Letter to Editor 

A library patron stopped at our display table highlighting National Friends of Libraries Week to tell us that she loves the library because it is an equalizer. 

When asked why she felt that way, she replied that it’s the only place in a community where everybody is equal.  Whether you’re homeless or a millionaire, you have the same access to the library and all of its resources.

As Patrick Stewart, CEO of Library Foundation SD argued in his recent opinion piece in the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Diego Public Library is an essential cornerstone of public services, providing “unparalleled access to critical resources that support youth academic preparedness, workforce development and technology services.” (“San Diego libraries play a vital civic role and must be preserved”, 02/20/2025.) He strongly urged City leaders not to further deplete financial support, which is and has been underfunded for years.

The Mission Hills – Hillcrest chapter of the Friends of the San Diego Public Library supports the programs and services highlighted in Stewart’s op-ed through sales of books and other donated materials at our on-site bookstore and online sales.  

Historical underfunding by the City of San Diego leads branch managers to seek money from Friends groups to plug funding gaps for programs and activities for all ages and economic levels. Friends’ fundraising also helps pay for books because the library system’s book budget doesn’t meet the demand, as well as learning technology like 3D printers and children’s computers. We help build an informed, engaged community.

Contrast that with the San Diego Public Library’s operating budget, which is already less than 70% of the state average – and potentially even lower if the Mayor and City Council enact further cuts to balance a budget shortfall.

Not all San Diego Public Library branches have a Friends chapter that is able to raise significant funds. They may be located in less affluent neighborhoods or lack the number of available volunteers needed to fully staff a bookstore (or even the space to have one). Our chapter’s fundraising also helps to support branches that lack the resources to pay for programs and activities not funded by the City.  

National Library Week is April 6-12. 

Help us walk the talk that the library is the one place in the community where everybody is equal.

Elaine Kalin

Friends of the Mission Hills-Hillcrest/Knox Library