The Bay Shore Neighborhood Library is ready to reopen its doors to the public, after nearly two years of renovations.
A grand reopening will be held Saturday, inviting the public to tour the new contemplative community space. The Bay Shore Neighborhood Library will be open six days a week beginning Saturday, while the Alamitos Neighborhood Library will return to its five-day schedule.
“The Bay Shore Neighborhood Library renovations are a testament to the City’s commitment to enhancing community spaces and promoting lifelong learning and connection,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this exciting milestone and rediscover all the exciting resources this branch offers in a new and improved space.”
The grand reopening celebration will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m., followed by a lineup of family-friendly programming throughout the day and free use of the upgraded spaces and library services. The event will feature a performance by Christopher T. Magician at 10:30 a.m., a children’s story time at noon, and all-day arts and crafts activities for residents of all ages.
“Bay Shore Neighborhood Library is a center of inspiration and learning, and I am thrilled to see it returning better than ever to meet the needs of our community,” said Third District Councilmember Kristina Duggan in a public statement. “With these renovations, we are investing in the future of our district by creating a vibrant, accessible resource for all residents.”
The Bay Shore branch underwent upgrades beginning in fall 2023 to provide a more accessible and engaging environment for patrons. These updates include new windows that will increase energy efficiency; ADA accessibility improvements such as a front entrance ramp and automatic doors; and interior enhancements, including new carpeting throughout the building and updated shelving in the children’s area.
Renovations were made as part of the Bay Shore Branch Library renovation project, which is partially funded through $2 million in Measure A funds.
“We are thrilled to welcome the community back to the Bay Shore Neighborhood Library,” said Library Director Cathy De Leon in a public statement. “These renovations not only enhance the library’s functionality and accessibility but also reaffirm our mission to provide spaces that inspire learning, exploration and connection.”
Beginning Monday, Jan. 13, the Bay Shore branch will operate under the following schedule:
- Mondays from noon to 7 p.m.
- Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Wednesdays from noon to 6 p.m.
With Bay Shore’s reopening, the Alamitos Neighborhood Library, which temporarily adjusted its schedule to accommodate for the nearby Bay Shore renovations, has resumed its five-day service schedule. The Alamitos branch is now operating under the following schedule:
- Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m.
- Wednesdays from noon to 6 p.m.
- Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about the Bay Shore Neighborhood Library’s reopening and other Library programs, visit lbpl.org or call 562.570.7500.
