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The Alhambra Library: A Storied Past
By Glenn Barnett
Even before Alhambra became an incorporated city in 1903, plans were underway to include a public library. As early as 1886, meetings, discussions, and the collection of books were underway. When Alhambra High School opened in 1898, these books were housed in one of the school’s buildings.
In 1915, our first dedicated library opened. It was designed in the Beaux Arts Classicism style, which was popular for libraries at the time. The architect was Frederick Roehrig, who also designed the Hotel Green in Pasadena and several homes and buildings in the area.
The brand-new library featured thick brick-and-mortar walls, the insulation of its time. There was no need for air conditioning. The entrance to the library was on the north side, away from the sun. In the center of this northern face was a half flight of stairs that led inside to the librarian’s desk where books were checked in and out (by the 50s, there would be a late fee of 2 cents a day). To the right was a descending staircase that led to the children’s room on the right (where I spent many a Saturday) and the teenager’s room to the left.
Another stairway to the left of the librarian’s desk led upwards to the adult section. That space encompassed both sides of the library. Here, facing Main Street, was an open-air space with a high ceiling nearly the length of the building, with chairs and tables where readers could relax in the open air and view the San Gabriel Mountains in the shade.
Outside, to the south, was a small adjoining park that featured a lawn and park benches shaded by trees and shrubs. Two symmetrically placed lily ponds were set in the lawn to add a water feature.
The park was designed by a local landscape architect named Lloyd Wright, who is best known for designing the Wayfarers Chapel in Palos Verdes. His name has caused some confusion— his work is sometimes attributed to the famous Frank Lloyd Wright.
Regrettably, after an earthquake in the late 60s, the library was deemed unsafe and torn down in 1968 to make room for a “modern building.” The pleasant park became a parking lot. Today the beautiful third library is set in the Civic Center and remains dedicated to serving the public.
Thanks to the Alhambra Historical Society for their assistance with this article.
