The city of Goleta has been awarded a $4.278 million grant from the California State Library for improvements to the Goleta Valley Public Library building.

A view of Goleta Valley Public Library from Fairview Avenue.
Goleta Valley Public Library is 50 years old.

The Goleta Valley Library recently celebrated 50 years at its location, 500 N. Fairview Ave. The library provides essential services to the city of Goleta, as well as unincorporated county areas of the greater Goleta Valley, Isla Vista, Hope Ranch, and Gaviota.

The funding is earmarked for library-related infrastructure, supporting critical maintenance needs, safety improvements, energy-efficiency, and physical access.

“We are grateful for this grant funding from the California State Library to ensure that this well-loved community hub that serves an average of 260,000 patrons a year is structurally sound, safe, and accessible to everyone who comes through its doors for years to come,” said Goleta City Manager Robert Nisbet.

The Round Two of Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program funding is a $5.348 million project (including a city match of $1.069 million) and includes the following improvements to the Goleta Valley Library:

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Restrooms Upgrade
Modernizing and Replacement of HVAC Systems
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Path of Travel
Life Safety and Security Installation and Upgrades
LED Lighting Retrofits
Doors/Windows Replacements and Upgrades
Fascia Repair and Exterior Paint

The project is expected to be completed by mid-2027.

The Goleta City Council is expected to consider approval of the grant funding agreement at its Dec. 5 council meeting.