A brand new library. That’s what the East LA Public Library was in 2004. Thanks to Supervisor Gloria Molina it was built. It’s more than 26000 square feet. That’s almost double the old one.
The East LA Public Library stands proudly in the East Los Angeles Civic Center. It’s a vibrant hub. It’s home to the community. The library’s design reflects the area’s rich history. Mayan themes are woven into its fabric. The pavement at the entrances features the sun and the moon. These are key themes in Mayan art.
The East LA Public Library opened on May 1 1923. It began humbly in a corner of a local store. A small building followed three months later. The library moved several times over the years. In 1924 it was on Kern Avenue near Whittier Boulevard. Then in 1932 it relocated to 679 Fetterly Avenue. It stayed there for 35 years. Finally in 1967 it moved to its new building on the corner of Third and Fetterly.
Inside the East LA Public Library is Jose Antonio Aguirre’s monumental mosaic mural cycle. It’s called OUR LEGACY Forever Presente. The mural is a vibrant tribute. It celebrates East Los Angeles’ cultural heritage. It also highlights the area’s socio-political struggles.
The East LA Public Library isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament. It represents the resilience and cultural richness of East Los Angeles. It’s a place where history comes alive. It’s a place where the community gathers. It’s a place to learn grow and connect. This library isn’t just a building it’s a heart. The beating heart of East Los Angeles.