Debra Gerod from Architect Gruen Associates presented proposed Central Library upgrades at Monday’s City Council meeting.
Originally designed by famed architect Myron Hunt, the Pasadena Central Library has not been in use since 2021 after a preliminary structural analysis of the building completed revealed that the building is an unreinforced masonry structure, known to be a life-safety hazard because they can collapse in an earthquake.
The Library’s renovation is set to begin in 2025, with projected completion in 2028.
Gerod told the City Council the reconstructed library is being envisioned to have new program spaces such as an Audio Visual room and flexible spaces to accommodate a variety of both current and future programs and services.
Architects are also proposing to remove the metal stacks that are blocking the skylights and light from entering the building.
Gerod said the skylights were included in Hunt’s original design.
The library’s auditorium would also have some improvements, as per Gerod.
“We are providing both access backstage as well as access to the front of the house from an accessible means which is an elevator for the backstage and a new wheelchair lift in front of the house.”
The lower level, formerly called the basement, would have a lot of public spaces and staff spaces, said Gerod.
Parking would also be improved.
An outdoor learning garden is planned to be built beside existing trees.
“It’s a space that is right now grass and shrubs and we find an opportunity to develop it into a space that has a little more functionality that can be used by librarians to bring children out for outdoor story time.”
“We think it will be a very nice addition to the space.”
While there are new additions, Gerod said most of the areas at the building would look exactly the same as they are now once the repair work is done, to preserve the building’s character-defining features.
“It looks beautiful. You really listened to the community in terms of keeping its historic character but bringing it into the 21st century,” Councilmember Felicia Williams remarked.
Williams urged designers to consider adding more drought-tolerant landscaping to the project.
“A little more drought tolerant landscaping would be helpful but otherwise really really happy with the design,” said Williams. “I’m excited for this to open.”
“It’s really beautiful – the natural light coming into the open floor concept,” Councilmember Justin Jones remarked.
The City has so far secured $9 million for the project’s design phase and environmental documentation phase. There is no funding yet secured for the construction phase.
In sum, the project could cost between $175 and $195 million.
Discussion regarding project funding is expected to take place in April 2024.
In an earlier City Council discussion, Councilmembers floated the possibility of a bond measure in 2024 to fund the retrofit and repair of the Central Library.
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