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Pasadena Public Library - Central Library

A historic Pasadena landmark, the Central Library, designed in Mediterranean Revival style, has been a community hub since 1927. Currently closed for seismic upgrades.

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The Pasadena Public Library's Central Library, a landmark in Pasadena's Civic Center, has served the community since 1927. Designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, it features a courtyard, fountain, and stucco exterior. Currently closed for seismic retrofitting, it remains a treasured historical and architectural icon.

A brief summary to Pasadena Public Library-Central Library

Local tips

  • While the Central Library is closed, visit one of Pasadena's branch libraries for in-person services.
  • Explore the Pasadena Public Library's numerous digital resources, available 24/7, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services.
  • Check the Pasadena Public Library's website for updates on the Central Library's renovation progress and reopening plans.
  • Attend programs and events at other Pasadena Public Library branches.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pasadena City Hall, walk approximately 0.2 miles east on Walnut Street. The Pasadena Public Library will be on your left. No costs are associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    Pasadena Transit offers several routes that stop near the Central Library. Use the Pasadena Transit Route 20 which makes a loop around downtown Pasadena and connects to four Metro A Line stations. Alternatively, Pasadena Transit Route 40 connects Caltech and Pasadena City College to Old Pasadena, the Civic Center District, and Playhouse Village. The fare is $0.75 for adults, $0.50 for youth (K-12), and $0.35 for seniors (60+) and disabled riders. Transfers to other Pasadena Transit routes are free within 2.5 hours when using a TAP card. A TAP card costs $2.

  • Driving

    From the 210 Freeway, exit on Lake Avenue and head south. Turn left onto Walnut Street. The library will be on your right. Limited parking is available in the library's parking lot. Several parking garages are also located nearby, including the Plaza Las Fuentes Garage at 449 E. Union St. and the Courtyard Marriott Pasadena Old Town Garage at 171 N. Raymond Ave. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about Pasadena Public Library-Central Library

The Pasadena Public Library's Central Library, located at 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena, stands as a pillar of the city's Civic Center. Since its dedication on Lincoln's birthday, February 12, 1927, the library has been a vital resource for the community. Designed by Myron Hunt and H.C. Chambers, the building exemplifies Mediterranean Revival architecture, characterized by its walled entrance courtyard with a central fountain, red clay tile roofs, and stucco exteriors adorned with cast stone trim. The library's history dates back to 1882 when Abbott Kinney started the Pasadena Library and Village Improvement Society. The first library opened in 1884 and moved to larger locations in 1886 and 1890 before the Central Library was constructed. The Central Library is the third building that the Library has occupied since its founding in 1882. In its early days, community members supported the library by purchasing shares for as little as $5. In 2021, a structural assessment revealed that the Central Library is comprised of unreinforced masonry and requires a seismic upgrade. As a result, the library is currently closed for seismic retrofitting, with renovation set to begin in 2025 and projected completion in 2028. During the closure, library services and resources are still available at branch locations and online. The Central Library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it has been featured in major motion pictures. The building underwent a historically sensitive restoration and renovation between 1984 and 1990. The Pasadena Public Library Foundation has been instrumental in raising funds for the library's preservation.

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