Plans are underway to relocate the Elk Grove Library to a new site in late 2025. The new site at 9260 Elk Grove Boulevard in the former Rite Aid pharmacy will provide thousands of feet of extra space and flexibility to better meet the changing needs of the community. Just as Elk Grove residents in 1908 were instrumental in forming the original library, the new library design will be informed by local residents.
Elk Grove residents are currently served by two libraries within the city: the Elk Grove Library in Old Town Elk Grove and the Franklin Library, which is co-located with Franklin High School. According to a 2018 study conducted by the City of Elk Grove, the community has outgrown its current location.
Elk Grove Library History
There have been many chapters in the story of the Elk Grove Library. The history of the library reaches back to the early 1900s when Elk Grove residents, led by Harriet Eddy, worked with the State Librarian to establish the very first county branch library in California. The original facility, located at 9125 Elk Grove Boulevard, was crucial in allowing Elk Grove High School to attain the accreditation needed for graduates to directly enter college.
In 2006, the City facilitated the relocation of the Elk Grove branch to 8900 Elk Grove Boulevard. This facility, at the time, provided more space for the library and placed it at a prominent corner entering Old Town. However, the parking and two-story configuration, along with the high operating cost, have been problematic for customers, the library, and the City.
A new home for the Elk Grove Library
The City of Elk Grove conducted a study in 2018 which indicated that community had outgrown its current location.
- In early 2021, the City of Elk Grove acquired the former Rite Aid building at 9260 Elk Grove Boulevard. A concept plan was prepared in the fall of 2021 and presented to the City Council.
- In 2022, the City of Elk Grove was awarded two State grants totaling more than $7 million to complete improvements to the building.
- The Elk Grove City Council approved the schematic design of the project on October 25, 2023.
Learn more about the development of the project and sign up for email updates on the City of Elk Grove website.