Los Angeles Central Library

This impressive building in downtown Los Angeles was first built in 1926, but following an arson attack in 1986, it was closed down for seven years for renovation. Reopened in 1993, the new library remained true to its original architectural design while having its capacity doubled so that it now houses over 2.1 million books and is the third largest public library in the country.

Fortunately, much of the original design has survived, including the rotunda, lined with murals, painted by Dean Cornwell, depicting the history of California. The building combines elements of ancient Byzantine, Egyptian and Roman architecture. Other impressive features of the library include its three atrium chandeliers in the Tom Bradley Wing and its large, ornate garden by the Flower Street Entrance.

Address: 630 W Fifth Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Telephone: (213) 228-7000
Hours: Mon - Thurs, 10 AM - 8 PM; Fri - Sat, 10 AM - 6 PM, Sun 1-5 PM; closed on public holidays
Website: www.lapl.org

LANGUAGES: French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese