Community members are invited to check out the newly renovated Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard during the Long Beach Public Library’s (LBPL) free unveiling ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 8.
This event will include remarks by Mayor Rex Richardson, Ninth District Councilmember Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie and representatives from the Department of Library, Arts and Culture, as well as a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Attendees can also enjoy music, light refreshments and a guided walkthrough of the courtyard.
“The Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard is more than just a beautiful outdoor space — it’s a reflection of Long Beach’s commitment to creating places where neighbors can come together, learn and connect,” said Richardson in a public statement. “This new courtyard will serve as a welcoming extension of the library and a vibrant hub for the community.”
The community unveiling is the first chance for the public to explore the new outdoor space, which is intended to be a site for reflection, programming and community gathering. The courtyard renovation process was steered through community engagement, where feedback was garnered from residents and library users.
Improvements to the courtyard include a new stage area, shaded seating, native plantings, a plant bed for educational programming and various interactive pathways and features, such as a StoryWalk for quiet reading and community activities.
“The unveiling of this new courtyard at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library is more than just a renovation, it’s the culmination of a community vision. This beautiful outdoor space truly belongs to the neighborhood, offering a dedicated place to read, relax, connect and be inspired,” said Dr. Ricks-Oddie in a public statement. “This project breathes new life into our beloved library and is a direct testament to the power of resident feedback. We are proud to officially present this vibrant new asset to the residents who helped bring it to life, and we look forward to the countless ways it will serve our community for generations to come.”
Those who are unable to attend in person can stroll the new courtyard via a virtual tour, which will be made available on the LBPL website after the ceremony.
The renovation of the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard is the result of support and collaboration of various local organizations, such as the Long Beach Conservation Corps, the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, the Port of Long Beach and the Friends of the Long Beach Public Library.
The unveiling ceremony for the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard will take place Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon at 5870 Atlantic Ave. To learn more about the event, call 562-570-7500 or visit lbpl.org.
