Noe Valley / Sally Brunn Branch Library

“A book saved this library,” the old woman whispered, clutching a worn copy of “Little Women” to her chest. We stand before the Noe Valley / Sally Brunn Branch Library, a beacon of literacy nestled on Jersey Street. This isn’t just any library. It’s a testament to the unwavering dedication of one woman, Sally Brunn. She moved to Noe Valley in the 1960s and immediately became a force of nature. A champion for schools, neighborhoods, and especially libraries. The Noe Valley / Sally Brunn Branch Library faced closure twice, in 1980 and 1988. Sally Brunn stood firm, a bulwark against budget cuts and the threat of turning this sanctuary of stories into a dusty storehouse. She rallied the community, her voice a gentle but persistent call to action. She even spearheaded fundraising efforts to renovate the community room, ensuring that the Noe Valley / Sally Brunn Branch Library remained a vibrant hub for connection and learning. Sadly, Sally Brunn passed away from cancer in 1991. But her legacy lives on, etched in the very name of this library. In 1992, the city renamed the branch in her honor. A fitting tribute to a woman who poured her heart and soul into preserving its existence. Inside, you can find the Sally Brunn Collection. This special collection reflects her passions: local politics, grassroots organizing, and the power of communities. Books with titles like “You CAN Beat City Hall” and “Dirty Politics” stand as a testament to her fighting spirit. Each book bears a special bookplate. It was designed by Noe Valley artist and friend of Sally Brunn, Ruth Asawa. The bookplate features an oak tree, symbolizing Brunn’s strength and her commitment to nurturing growth, just like the trees she helped plant around James Lick Middle School. The Noe Valley / Sally Brunn Branch Library stands as a reminder that one person can make a difference. Sally Brunn’s quiet activism saved this beloved institution. Her spirit continues to inspire. It reminds us of the importance of community, the power of books, and the enduring legacy of a woman who believed in the magic of libraries.