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Library commission outlines operating results and proposes retrofit of adjacent "pink building" for historical exhibits and bookstore
Summary
Library commissioners reported heavy use of the new Calamasa library since its July opening, proposed repurposing an adjacent city‑owned former post office for historical exhibits and a used‑book sales area, and asked the council to consider shifting historical duties into the library commission's charge.
The Calamasa Library Commission reported to the council on Sept. 15 that the new library facility, opened July 19 and owned by Riverside County with the city owning the land, has generated significant patronage and program activity. Library staff told commissioners the facility had more than 6,000 checkouts and over 3,000 patron visits for August.
At the meeting, Library Commission Chair (name not provided in transcript) and library staff described program expansion, fundraising and operational needs. The commission reported a Giving Tree fundraising effort that raised about $28,000 toward the library; those funds will be transferred to the county as the county owns the building and will decide final uses inside the facility.
Commissioners raised an operational issue: the county does not plan to store used books or house a historical collection at the new library. The commission proposed retrofitting a city‑owned former post office (the so‑called "pink building") adjacent to the library to serve as a local history repository and a space for a used‑bookshop. The commission also proposed that the city consider transferring historical‑collection duties from the Parks, Trails and Community Services Commission to the Library Commission to consolidate responsibilities around local history and programming.
Library staff and commissioners also discussed expanding story‑time and weekend programming, and coordinating with school district meal programs to host summer lunch events and family activities at the library site. Library staff indicated licensing for public film showings and additional youth and adult programs are being planned.
Council Member Darlene asked staff to agendize a fuller discussion in a future meeting so the council can consider the commission's suggestions and potential retrofit plans. Staff noted the city owns the adjacent property and said the item could be brought forward for further study.
Ending: The report was received for filing. Commissioners and staff will return with more detailed proposals if the council chooses to agendize renovation or reassignment of historical duties.
