Santa Ana’s historic Main Library reopens after two-year renovation

The landmark library, which first opened in 1960, welcomed residents back Saturday with restored architecture, modern learning and children spaces.

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Santa Ana’s historic Main Library reopens after two-year renovation
Santa Ana City Council, staff and other electeds with Santanero youth at the Santa Ana Main Library's ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 24, 2026. (Daniel Diaz/The Santanero)

[reporting: the Santa Ana Main Library]

Santa Ana's historic Main Library has officially reopened to the public following two years of construction and renovations.

A reopening ceremony was held Saturday, drawing the entire Santa Ana City Council, city staff, Library Director Brian Sternberg, and other elected officials, along with dozens of Santanero families eager to check out the library (and books).

The $34 million renovation project included improvements to the historic building, which originally opened in 1960. Updates include redesigned spaces for children and teens, an expanded History Room, improvements to the building's infrastructure, and restoration work on its exterior.

With the renovations now complete, the City has updated library hours across all locations.

Daniel Diaz — Santanero born and raised, lived in every single ward, Daniel is the man of many hats as editor, publisher and everything in between for The Santanero.