Teenagers in the Casa de Oro neighborhood are being asked to help design the new San Diego County Library branch. The county is seeking input from local teens on the colors and other design features for a dedicated teen space in the upcoming facility.
Construction began on the new library in February, and it will be twice as large as the current leased building. The 12,000 square-foot library will include a teen area, a 2,000 square-foot community room, children’s area, patio space, and a Friends of the Library bookstore. The opening is planned for spring 2026.
This approach follows previous efforts to involve young people in planning library spaces. Teens also contributed ideas for the Lakeside Library’s teen area before its March 2023 opening. Community feedback was sought from residents in surrounding areas as well.
The county regularly involves community members when planning public projects such as libraries, fire stations, and resource centers. Recent examples include gathering input for projects like the Jacumba Fire Station, Ramona Community Resource Center, and Southeastern Live Well Center.
County officials say that engaging with residents is an important part of their work. “Community engagement is at the center of everything the County does,” according to county communications.
The public can provide feedback on various projects including legislative priorities, business contracting opportunities, emergency preparedness plans, and programs supporting neurodiversity through Engage San Diego County.
