Councilmember Henry L. Foster III and Mayor Todd Gloria joined City staff and community members to celebrate the start of construction on the new Oak Park Library, a $37 million, state-of-the-art facility that will replace the existing library building and expand services within the San Diego Public Library (SDPL) system. 

“Breaking ground on the new Oak Park Library is a major moment for our community,” said Councilmember Henry L. Foster III, who represents District 4. “For nearly 20 years, residents have pushed for a modern library that truly reflects and serves our community, and I’m proud to see this project moving forward. This investment will create more opportunities for our youth and families, strengthen our neighborhoods, and improve quality of life for generations to come.” 

The new two-story facility will span approximately 20,000 square feet, about four times the size of the existing location, allowing for expanded offerings and modern programs and services. Features include an IDEA lab, podcast room, multipurpose space, reading areas for all ages, and a community patio and observation deck with views of the San Diego skyline.  

The facility also includes a 10,000-square-foot sorting facility to support efficient processing, sorting and distribution of library materials, improving systemwide circulation. Additional construction work includes paving a new parking lot and installing a new traffic signal with accessible walkways across College Grove Drive. Construction is expected to be completed in the spring of 2028. 

“Breaking ground on the new Oak Park Branch Library is an investment in the people of this neighborhood and the future of our city,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “This project will create a modern, welcoming space for students to learn, families to gather, and residents of all ages to access the resources they need. This reflects my administration’s continued commitment to deliver the kind of public infrastructure every San Diegan deserves.” 

The project, managed by the Engineering and Capital Projects Department, is estimated to cost approximately $37.3 million and is fully funded, with more than $29 million coming from state library grants. 

The library is designed to be LEED Energy Gold-certified, featuring solar panels, energy-efficient building systems, water-efficient landscaping, and sustainable, durable materials that support the City’s Climate Action Plan goals. c

“Congratulations to the Oak Park community on the groundbreaking of this remarkable state‑of‑the‑art library,” said County of San Diego Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe. “Libraries are foundational to community well‑being and public health, offering equitable access to resources, knowledge, and enriching programs. As elected representatives, it’s essential that we advance plans that meaningfully support historically under-resourced neighborhoods. Witnessing this project progress over the years fills me with profound pride in the community that united to champion this space.” 

The existing Oak Park Library, which was built in 1969, will remain operational during the construction of the new facility. 

For more information on the existing Oak Park Library or other SDPL locations and services, including open hours, visit the Library’s webpage. 

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING 

“Libraries are vital community spaces where students can do homework, children can learn and explore, and families can access technology, resources, and support services,” said Rep. Juan Vargas, who represents the 52^nd Congressional District. “This project will expand opportunities for this historically underserved community and help meet the needs of the neighborhood’s growing population. Today’s groundbreaking marks a major investment in the future of this community and a crucial step toward ensuring this space can serve and be enjoyed for generations to come.” 

“For over 50 years, I have had the privilege of calling San Diego’s Oak Park community my home, from building my career, raising my children, welcoming my grandchildren, to witnessing its growth and transformation,” said California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. “I am delighted to be able to see that legacy continue with the construction of the new Oak Park Library, which will serve as a welcome place for all, where access to knowledge, opportunity and connection is not just an ideal, but a promise that will serve our community for generations to come.” 

“As a child, I spent countless hours at the Oak Park Library, making this moment especially meaningful to me,” said Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D. “For generations, this library has been a cornerstone of learning, opportunity, and community, and its long-overdue modernization reflects the importance of continuing to invest in spaces that uplift and connect residents of all ages. I am proud to have supported the multimillion-dollar state investment to the beloved Oak Park Library that has served our community for decades and will continue to provide modern environments for education, innovation, and connection for generations to come.” 

“Growing up in a low-income family, the public library was a window to the world for me, and it’s one of the reasons I have always supported libraries,” said former Senate President pro Tempore Emeritus Toni G. Atkins. “In communities like Oak Park, libraries are gathering places for learning, opportunity and connection. I was proud to support this project and help secure state funding for this long-awaited community investment.” 

“We never gave up on our vision for a new library, and now we are finally here,” said Elida Chavez, Chair of the Friends of the Oak Park Library, longtime resident and community advocate. “This new library will bring valuable resources to our community, and I’m so happy it’s finally happening!”