Carlsbad reopens Ruby G. Shulman Auditorium after $2.2 million audio-visual overhaul

Carlsbad Library and Cultural Arts staff told the Library Board of Trustees on April 23 that the Ruby G. Shulman Auditorium renovation is complete and the space has reopened for public programming and rentals.

Thomas (Tom) Johnston, program and venues coordinator for the Carlsbad Library and Cultural Arts Department, said the project replaced aging lighting, audio and video systems and added streaming and accessibility features. "We went from driving an Edsel to piloting a rocket ship," Johnston said, describing the new equipment.

The project timeline given at the meeting spans design work beginning in August 2022, demolition and construction starting in July 2024, and a reopening celebration in March 2025. Johnston said the work was completed "on time and within the approved $2,200,000…