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and will be closed on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in observance of Christmas.

history department

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Gertrude E. Darlow (1864-1949) surrounded by some of the books she reviewed
Tiffney Sanford, March 27, 2023

When Gertrude Darlow joined the Los Angeles Public Library in October 1893, there were less than twenty employees. During her thirty-plus years with the library, she worked under seven City Librarians, including legends such as Tessa Kelso, Mary L.


Inside of a medieval church, close-up of a church sanctuary
Bob Timmermann, October 03, 2022

What comes to mind when the phrase “Middle Ages” comes up? You probably think of stories of knights in armor jousting. Or sitting through a history class where someone tried to teach you about the feudal system. Or some horrific forms of medical treatment or criminal punishment.


Fort Moore Pioneer Memorial opening day
Kelly Wallace, July 09, 2019

It’s been over forty years, but the water is flowing again at the Fort Moore Pioneer Memorial.


Eleanor Brodie Jones in front of the Hollywood Branch Library
Tiffney Sanford, March 21, 2019

Since 1872 the Los Angeles Public Library has been home to some very interesting librarians. This is the first of an occasional series highlighting these fascinating people, many of whom are little known but had a role in the history of the city, connecting people with ideas, information, and resources.


Jubilant participants during the 1987 Save the Books telethon.
Sheryn Morris, September 28, 2018

In retrospect, it is ironic that the fire took place when it did: April 29, 1986. On that day, progress was quietly continuing with plans for a renovation of the original Central Library and a new multi-level addition.


Glen Creason and his daughter Katya celebrate the re-opening of Central Library on a closed-off 5th Street
Glen Creason, September 25, 2018

The day my own dear Central Library reopened I got my name in the L.A. Times which elicited ragging from pals around the city.


Janos Xantus in front of his sketch from his journal
Nicholas Beyelia, September 25, 2018

A number of travelogues have been written about Los Angeles throughout the decades with a myriad of opinions on the cultural and social climate of the city. The City of Angels has been both praised and reviled in equal measures, but there is no question that it always leaves a lasting impression.


vintage postcard of central library
Glen Creason, April 28, 2018

"It happened in New York, April 10th, nineteen years ago. Even my hand balks at the date. I had to push to write it down, just to keep the pen moving on the paper.


graphic of chocolates in a heart box, raw chocolate and stacked chocolate candies in wrappers
Kelly Wallace, February 14, 2018

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.” ―Charles M. Schulz.


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