The Santa Cruz Public Libraries announce the grand reopening of the remodeled La Selva Beach Branch Library with a virtual celebration via Zoom at 10 a.m. Saturday March 20. Visit www.santacruzpl.org/news/post/1197/ for more information about the event.
Books on shelves and a giant TV screen for new programs await La Selva Beach library patrons when the newly furbished branch opens March 23. • Photo credit Sarah Harbison
Supervisor Zach Friend will emcee. All are invited and registration is required at santacruzpl.libcal.com/event/7578985
Three days later, La Selva Beach Branch Library will open for “grab & go” services at 1 p.m. Tues., March 23 at 316 Estrella Ave.
La Selva Beach is the second branch the Santa Cruz Public Library system to complete construction with 2016 Measure S funds.
The $1 million-plus project included: Replacing single-pane windows and doors, a new heating and ventilation system, ADA-compliant restroom for those with disabilities, all new furniture and fixtures, and a new front entrance.
The branch retains its original footprint of 2,200 square feet but thanks to a generous matching grant of $100,000 from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, the library patio was upgraded with furniture and a pergola to expand outdoor programming.
The Friends of the La Selva Beach Branch Library raised additional funds for interior folding glass partitions to reduce noise and make the space usable for different types of programs for adults and children.
A newly built patio and pergola to accommodate programs outdoors at La Selva Beach branch library. • Photo Credit: Galina Wells
The library tradition began in 1950 with members of La Selva Beach Woman’s Club circulating books from a closet in the Clubhouse.
By 1960 the makeshift library had issued cards to 199 adults and 108 “juveniles.”
In 1968, an arrangement was made for a “real” library to open at its current location with the building to be owned by the La Selva Beach Recreation District and leased to the library. After Proposition 13 the library was briefly closed, but then reopened due to the dedication of volunteers who were the sole staffers for the next eight years.
In 1996, a 600-square foot addition provided for a children’s area and a staff room. With dedicated staff and a full program calendar for children and adults, the library has been a hub for gathering and learning in the community of 2,700.
Patrons eagerly anticipate a return to their beautifully refurbished branch when it opens on March 23 with new hours: Tuesday and Thursday 1-6 p.m. and Saturday noon-5 p.m.
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Top Photo: New windows, new heating and ventilation, and an ADA-compliant restroom were part of the $1 million-plus remodel at La Selva Beach branch library.