Committee backs 10-year MOU between San Francisco Public Library and Friends group

The Government Audit and Oversight Committee on Nov. 2 voted to send to the full Board of Supervisors a resolution endorsing a 10-year memorandum of understanding between the San Francisco Public Library and the Friends and Foundation of the San Francisco Public Library.

Maureen Singleton, chief operating officer of the San Francisco Public Library, told the committee the draft MOU clarifies roles for fundraising and program support, describes annual operating support and capital/special-project funding (furniture, fixtures and equipment), and reiterates longstanding requirements for disclosures, record-keeping and audits. She said the proposed MOU uses the library's 2017 agreement as a template but extends the term to 10 years.

Carrie Blanding, interim executive director of the Friends and Foundation of the San Francisco Public Library, and Matthew Keniston, a Friends board member and treasurer, provided public comment in support of the MOU and said the organization intends to comply with the agreement's requirements. "We're eager to proceed with this MOU," Blanding said.

After the presentation and public comment, the committee recorded a roll call that showed three ayes (Connie Chan, Joel Engadio and Vice Chair Catherine Stephanie) and directed the clerk to forward the item to the full board with a positive recommendation.

The committee summary and the resolution note the MOU includes three exhibits: a capital addendum, disclosure and auditing obligations, and a statement of incompatible activities. The resolution also authorizes the San Francisco Public Library to enter non-material amendments before final execution that do not increase city liability.

Next step: the item will appear on the Board of Supervisors agenda for final consideration; the committee's recommendation is advisory to the full board.