Measure P
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Measure P, the San Rafael Library and Community Center Revitalization Initiative?
Approval of Measure P would authorize and fund the planning and construction of a modern library and community center at Albert Park to serve the needs of current and future residents. Funds from the measure may also be used to upgrade San Rafael’s neighborhood branch libraries.
Why is a new library and community center needed?
San Rafael’s current Downtown Main Library was built over 100 years ago in 1909 when San Rafael’s population was only 6,000. Currently San Rafael’s population exceeds 60,000 residents and the library is far too small and outdated to serve the needs of children, teens, families and older adults in the community. With library use on the rise, the 115-year-old facility is in poor condition with cramped, dilapidated space, poor lighting, and lack of adequate seating, book collections, computer stations, quiet reading areas, and group study or meeting areas. The building does not meet current earthquake, fire and safety standards for libraries built today. Options for expansion are limited and expensive.
Where will the new library and community center be located?
The new Main Library and Community Center will be located on City-owned property at Albert Park, located near 1st Street and B Street in Downtown San Rafael.
What will happen to the historic Carnegie Library in Downtown San Rafael?
Measure P requires that the historic Carnegie Library, built in 1909, be preserved. It requires the City of San Rafael to conduct a public planning process to determine an ongoing civic, community or community-serving commercial use for the historic Carnegie building.
Why not just upgrade and expand the existing library in Downtown San Rafael?
The City of San Rafael has studied options for expanding and upgrading the historic 115-year-old Carnegie Library. Due to the historic nature of the building, age of construction and limited available space for expansion, options for upgrading the current facility are limited and expensive. An extensive study of options for a new library identified Albert Park as the preferred location.
How would the new library and community center be funded?
The new library and community center would be funded through a property tax of 14.5¢ per square foot of building area. Homeowners age 65 and over are eligible for a full exemption from the cost. Residences and businesses would contribute.
What protections ensure funds are spent as promised?
Measure P requires fiscal accountability protections including an independent oversight committee, annual audits and strict limitations on how the funding may be spent.
Do we still need libraries in the internet age?
San Rafael students of all ages and income levels rely on local libraries for a modern, well equipped, quiet, and safe space to read, study, complete homework, and receive tutoring. Families with young children rely on literacy and reading programs. Older adults utilize the library for access to computers, technology and quiet reading space.
Why build a community center too?
Community centers provide safe spaces for afterschool, summer learning and recreation programs that allow children and teens a safe place to engage in programs intended to spark their imagination and support their educational experience. Community centers also provide recreational and social programs that help older adults remain active and independent. Building a new library and community center together at Albert Park is more cost-efficient than building separate facilities. Building spaces, grounds and parking can be shared for a variety of community uses.
Will a new library and community center be safer and more efficient?
Yes, the new library and community center will be built to current earthquake and fire safety standards. It will be fully accessible to people with disabilities and built to current environmental sustainability standards. The new facility will also provide space for emergency operations and shelter in case of fires, earthquakes, floods, or other emergencies.
Will a new library and community center support expanded programs for residents?
Yes, a modern and expanded library and community center will provide space for afterschool homework assistance, tutoring and summer reading programs for school-age children, a dedicated children’s area for story time and other programs, art and literacy programs for all ages, programs for older adults, updated technology infrastructure, WIFI, and public computing, and space for recreational programs, classes, public meetings and community gatherings.
How long will Measure P last?
The measure allows bonds to be issued to fund the construction of the new library and community center. Measure P will remain in place until the bonds are paid off in approximately 30 years.
Could the State and County cut or take away funding from Measure P?
No. By law, revenue from the measure could not be taken by the State or Marin County. All funding must stay in San Rafael and can only be used for the construction of a new library, community center and upgrades to San Rafael’s neighborhood branch libraries.
Who is sponsoring Measure P?
This measure was created by and supported by the San Rafael Public Library Foundation, a local volunteer-led nonprofit working to bring a new and updated library and community center to San Rafael. Measure P is also supported by local elected leaders, education leaders, business leaders, longtime residents and others.
When will this Measure P be on the ballot?
Measure P will be on the November 5th, 2024 ballot.
What level of support is required for Measure P to be approved by voters?
To pass, the measure must be approved by a simple majority of voters who cast votes on the measure (50% plus one).
Where can I read the initiative?
Read the full text of the initiative here.
