Libraries: Yes on L

Los Angeles libraries are overdue for attention. Arson, earthquakes, age and population growth have combined to yield a library system that badly needs new buildings and renovations. The libraries also need a public commitment of renewed support--a commitment that can be made if two-thirds of Los Angeles voters will say Yes to Proposition L, a $90-million bond issue to refurbish libraries in 30 areas of the city.

More than two years ago an arsonist struck at the Los Angeles Central Library, which remains closed. The bond issue contains $36.6 million to finance the city’s share of restoration work. Four libraries had to close their doors after last October’s earthquakes. Eight more need major seismic-safety repairs, and several others also need reinforcement. The bond issue would provide $8.9 million for work in East Los Angeles, Venice, South-Central Los Angeles, Hollywood, mid-Wilshire, downtown, Lincoln Heights and West Los Angeles.

Other libraries are too small for the communities that have grown up around them; others need fire alarms and sprinklers, air conditioning or wiring for modern electronic equipment. The bond money would also finance a major expansion of the Watts branch library from 3,500 square feet to 10,500 square feet, as well as a new branch library for the Canoga Park-Woodland Hills area.

Los Angeles voters can restore their library system with a modest investment. A person whose home is assessed at $110,000 would pay about $8.30 a year, or 69 cents a month, in additional property taxes.

The residents of each of the city’s 15 council districts will benefit if this bond issue passes. More important, people who want to read a new novel or a great classic, children who need a place to do research for a term paper or finish their homework, older people who want to read the latest magazines will have better and safer buildings to make their second home.