There could be a new home for Fresno County’s Politi Branch Library

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – A Fresno County public library is looking to move into a bigger space.

For 50 years The Politi Branch Library has been serving the Fresno community with any public library needs.

Now the library has outgrown the location and wants to move into the former Rite Aid building, at Bullard Avenue and First Street.

“When this space became available, we thought, hey, man, that’s a perfect spot to move the library over here,” said Fresno County Supervisor Steve Brandau.

He said it is possible that there will be a new home for the Politi Branch Library.

However, Brandau said neighboring businesses had their qualms about the library relocating to the former Rite Aid building.

“Some of the other storefronts here, including the discount store and others, were concerned that the library would take up all the parking space,” he explained.

The debate hindered the library’s progress for months, however, recently a deal was put on the table.

The Fresno County Board of Supervisors will consider a lease agreement to rent the space for up to $7.8 million over ten years.

“They’re going to have some parking here, enough for the library, but we’re not going to take all the parking. And so, all the other stores will still be able to park in. Their customers can park, too,” Brandau said.

Brandau said the move would allow the library to better serve the community, with a larger space, and more modernized areas.

“At Fresno County, we’re dedicated to our library system and providing fantastic libraries for the community,” he added.

The Fresno County Board of Supervisors will vote Tuesday to see if the library can officially make the move to the property.

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