Cesar Chavez Central Library patrons have eight days left to use their library cards or visit the downtown Stockton branch before it closes for the next three years.
The library, located at 605 N. El Dorado St., will begin its closure on Aug. 1, with the last day for public entry ending on July 31.
According to the library’s website, the closure is “for future renovation and a repair project that will create a refreshed, modern library for the Stockton community.”
In 2023, the branch received a $10 million grantfrom the California State Library that was made possible by the $489 million Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program.
The program aimed to support capital projects for public library buildings that address critical maintenance
needs, improve energy efficiency and sustainability, and expand access to learning materials digitally and physically, according to the California State Library's website.
Library officials said it will reopen once the project is completed with updates being shared throughout the process, the website states.
During the closure, services will continue throughout the city and county at the other 16 branch libraries. Residents can also use the digital library 24/7 and can continue checking out materials, placing holds, and returning items through any open branch library.
The Cesar Chavez Central Library first openedon Sept. 19, 1964, and serves as the Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library's library system headquarters.
Previously, the library was called Central Public Library and in 1994 the Stockton City Council voted to change its name to Cesar Chavez Library.
About three months ago, the Stockton City Council voted to temporarily cover the name of the Cesar Chavez Central Library following allegations that the late farm labor leader sexually abused women and minors, according to a New York Times investigation.
Information about the library can be found on the FAQ page.
Record reporter Victoria Franco covers public safety in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at vfranco@gannett.com. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.
This article originally appeared on The Record: Stockton’s Chavez Library closing for 3-year renovation project
