Libraries are scattered all throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, and almost every city has its own public library, or multiple libraries. However, some libraries are so unique that they’re worth a trip across town for.
Here are some of the most unique libraries that we recommend visiting:
- Brand Library
- Manhattan Beach Library
- Los Angeles Central Library
- Cerritos Library
- Huntington Beach Library
Libraries to Visit
1. Brand Library in Glendale
This library has a unique architectural style that looks like a building from India. It used to be a private mansion before it was converted into a library. The entrance to the library goes through gates, a long driveway along landscaped gardens, and up a few sets of stairs, giving it a very majestic feeling. Next to it are also 2 playgrounds for kids to play at.
Address: 1601 W Mountain St Glendale, CA 91201
Parking: Free parking is available in several parking lots surrounding the library.
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 AM-8:00 PM Friday-Saturday: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
2. Manhattan Beach Library
Just a few blocks from the beach, this library has a striking design as the entire outside is all glass. When you walk inside, the walls and ceiling are made of a light wood, giving it very warm feeling. The ceilings also are wavy, so you get that ocean vibe. Hanging from the ceilings are also models of jellyfish and octopi.
Address: 1320 Highland Ave Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Parking: Paid street parking or paid parking lots surrounding library
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm Thursday-Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
3. Los Angeles Central Library
Located in downtown LA, this library has a massive building with multiple levels. Inside is a mix of modern and classic architecture. One of the prominent features is a large rotunda with beautiful tile and painted walls and ceilings.
Address: 630 W 5th St Los Angeles, CA 90071
Parking: Paid street parking or paid parking lots surrounding library.
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM-8:00 PM Friday-Saturday: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
4. Cerritos Library
This library has an incredible children’s room that feels like a museum. The entrance of the room has a full wall aquarium with live fish. Inside the room are large models of a space shuttle, a large tree, a lighthouse, and even a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton.
Address: 18025 Bloomfield Ave Cerritos, CA 90703
Parking: Free parking lot in the Cerritos civic center where the library is located.
Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
5. Huntington Beach Central Library
Inside of Huntington Beach Central Park, this library has tall pillars with water fountains in the middle, and the water falls into a pool below. There are also multiple smaller fountains and live plants throughout the library, it’ll feel like you’re inside of a greenhouse.
Address: 7111 Talbert Ave
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Parking: Free parking large parking lot next to library.
Hours: Monday: 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm Tuesday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 9:00pm Friday – Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm