About Measure P

After years of planning and discussion, San Rafael now has an opportunity to bring a new library and community center to the Downtown area by voting Yes on Measure P this November.

 

Vote Yes on P for a safe and up-to-date main library and community center in San Rafael. Measure P also preserves the historic Carnegie Library for ongoing community use.

 

San Rafael’s Downtown Main Library was built in 1909 when the population was 6,000. San Rafael’s population now exceeds 60,000 and the Main Library is too small and outdated.

With library use rising, the 115-year-old facility is cramped and dilapidated — far too small to serve as a modern library. It does not meet current earthquake, fire, and safety standards. Options for expansion are impractical — a new vision is required.

San Rafael students rely on libraries for quiet and safe spaces to read, study, complete homework, and receive tutoring. Young children benefit from literacy programs and story time. Older adults access computers, technology, and quiet reading spaces.

 

Community centers provide safe spaces for afterschool, summer learning and recreation programs for children and teens, gathering spaces for the community, and programs that help seniors remain active and independent.

Voting Yes on P builds a modern main library and community center in San Rafael with space for:

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• Afterschool homework assistance, tutoring and summer reading programs

• A dedicated children’s area for story time and programs

• Art and literacy programs

• Programs for older adults

• Expanded book collections and other media

• Improved access for seniors and residents with disabilities

• Updated technology infrastructure and public computers

• Emergency operations and shelter in case of fires, earthquakes, floods, or emergencies

 

Measure P requires fiscal accountability and local control:

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• Every penny must stay local and no funds can be taken by the State

• No funds can be used for administrator salaries

• Independent oversight and annual audits are required

• Seniors are eligible for an optional exemption

 

Please join San Rafael educators, parents, longtime residents, small business owners, and trusted leaders in voting Yes on P. 

The measure would also require the City of San Rafael to preserve the historic Carnegie Library in Downtown San Rafael for civic and community use and establish a public process to determine the future use of this historic building.

 

To learn more, watch this informational video: