Project Background & Description

A note from the Friends of the Oak Park Branch Library and community:

In 2019, the Oak Park community celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Oak Park Branch Library. Built in 1969, the 5,200-square-foot library is “well-loved, but sadly outdated.” In 2016, the Friends of the Oak Park Library, the Oak Park Community Council and other community members began a concerted grassroots effort to bring awareness of the need to build a new library that would offer expanded programs and services, increased book capacity and a safer, modern facility that would be more functional for staff and library patrons. From a dream to reality, the new library will be an invaluable resource to Oak Park residents and surrounding communities. Through cooperative endeavors with the Eastern Area Planning Committee, Oak Park Community Council, Friends of the Oak Park Library, State of California, City of San Diego Public Library and Parks and Recreation Department, City Council District 4, and community representatives, the new library is expected to be built in 2026.

The vision for this library facility includes a large community room, children and teen areas, study rooms, a computer area and well-developed exterior spaces. The new facility will allow for expanded programs and services, including the "Do Your Homework at the Library" program, music and art events, room for used book sales, nature studies, STEAM projects, IDEA Lab and other creative projects. The unique location on College Grove Drive will provide a view of the San Diego skyline. Adding to the natural beauty of the Chollas Lake area, this new library will create exciting opportunities for all.

Budget & Anticipated Schedule 

The Oak Park Library project is in the bid and award phase. An estimated budget and schedule are available on the project information page.

Upcoming Community Meetings

There are no upcoming community meetings scheduled at this time.

Past Community Meetings

• Oct. 11, 2022 | Eastern Area Community Planning Group presentation
• July 11, 2023 | Eastern Area Community Planning Group presentation
• Jan. 4, 2024 | Community design-build forum

Contact Us

For questions about this project contact the Engineering & Captial Projects Department at 619-533-4207, email engineering@sandiego.gov or submit your inquiry online. Please reference "Oak Park Library" in your inquiry.