Beaumont Library Expansion Gets $250K Boost From Morongo Tribe

BEAUMONT, CA — The Morongo Band of Mission Indians has donated $250,000 to the Beaumont Library District to support its first major expansion project in 60 years, which will nearly double the library’s size and provide critical educational resources to a fast-growing region.

The Beaumont Library, located at 125 E. Eighth Street, has served the community for over a century. The oldest part of its current structure dates back to 1914, when it was built with a $10,000 grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The only addition occurred in 1965, when the local population was just 6,500. Today, that number exceeds 65,000 — yet the library continues to operate out of the same limited space.

Despite its limited size, the Beaumont Library remains the busiest library from Calimesa to Cabazon, with nearly three times the number of materials checked out to the public as the other three public library locations in the San Gorgonio Pass Area.

“Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books — they are hubs of knowledge, opportunity, and community that provide a variety of diverse resources and services,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin. “We are delighted to support the Beaumont Library’s expansion to help empower students, families, and lifelong learners across the region.”

Beaumont Library is the only “Family Place Library” between Rancho Cucamonga and the Arizona border, featuring developmental play spaces for children and their caregivers, as well as training classes for parents. It is also considered the best library from Redlands to Rancho Mirage, offering many services that others do not, such as literacy tutors for adults, family literacy activities, and conversation classes for adults learning English as a Second Language.

“The incredible support from the Morongo Band of Mission Indians brings us significantly closer to realizing our vision of a modern, inclusive library for all,” said Beaumont Library District Board President Margaret Coleman. “We appreciate this contribution, which reflects Morongo’s dedication to strengthening the communities of the Pass.”

“Morongo's support of our Expansion & Renovation Project is a testament to their commitment to preserving local cultural heritage and supporting programs that enhance the quality of life for the residents of our region,” said Beaumont Library Director Kelly Van Valkenburg.

The library’s expansion, which broke ground on February 12, will be completed in two phases. Phase one, which involves adding 8,300 square feet, is expected to be completed late this year. Phase two, set for completion by mid-2026, will restore and preserve the historic 1914 Carnegie building. New amenities include an all-new children’s room, family area, teen space, multiple study and conference rooms, a Friends of the Library bookstore, and a large community room for up to 100 people.