Library Improvements for Tomorrow

Imagine a place that welcomes and connects our community, that is a joy to work in and that celebrates knowledge and learning. Picture a branch library that respects its historic architecture yet incorporates the vibrancy and culture of the neighborhood.

In collaboration with the community and with architects from San Francisco Public Works, the Library aims to transform neighborhood libraries into an energy efficient, safe and resilient library while maintaining its inherent charm. We plan to incorporate 21st Century library practices, building systems and technology into these landmarked libraries.

These are lofty goals, but with the community’s participation and our team’s creativity, the Mission Branch will continue as a neighborhood treasure for many generations to come.

Guiding Principles

  • Libraries for the 21st Century
  • Flexible and Adaptable Building Designs
  • Preservation of Historic Carnegie Libraries
  • Multifunctional Community Program Areas
  • Transparency and Ease of Wayfinding

The Library and Public Works developed the 2018 Branch Capital Projects Feasibility Study. This study is an exploration of building planning and library service possibilities for three branch libraries: Mission Branch Library, Chinatown Him Mark Lai Branch Library and the Ocean View Branch Library.