LOS ANGELES CENTRAL LIBRARY: A History of its Art and Architecture

FREE and open to the public

Did you know visitors once entered the Central Library in downtown Los Angeles through a tunnel filled with artworks, or that the iconic murals in the rotunda (shown above) weren't there until 1932?

We, along with Angel City Press, invite you to discover the fascinating history of one of the world's most beautiful libraries.

Los Angeles Central Library, which opened to the public one hundred years ago this month, in July 1926, has survived fires and demolition threats but is today acknowledged as a cultural landmark.

Stephen Gee is a writer and television producer, cultural historian, and author of five books, including Los Angeles Central Library: A History of Its Art and Architecture, published by Angel Press.

The Library’s building, paintings, murals, sculptures, decor, and storied tile work are captured by the lens of renownedHollywoodphotographer and graphic designer Arnold Schwartzman. (not pictured)

Gee’s other works include Iconic Vision: John Parkinson, Architect of Los Angeles; Los Angeles City Hall: An American Icon; Paul R. Williams: Master Architects of Southern California, 1920–1940; and Driving Force: Automobiles and the New American City, 1900–1930.

Angel City Press was founded inLos Angelesin 1992 as an independent publisher of high-quality nonfiction books. Its first work, Hollywood du Jour, written by journalist Betty Goodwin, was the first illustrated book to document the recipes and histories of legendary Hollywood restaurants.

Since then, ACP has engaged more than 100 Southern California authors and published more than 135 books.

When its founders decided to retire, they chose to donate ACP to the Los Angeles Public Library to ensure that the essential stories of Los Angeles would continue to be told. The Library accepted the gift, creating Angel City Press at Los Angeles Public Library.

North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Library is a regional branch of the Los Angeles Public Library. It is located in the east San Fernando Valley at 5211 Tujunga Ave. in North Hollywood, California. Visit: https://www.lapl.org/branches/north-hollywood

Friends of the North Hollywood Library is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization of volunteers supporting the community through its public library. Our activities include presenting and sponsoring free public events such as this.

About This Event

There are no tickets for this free public event and a library card is not required to attend. Seating is limited and cannot be guaranteed so arrive early.

Books will be available to purchase directly from Angel City Press. Library copies of books by Mr. Gee will be available for LA Public Library card holders to borrow. You may bring personal copies of books for signing.

The event will be photographed.