Patrons of the El Gabilan Library can look forward to a new two-story library–seven times its current size.
But before that can happen, the library will suspend services beginning July 7 as it prepares for construction of the new facility.
To celebrate the expansion, the library invites the public to join in a week-long celebration of the library’s past, present and future.
The week kicks off at 1 p.m. June 30 with various free family programs as well as a performance at 5 p.m. with storyteller and “master shadow puppeteer” Sean Powers.
A historical display of the library, which opened in 1966, will be available for viewing up until its July 7 closure. Patrons are also invited to leave messages at the library about what the El Gabilan Library means to them.
On July 7, a closing event will offer live music, food, speakers and more events for families.
On May 15, Salinas City council approved a funding plan involving up to $22 million in lease revenue bonds to build the 21,000 square-foot library just south of the corner of Navajo Drive and North Main Street, next to the U.S. Credit Union.
The project replaces the current one-story, 3,500-square-foot brick library.
It’s estimated that the building will be demolished by late summer, a ground-breaking will be held in early September and construction of the new building to be completed by November or December of 2019.
During the interim, library service will continue from The Library Connection at Northridge Mall, a limited service location, starting in mid-July. There, patrons can learn more about library services, get a library card, check out and return library materials and use public computers.
For more information, visit www.salinaspubliclibrary.org and review the latest designs for the new El Gabilan Library.