Combined Library/Community Center Opens in SJ's
Almaden Valley
May 13, 2006 -
Basketballs and books? Hundreds of Almaden Valley residents turned
out to see how a combined library and community center would mix
on Saturday, and were delightfully surprised.
Almost five times larger than the two facilities being replaced,
the new Almaden Library and Community Center was designed to meet
the needs and preferences of the local community. In the process,
existing redwood trees and pastoral vistas were preserved while
adding a regulation-size gymnasium, a cooking classroom, fitness
center, community room with kitchen, 36 additional computers,
a dance/aerobics studio, Tiny Town with three classrooms, Tech
Center, Teen Room, Group and Quiet Study Areas, and considerably
more room for collections (see
Fact Sheet).
"The Almaden Library and Community Center is another great
example of San José’s partnership with our neighborhoods,”
said Vice Mayor Cindy Chavez. “Great neighborhoods are anchored
by great schools, libraries, and community centers. It is a welcome
addition to this neighborhood.”
The $26 million facility, which measures 65,000 square feet,
is coming in under budget. It will be co-managed by San José
Public Library and the City of San José Department of Parks,
Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS). The two agencies
worked with community representatives, Field Paoli Architects
and West Bay Builders to achieve a vision of dynamic spaces and
experiences that addressed the needs and preferences of local
residents. Generous contributions were received from a score of
organizations and more than 550 individuals.
"I'm incredibly pleased and excited that the new Almaden
Library and Community Center is finally open,” said District
10 Councilmember Nancy Pyle. “Whether seniors or children,
athletes or scholars, all members of our community will discover
this new facility is a place to learn, play and build our community.
Through the generosity and dedication of so many spirited individuals,
Saturday, May 13, 2006 will be a memorable day for every resident
in District 10 and beyond."
Being replaced are a library and community center that date from
1971 and 1976 respectively. The new facility is the sixth library
and fifth community center to be completed using funds from local
bond measures approved in 2000 by San José voters. The
Branch Library Bond Measure provides $212 million over 10 years
dedicated to the construction of six new and 14 expanded facilities
while the Parks Bond Measure provides $228 million dedicated to
the construction of nearly 100 projects including nine new or
remodeled community centers.
Following the dedication ceremony that included remarks from
City and Library officials, residents were free to explore the
library and enjoy a broad range of free entertainment including:
storytelling; musical performances by Castillero Jazz Band, Pioneer
Choir and Leland Chamber Choir; artist open studio, guitar, photography
and dance demonstrations; face painting and crafts.
For more information, contact:
• Lorraine Oback, San José Public Library, at (408)
808-2176
• Brian Clampitt, Dept./Parks, Rec. & Neigh. Svcs.,
at (408) 793-4188
Back
to top |
