Morongo Tribe's Generous Contribution Boosts Beaumont Library Expansion
The Morongo Band of Mission Indians' Generous Gift
Morongo contributes a quarter-million dollars towards the enlargement of Beaumont Library.
In a commendable act of philanthropy, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians has parted with a substantial $250,000, earmarked for the Beaumont Library's much-needed first major expansion since 1965 [1][2][3]. This donation forms part of a larger $5 million project aimed at expanding and renovating the library, which kicked off in February 2025 and is due for completion by the end of 2026 [3].
A Tale of the Beaumont Library's History
Before we delve into the details of the ongoing project, it's fascinating to know that the seeds of the Beaumont Library were sown way back in 1914 with a $10,000 grant from the renowned philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie. The library has only witnessed one addition to its structure since then, an expansion in 1965 when the local population was just a fraction of its current size [1][3].
The Beaumont Library: More Than Just a Library
Today, the library stands as a bustling hub of knowledge, opportunity, and community, providing resources far beyond mere books. Despite its limited size, it stands as the busiest library from Calimesa to Cabazon, with nearly three times the number of materials checked out to the public compared to the other public libraries in the San Gorgonio Pass Area [1][3].
The Morongo Tribe's Role in Empowering Communities
Upon announcing the donation, Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin acknowledged the library's role as a vital community resource, stating, "Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books. They're hubs of knowledge, opportunity, and community that provide a variety of diverse resources and services." This sentiment aligns with the tribe's broader commitment to strengthening local communities through cultural and educational initiatives [1][3].
A Brighter Future for the San Gorgonio Pass Area
The expansion project will breathe new life into the library, offering improved facilities to cater to the growing population of the area. The project includes the addition of study and conference rooms, a children’s room, a bookstore, and larger community spaces [3]. This investment aims to empower students, families, and lifelong learners in the region, providing them with modern, inclusive facilities conducive to learning [3][5].
Sources:1. Calimesa Chronicle2. Press-Enterprise3. Beaumont Library District4. LA Times5. Children's Library Hub
The Morongo Tribe's donation of $300,000 ($250,000 from the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and an additional $50,000 from individual tribal members) will significantly strengthen the finance aspect of the Morongo Tribe's role in the Beaumont Library's first major expansion since 1965, part of a larger $5 million industry project. The Morongo Tribe's legacy extends beyond the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, as the tribe aims to empower communities through cultural and educational initiatives, such as this library expansion that will ultimately cater to the growing population in the San Gorgonio Pass Area.
