The City of Irvine is transitioning out of the county-wide library system to a new, city-operated Irvine Public Library System, with full transition expected by July 1, 2025.

The proposal for a new library system, approved unanimously by the Orange County Board of Supervisors on Aug.13, followed after the city had frequent disputes with the county over the allocation of Irvine’s contribution to library funds. City officials say this change will bring much-needed changes to Irvine’s libraries, as Irvine will retain more of its library system funding for Irvine libraries than it would across the county.

“It is crucially important for us to gain control of the library system to be able to improve it and make a system that is worthy of our city and our high standards,” Councilman Larry Agran said to the Voice of OC.

The shift will bring significant changes for system users, including Northwood students. Heritage and University Park libraries will be phased into temporary closures for a transition period mid-next year in addition to reduced hours. Orange County Public Libraries will also close the Katie Wheeler Library in July 2025. The planned Great Park Library will serve as a central branch for all Irvine residents, slated to open in 2028. However, students say that they are looking forward to updates to the library system.

“I think it’s a good change, especially with the new location in Great Park,” senior Ayu Hayashi said. “Personally, I need more places to go study, so any improvements would be helpful.”

With this transition, residents are expected to retain access to the OCPL catalog of books from across the county. For more information, a detailed agreement and the withdrawal plan can be found here.