(Oct. 8, 2006) -- Without a parcel tax or a sales tax increase, LB's Main Library -- given a heftier budget by the LB City Council in September on the recommendation of newly elected Mayor Bob Foster -- reopened for Sunday service today (Oct. 8) with a tsunami of kidlets and families streaming through the doors.

Among those attending today's event was Mayor Foster, Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal and Councilmembers Suja Lowenthal, Patrick O'Donnell and Laura Richardson along with City Manager Jerry Miller and Deputy City Manager Suzanne Mason.

"Funding libraries was a top priority for me in this year's budget," Mayor Foster said in a release, adding "Libraries are a vital link in the public safety chain."

Mayor Bob Foster and LB Dir. of Library Services Eleanore Schimidt watch as families enter LB's main library as it reopens for Sunday service on October 8. Photo source: Mayor's office

In September, on the Mayor's recommendation (with management's concurrence) the City Council added $1.3 million in FY 07 to restore previous service at LB libraries...whose hours the Council had reduced for the past two fiscal years.

Restored hours, which include Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. at the main branch, will roll out to neighborhood libraries in other parts of the City in the next few months, a city release said.

The Mayor's office estimates about 300 library patrons were present for the noon re-opening...and more kept coming. Almost 200 children received bookmarks and a free book.

"Sunday at the Main Library has always popular with the general public and students, said Eleanore Schmidt, Director of Library Services (pictured above with Mayor Foster). "People enjoy Sundays for reading magazines, browsing the new book areas, viewing special exhibits, and just relaxing in a quiet environment. For many families Sunday afternoon at the Main Library is a great time, with materials to entertain or enrich everyone."

Mayor Bob Foster offered welcoming words. Photo source: Mayor's office

Mayor Foster reacts after a gentleman yells out just before the conclusion of the Mayor's remarks: "Thank you for keeping you campaign promise to re-open the libraries!"