SAN ANTONIO — Nearly 40% of households in San Antonio are without internet access, which makes the public library an important resource. Some are seeking more investment in community branches on the Westside of San Antonio.

“So many little things could be done to make this a more enjoyable experience,” Leticia Sanchez said sitting outside the Bazan Library.

Leticia Sanchez stepped into the Bazan Library for the first time in high school. Even as an adult, she still checks out items from her neighborhood library.

“I like to see what’s coming out,” Sanchez said while browsing books. “I usually take two or three.”

Leticia is from San Antonio’s Westside, and she understands the importance of having a library within walking distance.

“Having access to the internet is a big thing for our people because we all don’t have access to the internet,” Sanchez said.

Recently Bazan Library renovations didn’t make the facilities bond committee’s recommendation list, which is an issue for some community members.

“You just look at the grounds and it’s not very welcoming when you pull up to this parking lot,” Sanchez said.

With four branches in District 5, City Councilwoman Teri Castillo says the Westside is getting more attention this bond cycle.

“We are a historically neglected district,” Castillo said. “We are very proud that with this upcoming bond we have receive more funding than the 2017 bond.”

The proposed 2022 budget includes about $44 million for public libraries, with significant funding for the Las Palmas branch. The City’s library director says there are plans to improve the grounds outside the Bazan Library, and other transformation efforts are at the top of the contingency list. 

“If some of those are funded through other sources, it is my understanding that Bazan might be added to the bond program,” said Ramiro S. Salazar, San Antonio Public Library director. “That’s a possibility not a done deal.”

The Bazan is a cultural hub for the Westside community. Leticia says the branch deserves a facelift for future generations. 

“I just think libraries are the best things children can be introduced to,” Sanchez said. “Not just your little area, but you learn about the world.”