PROJECT BACKGROUND:
The State of California has allocated funds for the Building Forward Library Infrastructure Grant program through the passing of California Senate Bill 129.
In October 2022, the Library received notice that the Westside Library Expansion Project was successfully funded in the amount of $6,498,126. This grant requires a 50% match by the City in the amount of $3,249,063. The total estimated project cost is $13M, meaning that in addition to the City match, the City will fund the remaining $3,252,811; therefore, the total City funding amount is $6,501,874. All grant funds must be expended by March 31, 2026.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
This project replaces the Archibald Library through the conversion of two City-owned properties, Lions Center East and Lion Center West. The existing Archibald Library has significant infrastructure challenges, and consultants have determined that even with site improvements, the property is ill-suited to meet the current and future needs of the community. Additional investments in the current facility would be over $13M and be fiscally irresponsible given the site’s limited options. In accordance with the City of Rancho Cucamonga’s recently adopted “General Plan RC 2040,” this project will bring Library services to an underserved area of the City that has not benefited from a new community facility in more than 15 years.
The conversion project will expand library services and feature the following:
- Large-scale indoor and outdoor community event spaces
- Dedicated collection space for the new Library of Things collection
- Expanded public study/meeting spaces
- Expanded story theater and programming spaces supporting early literacy and providing interactive “play” experiences like those at the Biane Library
- Safety, inclusivity, and accessibility improvements that meet current ADA requirements
- Sustainable and energy efficient systems (lighting, HVAC, etc.)
- Highly walkable location away from major intersections and heavy traffic areas
- Reuse of existing structures minimizing demolition and construction waste
The project’s long-term impact includes maximizing library services and creating a modern and versatile facility. By using existing buildings and improved materials and technology, this project sustainably accommodates changing use patterns and service expectations including expanded and enhanced programs and services; increased collection space; higher energy and water efficiency; use of outdoor spaces; safer and improved accessibility, and more. The project provides residents with a refreshed and high-functioning space ideally situated to serve the community well into the future.
This project meets City Council core values by promoting and enhancing a safe and healthy community for all, building and preserving a family-oriented atmosphere, and seeking continuous improvement to infrastructure.
The relocation of the Archibald Library will be less than 1 mile away from the current location. (0.8 mile.)
This project was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.
