Public libraries play a vital role in civic life by providing free access to information, fostering literacy, supporting education and lifelong learning, and serving as community hubs for various activities and resources.
Last August, the City of Irvine celebrated the official opening of its new City-run public library system, with more than 1,200 residents in attendance.
During the August launch, the first two refurbished branches under City management — Heritage Park Library (14361 Yale Avenue) & University Park Library (4512 Sandburg Way) — were opened.
The historic Katie Wheeler Library (located at 13109 Old Myford Road) was in need of more extensive renovations and is scheduled to re-open this spring. The City also has plans to build at least one new library in town.
Under the previous library system, Irvine taxpayers were contributing roughly $17 million annually to the Orange County Public Libraries (OCPL). However, the libraries operated by OCPL in Irvine were receiving only $5 million annually in services, with Irvine residents being underserved by the City’s three small libraries.
The transition has allowed the City to begin expanding and modernizing existing branches; plan for new branches in town; tailor library services to better meet the needs of the City’s residents; and expand programming, collections, and services.
Since its launch late last summer, the new Irvine Public Library has issued more than 28,000 library cards, added 151,000 books, checked out 203,000 items, and hosted over 350 new programs and activities.
Learn more by visiting the Irvine Public Library website here.
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