NEWS RELEASE

Extended Temporary Closure of Southwest Branch Library for Vital Infrastructure Improvements Through Sunday, January 5, 2025.

Bakersfield, CA – The Kern County Library announces an additional temporary closure extension for the Southwest Branch located on 8301 Ming Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93311. Originally scheduled to reopen on September 2, 2024, the branch will now remain closed through January 5, 2025, with plans to reopen to the public on Monday, January 6, 2025. The closure extension was approved by the Kern County Board of Supervisors on July 30, 2024, under Resolution #2024-208.

This extension is due to unforeseen additional work necessary to complete the originally planned life safety upgrades. The safety and well-being of our patrons and staff are of the utmost importance, and every effort has been made and will continue to be made to stay on schedule and anticipate any possible changes. However, for safety reasons, this essential work cannot be accomplished while the facility is occupied.

Resolution #2023-317 approved by the Kern County Board of Supervisors on December 5, 2023, documents the original closure, emphasizing the significance of these enhancements funded through the Building Forward Library Infrastructure Grant, administered by the California State Library. In the 2021 Budget Act, Senate Bill 129, allocated $439 million in one-time funds to the California State Library, specifically to address life-safety and critical maintenance needs in public library facilities across the state. The Building Forward Library Infrastructure Grant awarded the Southwest Branch Library $800,089 for crucial safety and security enhancements, as well as updates to the aging infrastructure. 

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the community's understanding and patience during this time. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Southwest Branch in January 2025 with an improved user experience.

The Library Department encourages Southwest Branch patrons to explore other Bakersfield locations this fall for the exciting events and programs planned during the extension of the temporary closure.