Wave Staff Report
SOUTH GATE — County Supervisor Janice Hahn joined county library officials, local leaders and community members March 20 to celebrate the reopening of Leland R. Weaver Library after a year-long $1.3 million renovation.
“I know this has been a long year for so many people in South Gate who missed your library — but I hope you think it was worth the wait,” Hahn told the crowd. “This renovation represents a real investment here in South Gate and you can see it the moment you walk in. This library is modern, it is refreshed, and it has something for everyone – whether you are looking for a free activity for your kids, a new book to read, or a class to take.”
“Libraries are more than books — they’re access to a better future,” Mayor Joshua Barron said. “South Gate, this is your space — bring your family and make it a special place.”
The library has been completely refurbished with upgraded spaces for children, teens and adults, new computers and better Wi-Fi, and new self-checkout technology to make visits easier. Accessibility upgrades feature new entry doors and pathways, while sustainability enhancements include energy-efficient lighting and drought-tolerant landscaping.
New artistic elements were also unveiled, including green moss art installations in the lobby and circulation areas, as well as enhanced lighting to highlight the exterior Tweedy Street mural.
“The reopening of Leland R. Weaver Library represents an important investment in the community and in the future of public access to knowledge, technology, and shared spaces,” said Skye Patrick, county librarian and director of L.A. County Library. “These enhancements allow us to better serve residents of all ages with updated environments that support learning, creativity, and connection. We are proud to expand access to resources and opportunities to our neighbors across L.A. County.”
The library is named in honor of former South Gate City Councilman Leland R. Weaver who served for 24 years on the city council before his death in 1972. He helped establish a city swimming pool, a municipal auditorium, a girls’ clubhouse, tennis courts and an art gallery. The library opened in its current location on Tweedy Boulevard shortly after his death.
The Weaver Library is the first of five Southeast area libraries undergoing renovations at the direction of Supervisor Hahn. Libraries in Maywood, Lynwood, Bell and Huntington Park are currently closed and are set to reopen this summer and early next year.
