Residents of Irvine, your local book-lending game is getting a serious upgrade with the grand opening of the new branches of the Irvine Public Library system. On Sunday, August 3, the community is invited to swing by the Heritage Park and University Park Library Branches to cut the ribbon and celebrate Irvine's move toward a more independent library system away from its Orange County roots.
According to an announcement on the city's official website, the opening fete at Heritage Park Library Branch kicks off from 1–4 p.m. and University Park Library Branch follows up from 2–5 p.m., both events promise live entertainment and a bunch of family-friendly activities like crafting friendship bracelets bookmark decorating, and a scavenger hunt; there's also a chance for guests to snag a shiny new library card interact with staff and chek out the latest books and materials.
The new library system is a part of Irvine's continued efforts to innovate its services and offerings, keeping pace with a growing and increasingly diverse population. These branches, along with the the soon to be joining the fold Katie Wheeler Library Branch set to open early next year, will feature refreshed spaces with modern amenities, including updated technology, expanded programming for youngsters and teens, and community spaces created for collaboration and connection.
Both grand openings are free, the address for the Heritage Park Library Branch is 14361 Yale Ave, if you're looking to stride through its doors, and for those setting sights on the University Park Library Branch, you'll find that one at 4512 Sandburg Way but heads up, parking at University Park Library is limited so you may want to look towards University Community Center for additional parking options.
