CCMIN120997 - Laserfiche WebLink

Don Ferguson, Library Commissioner, thanked Linda Wood, Alameda County Librarian, for her cooperation in this long review process and stressed the need to be flexible in addressing issues. Linda Wood, Alameda County Librarian, believed the staff report presented two conflicting processes: first, to work with the County to resolve library issues and to remain a part of the system; and second, to work towards withdrawal from the County library system. She believed this was difficult to do simultaneously and misleading to the public. She felt that a basic change to the governance structure required more than ninety days. Issues related to governance and decision-making authority in a regional or county library service can only be made through some kind of joint powers authority, but the staff report does not support this. The staff report also minimizes the effects on services if the City withdraws from the County library system. She disagrees the impacts would be as minimal as stated. Pleasanton residents are used to access to a significantly larger collection and might well be dissatisfied with reduced resources. Whether the City remains with the County Library System or not, there is a need for enhanced services. If the City remains with the County, it can work with the County on the strategic planning process. There will also be less risk to the City from increased costs, service adjustments, transition difficulties and risk of the lack of public support. Ms. Wood pointed out that if the City chooses to withdraw, it will have a negative impact on the County Library system as a whole and on its employees. Ms. Wood recommended the following actions: 1) allow more than ninety days for discussion of issues with the County; 2) consider a joint powers authority or other governance change with the County, by indicating a willingness for shared governance, which is an enhancement over the current advisory role; and 3) do not notify the County of the City' s intent to withdraw and begin formal negotiations on property taxes and materials transfer simultaneously. If the City's final decision is to withdraw from the County Library system, she indicated the County would be willing to discuss transition services to the City by contract. She felt this would be a smoother transition for all concerned. Shawn Miller, 3610 Manchester Street, indicated she is a local business owner. She had done the research for opening the business and maintaining it through the expanded resources of the County library system. She is proud to be part of a City that belongs to a greater community. She also related her experiences in doing research for her children's school projects and that she valued being able to have access to a larger supply of material than what is in Pleasanton. She was concerned about the possible loss of the Bookmobile and access to audio books from all branches of the library system. She strongly supported remaining part of the current County Library system. A1 Robinson, 5489 San Antonio, indicated he supported the current County system and his only complaint was that the library is closed on Friday. Pleasanton City Council 12/09/97 Minutes 5