Two San José
Branch Libraries Will Close in December for Demolition
City to clear Almaden and Rosegarden sites for
larger improved branches
November 24, 2003 -
Voter-approved funding for improved library facilities will be
put to work in December as construction on two branch libraries
gets underway. But bringing improvements to the Almaden and Rosegarden
branch libraries means they will also close in December.
The closures make way for larger, state-of-the-art facilities
that will better serve neighborhoods that have grown significantly
in the 50 years since the original libraries were constructed.
From the perspective of San José’s Mayor, passage
of the branch construction bond in November 2000 was a timely
decision.
“Good libraries help support strong neighborhoods,”
said San José Mayor Ron Gonzales. “Voters understood
that when they approved making new investments in park and library
improvements several years ago.
“These two library projects will result in better service
for our residents and become part of the foundation for their
quality of life in the future."
When all the branch library projects have been completed, San
José will have rebuilt the entire library system from the
ground up, and six neighborhoods will have a library for the first
time.
Reconstruction of the Almaden and Rosegarden branch libraries
are next on the bond project agenda. Both facilities will close
in December in preparation for demolition and reconstruction.
Rosegarden’s last day of service in the old building will
be December 6; for Almaden, it will be December 13. Reconstruction
of each branch is expected to take 18 to 24 months each.
Residents with home or office Internet services will still be
able to access the online catalog and other electronic services
remotely. Neighboring branches will provide walk-in service to
those communities during the branch closures.
All branch library bond projects share common features, varying
chiefly in size and configuration. Each will have the look and
feel of an upscale bookstore. Highlights include an Internet Café,
Community Living Room with fireplace, Technology Lab, Group and
Quiet Study Areas, and a Community Room.
At 64,000 square feet, the new Almaden Branch will include space
for a community center operated by Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood
Services. The new, 19,000 square foot Rose Garden Branch (renamed
in response to community request) will feature a two-story design
that significantly increases available on-site parking from 9
spaces to 34.
Learn more
about San José Public Library Bond Projects
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