To update the library’s infrastructure and accommodate evolving staff and visitor needs, the County of San Diego decided to remodel portions of the Julian Library. The remodel and expansion included the demolition of the existing study area and reconfiguration of existing facilities, as well as construction of a new community room.

The new community room features a retractable partition wall that allows the space to be utilized as either two small rooms or one large room, for events such as town hall meetings, concerts, book clubs, and craft workshops.

A Gallery Space was added to display work from local artists. On display in the Gallery is a pair of stained-glass doors which were created by artist and Ilan-Lael Co-Founder James Hubbel.  These doors were donated to the library by the Ilan-Lael Foundation.

The remodel also included new exterior paint and interior walls, roofing, structure, utilities, and new carpet throughout. The site had accessibility upgrades including path of travel and accessible parking. These updates not only gave the library an updated look, but an infrastructure to continue serving the Julian community for years to come.

“It was our goal to design the Julian Library Community Room to be a seamless addition to the existing Library,” said COAR Project Manager Chris McMurry. “We wanted to create a welcoming space where everyone can come together—whether for educational programs, local meetings and events, or simply a quiet place to unwind. This new space will be a hub for connection and learning in the Julian community.”