to information have not decreased the need for library space now, nor is it expected to do so over the next 20 years. It will, however, require more flexibility in the design of a library building to accommodate technology needs to access new formats of materials and support individual and collaborative uses and access to information and library services. Currently, the addition of every workstation requires expensive infrastructure changes to support information technology.
Reader Seating
There continues to be inadequate reader seating in the Library. In addition, there is inadequate space around seating to allow comfortable movement near chairs without disturbing users. There are no quiet seating areas or areas for group study. Complaints relating to these two issues are second only to parking.
Service to the Disabled
The present building does not meet the needs of the disabled and handicapped as there is stair-only access to the downstairs meeting room and mezzanine area. Studies have indicated that it is not feasible to add ramps or elevators to the current structure.
Building Systems
The lighting, power, and mechanical systems are inadequate to meet the demand placed on them because of their age and the changing technology.
Parking
Parking is totally inadequate and remains the number one concern of Library users. Those who do not use the Library cite the lack of available parking as the reason.
Remodeling the Present Facility
Retrofitting the present facility is not a realistic option because of the cost of the seismic upgrades and modifications for handicapped accessibility.