HUNTINGTON BEACH : City Library to Open in Spring at School

The first new city library branch in 25 years is expected to open next spring to serve residents near Oak View School.

“This particular branch is unique because it is located in one of the most underprivileged and low-economic areas,” said Ron Hayden, library services director. “It’s in an area that certainly needs assistance in terms of educational facilities.”

The library will offer family literacy and children’s programs, Hayden said. The 2,000-square-foot prefabricated building will be built at Oak View School, 17241 Oak Lane.

“The theme is to get the families involved in the child’s education by putting a library in that area,” he said. “This is an opportunity to expand their educational opportunities.”

Oak View School Principal Julie Stein said children and parents are thrilled to have a library in their neighborhood.

“It’s just enhancing and reinforcing everything we are trying to do here,” Stein said. “They will have this world of books and computers right in their back yard, and it will open new worlds they wouldn’t have otherwise.”

In May, parents raised about $500 for the library by cooking and selling Mexican food, Stein said.

The City Council has approved the selection of a contractor and the expenditure of $250,000 in federal grant money to build the library. Hayden said the library’s operating budget will come from grant money and community donations, and volunteers will help staff the facility.

The plans are awaiting state approval, Hayden said, because the library will be built on school property.