Altadena Library - Altadena, California

Andrew S.

This has to be the most charming, lovely just treasure of a library. It's on the smaller side of the libraries out there but it's so pretty and everyone who works there is so freaking nice. The selection of options is also pretty lovely. 10/10 I go to this place all the time.

Bryan M.

SO impressed by the care at this library creating a place that feels warm, creative and alive - like a giant living room.

🪴 LOVE all the big green indoor plants... makes the library feel happy, not sterile. Whoever takes care of them, you really have a green thumb!

🪶 LOVE the Native American educational displays: Display case along the window had great info on local efforts for Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa land conservancy, Haramokngna American Indian Cultural Center up Hwy 2 in the Angeles National Forest, original names of animals and tribal places in local language. Would love to know who created the exhibit. 👏🏽 Also the Native topics book display.

LOVE the creative kits available for check out: 🌲Hiking backpacks filled with trail guides, Gabrielino-Tongva dictionary, CA state park pass... 🎥 Camera/video equipment, 🐝Native bees flash cards... 👻 Even a ghost hunting bag with Ouija board (🙅🏻‍♂️ no thanks, not touching that)...

🌈 LOVE the LGBTQ+, BIPOC representation of materials, titles, faces, imagery.

🖼️🎨🎭👩🏿‍🎨🪇🎸 LOVE the creative programming, arts, sculptures, concerts, crafts you offer.

Agree with others: Librarians, please nicely remind loud talkers (often adults) to keep a respectful volume and no phone conversations. We as patrons can't ask them to if you don't.

✨ Thank you to the library staff and leadership who clearly are keeping the Altadena Library system relevant, diverse & inclusive in the 21st century but in a human, cozy, creative and progressive way.

Whereas so many libraries are sterile with modern updates or languishing in the past, You've achieved a wonderful blend of warmth and modern tech in a colorful, inviting environment and tons of engaging materials.

And of course the setting in mature trees, with boardwalks and cool architecture is just great. Going to be working from here more often!

(Also emailed these comments to the library)

POST B.

Update: now I'm hearing the library did NOT get destroyed by fire

1/9/25 unable to confirm but I just read in what seems to be a reliable source that the altadena library has been DESTROYED by the wildfire 🔥 . If so, very sad and tragic. Condolences. I was just there for most of the day on New Year's Eve day .

Jessica H.

Great for kids and families! The open and inviting children's area is filled with books, toys, computers, and activities that are great for young kids. Plus, Altadena Library constantly holds wonderful family and child-focused events that are fun and engaging. This library is a wonderful community resource!

Helga M.

I come here nearly everyday whenever I visit the Altadena area in California. I so love visiting and hanging out at libraries, especially the local, neighborhood ones. This is such a cool place, with an atrium that lets natural light in. Beautiful walkway, too. Everyone is helpful. I love coming to this place. Serene, spacious, special.

V V.

I really enjoy going to these library. It's clean and peaceful for the most part. The Staff is friendly and helpful. I just wished they enforced people being quiet in the adult section or putting phone on silence because some people dobt have consideration for the quiet zone and answer their phone and even put their callers on speaker. However, overall this is a great place to find great books and the kids section is really nice.

Brian G.

Love the convenience of this local library. They are NOT plugged into the county library system so their resources can be a bit limited. Still, they strive to provide you with whatever materials they can. Incredible friendly staff and a wonderful community room.

Lots of parking. Late hours (that alternate frequently! Look before you go!)

Giving the experience only 3 stars because of the regular homeless presence on the grounds can make the place feel tense, unpredictable and unsanitary.

The library has a robust children's events calendar and incredible community involvement. Which can be a negative if you're hoping for a quiet library experience - the open floor plan means you can hear the often noisy children's section from anywhere in the library.

Avoid children's events and you're likely to find a pleasant atmosphere and a well maintained library fill of wonderfully displayed materials and comfortable spots to enjoy them.

Nathan J. S.

pretty cool spot. I paid a visit because I had been told that it was a local architectural marvel. in reality, I found it to be rather understated, with a style clearly influenced by those found in japan. going inside the building, there was ample sunlight streaming in at all sides, and a wide open space of seating, as well as a modest collection of books and periodicals. it's a nice place to spend a bit of the afternoon, not a prime tourist destination. but then again, as it's a functioning library, perhaps that's for the best.