A NEW 7,000 SQUARE FOOT library in Highgrove will be a major improvement over the current one, offering a community room with an outdoor patio that will be able to seat about 50 people, beautiful craftsman architecture and an energy-efficient design. Other features include high ceiling in its center and designated areas for children, young adults and Friends of the Library.

The new library, on the corner of Michigan and Center, will replace the existing library, which is tiny and does not have appropriate restroom facilities.

The library will be LEED (Leadership in Environmental Efficiency and Design) certified, meaning that it will be a high-performance green building.

As a certified green building, the Highgrove Library will be designed to use energy efficiently and to conserve resources. Native, water wise plants will be planted outside to minimize the need for watering, and the building will make use of natural lighting.

Officials said the design and architecture of the library will take into account the local culture and heritage, particularly the citrus heritage. Library patrons will enjoy a view of Blue Mountain from inside the new building, which will provide a picturesque view of the valley.

”It will be really nice,” said Andy Frost, 5th District Regional Manager, with the Economic Development Agency. “It’s going to be a tremendous amenity for the community.”

Construction is underway and the new library is estimated to open in winter 2011.

For more information about programs and services available at the library, please call 951.682.1507 or visit us on the web at www.riverside.lib.ca.us.