Main Library Closure Starts May 27
Main Library Remodel
Our Main Branch Library will be closed for infrastructure upgrades from May 27, 2024 to an estimated date in early November 2024. This temporary closure is necessary to complete essential repairs and improvements designed to enhance the library's facilities and provide a better experience for patrons.
While we know there is never a good time to close a library, we have FAQs and further information to help support you during the closure.
More Information and Media Inquiries
Please contact Tarshel Beards, Community Relations Manager.
FAQs
Main Library Remodel FAQs
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The Main Library is closing for critical infrastructure upgrades that include:
- New roof installation
- Skylight repair
- Critical electrical system upgrades
- New boiler control system installation
- Auditorium heating and cooling system installation (heat pump)
- Improvements to lighting, flooring, and ceilings throughout the building
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May 27, 2024- November 2024
(Exact Re-Opening Date To Be Determined)
Minimally-disruptive work will continue after the library reopens, with final project completion in 2025.
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You may visit any one of our 17 branches throughout Oakland. However, there are three branches within one mile of the Main Library.
The closest branch is our Asian Branch located at 388 Ninth Street, Suite 190.
The Lakeview Branch is located at 550 El Embarcadero
Our African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO) is at 659 14th Street. Please note that AAMLO does not have a circulating collection.
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Main’s Feasibility Study is not a construction project. It will provide a long-range plan for the future of the Main Library and the library wide system operations.
The current Main Library was built in 1950 (designed in the 1930s) and is vastly undersized for the size of the community and library system support services needed. A 2006 Master Facilities Plan (Plan) identified the need for a revitalized and expanded Main Library to better serve the residents of Oakland. The current Feasibility Study will update the 2006 Needs Assessment and update the recommendations based on the future service needs of Oakland’s increasing population and changing demographics. Learn more about the feasibility study, opens a new window.
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Access to all physical collections will cease on May 26, 2024 and not available until re-opening in November.
Holds
All holds must be picked up at Main Library by Sunday May 26, 2024.
If you leave your hold pickup location as Main, your held items will be available for pickup at the Asian Branch Library.
Finally, you can select the most convenient location to pick up your holds. If you have “single-click holds” enabled, change your default location by logging in to My OPL, go to My Settings, and scroll down to “Holds and Pickup Locations.”
Book Returns
The book drops at the Main Library will remain in service. As always, you may return your books to any Oakland Public Library location.Interlibrary Loans
Interlibrary Loan will not operate during this period, but you can still request and receive materials through Link+.
