3 Cool Libraries
Today we're talking about 3 gorgeous libraries in LA that you *probably* don't know about! Stunning visuals ahead...
Over the past few months, I’ve become particularly obsessed with California architecture. And even more specifically … library architecture. Southern California holds some of the most beautifully designed libraries in the world, and I’m excited to share a glimpse inside 3 of them for you today - enjoy!
Central Library, Downtown Los Angeles
The flagship Central Library is the headquarters for the Los Angeles Public Library, which includes 72 branch libraries. The third largest central library in the nation, its subject departments contain more than 2.8 million books, 5,000 magazine subscriptions, more than 3 million photographs, 10 million digital access U.S. patents, plus language learning and multi-media materials. - LAPL.org
Year Opened: 1926
Designed by: Bertram Goodhue, a New York architect, built the original Central Library during the mid-1920s. It was the last project of Goodhue’s career. He died suddenly in 1924, and his associate Carleton Winslow took over supervision of construction, bringing the building to completion in 1926. However, this is truly just the beginning of the architectural story - read more HERE for the full rundown!
Primary Architectural Design: Art Deco
Why You Need to Visit: This library not only possesses stunning Art Deco design, but it also holds such a deep history for Los Angeles. This is the beginning of the library system in LA, the foundation! If you’re really feeling inspired and want to know even more about the library beyond what I shared above - I highly recommend reading The Library Book by Susan Orlean.
Altadena Main Library, Altadena
Year Opened: 1967
Designed by: Boyd Georgi
Primary Architectural Design Style: Mid-Century Modern
Why You Need to Visit: This library feels like it’s stuck in time, in the best way possible. Check out the gentleman I captured in pic #2 - his headphones and dinosaur PC computer really add to the aesthetic, HA! The exterior is also beautiful - this branch is located right off Santa Rosa Ave, otherwise known as Christmas Tree Lane: a 0.7-mile boulevard of deodar cedar trees in Altadena, California. The trees on the lane have been lighted annually as a Christmas Holiday display since 1920!
Central Library, Huntington Beach
Year Opened: 1975
Designed by: Richard & Dion Neutra. Shortly before the actual signing of the agreement, Richard Neutra passed away while on tour and his son, Dion, was retained to design the project.
Primary Architectural Design Style: Biorealist / Brutalist / Modernist
Why You Need to Visit: Richard Neutra is a California architecture icon (more on him in a future newsletter) and his designs are so inspiring to visit and explore. This library design is special - plants are woven so naturally into the space, you feel like you’re outside. Students and young professionals work from elevated platforms that feel like they’re hovering in the sky. This place is really quite magical and brought tears to my eyes when I walked in! There are a lot of fun surprises, so I encourage you to walk through every nook and cranny.
Pretty neat stuff, huh? Send me a reply with your favorite library of the three and why! And of course … be sure to subscribe and share my newsletter :) see you next week!