by Ed Arnold
The San Antonio Public Library system celebrated the opening of its new Schaefer Branch Library on the Eastside on March 25.
The $6 million 12,000 square foot library branch is along U.S. Highway 87 near the intersection with S. Foster Road.
“This Library branch was realized on a foundation of civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and the belief in the power of libraries to change lives through the transformative power of information, imagination, and ideas,” said Ramiro Salazar, Director of the San Antonio Public Library, in a news release. “We are so excited to bring this long-awaited and innovative library to this community.”
The land for the new branch was donated by the Schaefer family and the building was funded in part by $6 million from San Antonio's 2012 municipal bond. An additional $100,000 came from The Valero Energy Foundation.
San Antonio design firm LPA Inc. designed the new branch.
“Our team feels a great sense of accomplishment that the design goals for this building to become a landmark in this community, and a gateway into the east side of San Antonio, have been realized,” LPA Principal Mickey Conrad said in a news release. “This formerly underserved area now has a library that will serve as a cultural beacon, enriching the lives of all who use it.”
