Through a grass-roots fundraising campaign, the Rancho Bernardo community advocated for a new library to replace the 1978 building, deemed too small to serve a rapidly-growing population. Built with a combination of private donations, developer fees and state grant money, the current Rancho Bernardo Library opened in 1996. The building features high ceilings with plenty of windows, letting in natural light. A second floor meeting room and ample parking make the library a popular spot for community meetings, concerts and musical performances.