Irvine’s New Public Library System

Public libraries play a vital role by providing free access to information, fostering literacy, supporting education and lifelong learning, and serving as community hubs for various activities and resources.

Last year, the Irvine City Council unanimously voted to transition library services from the Orange County Public Libraries (OCPL) and, instead, establish our own Irvine Public Library System.

The Council’s decision came down to finances and services offered to the City’s residents. Irvine taxpayers currently contribute about $17 million to OCPL annually. However, the libraries operated by OCPL in Irvine receive only $5 million in services. (Decades ago, the City established its own Irvine Police Department because of a similar funding imbalance.)

By establishing its own public library system, the City will save millions of taxpayer dollars; existing Irvine libraries will be expanded and modernized; and two new libraries will be built (at the Great Park and in Woodbridge).

The City has stated its commitment to provide the free library programs Irvine residents count on each week.

To share updates on the transition process, the City has been hosting a series of informational meetings throughout Irvine. These community meetings provide an opportunity for residents to have their questions answered and to offer input on the future of Irvine’s new library system. So far, there have been five meetings.

The next community meeting is scheduled for April 10th at 6:30pm at the University Community Center (1 Beech Tree Lane)

If you can’t make it to one of the community meetings, the City has compiled a FAQ document to answer residents’ most-asked questions regarding the transition. To view the FAQ document, click here.

For additional questions, Irvine residents can send an email to irvinepubliclibrary@cityofirvine.org.