Larger libraries may not be so necessary in future

The recent article outlining San Rafael's plans to build a new library was somewhat concerning (“San Rafael library supporters prepare tax measure pitch,” Dec. 12).

As a longtime patron and volunteer, I find the desire to build a larger edifice hard to understand. Yes, San Rafael is a much larger city than the current building, located on E Street downtown, can serve on its own. But new technologies and practices provide the opportunity to serve the community in better and more sustainable ways.

One of the most magical powers of the library is its interlibrary loan program, which allows patrons access to books from libraries all over the Bay Area. This, combined with internet access, suggests that building smaller branches to serve the city's far-flung neighborhoods could be a better use for the millions of dollars envisioned for the new, and undoubtedly glorious, downtown library. Why force people to drive in from Spinnaker Point, Smith Ranch or Peacock Gap to the downtown center, when they could be served locally by a small branch with reading room, new book, internet and interlibrary loan capabilities?

The Pickleweed branch, in the Canal neighborhood, has successfully paved the way in this direction. The county library system operates a bookmobile that visits North San Pedro Road, the Rotary Valley and Miller Creek Road. Officials evidently see a need for outreach that the city could serve much better with local, accessible centers. How much better it would be to build a library system that is comprehensively accessible by bike and by walking, and which builds local neighborhoods and communities.