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Irvine officials outline library expansion options as public presses for Great Park main branch
Summary
City staff reported early demand for two newly opened branches and presented a feasibility study identifying four potential sites for future libraries, including a proposed main library at the Great Park. Residents urged faster action and more funding; staff said a master plan will follow community input and a financing study.
Irvine officials told the City Council on Oct. 14 that the newly launched Irvine Public Library system has seen high early use and that a multi‑year plan will be needed to expand branches across the city.
The city opened Heritage Park and University Park branches Aug. 4 and expects to transition the Katie Wheeler Library from County of Orange management on Jan. 1, 2026, city staff said. City Librarian Julie Zioli told the council that, since reopening, staff has issued more than 20,000 library cards, circulated over 100,000 physical items and conducted more than 170 programs, with seating often at or over capacity during peak hours.
The feasibility study staff presented estimates Irvine needs about 170,000 square feet of library space citywide, up from…
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