Tucked between the bustling streets of Valley Glen and North Hollywood, you’ll find a treasure trove of stories. It’s the Valley Plaza Branch Los Angeles Public Library. Originally known as the Vanowen Park Branch, this library whispers tales of the San Fernando Valley’s growth. Valley Plaza Branch Los Angeles Public Library is part of the vast Los Angeles Public Library system. This system serves millions of people. It boasts over six million volumes.
The Los Angeles Public Library system, including the Valley Plaza Branch, traces its roots back to 1872. A group of book lovers formed the Los Angeles Library Association. The first library opened in the Downey Block. It housed about 750 books and featured reading rooms, chess tables, and even spittoons. Can you imagine? Women were initially excluded from the main reading room. However, a dedicated “Ladies Room” was later introduced. It offered magazines and comfortable seating.
In 1880, Mary Foy took the helm as the city’s first female head librarian. A champion of women’s suffrage, she tirelessly advocated for equal access to knowledge. Tessa Kelso, another influential figure, revolutionized the library. She abolished membership fees and opened the doors to children. Imagine the impact this had on the community.
The Valley Plaza Branch Los Angeles Public Library, like other branches, benefited from the city’s growth in the 1950s and 60s. A 1957 bond measure paved the way for new library constructions. This expansion reflected the population shift to the suburbs. The library witnessed the rise of bookmobiles. It even had one affectionately nicknamed “Little Toot,” inspired by a popular children’s book.
The Los Angeles Public Library system also faced challenges. The 1971 Sylmar Earthquake forced the closure of 26 branches. At Central Library, over 100,000 books tumbled from the shelves. But thanks to the dedication of volunteers, they were all back in place within a day. The Valley Plaza Branch Los Angeles Public Library likely felt the tremors of this quake. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the community. The library adapted to the digital age. In 1973, the Venice Branch introduced the first public access computer terminal in any library. This paved the way for the digital resources available today at the Valley Plaza Branch and other locations.
So, as you stand before the Valley Plaza Branch Los Angeles Public Library, remember its history. It’s more than just a building. It’s a gateway to knowledge, a community hub, and a living testament to the power of stories.