County supervisors opened the book on the possibility of a new library.
San Benito County’s board last week voted unanimously in favor of hiring Maryland-based Library Systems & Services to develop a needs assessment for the local system. The approval comes after a recommendation for such a pursuit from the intergovernmental committee, which includes county officials along with those from the cities of Hollister and San Juan Bautista.
Building a new library has been a broad goal of local politicians in recent years, but Tuesday’s approval was the first actual step toward making it a reality.
It came with some reluctance, however, as officials expressed concern about the potential for the firm to develop a needs assessment with an aggressive pitch to also oversee a much more lucrative deal to oversee the building project. Supervisors and residents who spoke during the meeting’s public comment section also speculated over “rumors” that the county would pursue a privatized library with the hiring of Library Systems & Services.
That company was the only one to respond to the county’s request for proposals on a needs assessment. A representative from the firm told supervisors that every community is different and has its “own, unique needs.” The company has done library planning work for communities throughout the nation, he said.
But Mark Weirich, from the local chapter of Service Employees International Union, expressed concern about a “track record” with such proposals of pushing for a privatized library and “doing more with less.”
He was joined by several Friends of the San Benito County Library members who voiced concern about the firm as well.
The group’s treasurer, Rebecca Salinas, mentioned how the proposal is “very well written” and how the county needs an upgrade. She had her own apprehension, though, and said as much.
“These people have very imposing credentials. They’re in the business,” she said. “I’m sure these people do a great job at needs assessment, but…keep your eye on them.”
Supervisors ended up supporting the needs assessment with the company, but some addressed concerns about privatizing before the votes.
“Just flat out, I’m against privatizing our library under any circumstances,” Supervisor Anthony Botelho said.
Supervisor Margie Barrios appeared more excited about the movement than others.
“We need to move forward,” Barrios said. “This is a dream for San Benito County. This is a vision.”
