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Palm Springs Library’s Big Reveal: Join the Party for Our Epic Renovation Kickoff!

Palm Springs, get ready to pop the confetti and join the celebration! Our beloved Palm Springs Public Library is about to get a dazzling makeover, and we’re throwing a blockbuster groundbreaking bash to mark the occasion. Swing by on Thursday, September 18, from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. at the main library, 300 S. Sunrise Way, right by the original entrance on the south side. This isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a community love fest for our library’s bright future, and everyone’s invited! Media pals, bring your cameras to capture the magic.

The morning will be buzzing with energy as our city’s rockstar leaders take the stage. City Manager Scott Stiles will play host, welcoming the crowd with his infectious enthusiasm. Mayor Ron deHarte and all four City Councilmembers will share their big dreams for the project, joined by Juanita Garner-Escobar, the dynamic Chair of the Library Board of Trustees, Nanci Morrison, the passionate President of the Friends of the Palm Springs Library, and Bill Wylie, the visionary President of the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation. Closing out the show, Library Director Jeannie Kays will drop some heartfelt words about the incredible journey ahead.

This renovation is a total game-changer, fueled by a jaw-dropping $6.5 million Library Building Forward Infrastructure grant from the California State Library, matched with funds from Measure J. The City went all-in, earmarking $30 million from a $40 million lease revenue bond to transform our library into a vibrant, modern hub. The creative geniuses at Group 4 Architecture + Research, Inc. from South San Francisco led the charge, soaking up community ideas through lively meetings and an online survey in 2023 and 2024. They turned that feedback into a bold design that reimagines the library’s space with next-level tech, expanded resources, and inspiring spots for collaboration and creativity. The final plans dropped in July 2024, and after a fierce bidding battle, Swinerton Construction snagged the project in early July 2025.

While the library gets its glow-up, the staff and services have set up shop in a cool temporary space at Rimrock Plaza, open for business since August 25. The transformation will take 18 to 36 months, with the grant-funded portion wrapping by March 2026. So, grab your friends and head to the corner of Baristo Road and Sunrise Way on September 18 to cheer on this epic milestone. This isn’t just about breaking ground—it’s about building a brighter, bolder future for our library. Let’s make some noise and celebrate the start of something extraordinary!