FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Tarshel Beards, tbeards@oaklandlibrary.org
Oakland, CA – August 24, 2026
After more than a year of renovations, the Oakland Public Library is proud to welcome the community back to the Brookfield Branch with a Grand Reopening Celebration on Saturday August 29, 2026, from 11 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at 9255 Edes Avenue.
The celebration will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1:00 p.m. featuring Mayor Barbara Lee, and Councilmember Ken Houston, marking the reopening of a beloved neighborhood library that has served East Oakland for generations.
Following the ceremony, community members of all ages are invited to enjoy a full day of free family-friendly activities, including crafts, children's performances, cupcakes and snacks, and opportunities to explore the newly renovated library.
"The Brookfield Branch has long been an important resource for the neighborhood," said Jamie Turbak, library director. "We are thrilled to reopen our doors and welcome the community back to a refreshed space designed to better serve residents for years to come. The event celebrates not only the reopening of the building but also the Brookfield Branch's continuing role as a welcoming community gathering space for learning, discovery, and connection.”
The renovated 4,250-square-foot Brookfield Branch features upgrades that improve sustainability, accessibility and the overall visitor experience.
The project included a new transformer and upgraded electrical system to support future building improvements, including the transition to fully electric heating and cooling systems in alignment with the City's Energy and Climate Action Plan.
Interior improvements include new flooring, paint, windows, lighting, flexible shelving, furnishings and a new circulation desk. The library also features single-user, all-gender restrooms, additional accessible parking, updated signage and enhanced exterior lighting.
A new outdoor programming space adjacent to the Children's Area will support story times, gardening and other family activities, creating more opportunities for learning and community connection.
“From planning to construction, this project has a been true partnership.” said Liam Garland, Director of Oakland Public Works. “Our team is proud to unveil a modern space that supports learning, connection, and community.”
Funding for the renovation was provided through the California State Library's Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program and Oakland Measure KK.
These improvements will ensure the Brookfield Branch continues to serve as a vibrant neighborhood hub, providing equitable access to library resources, lifelong learning opportunities and community connection for years to come.
The Grand Reopening Celebration is free and open to the public. No registration is required. For more information about the celebration, visit Brookfield Branch Grand Reopening Celebration event page. To learn more about the renovation, visit: https://www.oaklandca.gov/Government/Oakland-Improvement-Projects/Brookfield-Branch-Library-Renovation
About Oakland Public Library
Oakland Public Library, a department of the City of Oakland, has served the community since 1878. The library system includes 16 neighborhood branches, the Main Library and the African American Museum and Library at Oakland. Oakland Public Library empowers all people to explore, connect and grow.
About Oakland Public Works
Oakland Public Works is charged with building, maintaining, and improving the City’s infrastructure including public buildings, sanitary and storm sewers, lighting, and City-owned vehicles and equipment. Public Works provides or administers essential environmental services including solid waste and recycling services; illegal dumping abatement; street sweeping; maintenance of parks, trees, and medians; and watershed management.