October 13, 2006

Build and they will come... to READ!

Ceremony kicks off new Pearl Avenue library

Youth dig in with enthusiasm as dignitaries break ground for a new and expanded Pearl Avenue Branch Library (Back row (l to r): District 9 Councilmember Judy Chirco, Mayor Ron Gonzales, Library Director Jane Light, Design Project Manager Brad Cox (Anderson Brulé Architects) and Library Commissioner Vincent Tarpey.

The crowd came out to watch a brief ceremony, enjoyed light refreshments and inscribed “dream rocks” that will be incorporated into the construction of the new 14,000 square foot Pearl Avenue Branch Library.

The Pearl Avenue branch is the second of two library branch bond construction projects launched in San José this year and one of 20 such projects that will be completed by 2010. The new library structure will double the amount of space for the branch.

The Branch Library Bond Measure, approved in November 2000, provides $212 million over 10 years dedicated to the construction of six new and 14 expanded branch libraries in San José.

The event marks start of construction on the 14,000 square foot facility replacing the original 7,116 square foot library that operated on the same site from 1971 until April 1.

Youth inscribe "Dream Rocks" recording their hopes and aspirations for the new library.

The new library adapts the blueprint for all new library branch construction in San José and will have the look and feel of an upscale bookstore.

Highlights of the new branch will include an Internet Café, Community Living Room with a fireplace, Technology Lab, Group and Quiet Study Areas and a Community Room that will accommodate 48 persons, as well as significantly more space for seating, collections and computers. The new branch is expected to open in mid-2008.

For news of further branch library development, visit www.newsanjoselibraries.com.