El Segundo : Library Bonds on Ballot

The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to place on the Nov. 4 ballot a proposed $3.25-million bond issue to expand the public library. Using tax-exempt bonds would allow the city to finance the project without depleting its reserve for capital projects, said Finance Director Jose Sanchez.

The project would almost double the library space and provide funds to purchase up to 125,000 additional volumes. The library, built in 1938, is cluttered with stacks of books and magazines that do not fit on the shelves. Still, officials say the library lacks reference books and other materials in high demand.

The plan includes strengthening bookshelves to meet earthquake standards, expanding access for the handicapped and moving the children’s section from the basement to the main floor.