Dozens of bookworms and curious residents flocked to the Brentwood Library on Monday to check out the library’s new home on Oak Street.

The library moved a block from its old home on Third Street to make room for the new Civic Center, construction on which is scheduled to begin later this year.

Mayor Bob Taylor said the opening of the new library marks “the beginning of the end” as downtown Brentwood moves into the dawn of its transformation.

When the Civic Center is complete, the Brentwood Library will take over the entire building on Oak Street, which it now shares with the Public Works Department, creating an 18,000-square-foot oasis for literature and learning.

Phase One of the new library has already introduced significant improvements such as an expanded collection of books and media available for checkout and two self-checkout systems.

Leonard Roudman, senior community library manager, said the new checkout machines increase efficiency, freeing up library staff to answer questions and offer assistance.

The system is easy to use, said librarian Patty Chan. All you do is place your library card on the red line to be scanned, and once your card has been processed, scan the bar codes on the items you wish to borrow, print your receipt and you’re good to go. The system can also be used to check in books to make sure items have been properly returned.

Another new feature of the library is the photomural above the computer station, which is now home to six new computers, bringing the library’s public computer total to 16.

The photomural, “The Brentwood Experience” by artist Lance Crannell, features images that capture all aspects of Brentwood life, from the CornFest and the Streets of Brentwood to the orchards and Farmers’ Market. Many guests who toured the library on opening day paused to gaze at the mural while enjoying cake and other light refreshments.

Fran Alcorn, a member of the Friends of the Brentwood Library who served cake to guests at the reception, said she was thrilled by the number of people who came for the library’s grand opening. “I think this is just wonderful. It is such a nice surprise to see a turnout like this. The library looks beautiful. Everyone did such a great job putting this place together. The colors are so warm and inviting. I think a lot of people will find many hours of enjoyment here.”

Brentwood resident Analiza Batu said she and her family had been waiting for the new library to open all month, and the transformation is exceptional. “It’s so nice, and I can’t believe how much room there is here. I can’t wait to see what it looks like when it’s completely done.”

The Brentwood Library, located at 104 Oak St., is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and is closed on Sunday. For more information, call 925-516-5290 or visit www.ccclib.org/locations/brentwood.html.