Supervisors Approve Controversial Library on Historic Property

A new library designed to look like a rambling 19th century mansion will be a key part of the Irvine Ranch Headquarters Historic Park under a plan approved this week by the Board of Supervisors.

There was controversy about placing the Lower Peters Canyon Branch Library on the historical Irvine property. Detractors argued that the project could alter the look of the Irvine family grounds, the original buildings of which were constructed in 1876.

But the board voted to expand on the original proposal and house the library in a historically appropriate replica of the Irvine properties so that the look of the grounds remains unified, according to Supervisor Todd Spitzer.

The original staff recommendation called for a 6,600-square-foot library. But the board amended the recommendation to a 10,000-square-foot library to be housed in a replica of the Irvine family mansion with two levels and 6,600 square feet. A basement will be added to the building, giving the library an additional 3,300 square feet without altering the historical facade.

“When the bankruptcy hit in Orange County, we had to cut back on service hours at libraries,” said Spitzer.

“The library fund is just getting back on its financial footing. We’re fulfilling libraries now that were on the drawing board before the bankruptcy.”

The board’s evaluation of possible library sites included the following criteria: contribution to overall park enhancement, construction cost, appeal to financial donors, attractiveness, minimal impact on existing historical fabric, entrance easily identifiable from the parking area, visibility from street, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor uses.

According to County Librarian John M. Adams, the Lower Peters Canyon Branch Library will be the 29th library in the county system. The estimated $3.5-million building will break ground in 2001 and will open to the public in 2002.

“This is a very exciting project, not just for the residents of Irvine, but for all Orange County residents,” said Adams.

“Folks will be able to take a look back and see, literally, what life was like in our hometown 100 years ago.”