News Summary
City officials in Irvine have announced the reopening of the Heritage Park and University Park libraries, which will now operate under city management. This transition aims to improve library services and offerings for residents, including the introduction of a ‘library of things’ where items can be borrowed alongside traditional books. City librarian Julie Zeoli noted cosmetic updates to create a welcoming environment. The move responds to residents’ concerns over outdated facilities, with future plans to engage the community and potentially double investment in library services.
Irvine Libraries Set to Reopen Under City Management with New Offerings
City officials have announced that the Heritage Park and University Park libraries in Irvine will reopen to the public on Sunday after being closed since May. This reopening marks a significant transition as these libraries, formerly managed by Orange County, will now operate under the management of the city of Irvine.
The shift aims to enhance library services to meet the needs of residents more effectively. City librarian Julie Zeoli has stated that the libraries have undergone several cosmetic updates and fixes, ensuring a welcoming environment for users.
New Offerings for Residents
In an innovative move, Irvine libraries will introduce a “library of things,” allowing residents to borrow items such as telescopes, bike repair kits, and more. This expansion of services reflects the city’s commitment to diversifying library offerings beyond traditional books and media.
Additionally, Irvine Public Library cards are available for free to California residents, provided they have a valid government-issued photo ID. This effort is designed to encourage broader community engagement and utilization of library resources.
Background of the Transition
The decision to transfer library management to the city was influenced by ongoing complaints from residents regarding outdated facilities, despite Irvine’s significant financial contributions to the county library system. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the city contributed around $17 million in property taxes to the county libraries, highlighting the city’s investment in local library services.
Issues concerning the allocation of funding and the need for infrastructure upgrades prompted Irvine to notify the county in 2023 of its intent to withdraw from the library system. This decision was supported by residents, including those from neighborhoods like Great Park, who expressed a desire for better library facilities and services under city control.
Future Plans for Irvine Libraries
As part of a broader strategy, the city is planning to host two community input events for residents, where they can provide suggestions for future library services and potential new library locations. This initiative aims to foster community involvement in the development of a new library system tailored to the city’s specific needs.
Furthermore, the city intends to significantly increase its annual investment in library services, with plans that could potentially double the current funding. As a stipulation of the management transition, the county will retain approximately $28 million in additional library funds to support future services during this adjustment period.
Conclusion
The reopening of the Heritage Park and University Park libraries signifies a major shift in how library services will be delivered in Irvine. With new offerings and a commitment to enhancing infrastructure, city officials hope to create a library experience that better serves the community’s needs.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Irvine’s Great Park Construction
- LA Times: Santa Ana Library Upgrades
- OC Register: Irvine’s City Library System
- WQOW: Jefferson Avenue Entrance Improvements
- Irvine Standard: University Center Improvements
- Wikipedia: Irvine, California
- Google Search: Irvine library services
- Google Scholar: Library management transition
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Library services
- Google News: Irvine libraries
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA
The Costa Mesa Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, and community gatherings at The LAB Anti-Mall. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Visit Costa Mesa, plus leading businesses in retail, entertainment, and innovation that shape the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
