Exciting changes coming in 2019!
2018 was an important year for the Oakland Public Library (OPL) system. Faced with a budget crisis that would have closed branches and eliminated jobs, library advocates mobilized the public to save this vital community resource.
In June, Oakland voters stood up for the libraries by passing Measure D with a supermajority. With the budget crisis averted, OPL administrators are determining how to roll out improvements in 2019. The main library and branches like Rockridge are preparing for what next year will bring for employees and patrons.
“Staff are excited about the passage of Measure D and the expanded hours, days of service, and new staff that it will provide,” said Rockridge Branch Manger Paul Schiesser. “The library is in the hiring process to support these expanded hours and looks forward to releasing details soon.”
In the meantime, current Rockridge Branch staff continue to innovate with new programs and services. For example, an adult book club now meets the second Saturday of each month. The month’s book selection is available on the holds shelf making it easy to participate.
Additionally, stretching for caregivers has become a regular event for adults with children. This popular program is taught by a professional yoga instructor, and is made possible by financial support from the Friends of the Rockrdige Library (FORL).
"The Friends of the Rockridge Library board of directors is really excited about the new year. Over the course of 2018, we worked closely with the branch librarians to support the ideas they had for new programs,” said FORL President Elizabeth Falkner.
“With the expanded hours and days of service coming in 2019, FORL is looking forward to our continued partnership with the library staff to explore more ways we can get creative and provide materials and programs that are meaningful to our community," she said.
Even with Measure D funds, not all aspirations for the branch can be met under the city budget. Tax-deductible donations to the Friends of the Rockridge Library help branch staff deliver quality services to patrons of all ages. To make a gift in support of the library, use this secure online donation form.
