Vince Hernandez wants to identify options for a satellite library south of the `120 Bypass.

The Manteca councilman would like to see the city’s Parks and Recreation Commission undertake the task so the effort to address library needs in Manteca can gain some traction. Hernandez noted the community-based Strong Libraries = Strong Communities is preparing to conduct polls to determine the best financing options to pursue for funding expanded day-to-day library system operations. That is separate from providing structures to house new or expanded libraries.

“I’d like to see us look at all possible options and list them,” Hernandez said.

The councilman believes initial efforts should be concentrated on getting a satellite library location south of the bypass.

“It’s not only where most of the growth is but (it is the area) that has the biggest barrier to accessing the existing library,” the councilman noted.

He pointed out the only safe way for walkers or mothers pushing strollers to cross the freeway is via the Van Ryn Avenue undercrossing.

Hernandez listed some potential options the Parks and Recreation Commission could explore:

talking with developers that might have an “undevelopable” parcel that is part of project that might be able to work for a library site.

asking developers if they would be willing to set aside a library site adjacent to a planned park.

revisiting Woodward Park plans and determine if there are recreation improvements planned such as for tennis courts that might work better for a library given it is a community gathering spot and parking is in place.

any city owned sites that may work.

any existing older home or building that could be converted into a library.

building a library to look “like a home” on the edge of planned commercial areas adjacent to proposed commercial developments with patrons using the commercial parking.

Hernandez made it clear he doesn’t endorse any option but believes a comprehensive list should be composed to get efforts moving forward.

He added that using a house — new or otherwise — would require the interior to be open in order to work as a library.

Hernandez said the Parks and Recreation Commission is the logical body to be charged with such an effort as they “have individuals with (dedicated) interest” in recreation.

Hernandez in the past has emphasized Manteca has addressed community baseball and soccer needs. And as such, moving forward with improving library services is long overdue.

The current library on Center Street was built in 1963 and expanded in 1977.

When the expansion was completed, the prediction was it would be adequate through 1995 when Manteca was projected to have a population of 32,000. Manteca actually had 45,060 residents in 1995. Today’s population is 73,000.

The annual operating cost of a satellite library for staff, utilities upkeep, and content is pegged at $500,000. Currently the Stockton-San Joaquin Library System operations are funded by the City of Stockton and San Joaquin County. The Manteca branch receives some additional funding from the City of Manteca for expanded hours and for upgrading the collection.

Manteca provides the building and covers maintenance and utilities.