Fresno County Public Library’s flagship location in downtown will close beginning Sunday, Feb. 15.

And though the wait for a reopening could be two years for library goers, it will bring long-awaited renovations.

Sally Gomez, director of the Fresno County Public Library, said upgrades position the branch for the future. That work could take 18 to 24 months.

“Investing in our infrastructure reflects our responsibility to maintain public spaces that are functional, sustainable, and responsive to the evolving needs of our community,” Gomez said.

Nearest libraries are the West Fresno Library, Mosqueda Library, Gillis Library, Betty Rodriguez Regional Library, Sunnyside Regional Library, and Easton Library.

$9 Million Library Project Gets Funding from County and State

As of January, the county has completed about 40% of the work at the Central branch at 2420 Mariposa St. That includes a new roof, windows, and fire alarm upgrades. Still in the queue are electrical system upgrades, lighting and ceiling upgrades, and a basement renovation.

Opened in 1959, the facility also serves as the system’s headquarters. Materials are received and distributed in the 82,000 square-foot building. In addition, operations for the 33-branch library system are coordinated there.

Funding for the nearly $9 million project comes from both Fresno County’s Measure B and and the California State Library system, with the two sources evenly divided.