A BRIEF HISTORY

The Los Feliz Branch first opened in 1923 and became part of the Los Angeles Public Library system in 1924. Originally, this branch was located on Vermont Avenue, but in subsequent years it moved many times throughout the community.

In 1950, the branch was moved to a storefront at 1939 1⁄2 Hillhurst Avenue, where its book collection and public usage continued to increase steadily. By 1978, the branch had expanded into a number of adjacent building spaces and occupied approximately 1,000 square feet.

Eventually, the library department, Friends of the Los Feliz Library, community members, elected officials and the Board of Library Commissioners, determined this branch was in need of a permanent space and began to develop plans for a facility that would serve the needs of the community.

In 1994, the Northridge earthquake caused the temporary branch to close at the 1939 1/2  Hillhurst location, and a year later, the branch was relocated to the vacant Yellow Ribbon Market space at 1801 Hillhurst Ave.

Architect Barton Phelps was commissioned to design the current 10,500 square foot building at 1874 Hillhurst Ave. at the corner of Hillhurst and Franklin Aves. with funding from the Library Bond Proposition #1, passed by voters in 1989.

Rich, warm redwood walls, large bright windows and a beautiful Cultural Affairs-funded public artwork “Conjunction of 500 Wishes” by local artist, Joyce Dallal complete the vision of Barton Phelps. The new Los Feliz Branch Library opened to the public on April 8, 1999 amid much fanfare. The Junior Girl Scout Troop #864 and Thomas Starr King Middle School Drill Team led then-Mayor Richard Riordan, Councilman John Ferraro and City Librarian Susan Kent into the new building. 

The John Marshall Brass Quintet performed lively fanfare, the ribbon was cut and the Los Feliz community was welcomed in to admire their new library.