NEWMAN, Calif. — After months of renovations, the Newman Library will reopen its doors on Saturday, May 31, at 10 a.m., following a closure that began in December to address critical infrastructure improvements. The upgrades mark an important milestone for the library, ensuring it remains a safe, accessible, and modern facility for the community.

The project focused on correcting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) deficiencies, resolving water intrusion issues, and removing asbestos from floor tiles—critical improvements designed to create a healthier and more welcoming space. During the closure, library patrons relied on a temporary pop-up library at the McConnell Center, which provided essential services such as materials return, holds pickup, printing, and scanning. The pop-up location will close on Friday, May 23, ahead of the library’s full reopening.

Library supervisor D.J. Gong expressed enthusiasm about welcoming patrons back. “The improvements made during the closure have made this a safer, more accessible building that will allow us to continue serving our community for years to come,” Gong said.

The Newman Library has long been an integral part of the city, with a history dating back to 1920, when it was established as part of the Carnegie Library system. Funded by an $8,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation, the original library, designed by architect Francis Reid, featured a Classical Revival style and was one of the last Carnegie Libraries built in California. The library relocated in 1978, and the original Carnegie building was later repurposed as the Newman Museum, preserving the town’s rich history.

Since its inception, the Newman Library has been a gathering space for residents—a place where generations of families have explored literature, attended community programs, and accessed essential services. With these renovations, the library continues its century-old tradition of fostering education, accessibility, and public engagement in Newman.

To celebrate the reopening, the Friends of the Newman Library will host a grand reopening event on Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Story Time at 10:15 a.m., and a free Summer Reading Challenge book giveaway for all ages, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Refreshments will be provided while supplies last.

Gong emphasized the importance of community involvement during this milestone event. “Libraries are more than buildings; they are centers of knowledge, connections, and opportunities. We hope the reopening will encourage more people to explore what we have to offer.”

The library will resume its regular hours:

• Monday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Tuesday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Wednesday-Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Newman Library’s reopening is part of a larger initiative across the Stanislaus County Library system to modernize its facilities. The Modesto Library renovation, expected to continue until summer 2026, is an $18.1 million project designed to enhance infrastructure, expand community spaces, and improve technology access.

Additionally, the Riverbank Library, which closed on April 13, 2025, is undergoing a $650,000 renovation to improve ADA accessibility, address water intrusion issues, and remove asbestos. Library services have temporarily relocated to the Riverbank Teen Center until the branch reopens in five months.

These renovations reflect the county’s commitment to maintaining its libraries as vital community hubs, ensuring they remain accessible, welcoming, and equipped to serve future generations.

The Newman Library, located at 1305 Kern St., has served the city for more than a century, evolving with the times while maintaining its mission of providing education, resources, and community support.