What if books could talk? The Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch Library would narrate a century’s worth of stories.
This library first opened its doors in 1900. It began as the Pico Heights Delivery Station. The small storeroom stood at 1312 El Molino Street. In 1903, it became the Pico Heights Branch.
A bond issue passed. A new building was needed. Ground broke in May 1922. The location was at Oxford and Connecticut Avenue. The 2,800-square-foot library opened in October 1923. In 1926, it gained its official name. It honored Pio de Jesus Pico. He was the last governor of Mexican California.
Structural problems emerged. The historic building faced demolition in 1979. Bookmobile service filled the void. The branch found temporary space at 2631 W. Olympic Blvd. It occupied 2,300 square feet. Plans for a permanent home began.
Korean American patronage grew. By 1990, it exceeded 50%. Residents wanted a name change. The Board of Library Commissioners approved it. The library became the Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch. It preserved Spanish heritage. It acknowledged Koreatown’s presence.
A property exchange led to a new temporary facility. This marked an expanded library role. The “Libraries Online!” program aided the transformation. The branch became a “virtual electronic” library. Advanced technology arrived. Patrons gained electronic access to information. It created a library without walls.
Microsoft Corporation committed $3 million. It supported the Public Library Association. Los Angeles Public Library was a grant recipient. Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch shared $105,000. It also received $26,851 in software.
Patrons gained access to databases. These were like those in the Central Library. They could find indexes and articles. Resources spanned business, science, and general topics. Internet access opened the World Wide Web. The library offered its WEB Home Page.
The Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch is a 5,000-square-foot facility. It has air-conditioning and carpeting. It is accessible to the disabled. Electrical capacity increased. This supported modern technology. The library features an automated circulation system. A computerized catalog offers information about books. These books are available throughout the Los Angeles Public Library system.
Today, the Pio Pico – Koreatown Branch Library stands as a testament to community. It showcases adaptation. It embraces technology. It is a place where stories continue to unfold. The library remains a vital resource. It is open Monday and Wednesday from 10:00am to 8:00pm. Tuesday and Thursday hours are 12:00pm to 8:00pm. Friday and Saturday, it’s open 9:30am to 5:30pm. Remember it is closed on Sundays.