Colonial Heights Library will be closed for at least a year for repairs due to a fire in the meeting room on July 26, 2024. The building’s HVAC, electrical, and building monitoring systems were destroyed. All materials, furniture, ephemera, carpet, drywall, and ceilings in the public areas and community room were smoke-damaged. All of these items will be replaced to protect public health and safety.
The library is working with a remediation company to salvage and clean any equipment and fixtures to the extent possible. Crews will be onsite in November and December to remove equipment and materials to prepare for renovation. Once complete, the City of Sacramento can start the rebuilding process.
Reopening this branch and restoring services is a priority for Sacramento Public Library and the City of Sacramento. We anticipate reopening in two phases, starting with restoring branch operations and followed by the community room. While this location is closed, we are exploring additional ways to provide library services to residents. Starting in January 7, 2025., the library's Mobile Services team will visit:
- Colonial Heights Library parking every Tuesday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to Noon.
- Sam & Bonnie Pannell Center parking lot on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. starting in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What will happen to Colonial Heights’ collection?
To protect public health and safety, the damaged collection can no longer be circulated. This aligns with our collection management standards. We will work with a third party to recycle the damaged materials.
Who is paying for the repairs and replacement of materials and equipment?
Sacramento Public Library’s insurance carrier deemed the branch a total loss due to smoke damage. We are working with them to replace the collection and damaged items. The City of Sacramento continues to work with its insurance carrier to assess the damage and restore the facility.
Where does the bookmobile stop in my community?
Our bookmobile is a library on wheels that visits apartment complexes, senior communities, and community events throughout the region. You can find us at:
- Colonial Heights Library parking lot on December 19 from 1:15 – 3:15 p.m. and starting in 2025 every Tuesday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to Noon.
- Sam & Bonnie Pannell Center parking lot on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. starting in 2025.
- Oak Park Farmer's Market on the 1st and 3rd Saturday in November
- Golden Palms Mobile Home Park on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- Mendocino Apartments on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 2:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Is the book drop still available?
Yes. We've added a book drop so that you can return your materials at this branch.
Are there other libraries I can visit?
Yes! While we are closed, visit any of our library locations across the region. We have 27 other branches to serve you.
Where can I find library programs and events?
Browse our calendar to find events for adults, teens, and kids at any library location. We also offer programs at these community centers:
- Sam & Bonnie Pannell Center: Explore and Learn every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and Baby Explore and Learn at 10 a.m. every Thursday.
- George Sim Community Center: Explore and Learn every Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Where can I access free public Wi-Fi?
Access free public Wi-Fi at community parks from sunrise to sunset.
How do I connect to public Wi-Fi at community parks?
- Open your device’s settings and select “Wi-Fi.”
- Select CITY-PARK-FREE-WIFI from the list of available networks.
- On the Wi-Fi splash page, click to accept the Terms & Conditions.
Where can I get free computer access?
The following community organizations offer free computer services:
ARI Job Center
2411 Alhambra Blvd., Suite 110
Registration: (916) 324-6202
- Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Free computer and internet access
- Serves teens and youth
Job Center at Lemon Hill with Sacramento Works
5451 Lemon Hill Ave.
Appointments: (916) 433-2600
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 a.m.
- Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Free computer and job application help
- Serves teens and adults
- Languages: English, Russian, Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese.
Sacramento Works Career Center at La Familia Counseling Center
5523 34
th Street
(916) 452-3601
- Free computer lab
- Online job application help
- Serves adults
- Languages: English and Spanish
- Can I donate to support the reopening of the Colonial Heights Library?
We are not accepting donations of library materials. We are working with our insurance carrier to recover the loss of our collection. Community support is always welcome and appreciated. You can make a monetary donation to support this branch on our website, but it may not impact the speed or duration of the reopening process. Donations may be used to support branch programs and services.