Libraries Get $3.4M Makeover In Marin County, Here's What Changed

MARIN COUNTY, CA — New furniture, updated study areas, redesigned children's spaces and improved accessibility are among the changes coming to all 10 Marin County Free Library branches following a $3.4 million renovation project.

The yearlong Library Refresh Project, funded through voter-approved Measure B, wrapped up in September, with county officials marking its completion during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday at the Marin County Civic Center.

The project began in September 2025 and brought improvements to libraries in Inverness, Stinson Beach, Point Reyes Station, Marin City, Bolinas, South Novato, Civic Center, Fairfax, Novato and Corte Madera.

Rather than applying the same upgrades everywhere, library officials evaluated the needs of individual branches and tailored improvements to each community.

Depending on the location, renovations included new or reconfigured shelving and layouts, updated service desks, fresh carpeting and interior paint, more comfortable seating, improved workstations and study spaces, upgraded children's and teen areas, outdoor furniture and better access to natural light.

“Each branch serves a distinct community, and these improvements gave us an opportunity to think carefully about how our spaces can be more welcoming, comfortable and accessible,” said Lana Adlawan, director of County Library Services.

The project was guided by the library system's Anti-Racism and Equity Strategic Plan, with an emphasis on creating spaces where residents can access information, use technology, connect with others and participate in their communities.

The work was phased to limit branch closures. Inverness was the first location to receive improvements in September 2025, followed by Stinson Beach and Point Reyes Station. Work continued through 2026 at the remaining branches, with Corte Madera the last to reopen on Sept. 3.

The effort also included a separate accessibility improvement project in the California Room at the Civic Center Library, bringing the total to 11 individual projects.

The Marin County Department of Public Works managed the project, with its Facilities team assisting at county-owned and leased library locations. Noll & Tam Architects provided design services.

The county said Measure B funding also supports repairs to aging facilities, expanded book and e-book collections, and the ability to maintain library hours and services.

More information about the renovations at individual branches is available at Marin County Free Library's Library Refresh Project webpage.