The New Irvine 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 its own Irvine Public Library System.

The Council’s decision came down to finances and services offered to the City’s residents. Irvine taxpayers contribute roughly $17 million to OCPL annually. However, the libraries operated by OCPL in Irvine receive only $5 million annually 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 committed to providing the free library programs Irvine residents count on each week while expanding services to meet the unique needs of our local community.

Transition Timeline
May 16th thru August 3rd: The County will close the Heritage Park & University Park branches.

July 1st: The County will close Katie Wheeler Library.

August 4th: The Heritage Park & University Park branches will reopen as part of the new Irvine Public Library system.

January 2026: Katie Wheeler Library will reopen as part of the Irvine Public Library system.

During (and after) the transition period, Irvine residents with valid OCPL cards will continue to have access to all County library services and programs at nearby branches (Tustin, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, etc.).

Throughout the transition period this summer, the new Irvine Public Library system will offer a series of kids reading programs; pop-up libraries; family storytime events; and teen study halls. We at ICNV will keep our readers posted on these special summer offerings.

Once the transition is complete, residents can request an Irvine Public Library card that they will use at all Irvine branch locations. Irvine residents can continue to use their OCPL cards for all County-operated libraries and OCPL online services.

To learn more about the new Irvine Public Library system, click here.