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About Pearl Avenue Branch Library

Pearl Avenue Library is located in an area that was once dotted with farms and orchards. Pearl Avenue itself is named after John Quincy Pearl who arrived in the Santa Clara Valley in 1852 and bought 600 acres of land in the area. The street is a former cow trail that went through his ranch.

Pearl Avenue Library originally opened in December, 1971. In 2006 the old 7,116 square foot building was razed and the new 14,000 square foot facility opened on August 9, 2008. The new building features more computers, wireless Internet service, a storytelling area, and a community room to serve a growing and diverse community.

Unique library glass and lamps are the creation of artist Lynn Goodpasture who created architecturally and site-integrated artwork for private and public clients. The building architect was Anderson-Brulé Architects of San José. The public art in the Pearl Avenue Library is arranged through the San José Office of Cultural Affairs was overseen by the San José Arts Commission. Come to the Pearl Avenue Library and to see the impressive architecture, enjoy a book, borrow a movie, use the wireless Internet access, or participate in library programs and events.

Materials checked out from any San José Public Library branch can be returned at Pearl Avenue.

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