Long Beach Public Library to Host Unveiling Ceremony for Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) is proud to announce the upcoming unveiling ceremony of the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard. The event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library located at 5870 Atlantic Ave.

The ceremony will feature speeches from Mayor Rex Richardson, Ninth District Councilmember Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie, and representatives from the Department of Library, Arts and Culture. Following the remarks, there will be a ceremonial ribbon cutting and the courtyard will be open for public use.

According to Mayor Richardson, the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard is more than just a beautiful outdoor space; it is a reflection of Long Beach's dedication to creating places where community members can come together, learn and connect. He believes that this new courtyard will serve as an extension of the library and a vibrant hub for the community.

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This celebration marks the realization of the library's vision to transform the previously garden-focused site into an inviting and engaging outdoor courtyard environment for reflection, programming and community gatherings. Attendees of the unveiling event will have the opportunity to be among the first to explore this new space while enjoying a short program, music, light refreshments and mingling with fellow community members.

The project has been guided by extensive community engagement and feedback as well as careful planning to ensure that it meets the needs and aspirations of local residents and library users alike.

Ninth District Councilmember Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie expressed her excitement for this project stating that it is more than just a renovation; it is a culmination of a community vision. She believes that this beautiful outdoor space truly belongs to the neighborhood and offers a dedicated place for reading, relaxation, connection and inspiration. She also credits resident feedback as being instrumental in bringing this project to life.

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All members of the community including library patrons, neighbors and public space enthusiasts are invited to attend this event. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual tour of the courtyard will be available on the LBPL website after the ceremony.

Director of the Department of Library, Arts, and Culture Cathy De Leon expressed her gratitude for the community's input in shaping this project. She believes that their mission is to provide spaces that inspire curiosity, creativity and connection and is excited to welcome the community into this new courtyard where learning and gathering can thrive.

The renovation of the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library Courtyard was made possible through the generous support and collaboration of several community partners including the Long Beach Conservation Corps, Long Beach Public Library Foundation, Port of Long Beach, and Friends of the Long Beach Public Library. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact the library at 562.570.7500 or visit lbpl.org.

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