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Main library in downtown Modesto reopening pushed back to October
• Renovated library will feature improvements designed to support the facility’s longevity
Modesto main branch library
Stanislaus County’s main library in downtown Modesto. - photo by Contributed

Stanislaus County’s Modesto Library will reopen to the public in October and not in the summer as originally planned.

The Modesto Library Improvement Project, which began with the library’s closure in late 2024, represents the most significant facility updates to the Modesto Library since its construction in 1971. Critical improvements to the facility include updated lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), elevators, and asbestos remediation.

The original project timeline anticipated the reopening of the library this summer. However, after construction began, several previously unknown areas within the library were found to require additional hazardous-material remediation. These unforeseen conditions have caused a slight delay in construction.

On Tuesday the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors approved the County General Services Agency’s recommendation to extend the Modesto Library’s closure until the fall, allowing the contractor additional time to complete the renovation.

“We’re excited to open the doors to a refreshed Modesto Library,” stated County Librarian Sarah Dentan.

In preparation for the reopening, the Modesto Library collection will temporarily close for requests beginning Sept. 1 to allow staff time to move the collection from storage in the Salida Library to the Modesto Library. LINK+ services will also be suspended during this time due to the move. Services at the Modesto Express Library will remain available during the Modesto Library closure, including holds pickup, material returns, printing and scanning, and a small selection of library materials for browsing. The Express Library is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Project updates will be shared on the Stanislaus County Library website as they become available, including the Modesto Library reopening date once it is confirmed.

During the Modesto Library closure, residents are encouraged to visit any open Stanislaus County Library branch for full library services.

To learn more about the Library’s wide array of programs and services, visit www.stanislauslibrary.org.