This policy is to establish clear guidelines and procedures in the approval process, installation, and maintenance of a Pomona Free Community Library to provide customer-service delivery, facilitate the proper usage and maintenance of City public space, and to minimize the City's exposure to liability.
This policy applies to any person or organization who desires to place a Free Community Library structure on a portion of City property to make books accessible for free.
Eligibility Requirements
The City of Pomona Free Community Library Program was designed to encourage Pomona residents and/or local organizations to properly maintain a free community library, sign a license agreement, and curate its book collections.
- The applicant must be 18 years or older.
- The applicant must be a local person or organization with the ability to frequent and access the free community library on a regular basis. If the applicant is associated with an organization, the applicant must be authorized to apply on behalf of the organization.
- The applicant must have regular access to books.
Selecting a Location
Free Community Libraries are placed at City Parks. City staff from Community Services and Public Works evaluate the proposed site of the Free Community Library based on the following criteria:
- American with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility
- Lighting
- Location (does not impede sub ground utility lines)
- Maintenance
- Safety
- Sustainability / License Agreement
- Artwork (reviewed and approved by the Cultural Arts Commission)
Standard Design
City-approved Free Community Libraries must adhere to the standard design and guidelines. "A box:
- With maximum dimensions of 30 inches wide, by 24 inches high, by 24 inches deep.
- With an operable weather-tight door measuring a minimum of 12 inches high, by 12 inches wide and a handle located approximately 36 inches above grade, incorporating Plexi-glass.
- With a weather-resistant, sloped roof.
- Atop a single-post bast that is set in a foundation that conform to the current building department standard for fence posts.
- Do not use lead paint.
- Do not use materials that are sharp or have rough edges.
- Be built to the most current ADA codes and standards, which include the following:
- ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG)
- ADA Standards (ADAS)
- Title 24 California Building Code (CBC)"
Artwork
Timeline
- Applications are reviewed within 14 days.
- Once the application and artwork are approved, along with a signed agreement, the applicant will then be contacted to schedule an installation date.
License Agreement/Maintenance and Stewardship
- Sign and return License Agreement
- An annual evaluation conducted by a Parks and Recreation Commissioner will be submitted to City staff with the following information
- Written description of current condition
- If properly stocked with book
- A photo of the Free Community Library
Relinquishing Stewardship
- Notify City staff immediately and submit