Modernizing Libraries

Petaluma Library Reopening in August Following Modernization

The doors of the Petaluma Regional Library are set to reopen at 10 am on Monday, August 25, following an extensive modernization that blends fresh, functional upgrades with the building’s classic charm. The renovated library will be open seven days a week and invites visitors to explore vibrant new spaces for children and teens, private study pods and updated amenities designed to make the library more welcoming and accessible.

The final day of in-person service at the Mini Library will be Sunday, August 3. Modified service will be available throughout August. The BiblioBus mobile library will be at the library from 10 am to 1 pm on August 4, 6, 12, 15, 18, 20, and 22. The 24/7 BiblioBox smart locker will open in mid-August as well.

Petaluma’s modernization efforts include: an open and welcoming entry; a reimagined children’s area; a teen area; private study pods; updated restrooms; carpet, furniture, lighting, shelving and paint; efficient and reorganized staff areas, a move for the Petaluma History Room to the ground floor; plus HVAC, electrical, and fire suppression system upgrades.

“The long-awaited modernization of the library is nearing completion, and people will be amazed how the changes enhance functionality and elegance while retaining the late 20th Century beauty of the interior,” Petaluma Regional Library Manager Diana Spaulding said. “The library staff eagerly anticipates welcoming the local community of readers (and pre-readers!) into the library to enjoy the expansive library collections, four small group and individual study rooms, and many tables powered for personal laptop use, among other improvements.”

Visit sonomalibrary.org/modernization for regular updates on library remodels. When library buildings close, your 24/7 online library is always open. Download or stream anytime.

Background

• 100 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma
• Branch opened 1976
• Serves Petaluma, Penngrove, surrounding areas
• Full service regional library
• Location of Petaluma History Room

Modernization Details

• Open and welcoming entry
• Reimagined children’s area
• New teen area
• Private study pods
• Convenient single service desk
• Updated restrooms
• HVAC and electrical upgrades
• Fire suppression system upgrades
• Efficient and reorganized staff areas
• Carpet, furniture, shelving, and paint
• Petaluma History Room on first floor

Partners

• Sonoma County Library: $3.7 million
• City of Petaluma: $2.9 million
• Friends of the Petaluma Library: $800,000

Timeline

• Library to close for renovation June 30, 2024
• Reopening estimated mid-2025

Library Services

• Offered at the adjacent teen center building, the “Petaluma Mini Library”
• Additional services at multiple sites in the community

Since closing for a comprehensive modernization project, library staff were busy in Petaluma, clearing out old materials, disassembling shelves and furniture, and readying the facility for the contractor to move in and start demolition.

The contractor moved in and demolition began. The orange carpet, more than half a century old, was removed, and the building was being prepped for major reconstruction.

The Petaluma Regional Library project is on schedule. In October, contractors were continuing demolition and interior framing upgrades; laying out new interior walls; and trenching for new plumbing and electrical.

The Petaluma Regional Library project is on schedule. Contractors spent much of November on critical infrastructure tasks, including electrical wiring, plumbing and framing.

The Petaluma Regional Library project is on schedule. In December, contractors were working on the updated restrooms, cleaning up the ceiling, and continuing the new interior configuration.

The Petaluma Regional Library project is on schedule. In January, contractors were completing the structure for the ceiling, continuing the new interior configuration, and installing the fire suppression system.

The Petaluma Regional Library project is on schedule. In January, contractors were working on the restrooms, installing ceiling tiles and finalizing the fire suppression system.

The Petaluma Regional Library is on schedule for a summer reopening. In March, construction crews were completing structural work and moving on to lighting fixtures, wall finishes, and other details that will bring the modernized library to life.

The Petaluma Regional Library is on schedule for a late summer reopening. In May and June, most of the construction work will be complete. At some point, the Mini Library will close and there will be limited library services for about two weeks while staff moves back to the main library and readies the branch to reopen.

Background

The Cloverdale Regional Library modernization project includes renovated restrooms and a new outdoor patio. The library is open for full service. The restrooms and patio will be unavailable during the project.

The Cloverdale Regional Library closed for three weeks in March for pre-construction staging and demolition. The branch is now open 7 days a week, while the patio and restrooms remain closed for construction. Work is on schedule for a beautiful new patio and outdoor deck, plus remodeled restrooms.

The Cloverdale Regional Library patio and restrooms remain closed for construction. Work is on schedule for a beautiful new patio and outdoor deck, plus remodeled restrooms.