Breaking news: Gavilan to break ground on $65 million library and student resource cnter

Construction funded by Measure X bond

Story published online on September 6, 2024

Concept drawing of new library. Courtesy Gavilan College

By Staff Report

Gavilan College is set to mark a significant milestone in its campus development with a groundbreaking ceremony for its new library and student resource center.

The event, scheduled for 1:30 pm to 3 pm Tuesday, Sept. 10, will take place in Parking Lot A at the college’s main campus in Gilroy.

Concept drawing of entrance to new library. Courtesy Gavilan College

The $65 million project, funded by the Measure X Bond, will replace the college’s aging library with a state-of-the-art, two-story facility spanning 50,000 square feet. The new center is designed to be a hub for student services, incorporating additional administrative offices alongside the library functions.

“This new facility represents our commitment to providing students with the best possible resources for their academic journey,” said Dr. Pedro Avila, Gavilan College Superintendent/President, expressing enthusiasm for the project. “It’s not just a library. It’s a comprehensive student resource center that will serve as the heart of our campus.”

The groundbreaking ceremony will feature a lineup of speakers including Jeanie Wallace, President of the GJCCD Board of Trustees, and Elvira Zaragoza Robinson, Chair of the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee. Student perspectives will be represented by Britney Chavez, Student Trustee, while Aleah Kropholler, Gavilan College Head Librarian, will share insights on the impact of the new facility on academic resources.

Local government officials are also expected to attend, including Supervisor Sylvia Arenas representating the Santa Clara Board of Supervisors District 1 and Gilroy Mayor Marie Blankley.

The facility is slated for completion in the summer of 2026, promising to transform the educational experience at Gavilan College for years to come. This development is part of a larger initiative to modernize the campus and enhance the quality of education and services provided to students.

For more information about the groundbreaking ceremony or the project, please contact Gavilan College’s public relations office at [email protected].

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This story was written based on a press release from Gavilan public relations office.

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