Long awaited library Is becoming a reality

It’s been a long process, but the Board of Supervisors letter that authorized the construction of our new library which was signed back on Sept. 25, 2007, is finally becoming a reality. The dirt lot on Main Street between 12th and 13th will be evolving into our beautiful new Ramona Library. The money is in place and even the fairy shrimp mitigation process is not expected to impact the building schedule. So here’s your opportunity to take a look at the four finalists proposed models and illustrations and offer comments to the Source Selection Committee. Public viewing starts today and will continue through Feb. 4—so don’t delay.

The new Ramona Library will more than double its collection of books, DVDs, CDs and CD books as before, plus 24 hardwired public access Internet computers, an enlarged Community Room, expanded children’s space, a teen space, small group meeting rooms and study spaces, and it will be approximately 21,000 square feet. Once the final design is approved and the contract is in place, actual groundbreaking should take place by the first of the year with a grand opening about a year later. This is going to be one great place and a real jewel for Ramona, and the entire community should be excited. I encourage everyone to go by our library (which will remain open until the new one is completed) to check out the proposed building designs (M &W 9:30am-6pm; Tue & Thurs 9:30am-8pm; Fri & Sat 9:30am-5pm). I commend and congratulate the Friends of Ramona Library for all of their hard work and diligence for which all of Ramona will soon be able to enjoy.