KJZZ is a service of Rio Salado College,
and Maricopa Community Colleges

Copyright © 2026 KJZZ/Rio Salado College/MCCCD
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Vote for a new name for former Cesar Chavez Library branch in Phoenix

Yellow letters read "Phoenix Public Library Cesar Chavez Branch" on black sign on beige brick wall
Sky Schaudt
/
KJZZ
The Cesar Chavez Library in Laveen on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

A renaming process is underway for the former Cesar Chavez Library in Laveen. The Phoenix Public Library is asking for community input.

The public library is temporarily named the Library in Laveen following Phoenix City Council action in March to remove the name of the late, now-disgraced labor leader from facilities, properties and more.

A New York Times investigation revealed allegations of sexual abuse of women and minors by Cesar Chavez.

The library renaming will follow the practice of selecting names associated with the native flora of Arizona as established by the Library Advisory Board in 1963.

People can vote online until May 15 and choose from the following names:

  • Chaparral
  • Creosote
  • Manzanita
  • Prickly Pear
  • Senita

The top names will be presented to the Library Advisory Board, and the City Council will receive a final recommendation before the end of June.

Ignacio Ventura is a reporter for KJZZ. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in creative writing and a minor in news media and society.
Related Content