Sunday, October 2, 2011

West Hollywood Library



Lately I’ve been feeling almost despondent about the failing economy and its effect on public libraries.  Not only are services being cut at a time when library usage is at an all-time high, but my students can’t find jobs when they graduate.

My spirits were lifted considerably yesterday, however, when I attended the grand opening of the new West Hollywood branch of the County of Los Angeles Public Library.  The two-story facility is beautiful but simple, with a magnificent view of West Hollywood and the Pacific Design Center directly across the street.  And two of my former students have just been hired there as permanent librarians, which for me was even more exciting than seeing the hundreds of people flooding into the new library!  It was a wonderful occasion and a perfect reminder of just how important public libraries continue to be to their communities.


The library (on the right) and Pacific Design Center across the street


Crowds rushing in



Interior: Decorative tree above and alongside the staircase


Interior: Wooden ceiling with curved features


Children's storytelling room (exterior made to look like a packing crate - fun!)


The view from the 2d floor interior: West Hollywood




Parking lot murals: Shepard Fairey (top) and Kenny Scharf (bottom)


Approaching the library from the south - Pacific Design Center reflected in the glass

P.S.  Too crowded to get photos, but two of my favorite parts of the new branch: the circulation desk has been replaced by self-checkout machines and a “customer service” desk, plus the librarians work at a desk that implores patrons to “ASK ME.”  Love it!

3 comments:

Oleg K. said...

Actually, the reference desk says "Ask Us".

I really like it and it's been very easy to refer to it as the "Ask Us" desk, which patrons seem to enjoy.

Cyn said...

Thanks for clarifying! I tried to take a photo so I would remember exactly what the desk said, but the library was so busy with enthusiastic crowds that I never got a good clean shot. ASK US makes much more sense. Either way, what a terrific way to engage the public.

tamara swift said...

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