Supporting our Branch Libraries
Branch History
Branch Locations
Building Schedule
Library Friends
Projects in Process
Revitalizing our Branches
San José is experiencing an incredible renaissance of its libraries. We are building libraries that celebrate knowledge, inspire learning, and create an environment of enlightenment. They will spark exploration and innovation for generations to come.
Branch Library Expansion
Community support for libraries continues to be very strong in San José. Prior to the Branch Libraries Bond Project, which voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2000, the last new branch to be opened was Santa Teresa in 1984.
This bond measure designated $212 million for the expansion of 14 Branch Libraries, as well as the construction of 6 brand new libraries. The new libraries will provide much needed room for expanded collections, additional programs, and a host of new services such as special spaces for families, internet cafés, computer labs and community rooms for gatherings of local groups.
Upgrading the branch library system began with the relocation of Alviso and Biblioteca Latinoamericana branches to new and enlarged facilities in 1999. Spectacular facilities for West Valley, Vineland, Tully Community, Berryessa and Dr. Roberto Cruz Alum Rock Branch Libraries are now open. Construction is currently underway at Rose Garden, Alum Rock, Almaden, Cambrian, Evergreen and Hillview.
The Foundation's Goal
By law, the bond measure is restricted to construction costs only. Private philanthropy is needed to provide fixtures, furnishings, equipment, technology, and opening day collections.
To achieve this goal, the Foundation is charged with raising $10 million by the year 2010 to outfit the 20 Bond Project Libraries. Learn more about the Foundation's capital campaign, "Branching Out: From Dream to Reality"...