The Marina Branch Library temporarily closed on Sunday, August 10, 2025, for construction. Construction will last for approximately 16 months.

During Marina Branch Library’s temporary closure, the following libraries will be open:

• Main Library - 55 W. 3rd Ave. San Mateo, CA 94402
• Hillsdale Library - 205 W. Hillsdale Blvd. San Mateo, CA 94403
• Foster City Library - 1000 E. Hillsdale Blvd. Foster City, CA 94404

Potential alternative service options will be provided via the library’s website. 

Marina Branch Library Restoration Project

Location: 1530 Susan Court San Mateo, CA 94403

This Project was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by:

• The State of California, administered by the California State Library;
• A Community Project Funding Grant, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and
• A Member Agency Grant administered by the Peninsula Clean Energy Authority.

The Marina Branch Library has served the community since 1966. Situated by Seal Slough/Marina Lagoon, the building currently leans towards the waterway. The building has experienced settlement, leading to uneven floor surfaces and creating an unsafe environment for both patrons and staff. 

Project Scope

Structural Improvements

The Marina Branch Library Restoration Project’s (the Project’s) main objective is to address safety concerns by performing foundation work and restoring the sloping floors to level conditions.

Seismic improvements will also be performed to make the building more resistant to earthquake damage.

Site Improvements

To protect the building’s foundation and framework, the Project will perform grading that directs stormwater away from the building.

The Project will implement concrete/asphalt improvements near the front entry and parking lot.

The Project will implement landscaping improvements. In addition, a total of five (5) trees on the Project site will be removed and replaced to support improvements of the project. Tree removal and replacement will comply with San Mateo Municipal Code and the Project’s Tree permit.

Building Assessment Improvements

The City’s design team performed an assessment of the building and the Project site that revealed issues to be addressed to support the library’s systems. For example, roof and ceiling require complete replacement. Mechanical/HVAC systems, plumbing, and fire protection are outdated and difficult to service. Similarly, the library’s electrical system no longer meets current standards.

Key improvements include:

• Roof replacement of a 35+ year-old roof.
• Mechanical/HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection improvements. Includes removal of gas systems and conversion into an all-electrical system.
• Updated lighting throughout the Project site to enhance safety and to meet current standards.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades to meet current requirements.
• Relocation of the rear deck to the South side of the building due to conflicts with the proposed foundation work.
• New ceilings to replace ceilings past its service life.

New Furniture

• New furniture and bookshelves will be provided to provide an inviting and comfortable environment for all patrons and staff. The interior spaces will be upgraded, including a revived children’s space, and a dedicated community and teens space.

Timeline and Library Closure

To support the Project, the Marina Branch Library will be CLOSED starting Summer 2025 for approximately 16 months. The Marina Branch Library homepage will be updated as we get closer to construction to provide details on service relocation.

• Design is planned for completion in April 2025.
• Summer 2025, library closure and construction start.
• Q1 2027, library re-open.

Documents

CEQA – Notice of Exemption

Contact Information

Karen Cornejo, Assistant Engineer

(650) 522-7576, kcornejo@cityofsanmateo.org