A Long History
When the Vermont Square Branch Library opened for the first time on the morning of March 1, 1913, it was described as luxurious by those who turned out for the grand opening. The library was built by the City of Los Angeles with a grant from the Carnegie Foundation, and it’s the oldest building both owned and operated by the Los Angeles Public Library.
Changing Times
The library received a motion picture projection machine in July of 1917, and enthusiastic crowds started filling the library’s auditorium for each film screening. Naturally both world wars brought drastic changes to every day life at the library. World War I saw the library host many committees and clubs and even soldier send-off events. During World War II, the library was equipped for blackouts and possible air raids. Additionally, they became a designated air raid shelter and a Red Cross Casualty Center.
Renewal and Revival
In the early 1990s, the building had to be closed for renovations and repairs while also facing the real possibility of being closed permanently due to aging conditions. However, a strong community outcry was successful in saving the historic Carnegie building. A large renovation and restoration program oversaw the reinforcement of the structure of the building to better protect against earthquakes. Plus, they transformed the auditorium into a multipurpose room for community and library events.
Join the Community
The Vermont Square Branch Library has been a home to all literature lovers in the L.A. County community for the past 111 years. Hopefully, it will continue to do so for another 111 years. You can read more about the Vermont Square Branch Library and find out about their upcoming events on their website here.
Call: 323-290-7405
Location: 1201 W. 48th. Street, Los Angeles, CA 90037