RECOMMENDATION(S):

Endorse the "Gateway Centers for Learning" planned for the Antioch Library and the new Prewett Park Community Center.

FISCAL IMPACT:

None. A task force of community leaders and residents has been established to raise funds for this project. No County Library funds will be spent on this project.

BACKGROUND:

In a recent community needs assessment, residents in Antioch cited a need for expanded literacy programs and better access to library resources and technology. In response, a task force of community and business leaders has been created to raise funds to establish two "Gateway Centers for Learning". One will be located at the existing Antioch Library and the other will become part of the planned Prewett Park Community Center. The purpose of the Gateway Centers is to provide a cluster of services incorporating the latest trends in library service, computer centers and community gathering places. Each Gateway Center will feature four main components: Library service, learning zones, a technology hub and a community living room.