PG Takes 'Wait-And-See' Attitude On Libraries

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. - KSBW.com

Measure J would have created a 10-year parcel tax used exclusively to fund the Pacific Grove Library.

"We will at least be open until the end of the fiscal year June 30. We don't really know beyond that," said librarian Lisa Maddalena. "It's frustrating because we were hoping to have a secure form of funding so we could plan for future and perhaps be open more hours per week."

A very slim margin, close to 1 percent and a half, kept Measure J from the two-thirds approval it needed to pass. Pacific Grove's senior librarian said they're not giving up hope yet.

"[We're] still taking a wait-and-see attitude," Maddalena said.

Pacific Grove encouraged voters with signs at the library's front doors and a large banner across the street that read: "What's a hometown without a library?"

"They have so many good books, and I don't think it'd be a town without a library," said Jacqueline Cox. "I think it'd be terrible for the town. This library is an important part of Pacific Grove, more than 100 years."

"It's a huge resource for students in the community and a lot of them will have a hard time finding books we don't stock at school," said librarian Anne Scanlon, with Robert Down Elementary.

Young library visitors seemed most disappointed with day-after election results.

"It's the only library near me -- not too far -- and it's the best library to me in the world," said Michelle Flores. "I think they have some really cool (books) and that's where there are some of the best books I've ever read."

Most Popular Stories at KSBW

• Giants' Lincecum Faces Pot Charges
• Woman Dies In Watsonville Fire
• 911 Tape Released In Richmond Gang Rape
• Neighbor: Fort Hood Suspect Emptied His Apartment
• 'Golden Girls' Star Has Bypass Surgery

MORE FROM KSBW-TV

KSBW-TV Section Front

PD: Girl Accuses Youth Leader Of Molestation 8 Displaced In SC County Duplex Fire Peace Tree Marks New Tradition In Salinas Thanksgiving Need Up As Food Supply Dwindles Gov. Urges Lawmakers To Confirm Maldonado KSBW-TV Section Front   Add KSBW-TV headlines to your news reader: