Dear Community Members,

We are excited to announce that our library will soon undergo extensive renovations and modernizations to better serve you for years to come! The library anticipates closing in the Spring for 18-24 months. During this period, library services will be temporarily relocated to the Walter Knott Education Center at 7300 La Palma Ave.

What This Means for You

While library services will be temporarily reduced, we will continue to offer:

• Popular programs and events for all ages

• Access to digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, and online resources

• Physical library materials available for borrowing at the temporary location

• Support from our staff for research, learning, and reading needs

• Continued passport application acceptance and photo services

Exciting New Features Coming

The renovated library will include: 

• An expanded and refreshed children’s area, designed to encourage curiosity and learning

• A new multipurpose room on the first floor, perfect for programs, workshops, and community gatherings

• Modernized spaces for studying, collaboration, and events

• Upgraded accessibility features for all community members

Timeline and Transition

We do not yet have firm closing and reopening dates, but you can expect the relocation to the temporary site sometime this spring, with construction beginning this summer. There will be a brief downtime to facilitate the move, after which library services will resume at the temporary location while renovations are underway. The relocation period is anticipated to last 18-24 months. 

Why the Move is Necessary

These improvements involve comprehensive infrastructure, functional, and aesthetic upgrades, including:

• Replacement of aging electrical and plumbing systems including an updated mitigation system to address groundwater intrusion

• Updates to meet current building and safety codes including a new elevator, stairs, and fire sprinklers

• Improved functionality and workflow for library operations featuring new service desks, shelving, furniture updates, refreshed and expanded children’s area, and new interior finishes

Long-Term Benefits

The renovated library will be:

• Safer and code-compliant

• More functional with improved layouts and updated spaces

• Modern and inviting, with refreshed aesthetics and technology

• Accessible to everyone, supporting an inclusive community hub

We appreciate your patience during this temporary transition. Our goal is to provide a modern, accessible, and vibrant library with exciting new spaces for children, programs, and community gatherings.

For updates, program schedules, and resources, visit www.buenaparklibrary.org or call 714-826-4100.

About the Project

In September 2023, the historically significant William Periera & Associates library building experienced a flood in the basement, resulting in the loss of the beloved community room. This room was long the site of story times, book discussion groups, craft clubs, teen nights, and performances for families and children. Shortly after the initial flood, signs of ongoing water intrusion were detected, alerting the District to groundwater flooding due to a high water table. The District experienced similar flooding in 1998 after heavy rainfalls. 

In November 2023, the District issued a Request for Qualifications and Proposals for Construction Management Services to assist with assessing facility needs and developing a project to address infrastructure needs while enhancing the appeal of the library facilities and library services. After carefully evaluating all qualified respondents, the Board of Library Trustees selected Griffin Structures due to their extensive experience working on municipal projects, including library and recreational facilities, and their demonstrated understanding of the District's unique needs. 

The District conducted a Historical Resources Assessment to evaluate the historical signficance of the library facility, which can be viewed here: 

FINAL HRAR APPROVED.pdf

The District released an RFP for Architectural and Engineering Services in May 2024 and in August 2024, the Board of Library Trustees selected LPA Design Studios for the project, in part due to their extensive experience in civic and library design, including their experience with historically significant public libraries and their local experience throughout Orange County.

In March 2025, the Board of Library Trustees voted to approve an expansion of the project to include more extensive renovations to better serve our community for years to come. This project will create a safer, more functional, and accessible library, with refreshed spaces for children, teens, and adults, upgraded technology, and enhanced areas for programs and community engagement.

Project Scope

The renovation includes:

• Expanded and refreshed children’s area, enhancing programming and learning opportunities

• New first-floor multipurpose room for workshops, meetings, and community gatherings

• New and rebuilt interior features: service desks at the main entrance, stairs, railings, and furniture throughout

• Accessibility improvements: new expanded elevator, exterior access ramp, and exterior entrance stairs

• New storefront with wider entry doors and new glazing to create a welcoming entrance

• Safety and security upgrades: fire sprinklers, fencing, trash enclosure, and access control systems

• Electrical updates and technology integrations including audio and video systems for meeting rooms

• Renovated staff areas for improved workflow and functionality

• Interior finishes: new paint, carpet, furniture, shelving, and fixtures throughout

Consultants and Collaboration

This project is being led by our library team in partnership with a team of professional consultants, including:

Construction Management: Griffin Structures

Architectural and Engineering: LPA Design Studios

Move Management: John Barry & Associates

Project Funding

The library renovation is made possible through a combination of public funding, grants, and loan financing. These investments ensure that the library will continue to be a safe, accessible, and modern hub for learning, connection, and creativity for years to come.

Community Impact

This project represents a long-term investment in our community. By modernizing the library and replacing critical infrastructure, we are ensuring a functional, safe, welcoming, and resilient library that will be available for our community to enjoy for years to come.