Groundbreakings for three new branches and relocation of another will kick off $440 million in library and park projects in San Jose, California, Mayor Ron Gonzales announced January 24. Construction slated for 2002 will launch the building of six new branches plus expansion to double the size of 14 more, according to the January 25 San Francisco Chronicle.
In November voters approved a bond measure 3–1 to bolster San Jose library and park systems, with $211.8 million as the library’s share. Improvements planned for most of the system’s branches include computer connections and community rooms. “The expansions will not only draw more people into the library but will encourage the use of libraries as community centers,” said Ernest Guzman, San Jose Public Library Commission chairman.
The first round of new buildings will go to Blossom Hill, Central San Jose, and Eastside, as well as Berryessa, where an existing branch will be relocated. The project is the first library branch construction for San Jose neighborhoods in more than 20 years.
Posted February 5, 2001.