Relocated Marcy Branch Library opens
The relocated Marcy Branch occupies the bottom floor of an 18,000 sq. ft., two-story building on Magnolia Avenue (with the city’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services taking the top floor). The building was built in 1972 to house district offices for the Automobile Club of Southern California. The architect was well-known Riverside architectural firm, Ruhnau, Evans & Steinmann.
Completely refurbished to the tune of $7.9 million, the new Marcy Branch comprises 9,000 square feet of space (about double the previous location). The roomier location includes over 30 computer stations, WiFi access, a study room, self-checkout stations — and indoor restrooms (which were located outside at the old branch).
Adjacent to the building is a small outdoor area with a bench, grass and shade trees. Directly across the street is tiny, but inviting, Low Park.
Still unclear is the fate of the former Marcy Branch, which originally began in 1951 as the Magnolia Center Branch located at Palm School (now Riverside Adult School).
(Ruhnau, Ruhnau, Clarke)
At least one proposal calls for the nearby Lucky Greek fast food restaurant — impacted by the Magnolia Avenue railroad underpass project — to take up residence in the old Central Avenue library building.
Reuse plans may have stalled recently, but whatever the outcome, we hope a viable reuse — one that doesn’t overly damage the original character of the mid-century building — can be found for the old Marcy Branch.
Previous
- RaincrossSquare.com – Relocation of Marcy Branch likely (May 2008)
B&W photo of Marcy Library courtesy of Ruhnau, Ruhnau, Clarke
Sources: The Press-Enterprise, City of Riverside, Riverside Public Library
People who helped in the renovation of the Riverside’s Marcy Branch Library did a great job. The library looks awesome.