The City of Santa Ana may open a new public library at the Delhi Center

On Monday, November 14th, the Delhi Center hosted a community meeting to discuss a proposed library branch at the Delhi Center in partnership with the City of Santa Ana – Santa Ana Public Library.

The project square footage is 2,465 sq. ft. with an adjacent exterior patio space would involves a 10-year lease agreement between the Delhi Center and City of Santa Ana.

Neighbors in attendance expressed their support for technology and support resources, and a range of youth, young adults, and adults programming and services to be offered at a future community library in their neighborhood.

The Delhi Center Interim CEO Juanita Preciado Hernandez and the City’s Library Services Director Brian Sternberg made presentations at this meeting. Click here to see the Delhi presentation.

Proposed Scope of Work

• Reconfigure Class Rooms 101,102, and 103 and adjacent exterior space for a new Library branch
• Create exterior shaded patio area for playing, reading, and programming
• Create glass storefront-style Library entrance
• Provide book collections, Library of Things, and laptops for checkout
• Provide public computer, printer, copier/scanner
• Offer free public WIFI

Proposed Youth Programs and Services:

• Storytimes
• Digital Literacy for kids ages 3-10 including Pre-K Academy Launchpads and AWE Tablets
• Interactive Learning including: Online Tutoring, X-Stream Lab, Tween Takevoer
• YA Programs and Services including: Teen Maker and Teen Jams, Robo Fun Time, Teen Volunteering, Teen Library Club, League of Gamers and Silent Reading Music Sessions
• ASTOUND Program for Neurodivergent Youth

Proposed Adult Programs and Services:

• Information Services
• Multilingual Diverse Programs including: Education & Technology, Arts and Crafts and Literacy
• Tech and Programs and Support Services including: Books, DVDs and Magazines for checkout, Chromebooks, Hotspots and a Library of Things Collection
• E-Resources including Ancestry, Coursera, Kanopy and Newbank

The Delhi Center is seeking a ten year lease with the City of Santa Ana that will amount to a rental fee of $3,500 a month with a 3% annual rent escalator.

The Delhi Center opened its doors at its current location on December 17, 2001. The City’s Public Works Yard was moved to make space for the center and expand the adjacent park. Grant funding was secured from various sources through a combined effort of the City and Delhi Center leaders. Delhi Center entered into a contract with the City of Santa Ana whereby the City owns the land, and Delhi Center owns the building.