CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - After a six-month closure to undergo a “refresh” for various upgrades and improvements, Sylvan Oaks Library (6700 Auburn Blvd.) hosted its re-opening celebration on Saturday, August 3. The library now has new paint, flooring, carpets, and efficient LED lighting. Other modernizations include an enhanced children’s area, an updated teen space, a homework help area, new computers, quiet study rooms with white-board walls, and new service desks. Large windows enhance the bright interior and showcase the beautiful scenery outside.

The celebration featured family-friendly games and activities, free shaved ice, face painting, balloon twisting, and Henna art. Many attendees expressed how much they missed the library while it was closed for the refresh. Citrus Heights City Councilmember Bret Daniels lives across the street with his family and said that his two-year-old daughter was overjoyed when the fence came down. “It’s so nice to see all the families coming out and having a really good time at their community library,” said Councilmember Daniels.

Sacramento-area teacher Jennifer Peart said, “It’s so exciting to see families here to show support for their local library. … It means so much to see people supporting lifelong reading.”

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sacramento Public Library director Rivkah Sass said, “This is now the best-looking library in Sacramento County.” She thanked everyone in attendance for “validating what we do by showing up and showing your support.”

Sacramento County District 4 Supervisor Sue Frost described the library as “a place where you can see the world.” She said that the experiences and services offered at the library are “a testament to why libraries have never gone away,” because they can “be everything they need to be for the community.”

Congressman Ami Bera expressed his love for libraries and the way they bring the community together. He described Sylvan Oaks’ selection of books offered in multiple languages as “a reflection of the diversity of our community.” He recognized Citrus Heights for its commitment to education by investing in the public library.

The new Sylvan Oaks Library supervisor, Crystal Miles, said, “It’s an honor to work in this community, to serve Citrus Heights, and to be part of the Sacramento Public Library.”

“The building is now bright, fresh, and accessible,” said Miles. “We have an incredibly enhanced collection, and books are just the tip of the iceberg.” In addition to more than 12,000 new titles, the library offers help with technology, laptops available for checkout, and lounge furniture with power outlets to charge electronic devices. The children’s room has STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) materials and an early learning area, and the library will offer tutoring during the school year.

“The library is much more than somewhere you go to get a book,” said Miles. “It’s a community meeting place, and we want to make sure we’re meeting the community’s needs.”