Considering a community book station established in 1930? That was the humble beginning of what we now know as the Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library.
The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library has a fascinating history. Initially known as the Shenandoah Station, it operated out of rented space on Pico Boulevard. It quickly became a beloved fixture. By the early 1940s, it was the fourth most circulated library in the LAPL system.
World War II brought challenges. Sharp rent increases and limited library funds forced it to relocate. It moved to Canfield Avenue Elementary School and was later replaced by a bookmobile stop. The community rallied. The editor of the Pico Post newspaper led the charge. They pushed for a dedicated branch facility.
In 1951, their efforts paid off. A lot was purchased for a new building. On April 1, 1953, the $89000 Robertson Branch Library opened. The local Lions Club sponsored a brief ceremony. The Mayor of Los Angeles and other prominent officials attended.
The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library was an instant hit. Circulation jumped from 800 books per day at the book stop to 1300 at the new building. By 1959, the branch circulated 2000 books daily. The community’s growing needs soon outstripped the facility’s capacity.
Proposition #1 changed everything. The 1989 Library Bond issue provided funds for a new building. Designed by Steven D. Ehrlich, the new Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library opened. It doubled the space of the 1953 structure. The building is 10000 square feet. It became fully accessible to the disabled with air conditioning and carpeting. There are reading areas for children and teens. A computer training room was created. A multi-purpose room hosts library and community programs.
The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library boasts a bold exterior. It resembles the hull of an ocean liner. This structure soars above the two-story building. It creates an attractive contrast. Exposed wood beams support the roof. A sloping clerestory and round skylights invite natural light. A peak-a-boo portal window adds a playful touch.
Steven Ehrlich’s design earned him the 1997 Award for Design Excellence in Architecture. The Los Angeles City Cultural Affairs Commission presented the award. The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library also became a virtual electronic library. It provides access to over 500 databases. It features a homework center. The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library has computers and software for reading, math, and study skills.
Today, the Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library continues to serve its community. It offers resources like a neighborhood science kit. They also provide book bundles. The library features Spanish and Persian language collections. Toddler storytime is a regular event. Student Zones are after-school homework centers for grades K-12. Adult tutoring is available for internet searches. The Robertson Branch Los Angeles Public Library is more than just a building. It’s a vibrant hub of learning. It’s a place where the community comes together.