Public Works

Burnett Library Energy Efficiency Upgrade

Click here for the latest project updates.

Background

The Burnett Library has been operating in its current location at 560 E. Hill St. since 1924, after first opening at Burnett Elementary School in 1910. The current building, designed by famed architect Paul Tay, opened in 1969 and has served the community as a space for education and gathering since.

The City of Long Beach is upgrading key infrastructure in the Burnett Library building to increase energy efficiency, prevent leaks during storms and extend the useful life of the facility. The existing, uninsulated roof will be replaced with heat-reflective material and areas prone to water ponding will be treated to prevent ponding, water damage and leaks. HVAC systems will also be upgraded with new, energy efficient equipment, with visible parts of the system visually concealed.

This project is part of the Elevate ’28 Infrastructure Investment Plan, a historic initiative dedicated to enhancing Long Beach parks, community facilities, mobility access, and streets. Learn more at lbelevate28.com.

Timeline

Project timeline is set barring weather delays and other unforeseen circumstances. 

Objectives

• Enhance sustainability with heat-reflective roofing to reduce energy usage
• Extend the useful life of the facility
• Increase energy cost savings
• Reduce maintenance costs

Proposed Features

• New, energy efficient HVAC System
• Structural steel framing and structural screen wall to support and conceal visible HVAC equipment
• Upgraded roof with heat-reflective, modified bituminous membrane to improve insulation
• Silicon application and gravel finish on the low area of the northeastern roof to help eliminate water ponding

Project Funding

This project is funded by $400,000 from Measure A funds and $1,875,000 from AB32.               

Latest Updates

June 2025

Work remains in progress at the library. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the library will remain closed to allow for additional remediation work uncovered during construction. The closure is expected to continue through mid-July. We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance the library.

May 2025

Improvements are underway, and the library will remain closed until May 26, 2025. The library will reopen on May 27, 2025, with enhancements continuing until late summer 2025.

April 2025

The library is scheduled to undergo a brief closure from April 21 to May 17, 2025, and will reopen May 19, 2025, remaining open as improvements are underway through late summer 2025.

Construction kicked off in March 2025, and a letter was sent to residents. Click here to view the letter that was sent.