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Here are fifteen things you never knew about early librarian Mary Foy!
The landmark Los Angeles Central Library opened to the public in July 1926. On January 29, 2026, to kick off the library's centennial year, a time capsule that was placed in the building's cornerstone during the original construction was unveiled to the public for the first time.
When Central Library opened in July 1926, the press spoke of lawns (east and west), a Grand Terrace, and Library Park. Today, we can see the beauty of the Maguire Gardens, but we no longer have a mental image of the Library's original landscaping. But what lovely and manicured spaces they were!
You no doubt know the names of the city's famous fictional private detectives—Philip Marlowe, Easy Rawlins, Jake Gittes—but let me introduce you to Mr. Samuel Wardlaw, Los Angeles Public Library's Special Investigator.
Los Angeles Public Library is celebrating 100 years of the Central Library, making this the perfect time to spotlight the exceptional librarians who have overseen this remarkable building and everything within: its collections, programs, services, and staff.
One of the Los Angeles Public Library's largest pieces of outdoor art can only be appreciated in photos now, after becoming a victim of Southern California's weather.
On March 13, 2000, the new, expanded Teen’Scape Department at the Central Library opened with great fanfare.
The first several decades of the Los Angeles Public Library's existence involved frequent moves into various rented spaces downtown.
Do you own a hat? I don’t mean a baseball cap—I mean a real, structured, leave-the-house-in-it hat. And how would you feel about wearing it... every single day?
It’s 2026, and here at the Library, we’re looking forward to commemorating 100 years of the Central Library. Dedicated in July 1926, the opening of this architectural icon was a milestone not only for the Library system but for the entire city.