San Bernardino receives grant funding for library upgrades

Several improvements will be coming to the Norman F Feldheym Library thanks to a $6.4 million grant the City of San Bernardino received from the California State Library’s Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement program.

Improvements planned for Feldheym Library include a replacement of the HVAC and air filtration system, ADA accessibility upgrades, energy efficient windows, a new security system, electrical upgrades, a backup power generator, and additional repairs to the library interior and foundation.

“Feldheym Library is a great facility, but it needs some repairs and upgrades to maintain the library experience for the thousands of patrons that visit us every year,” said San Bernardino Library Director Ed Erjavek. “We are excited to receive this grant from the State.”

San Bernardino was one of thirty-four local libraries across the state to receive funding. Work is expected to begin in 2024.

The Norman F. Feldheym Central Library opened in 1985. The library was named in honor of the late Rabbi Norman F. Feldheym. The 64,000 square foot library was designed by architects Gregory Villanueva and Oscar Arnoni and includes the 200 seat Bing Wong auditorium, where the San Bernardino Mayor and City Council currently hold their meetings.