San Juan Capistrano Library renovation project . . .

As San Juan Capistrano Regional branch visitors may have noticed, our library branch is now more than halfway into a year-long renovation project involving rebuilt columns, roof repairs, door and window restoration, repainting, drainage and irrigation system upgrades, and re-sod lawns.

The $868,000 project, which should be completed in December, represents the first upgrade to our 14,000-square-foot building since it originally opened in 1983.

The original intent of world-renowned architect Michael Graves, when designing the library in adherence with municipal construction guidelines for San Juan Capistrano, was to use the Spanish Mission style to create a modern and functional library facility that still appears aesthetically natural in its location a block from the centuries-old Mission San Juan Capistrano.

In fact, more than one library patron who has visited the Mission in years past has been heard to joke that the scaffolding at our own library's main entrance seems a perfect model of the scaffolding seen at the Mission during its own renovation. But its purpose is not in keeping the library architecture in balance with the Mission's renovation!

It will remain up until renovation at the front of the library is complete in September. In the meantime, whenever the front entrance is closed, follow the signs to enter the back way, through the courtyard.

When you next visit our library, expect further improvements as the renovation project steadily advances. And don't forget to check back here for renovation status reports!