MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Jeffers, (415) 557-4282; (415) 608-1593; mjeffers@sfpl.org
MEDIA ALERT
Invitation to Cover Ortega Branch Library Breaks Ground on New Building
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES:
Steel drummers from Rec Connect/Sunset Neighborhood Beacon Center; Sunset Youth Services singers; 11-year-old soloist Grady Lai
WHAT
Supervisor Carmen Chu, City Librarian Luis Herrera and other officials for the groundbreaking of the new Ortega Branch Library.
WHEN
1 p.m., Friday, June 26
WHERE
3223 Ortega Street at 39th Avenue
WHO:
Remarks by:
- City Librarian Luis Herrera
- Supervisor Carmen Chu
- Ed Reiskin, Department of Public Works
- Jewelle Gomez, San Francisco Public Library Commission
- Donna Bero, Executive Director, Friends of the San Francisco Public Library
WHY:
The Ortega Branch Library is being reconstructed at its current location replacing an obsolete structure with a certified LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver building that will be a resource for generations to come. The new branch library will contain a living roof planted with drought tolerant native plants that uses rainwater irrigation and limits runoff into the sewer system.
The new 9,000-square-foot Ortega Branch will be rebuilt closer to Ortega Street and better meet the needs of the nearby schools and surrounding neighborhood. The new branch will feature a large reading area, a Program Room with after hour’s community access and distinct spaces for Teens and Children including a custom Play to Learn area for young children and their families. Other highlights of the Library include express self checkout machines, a study room, public art, and new furniture, shelving and display areas.
The project is part of the Branch Library Improvement Program, which was funded by a $105.9 million bond measure approved by voters in 2000. A separate fundraising campaign by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library will provide new furniture and equipment for the branch.
