Redding Library Reopens with Major Upgrades Thanks to $798,000 State Grant
- Kari Chilson
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
REDDING, Calif. — The Redding Library, a key branch of the Shasta Public Libraries system, is set to welcome patrons back through its doors on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, following extensive renovations funded by a competitive $798,000 Building Forward Grant from the California State Library.
The upgrades represent a significant investment in the community's vital resource, modernizing the facility to better serve Shasta County residents without placing a heavy burden on local tax dollars. Library staff worked diligently to secure this state funding through a strong proposal and a shovel-ready project, ensuring that these dollars stayed in Redding rather than being allocated elsewhere in California.
“This is exactly the kind of opportunity we work hard to pursue,” said Community Services Director Travis Menne. “The City is very excited that the Library is once again fully open to the public with fresh amenities and the classic services our community values. The library is an equitable space where people of all ages and backgrounds can grow, learn, develop skills, and connect. Securing outside funding for improvements of this scale means the City can preserve local resources for other community priorities while still delivering meaningful upgrades.”
The grant primarily supported enhancements focused on safety, accessibility, and long-term reliability. Key improvements include:
- A newly designated family area on the main level
- Relocated adult collections, public computers, and enhanced study spaces upstairs
- New carpeting and luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the building
- Reconfigured seating and shelving for improved flow and easier browsing
- Installation of 36 additional security cameras to boost patron safety
- A backup generator to ensure continued operations during power outages
These changes address wear from the building's original 2007 construction (including the replacement of 18-year-old carpeting) while creating a more comfortable, welcoming, and functional environment.
“We are so pleased to share that the Redding Library of Shasta Public Libraries will be reopening,” said Library Director Julia Parsons. “The time was well spent addressing important community considerations and making improvements so that the Library can better support everyone in our area. All of the updates focus on creating a more comfortable, accessible, and welcoming environment, while preserving the core experience our community members value.”
The library will resume standard operating hours upon reopening: Monday–Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday–Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Looking ahead, the Redding Library has an exciting lineup of events to celebrate its refreshed space and engage the community:
- The Annual Gala on Saturday, February 21
- A Hopeful Lunar New Year Celebration on Saturday, March 7
- Rev, Rumble, and Roar on Saturday, April 18
- The Summer Reading Program, running from June to July
For more information, visit the Shasta Public Libraries website or follow their updates on social media.
