Archived News Release from 2005

For Immediate Release

Oracle Corporation Grants $161,000 to Redwood City Library Foundation for New Redwood Shores Library Collection

Redwood City, CA - January 19, 2005 - The Redwood City Library Foundation announced today that Redwood Shores-based Oracle Corporation has awarded it a grant of $161,000 to help fund the collection at the planned Redwood Shores Library. This marks the first gift of its kind in the Foundation’s new campaign to raise $750,000 to stock the new branch library with books and other library materials.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Oracle recognizes the importance of the library to the community, and that they can be counted as our first major donor. We believe the library’s science and technology specialty aligns well with Oracle’s interests,” said Sandra Cooperman, President of the Redwood City Library Foundation.

Funds will go toward the creation of two Science and Technology hubs located within the library. The one for young adults and older children will offer an integrated presentation of print and digital resources in the fields of science, mathematics, and technology. A bank of state-of-the-art computers with Internet access and specialized databases anchor the collection; around the perimeter will be a collection of books, reference books, and subject specific periodicals. Youngsters aged two to six will have their own Science and Nature Hub, with a collection of science books designed to appeal to that age group and computers loaded with early learning software and links to sites for younger children.

“Oracle is committed to finding new and creative ways to bring together youth, technology and learning,” said Rosalie Gann, director of Oracle Giving and Oracle Volunteers.  “We are excited to help the Foundation in their efforts to set up a new library emphasizing Oracle's core strengths, science and technology, particularly one that's right in our own back yard.”

In spring 2004, the State awarded the City $10 million for the construction of the library. The City Council accepted the grant and contributed the city-owned site at the corner of Bridge and Marine Parkways as the location for the library. At the same time, the Foundation pledged to raise $750,000 to outfit the library with books and other library materials on opening day. The library’s projected opening date is Spring 2007. Current plans are for a 22,558 square foot, single-story building featuring community meeting and gathering rooms, homework centers, family spaces, a storytelling area, and a café with outdoor seating.

Architects have created an airy and light-filled building designed to take advantage of its waterside setting. Former Redwood City mayor and first Foundation President Georgi LaBerge is the Campaign Chair and Gordon and Betty Moore serve as Honorary Chairs of the Campaign. The Foundation is partnering with the Redwood Shores Community Association to raise needed funds.

The Redwood City Public Library sponsors many free programs for children, families, and adults and helps our community to “understand the past, prepare for the future, and thrive in the present.” More information about library events and services, and the Foundation, is available on the library’s home page at www.redwoodcity.org/library, by calling 780-7026, or by picking up a Library events calendar in any Redwood City library.

Visit Redwood City’s award-winning website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and City government.

Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation and/or its affiliates.

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Contact:
Celia LaRiviere
Resource Development Supervisor
650-780-7045