More than a year and a half after its opening, San Diegans are still debating if the Central Library downtown was a resounding success or an utter waste of money.
At 500,000 square feet, almost four times the size of the previous central building, the library has become a quintessential part of the San Diego skyline.
"The other one was three stories, this one is nine. So we have some outdoor spaces, a big auditorium, it is very different,” said Misty Jones, the San Diego Public Library director.
The huge structure houses a charter school and rentable space, often used for weddings and other events.
But the administrators have had their challenges. About 3,000 people visit the library every day, and staff estimates about a third of those are homeless, an issue officials knew existed way before opening the $185 million facility.
So the library has stepped up its resources to stop misbehavior, partnering with the nonprofit Mental Health Systems, which has a case worker on site to help the homeless patrons inside. Just last month, the library opened a new resource center to help veterans receive local, state and federal benefits and services.
But in just a 60-day period, the Central Library had 60 calls to service by the San Diego Police Department. The types of disturbances included 11 calls involving some kind of violent behavior, four robberies and nine welfare checks.
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"We do take a zero tolerance policy and we do take any misbehavior very seriously and get rid of those problems very quickly,” said Jones.
But she admits they have had to increase the number of temporary suspension letters to patrons because of behavioral issues. They also see the need to boost their uniformed police presence inside.
Even before the foundation was laid, the Central Library was not without controversy.
Back in 2010, two San Diego City Councilmembers voted against its construction. One was former Councilmember Carl DeMaio, who argued that the project would become an economic boondoggle or turn into a gold-plated day care center for the homeless.
Others like Councilmember Todd Gloria and then-Mayor Jerry Sanders reasoned that after 55 years, the old Central Library was due for an overhaul.
Many of those who spoke out for or against the library construction declined to talk with NBC 7 on Monday for a follow up interview.
So more than a year later, the project’s success depends on who you ask.
"I don't know, it's a lot to think about. It's a yes and no answer, I guess,” said Melody Ebner of Serra Mesa. “I don't know?"
"I think it's a good step forward for our city and we're lucky to have it,” said Nat Giraud of Point Loma.
