Entrance to the 1936 Library.
In the spring of 2002 the Tulare County Library applied for grant funds from the California Library Bond Act of 2000 to remodel and expand the Visalia Branch Library. On December 19, 2002, this project was approved by the Library Bond Act Board, providing funds of $3,426,131 towards this project. These funds represent 65 percent of the projected costs. The remaining funds will be provided through a local partnership of the County of Tulare, the City of Visalia, and voluntary contributions. The City of Visalia has committed to $500,000. Tulare County has committed to over $750,000 from the County's Millennium Fund. The Visalia/Tulare County Library Foundation has spearheaded the drive to raise $650,000 in contributions. As of December of 2005, more than $500,000 had been contributed or pledged to the Foundation for this project. Tulare County is serving as the lead agency in this project. State funds are administered through the Office of Library Construction, a division of the State Library.
Rendering of new Children's Wing rotunda.
WHAT WILL THE PROJECT ACCOMPLISH?
The 1936 Library building has served as a storage facility since the 1976 Library was opened. Over the past three decades, the condition of the 1936 building has gradually deteriorated. Because of its historic nature and architectural features, there was a strong desire within the community to preserve the 1936 building. It was further proposed that the renovation of this building serve as the new Children's wing of the Visalia Library. This project will renovate the 1936 Library building and construct a new lobby connecting the two library buildings. Additional renovation of the 1976 building will be done to provide improved services, increased safety, and better access
Rendering of new lobby and circulation desk.
HOW WILL LIBRARY SERVICE IMPROVE?
The new Children's wing will double the space available for children's programs and activities. It will provide room for a larger book collection and increase the number of public computers for children. This project will also provide for a homework center within the Children's wing. In addition to the Children's wing this project will improve access to Library Administration, expand the library's meeting room facilities, and provide an improved public computer lab.
Rendering of new east side entrance.
HOW LONG WILL THE PROJECT TAKE?
It is anticipated the construction will require ten or eleven months and should begin prior to the end of 2006. The Library will remain open during as much of the construction period as possible. However, it is anticipated that there will be one or two disruptions of library service during the process. Staff will post closings and hours changes as far in advance as possible. Other temporary changes will include the relocation of the library entrance and temporary loss of various services, including the computer lab and history room. Closures, service limitations and construction progress will be reported on this page.
East wing of 1936 building during mitigation.
WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATUS OF THE PROJECT?
In September and October of 2005, selective demolition and mitigation of hazardous materials were completed on the 1936 building. The demolition entailed removal of some modern elements--including interior walls--to restore the historic character of the building. The mitigation involved the removal of asbestos and some lead paint.
Architectural plans are nearing completion, subject to final State review and approval. It is hoped that construction will begin during the summer of 2006.
CONSTRUCTION CALENDAR:
Coming Soon
Individuals interested in supporting the Visalia Library Building Project should visit the Visalia/Tulare County Library Foundation website.
Individuals interested in
more information regarding the California Library Bond Act of 2000 and its funded
projects should visit the website of the
Office of Library Construction.