Pasadena Public Library marks 140th year with video

The Pasadena Public Library is celebrating 140 years of service with a retrospective video released Wednesday.

The “exclusive commemorative video presentation … explores its deep history and essential impact on the community,” according to a city statement. “The story of Pasadena Public Library is best told through the voices of the people of Pasadena Public Library. To share that story, library staff from every branch, along with Library Director, Tim McDonald, joined together to illustrate the growth and innovation of Pasadena Public Library’s past, present and future.”

The video is available for viewing on YouTube.

City officials highlighted the local library system’s on-site programs for all ages, access to printed books, periodicals, media and cloud-based eBooks and free Wi-Fi services, calling it “a lifelong learning center and cultural beacon for the greater Pasadena community.”

The key role of the Central Library was also emphasized as “the cornerstone” of the city’s library system that provides crucial support to nine branch libraries. In May 2021, the Central Library temporarily closed after a structural assessment revealed the building’s susceptibility to earthquake damage because of unreinforced masonry.

The $9 million earthquake retrofit funded by state grants is expected to complete and allow the library to reopen in 2028, according to the city. More information on the retrofit work and the Central Library is available on the city’s website.