Wow- is the building almost 100 years old? Built / opened in 1927, when walking into the building, it feels like you have stepped back in time. Many nearby libraries have undergone major renovations and if you are a fan of older buildings, this would be a place to visit. Within 10 or so steps you can easily find yourself on the next floor - there are 4 floors altogether and the main floor is the 2nd floor. (+) free 3 hour parking (+) reasonable amount of seating in certain areas. Not as much seating amongst books. (+) decent variety of magazines There seems to be constant complaints of the homeless population, but this is typical of any city library. As long as they are respectful, I am OK with that. I hate to rate a public resource low or average, but the experience was mediocre at best. The stairs are very industrial-like and loud and the carpet looks like it could be cleaned. With all the taxes the city of Pasadena collects, there should be more done to preserve its charm. read more

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Three years for a retrofit?? Seriously hope tax dollars aren't going to this place considering they have been closed for 2 years and aren't scheduled to be open until end of 2023. When it was open the building was cool and a great place to study. Security guard was on a power trip and spent his time telling people to put their water bottles away instead of dealing with the homeless that were sleeping there or causing a ruckus. Why was this person not fired is beyond me. City of Pasadena needs new leadership if it takes 3 years for a retrofit. Ridiculous and poorly run--play it again sam welcome to LA --land of the incompetent. read more

The Service: Unfriendly staffs. No smile. When I asked them for direction... it seems like I am "disturbing" their time? The Library: Very unique library. Huge! Very historic look inside. Many different rooms/sections... it gets confusing? Never seen so many homeless inside the library.... they brought their bags and blanket to the library... and taking naps. Some people even using cell phone but no staff doing anything about it. The Parking: Private parking lot. 3 hours limit. free. but always packed. read more

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I had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Connelly on his book tour a few weeks ago at the central branch of the Pasadena Public Library. It was a fantastic event with hundreds of people in the audience. I was impressed with both the set-up and the library itself, which was spacious and beautiful. Between the event space, the signing area, and the back office where we hung out before the interview, I feel like I saw a lot of the library. It was a gorgeous building, with the sort of architecture and atmosphere I always want from an old, dignified library. I worked in two branches of the L.A. Public Library system when I was in high school, and I enjoyed spending time in the office area. I feel like this library is more organized than the branches I worked at, no shade to them. I also liked the staff here. They were all super nice, and very happy to have us (me and Michael Connelly equally, I'm sure). I don't know how often the Central Library hosts events, but keep an eye out because sometimes the Friends of the Pasadena Public Library helps them put together a good show. You can also join or donate to that organization if you want to see more authors come by. read more

10/13/2017 Thanks to Pasadena Art Night, I got to see this place for the first time. Definitely "old". Love the architecture. Humongous library!! You could get lost!! SO MANY places to sit so that you can do your homework/paperwork/study/relax/read! LOVE IT!!! I wish it was near my home, then for sure I would visit it often. LARGE DVD selection. FREE WIFI!! Since it was Pasadena Art Night, there were some works of art on display. We couldn't stay as long as we would have liked because some alarm came on and everyone had to leave. read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

Old school since 1927. Nothing beats going into a classic old historic library. The interior is so inviting it just makes you want to sit and relax for hours while you read a book and forget about the rat race outside. read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Hot summer day - cool inside - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

Central Library has so much to offer to the community. I was quite surprised when browsing the children's calendar to see they offered free ukulele lessons for one month with performance. They also loan the instrument with your library card. I was further surprised to learn they did a similar program with guitars earlier in the year. I really appreciate they access they are creating for youth to music, art, and technology (3D printing, Sewing Machine, Virtual Reality Headset, and more). The location is a beautiful old building that is well kept. It has plenty of room for individuals to utilize the free WiFi, or just get out of the cold/heat. There are some homeless who come to the library for some relief from the weather I imagine but there have never been any problems on the many occasions I visited. I highly recommend checking out this library. They have so much more available than I mentioned. read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Ukelele program flyer - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

They have public computers and lovely knowledgeable staff! They have video games and movies to rent too! Big working area for tables and located just across the street from Cal Tech! read more

I have been having wifi issues at my apartment, so I've been coming to the library to get some work done. I have really only spent time in the huge room with the large-ish tables, so my review will be based on that area alone. Pros: - outlets and trashcans on the floor at the end of each tables - bathrooms close by/on the same floor - free wifi!!!!!! - no need for library card to use the tables - food and drinks allowed at the tables as far as I can tell - people who work here are very friendly - super clean, including the bathrooms - pretty good weekday hours Cons: - it's not quiet, so if you're doing hardcore studying, this might not be the place for you. They sometimes have events in the auditorium attached to the big room and you can basically hear everything that goes on in there. There is also a lot of talking at the front desk. The room is built more for aesthetics and not sound control (there is no sound proofing here and the sound travels) - LOTS of foot traffic and people walking around ALL THE TIME And just a note: there are many homeless individuals using the library as a place to sleep/escape the elements/wash up, so a couple of the tables are taken up by them. It's not a huge deal because they don't bother anyone. Plus, I don't pay to use the library's resources either, so I can't complain otherwise I'd be a hypocrite :) read more

One of the first things I do when I move to a new city is get a library card. Why? Well, I love reading, but I also love free stuff (probably even more than I like reading). This is a nice, big, beautiful library and I'm thankful to be a member! They've got a great selection and also transfer books from Glendale (but not the rest of LA)--I've always been able to find what I need and put it on hold online. I also love that their hold section is self serve, so I can pop in, grab the book that's waiting for me, check it out myself, and be on my way. The staff here is always friendly and helpful, plus they have free events for the community. Win-win! Docking a star because I once had my wallet stolen here--not totally the library's fault, but I'll always have that extremely inconvenient day burned into my memory. The restrooms can also sometimes be a little gross. Definitely shouldn't stop you from getting a card and frequenting this place if you're a Pasadena resident, just worth noting! read more

I was bit by fleas or something, on the ankles. Was wearing long pants, sock & shoes, not sockless with sandals. So beware. Otherwise, super-lovely place. read more

This library is the biggest and most impressive, architecturally, in the San Gabriel Valley. I think the only bigger library is the LA Central Library. You have to walk through the facility at least once if you reside in the area. It's a short walk from the Memorial Park Gold Line Station. Walking through the doors and quaint plazas always does something positive to my step and mood. Tons of media to browse through as well, which is why you should be going but you can find amusement and awe simply by appreciating the architecture. Best public utility in the area. read more

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I usually go this library to study because this one is the closest one from my house. Overall, this place is amazing but too many homeless are there and some homeless make me feel unsafe. One day, police arrested homeless inside of library and ,at the same time, there was an event for children. I don't know why police arrested him but I felt really unsafe for me and children. I need to find other place to study.. read more

As a person who thinks library is a sanctuary having quiet atmosphere with neatly arranged books, no dust, thinly sunlight getting into through the small window not to spoil the books people cherish, l really like to come to the library. The librarian always mentioned as an angel to the children to teach and guide and have mercy in the story books displayed in the library. Especially this histrionic building is enough to get people's heart with their charm and elegance. However I feel uncomfortable as I visit the book sale event which held every month. It's more like a market place rather than a sanctuary. Sharp eyes suspect and their voice raised when people bring their books on the register table. People hopping nice unharmed chat while they paying the bills, argue the price and no mercy. Actually people wake up early to hunt the treasure in a junk while others visiting nice restaurant for brunch with friends and family on Saturday morning, loving books and enjoying find little books for only few bucks. I mean they are not rich. There's no need to be arrogant on their sad few cents books. I reluctantly come over feeling like I am coming to the hell. read more

I can't say enough about this beautiful library. Spacious, quiet, and plenty of nooks and crannies to tuck yourself away so you can focus on your task at hand. The children's library is lovely, with helpful staff to assist your young one with finding appropriate resources for projects and special interests. The architecture is stunning, a perfect setting in the beautiful city of Pasadena. So if you feel like taking a break from reading or studying, wander around and look at all the detail. Shouldn't be missed. Ample parking in the back (free). A nice coffee bar out front, and a used book sale area if you are looking to take something home to keep for cheap. Staff is wonderful, resourceful, and super helpful. Enjoy your time here, it's guaranteed to be quiet. read more

Don't sit next to "staff only" in the mystery section if you need to study unless you don't mind never ending loud conversations. Wonderful library convenient 7 days a week business hours. Fast Internet, modern computers, printers respectful staff. read more

Great kids room! Absolutely gorgeous building! Love this library so much! A lot of history in tho build itself, lots of "hidden" places to study and focus. read more

This is a nice library but security sucks. I was walking around listening to music on my headphones and I was quietly reciting song lyrics to myself. I walked back to my seat, then about 10 minutes later the security guard approached me and said that there was a mother that complained that I said something around her kids. I never said anything to anyone's kids, I didn't even notice a family there. I was just wired into my headphones listening to music minding my own business. It was a complete misunderstanding, and the security guard was giving me an attitude. So damn rude. I recommend going to a different library. Do not waste your time here. read more

I've been on a library kick of a late and the Pasadena Main Library was my latest stop. This place has that post 80's "The Paper Chase" vibe, being that it feels like a law library. It's ornate without being gaudy and restrained like it should be in Pasadena. This is the old money library of the public libraries. Positives of this place. There is free parking and they're open on Sunday's from 1pm to 5pm. There's a coffee shop in the front courtyard where it looks quite pleasant if it wasn't 100 degrees. The main hall has a series of tables lined up with the old timey lights like it was taken out of the set of a Ivy League school. On other side of the main desk are door ways that lead to the stacks which is also where the stairs are located. This place has a lot of tables on the second floor which is where you enter and up on the fourth floor which is split between a study hall area and the teen literature area. There are conference room tables on the fourth floor. Back on the second floor, there is also a section for kids and a computer room. Negatives, the restrooms are disgusting. I guess it's a public library. It seems like there are only two restrooms that I can see in the whole space. I wish there were more tables on the other floors, but mostly it's just stacks. People have found corners to sit on the ground and study, but it didn't suit my needs. However, with regards to all the public libraries in this city, this was one of the better ones. read more

Pasadena's main library is no ordinary library. Dedicated in 1927, the library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's located across from City Hall and has its own parking lot, courtyard with a fountain, coffeehouse (closed on weekends), bookshop, and large auditorium. There are various quiet reading rooms, high ceilings and long communal wood tables. It's open daily. The interior resembles a university library with plenty of dark wood and it's equally quiet. I've never encountered such a quiet, serious public library. People barely speak (not even to whisper). I didn't encounter screaming children. The air conditioning is marvelous and there are plenty of power outlets. The creaky old wood chairs aren't the most comfortable for long periods of camping though. There's a fancy DVD dispensing machine (similar to Redbox) where you request what's available from the nearby computer and pick it up at the machine. The original Pasadena main library was founded in 1882. You'll find a model of it in the current library and the original library arch in Memorial Park. This review was inspired by Brian S. read more

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What an enormous library! You could easily get lost in here. The main hall reminds me of the Monsters University library and there are many corridors specialization in different categories. One thing that is different at this library is that all their dvd's are separated by age. Most Disney cartoons are in the children's section, old school black and white movies and documentaries are in the adults, and the remaining in the young adults. Enjoy! read more

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Beautiful library with rich history. Took the self-guided tour and loved it. Great gift shop, friendly staff. We had read "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean, and thought it would be interesting to see. So glad we stopped!! read more

This was a beautiful place. Pretty sure I have seen it in several movies! It is old, and has character! There is a children's section that is well stocked, and a cute little cafe, and outside patio seating which I think will be wonderful towards the cooler months. I went there to sit with a friend while they studied, I just walked around and marveled at everything! My only suggestion: The TABLES in the main room, get moved the OTHER way, as you could FIT MORE rows in there, because the tables are TRULY LACKING in SPACE, and often there are NO SEATS. read more

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Beautiful exterior! Once you enter the library though, it's quite the sharp contrast. The interior is old, kinda dusty and musty, and has the feel that it's deeply in need of renovation or a thorough cleaning. Definitely feels decades behind the nicer libraries in the area. What I really appreciate though is that there is a much larger selection than I have found in neighboring libraries (Alhambra, Temple City, Arcadia, etc.). There have been a couple of books that I've been scouring other libraries for, and was happily surprised to see a couple copies of them here at the Pasadena Library! The people that work here are also really really friendly and helpful! This library gets really packed! When I came by on a weekday around 4pm, all the seats were taken. The musty dark vibe of the library would def not be my first choice to study/read, but it somehow is a lot of other people's! So if you wanna come here to be productive, I'd advise you to come earlier to stake out your territory! read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Exterior - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

Ahhh who doesn't like the smell of books? I usually end up asking someone that every time I'm here. They seem to think it's a rhetorical question and they just smile but, really, I'd like to know. :) This is a nice, peaceful library and it has a lot of great programs for the community. There's a lot more to the library than just books! So many resources that people of all ages can take advantage of. We're lucky to have such a wonderful one in our neighborhood. I talked to a couple other moms at the library about maybe starting a daily book club/wine tasting afternoon here. I know there might be some regulations about that but if we put our heads together, we can accomplish anything! That's why libraries teach you. read more

New York Public Library, I can't quit you. Ever since we made each other's acquaintance last May, I've searched Los Angeles in vain for a place that could elicit the sense of awe I had walking the halls of such a temple to learning. LA Central Library blows - despite its architectural flourishes, it's AnyLibrary USA with a clunky annex. Pasadena Public Library is what would happen if NYPL took a crap at 285 E Walnut Street, and I write that with sincere affection because it's (smaller but) beautiful. I felt like a kid in a candy store walking around and discovering the space, so many different rooms and moods, and lots of windows and light! As Yelped previously, they've got parking, study areas open to food and drink, wi-fi, a patio, and the prerequisite god-awful library bathrooms. It's a drive for me but if you're new to Pasadena area and/or looking for a free local hangout to go, you know, learn, stop in. read more

I seriously can't believe it took me this long to discover this amazing library. Even though during my 1st visit, I couldn't spend that much time there but I'm super excited to return to discover all the nooks and crannies of this place. Getting a library card was way easy (don't even have to fill out a form): just bring a photo ID and the staff will help you take care of everything. I'm amazed that the hours are still so extensive even with all the budget cuts around all the other local libraries. Another reason why I love Pasadena! Free 2 hour parking in a lot behind the library, and plenty of metered street parking. read more

This is one of the nicest library building i have ever been to. It kind of feels like a harry potter building. It looks like a vintage library but some stuff here are still new. It's a great place to study because they are really strict on being quiet. They have many different rooms to enter. There is an outside patio. There are computers for you to use. The workers are very friendly. read more

Exquisite building. Step in and you seem to travel back in time. The boys enjoy doing home work here. I Absolutely love the courtyard for a coffee brake. The rest rooms unfortunately are filthy and regularly smell of smoke. read more

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In college, I spent time at the library...once. This was in my third year. And it was to check out a book on dirty limericks. My card was never used, and I couldn't be found in their system. So I didn't hold libraries close to my heart due to this embarrassing incident. Fast forward x amount of years... ...Now that I go to a library because I WANT to, the Pasadena location is my favorite. This was also the first library I came to when I moved to Los Angeles. This older building makes me think I'm in a much more prestigious place than where I actually was during those school years. While I've been away from Pasadena for so long, I've since joined up with the Burbank location on Buena Vista, the Santa Monica Central Library and the West Hollywood one, library slut I've become. True, the West Hollywood location is part of the County of Los Angeles chain, which means there are a ton of locations to pull materials from, but the Pasadena one still seems to satisfy every visit. I feel everything I've looked for can actually be found here, and I don't have to wait for it to come in from a different branch. I even spent a couple hours in the lower level 'basement' where there are some slightly outdated periodicals.* Parking: I used to have the privilege of walking here but now as a commuter, they have a lot off Garfield Ave. where you enter through the back of the library. I had to go around a couple of times on a weekday afternoon looking for a spot but it was nothing compared to most places, even though it's finals week for the local schools. I think it's 3 hours free but I'd check just to make sure. *Bonus: I was also searching for a very specific article, and had to browse through several copies of People. I checked a neighboring magazine bin just to make sure it wasn't misplaced by accident, and lo and behold...the one issue I needed was in there. Even misplaced, this places has the largest selection I have seen. Score! read more

SOMEBODY SMOKED MARIJUANA IN THE RESTROOM!!!! First time here and will not come again. The tables and the floor are quite dirty especially the big open space where the front desk is at. read more

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The Pasadena Public Library is a beautiful building. It has an incredible selection of books and a very peaceful atmosphere. I visit the library frequently to study on nights and weekends. Pros: The book selection is absolutely massive (there are three floors). There are several study areas which tend to be quiet but it really depends on the section you are in. The top floor is more of a tutoring floor and there is lots of talking. The first floor lobby allows talking but if you walk back a little further towards the West side of the library you will find peaceful, beautiful study sections where talking is not allowed. They have a free limitless parking lot right behind the library and free Wifi. Cons: They close for all government holidays as well as the day or two before the holiday if it is on a Monday. There is a large homeless population in Pasadena and a lot of the homeless people do come here to sleep. Tips: Do not pay to park on the street - drive around and you will find the free parking lot. If it is a holiday weekend definitely call in advance. Arrive early in the morning to claim a parking spot and study section by yourself. Towards the afternoon on weekends the library will become very full so be prepared to share your table! read more

Do people go to libraries any more? I wonder. Especially in the age of the Internet, all the answers are on Google and Yelp! When I was growing up, I loved this library. I bugged my mom to take me here all the time! The cork floors and spacious rooms made reading feel grand! And it was here where I learned basic research skills, from the DDC (Dewey Decimal Classification) to microfiche. These days, whenever I visit the library I find myself enjoying that stale library smell... maybe it's nostalgia or maybe I'm just weird! Tips: Starbucks and Wi-Fi are played out. Visit your local library! read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Central Branch - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

I first visited this library for a STEAM Fair, which was organized pretty well. The "Great Hall" area was really nice. The whole library itself makes me feel like I'm in Hogwarts from Harry Potter. The building seems to have this historical presence. I was able to get a library card from here, even though I'm not a resident of Pasadena. I'll probably be utilizing the online materials the most which is awesome! read more

This is, one of the most beautiful libraries I've ever seen. Cork floors. Marble. Wrought iron. If you're not a creep in a trench coat, go into the children's section. There's a beautiful fireplace in there. We have been there for 'Storytime' The storyteller gave me chills, she was so good. Bring your own hand sanitizer. It's a PUBLIC library, for goodness sake. Thank God America has so many PUBLIC libraries. They can be a refuge for the homeless and out-of-luck. Read eveyone else's comments on parking, be patient, something will open up. read more

My experience with the Pasadena Library has always been a good one. There are always tables available to sit and study, Or plug in your laptop. The front half of the library is definitely from another time with dark wood and wainscoting throughout, I just know there has to be a secret panel to hidden tunnels somewhere. The back half of the library is an odd 1960s addition, Which kind of feels modular and temporary. Like a mobile home. Overall, I love this library and I'm grateful to be able to use its services. read more

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I love to study and work here. You can get free wireless if you get a library card. The building is gorgeous and there are lots of floors with different little areas you can find to read or study. They have a main floor study area with electrical outlets (you have to seek them out at the foot of the large tables). Every now and then you get a homeless crazy coming through, but I guess everyone loves the library :) read more

What is there not to love about an original Carnegie building. It's big, over the top, and beautiful. I love coming here not for the service, but for the building. I am in love with the Children's Room because it has the old-time vibe, but, at the same time, it's not inviting. In fact, the whole Library could use better lighting, but that would ruin the atmosphere that many are attracted to. I was kind of surprised with the fact that they moved the teen area, which was in a small alcove, to the fourth floor. Either they are trying to keep the teens secluded from the rest of the Library or just provide a space because they don't have a lot of teen patrons. Their AV collection is really mediocre so don't expect to find the latest and greatest here. They do have a good selection of graphic novels and manga. The elevators are a little scary so I generally take the stairs. There is definitely plenty of space to study and computers to use so that is a plus. Also, the computers are in one area with printers nearby so that's great. However, it does get smelly down there in the summer so beware. They do have a cafe that patrons can purchase drinks and read a book on their patio, which modern libraries are trying to incorporate in their space. I was totally impressed when I learned that PPL is now in the cloud, which is awesome. Another great aspect of this system is that it has a cooperative with Glendale Public Library so Glendale and Pasadena users can use their library cards at any of their locations. All in all, this is a beautiful building and it serves a very large community very well. read more

I moved to Pasadena in 2004 with my mom; while I was a kid. This has been my favorite library ever since! I've lived in other cities and I would always come to this library. It's huge!! The staff is very friendly. I LOVE this library. I'm a mom now, and I bring my kids here when I can. This is the best library in SoCal, hands down. There is a homeless population that tends to sleep in certain areas; but the security is cool. And there's a police station right across the street; so I've always felt safe here. They are also very generous with their computer time. You get 60 minutes and sometimes they'll extend it if you're working on an important project. WiFi is always amazing - no issues. read more

This place is closed due to unsafe conditions in the event of an earthquake don't come here they need to update this yelp