Indio receives $4.6 Million Grant for New Library

New Library Demonstrates Ongoing Commitment to Community Enrichment and Progress

INDIO — With the help of a $4.6 million grant, this city will build a new state-of-the-art library, which is an integral component of the broader Civic Center Campus project. This financial milestone represents a significant investment in the community’s future and highlights the city’s unwavering dedication to education and community access.

It’s the second major announcement in as many weeks. Last week the city announced that it will begin operating its own arts center in 2024.

The grant, awarded by the California State Library as part of their Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program, will provide substantial funding to support the construction and outfitting of the new Max T. McCandless Branch Library within the Riverside County Library System. The program had $175 million available to award eligible capital projects to address critical maintenance needs, improving energy efficiency and sustainability, and expanding access digitally and physically. This new facility will become a centerpiece for learning, creativity, and community engagement.

“This grant is the result of the great work that our staff is doing to provide the modern educational facilities that our families need in the City of Indio. The new library will be a valuable asset to our community, offering new opportunities for education, youth engagement, and professional growth,” Mayor Oscar Ortiz said in a statement. “Our city is committed to ensuring that our residents have access to the best resources available, and this project is a giant leap in that direction.”

The library’s current location recently closed and construction for the new facility will commence in December. The Riverside County Library System will utilize a temporary location, 45130 Oasis Street, allowing Indio residents and the community to still have access to library resources, check out and return books, and participate in various activities and programs. The temporary location is set to open on Jan. 1, 2024. Additionally, access to check out eBooks and eAudiobooks is available at www.rivlib.net.

“We are thrilled to announce the upcoming development of the new Indio Library,” said Joan Tyler, Chief Librarian of Riverside County Library System (RCLS). “This new facility will not only provide access to an extensive collection of books and digital resources but will also serve as a vibrant community hub. We invite everyone to stay connected and informed about the progress of this exciting project by following RCLS and Indio Library on Facebook or visiting our website at www.rivlib.net.”

The new Civic Center Campus will utilize modern architectural designs, including a mid-century modern color palette that complements the city’s recently updated branding. Construction for the new City Hall is set to begin in early 2024 and will be located at the existing location of current City Hall and Library.