GONZALES — Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) has announced the upcoming relocation of the Gonzales Library to the new Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center Complex.
According to MCFL, the move will “provide an enhanced experience for patrons, integrating library services more closely with other valuable community resources.”
The last day of service at the current location, 851 Fifth St., will be the end of business on Saturday, Nov. 22. The library will then be closed from Nov. 23 through Jan. 9 to facilitate the move.
The Gonzales Library will officially open its doors at its new location within the Gonzales Community Center, 650 Fifth St., on Saturday, Jan. 10.
“We are thrilled to bring the Gonzales Library into the heart of the Gonzales Community Center,” said Kris Amaral, managing librarian. “This move represents a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with our community partners and offer a more comprehensive range of services to our residents in a modern, welcoming space.”
Jan. 10 is also the grand opening of the Gonzales Community Center.
The project, a five-year initiative that broke ground 18 months ago, is set to complete Phase 1 — including the county library and Teen Innovation Center — in December. The development will proceed in multiple phases, with a planned Community Hall for Phase 2.
City officials said the project has involved significant community input, notably from the Gonzales Youth Council, which played a key role in the creation of the Teen Innovation Center, even helping select the furniture.
Temporary services during closure
During the closure period, library patrons can still access limited services via the MCFL Bookmobile, which will be making scheduled stops at Central Park, located at 205 Fifth St. in Gonzales.
The Bookmobile will be scheduled on Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on the following dates: Nov. 20 and Dec. 4, 11 and 18, as well as Jan. 8.
Patrons are encouraged to use the library’s online resources, including e-books, audiobooks and databases, which remain accessible 24/7 at eMCFL.org.
Holds can be placed online and picked up at the Bookmobile during its scheduled stops or at another branch.
“The Gonzales Library looks forward to welcoming patrons to its new location in the new year,” stated MCFL.
