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News from the Director
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Pasadena Public Library looks forward to being a home of resilience and community in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. We know that libraries are important to you, and that they will be critical to community members following the catastrophic fire we have experienced.
During the fire response and recovery stages, all City employees, including library staff members, were designated as emergency responders. As such, staff members worked outside their normal duties fulfilling emergency response roles. This included answering questions at the Disaster Recovery Center; staffing the City’s evacuation center; distributing water and PPE; hosting a temporary, emergency childcare program at the Jefferson Library for nearly 200 children; and other critical activities. Many of our staff members are also facing personal loss. Despite these challenges, library staff felt strongly that we needed to have all of our libraries open as soon as we safely could.
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Over the weeks after the fire started, our work transitioned from emergency response to recovery, and we re-opened libraries in a phased approach. The good news is that our libraries did not sustain major damage. Deep cleaning was done at all libraries, air scrubbers were installed, and environmental testing was performed with promising results well below strict EPA thresholds. As we assessed our buildings, made minor repairs and cleaned up, we were able to re-open our libraries to the community again. Finally, one small consolation is that planned maintenance proceeded at Linda Vista while the branch was closed; we had planned for this prior to the fires, and fortunately the contractor was able to proceed with the work. That was a bit of good news during hard times.
Library staff also worked hard to modify services and policies to support those impacted by the fire. FEMA and the Small Business Association set up outreach tables in our meeting rooms. Library card policies were updated to make temporary access to library materials easier for community members who do not have identification readily available. We waived replacement costs for items lost or damaged in the wildfire. We extended due dates for 17,597 library items and pick-up dates for over 1,000 reserved materials. In addition, libraries passed out free N95 masks to the community. We partnered with the Altadena Library District to provide programming space at our Jefferson and Santa Catalina branch libraries for Altadena’s storytimes and youth programs while they were closed due to the power outages affecting their community.
The Pasadena Public Library is grateful to be part of your community. Please let us know if you have any questions or visit the City’s webpage to see all the City’s updates, resources and news about the Eaton Fire at https://www.CityOfPasadena.net/Eaton-Fire/.
Wishing you a rejuvenating spring, with a good book by your side,
Tim McDonald, Library Director | |
 | Art on the Fence: A Community Celebration |
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Help us decorate the construction fence that will surround Central Library during the earthquake retrofit and repairs project. Create an image featuring your favorite library, book or book character. Artwork will be displayed on the fence and later in the exhibit space when the library reopens. Designs can be about anything related to the library, your favorite book or favorite book character, Pasadena, literature, or the Pasadena community.
Entry deadline: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
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| Art on the Fence Form
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SUMMER READING TOTE BAG DESIGN CONTEST | |
Design an image for our annual Summer Reading Program. One winning design will be featured on the 2025 Summer Reading tote bags. Tote bags are an exclusive prize for Summer Reading participants, while supplies last. Designs can be about anything related to the library, Pasadena, literature, summer reading, or an interpretation of this year's theme, "Level Up."
Entry Deadline:
Sunday, March 30, 2025
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| Tote Bag Design Form
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 | Portable Battery Packs Now Available |
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We’re excited to introduce our new portable battery packs. We’ve received many requests for this service and are happy to be able to offer it to you.
The battery packs are available for use in all our library branches. Each site will have five packs on hand which includes a bundle of three different cables to accommodate various mobile device connections.
The battery packs can charge a mobile phone or tablet up to 12-15 times on a full charge. Laptops can run for 4-5 hours on a fully charged battery pack. Recharging the battery packs takes 60-90 minutes.
Battery packs are for IN-HOUSE use only. Checkout is on a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons must present a valid library card to check them out. The checkout period is four hours, and battery packs must be returned to the Circulation Desk after use. One pack is allowed per patron at a time. No holds are allowed. If lost a fee of $125 will be charged. |
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Celebrating History
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March is National Women’s History Month, when we honor and celebrate women’s contributions and causes in American history. In April we observe National Library Week, when we recognize the valuable role that libraries and all library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. During these two months, we want to highlight Pasadena’s early librarians, like Sarah Merritt, Nellie Russ, Jeanette Drake and Doris Hoit. These women were pioneers in their profession and leaders in the community they served. Their contributions, accomplishments and vision helped establish a solid foundation on which the Pasadena Public Library built its reputation as a public institution that, since 1884, has become a symbol of community, innovation and service.
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Sarah Merritt (1884-1898), who by virtue of being the first librarian in Pasadena, has a rightful and esteemed place in Pasadena history and library lore. When she assumed this role in 1884, the Pasadena Library was located inside a room on the first floor of a two-story schoolhouse and had a collection of 329 books. Even though Mrs. Merritt had no predecessor to guide her and no formal training in librarianship (as there was none at that time), she nonetheless helped the new library establish a firm footing in the community and managed its growth with commitment and passion. Throughout her tenure, she championed and embodied the ideals and values that a public library represents. From the first precarious years to her retirement in 1898, she was a staunch supporter of the library who tirelessly planned and managed fundraising events to raise money that kept the library open and helped it grow.
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Nellie Russ (1898-1919) was Pasadena’s second librarian and did much to modernize the Pasadena Public Library during her tenure. She made the library more accessible to children under eight by establishing a “nursery corner” and then a children’s room, one of the first on the West Coast. She is credited with implementing the first card catalog and reclassifying books by subject to make finding a book more efficient. She created a “California table” that showcased books about California history. This collection would, over time, come to include books and other materials on Pasadena history. Her pioneering work in collecting and preserving California and Pasadena area history materials is one of her biggest contributions. These materials now make up the core of our special collection in what will be the restored Centennial Room at Central Library.
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Jeanette Drake (1919-1936) was one of the strongest advocates for a new and larger library when the one on Raymond Avenue and Walnut Street was becoming too small to meet the needs of a growing city. After the City approved the construction of a new library, she worked with Myron Hunt to design Central Library. She made a number of suggestions that Hunt included in his design. She transformed the Pasadena Public Library into a cultural and community center where people could come and see art exhibits and listen to lectures or participate in discussions. Her contributions to the Pasadena Public Library and her influence on its direction and vision were enormous and have had a lasting impact on library services in Pasadena and throughout the region.
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Doris Hoit (1936-1956) expanded the Pasadena Public Library when she became the library director in 1936, when the system consisted of Central Library and four small branches. She envisioned a city in which no resident would be more than a mile away from a library. She advocated for the construction of three new branches in the Hastings, San Rafael and Linda Vista communities to bring library services to those areas. When she retired in 1956, Pasadena had a total of six libraries but would shortly add three new branches: Linda Vista Branch and San Rafael Branch in 1957 and Hastings Branch in 1959. Today, Pasadena has Central Library and 10 branches—a legacy of her vision.
Young Phong, Pasadena History Librarian | |  | Lunch at the Library 2025 |
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California State Library has awarded Pasadena Public Library $33,176 for the 2025 Lunch at the Library program, an increase from the previous year’s award. Lunch at the Library is a statewide initiative to help address food insecurity over the summer months while promoting literacy. According to the 2022 Pasadena Community Health Needs Assessment, 13.9% of households reported being food insecure. Additionally, among new parents who participated in the 2022 Pasadena Maternal Health Assessment, 10.7% of new parents reported food insecurity.
For the fifth year, the library will continue to visit free meal sites throughout the community to provide high-quality and high-interest books for children ages 0-18 to add to their home libraries and connect families to the annual Summer Reading Program. In addition, the library will continue to offer free meals at the Jefferson Branch Library and plans to add a second meal site at Villa Parke Branch Library.
Library meal sites will also have a scheduled daily activity, which will be led primarily by a local educator and/or community partners. These programs will incorporate farm to summer, STEAM, sustainability, music and other enriching, educational activities. Many of these programs will be continuous, encouraging long-term participation throughout the summer. During the summer of 2024, the library served 1,619 free meals to kids while engaging families in learning activities and summer reading participation. The 2024 program also engaged 17 youth interns and volunteers, providing young adults with work experience and development. The goal of Lunch at the Library is to provide two ingredients that every child needs to succeed in school and beyond – healthy food and literacy.
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All Pasadena Public Libraries will be CLOSED in observance of:
Easter | Sunday, April 20 |
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The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library Bookstore |
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Offering a vast array of used books, DVDs, CDs, LPs and lots and lots of children’s books.
Monday – Thursday & Saturday
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Jefferson Campus, 1500 E. Villa Ave. (between Hill and Allen), east of the Jefferson Library Branch.
Proceeds from book sales fund programs at all 10 Library branches. Programs such as One City, One Story, Summer Reading, Women’s History Month, Black History Month, Latino Heritage Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, Native American Heritage Month, etc.
* The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library Bookstore originated at Pasadena Central Library. They moved to Jefferson Branch Library following the closure of Central Library. |
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Special Patio Book Sale
Saturday, April 5 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Fill a paper grocery bag for $5.
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For all ages unless specified. |
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March | The More Things Change: Afrofuturist Literature & Music
Wednesday, March 19 | 7 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Experience a live, in-person interview with Lynell George, author of A Handful of Earth, A Handful of Sky: The World of Octavia E. Butler, as she debates Afrofuturist themes and enjoy a pre-recorded jazz performance from SFJAZZ. Books will be available for sale and signing.
Educator Night*
Thursday, March 20 | 5 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library | REGISTER
Pasadena Public Library invites current preschool - 12th grade educators, librarians, and administrators, who teach or live in Pasadena or Altadena to Educator Night. This is an opportunity for us to say, “thank you!” for all you do. Please join us for dinner, a short presentation on public library resources, and calming activities. We'll conclude our program with a gift bag for every educator in attendance and book giveaways to help rebuild classroom and home libraries.
* Central Library originated program. |
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April | Emerald City Adventures
Friday, April 11 | 10 a.m.- noon | Villa Parke Community Center | REGISTER
Journey to the Land of Oz! Join in a scavenger hunt along the Yellow Brick Road. Play in the Emerald City's Baby Gym or take part in garden activities. Enjoy a special storytime hosted by classic Wizard of Oz characters. Have fun exploring Villa Parke Community Center where you’ll discover crafts and games complete with prizes. Resources will be available for those affected by the Eaton Fire. Costumes are welcome. For ages 0-5 and their caregivers.
Presented by Pasadena Public Library in partnership with Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services, Options for Learning, Pasadena Public Health Department Women Infant Children (WIC) program, Collaborate PASadena, and the Office of the Young Child.
“Imagine a Map with No Borders”
Saturday, April 19 | 2 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library Poet and novelist Sehba Sarwar will present a talk titled “Imagine a Map with No Borders.” Moderated by podcast host Reza Mohammed. Sponsored by USC’s Pacific Asia Museum’s Pakistan Arts Council.
Sip and Paint Saturday, April 26| 2 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Celebrate spring at the library by sipping a tasty Agua Frescas while painting your very own strawberry artwork on a mini canvas. All materials provided. For ages 7+ | |
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Simply Yum Cooking Saturday, May 3 | 2 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Join us for an in-person cooking demonstration with home cooks and library staff Claire and Magela, as they share recipes and kitchen tips. Participants will learn about cooking with an emphasis on seasonal and healthy food choices. Attendance is limited, and advance registration for each participant is required. For ages 10+. |
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Exhibits | Art Harmony Paralleled with Nature
April Drew Foster, Artist March – April | Hastings Branch Library
April Drew Foster believes that art should evoke the beauty and pleasure of her environment and natural forms, and she strives to bring the happiness of her artistic journey to her viewers through her watercolors and oils. April’s greatest joy is combining painting and traveling in our local urban landscapes and as well as abroad. Growing up in Southern California, April was inspired to study painting by her architect father and her high school art teacher, later majoring in art at UC Berkeley and receiving her teaching credential at Cal State University of San Diego. April is most proud of her over 25 years of teaching art with LAUSD in Adult Education. For over 10 years she volunteered as an art docent at the Huntington Library. April has exhibited and sold her work over many years and has been a member of numerous art associations including Mid Valley Arts League and Women Painters West.
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WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH | Programming is sponsored by The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library.
PROGRAMSFor all ages unless specified.
Girls on the Go! Preschool Storytime Wednesday, March 5 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Join us as we celebrate Women's History Month with fun stories about incredible girls discovering their worlds and themselves. For ages 3-5 and their caregivers.
Women's History Month: Role Model Bookmarks Saturday, March 8 | 2:30 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Collage a bookmark featuring an inspiring woman in celebration of Women's History Month. For ages 5+. Celebrating Georgia O’Keeffe - Women in Art
Thursday, March 13 | 11 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER Paint a close-up, magnified watercolor flower in the style of Georgia O’Keeffe. Bring your painting supplies if you have them. If you are new to watercolor, supplies will be provided. To attend, call (626) 744-7270. For ages 18+
Dante R. Brizill: Black Women in WWII: "Greatness Under Fire" Series
Monday, March 17 | 5 p.m. | Zoom | REGISTER
In 2018 Brizill began writing his "Greatness Under Fire" book series, which explores the many contributions made by Black women during World War II, including those of Pearl Harbor hero Doris "Dorie" Miller, the women of the Red Ball Express, and those who served in the Six Triple Eight (the recent subjects of Tyler Perry's latest film). Join us as the author discusses his book series.
CRAFTSFor all ages unless specified
Take & Make: Clothespin Airplane Craft Monday, March 17 | Noon | Hastings Branch Library| REGISTER
Who's your favorite female aviator? Celebrate Women's History Month by making your very own plane! We'll provide you with the materials, and colorful paint so you can soar the skies alongside Amelia Earhart, Bessie Coleman, and more! Signups available through March 31, or while supplies last. For ages 3 – 12. |
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ONE CITY, ONE STORY | Sponsored by The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library and Pasadena Literary Alliance – Pasadena Festival of Women Authors.
Conversation with Percival Everett, author of James Saturday, March 15 | Interpretive Dance from James - 1:30 p.m. | Author Presentation - 2 p.m. | Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 91101
Join us as we welcome author Percival Everett to discuss his book, James. A question-and-answer session will follow.
PROGRAMSFor adults unless specified. "Huckleberry Finn's America: James, Huck, and the Nation in which They Lived"
Saturday, March 8 | 3 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library
Join us for an illustrated talk presented by Peter J. Blodgett, Ph.D., retired H. Russell Smith Foundation Curator of Western American History at the Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens.
Film Screening – Mark Twain
Part 1 | Wednesday, March 12 | 1 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library Part 2| Wednesday, March 19 | 1 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library
COMMUNITY BOOK DISCUSSIONS FOR JAMES Book Chit Chat Tuesday, March 4 | 5 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
For ages 50+.
Great Literature Discussion Group
Monday, March 10 | 10 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library Discussing Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Monday, March 24 | 10 a.m.| Lamanda Park Branch Library
Discussing James
Allendale Book Discussion
Saturday, March 15 | 10:30 a.m. | Allendale Branch Library
Pasadena Readers
Monday, March 17 | 3 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Online Book Club
Saturday, March 22 | 10:30 a.m. | Zoom | REGISTER For ages 50+
West Pasadena Book Discussion Group Saturday, March 22 | 11 a.m. | San Rafael Library Branch Library Linda Vista, and San Rafael branches joint book group |
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CELEBRATING ARAB AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH | PROGRAMS
Celebration of Arabic Music Saturday, April 19 | 2 p.m. | Allendale Branch Saturday, April 26 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch
Learn about Arabic string and percussion instruments, while enjoying traditional Arabic classical music performed by a trio: Timothy Maloof on oud, David Martinelli on percussion, and Lina Kaisey on vocals.
EXHIBITS - Art Display for National Arab American Heritage Month
Hastings Branch Library
Aneesa Shami Zizzo, Fiber Artist
Reflecting on her identity as a second-generation Arab-American, Zizzo intertwines personal history, world mythologies and the sublime to explore broader narratives of human experience and cultural memory. She was awarded an artist residency at the Arab American National Museum in May 2024.
La Pintoresca Branch Library
Kourosh Beigpour, Graphic Artist/Designer
Award-winning graphic artist/designer Beigpour’s works have been published in more than 20 countries, with countless editorials and interviews that showcase a prolific portfolio of contemporary-traditional design. Of Kurdish descent, based in Los Angeles and born in Kermanshah, Iran, Beigpour's rich cultural heritage and profound influence from mysticism significantly shape his artistic vision. |
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CELEBRATING ARMENIAN HERITAGE MONTH | Patille Dance Studio Performance
Saturday, April 5 | 1 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library In celebration of Armenian Heritage month, Patille Dance Studio will be presenting a variety of traditional Armenian dances in authentic costumes. Following the performance, join us for an interactive dance lesson taught by the founders Patille and Cynthia Albarian, and a photo opportunity with the dancers.
Take & Make: 3-D Pomegranate Craft
Monday, April 14 | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER Celebrate Armenian Heritage Month by crafting a 3-D paper Pomegranate, a national symbol of Armenia and its people! Sign up to reserve a kit, starting midnight April 14. Signups available through April 28, or while supplies last.
Armenian Bilingual Storytime & Craft Saturday, April 19 | 11 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Visit us for a special bilingual Armenian/English storytime. Whether you’re a native speaker or hoping to learn something new, it’s a perfect way to have fun with language, stories, and crafts! For ages 3 – 12 and their caregivers. | |
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Earth Day Preschool Storytime Wednesday, April 16 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Join us for a special storytime and craft to celebrate Earth Day! For ages 3-5 and their caregivers.
Saving Our Lives and Our Children's future in Time of Climate Crisis
Saturday, April 26 | 11 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library
Extreme weather events remind us that climate change is real and urgent. In response, join us for a discussion on renewable energy sources like solar, wind and geothermal, and what it means for our community. Presented by Cynthia Cannady from PASADENA 100 (a coalition of 22 nonprofit and non-partisan organizations). For ages 18+.
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NATIONAL POETRY MONTH | Musical-Poetry Duo Performance
Saturday, April 26 | 1 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library The musical-poetic duo Bill Cushing and Chuck Corbisiero will hold an open mic event and present a poetry performance and a book launch as they celebrate a decade performing together. Chuck will provide musical improvisation as Bill will introduce his fifth poetry collection, The Beast Inside. For ages 18+
An Evening of Poetry with the Rose Poets
Monday, April 28 | 5 p.m. | Zoom | REGISTER Pasadena’s local poets share their own poems and those of other poets that have inspired them. Join us for a wonderful evening of poetry. For ages 18+ |
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Ages 18+ unless specified. |
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Weekly Programs | Freefall Into Writing Mondays |10:30 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library
To attend, call (626) 744-7270.
American Mah Jongg Club
Mondays | 12:30 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library All levels of players welcome. Bring your Mah Jongg set and yearly game card or use the library's.
Central Library originated program.
SCORE Small Business Mentoring Tuesdays | 1 – 5 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library & Santa Catalina Branch Library | alternating Tuesdays | REGISTER
Need help with starting or running your small business? Sign up for a free and confidential one-on-one SCORE mentoring session. SCORE is the nation’s largest network of former business owners and executives that provide free business mentoring to existing and emerging small businesses. Held on alternate Tuesdays at Lamanda Park and Santa Catalina Branch Libraries. Sign up for a one-hour appointment online or call Lamanda Park Branch Library (626) 744-7266 or Santa Catalina Branch Library (626) 744-7272.
Central Library originated service
Legal Research Assistance with LA Law Library Wednesdays | 2 - 6 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
LA Law Library, in partnership with the Pasadena Public Library, offers assistance by an LA Law Library legal research specialist to help find information to answer your legal questions or get started learning about the law or going to court. LA Law Library legal research specialists are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice or help fill out forms or interpret the law. Central Library originated service
e-Book Help
Thursdays | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library
To sign up, call (626) 744-7264. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Spanish Conversation Group Thursdays | 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Zoom
REGISTER For all adults of any Spanish speaking level.
Central Library originated program.
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Beyond the Book – PPL’s Book Groups |
Great Literature Book Group Mondays | 10 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library Call branch for book selection, (626) 744-7266. For ages 50+.
Book Chit Chat Tuesday, March 4 & April 1 | 5 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
Call branch for book selection, (626) 744-7262. For ages 50+.
iBook Club
Mondays, March 10 & April 14 | 3 p.m. | Zoom | REGISTER "New Adult" readers in their 20s and 30s, including participants using speech-generating devices, are welcome. Each month a new topic is discussed. Sign up for each program separately.
Allendale Book Discussion Saturdays, March 15 & April 12 | 10:30 a.m. Allendale Branch Library
Join us as we discuss James by Percival Everett in March and The Cat's Table by Michael Ondaatje in April.
Pasadena Readers
Mondays, March 17 & April 14 | 3 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Join us for our monthly book discussion. For the book selections, call (626) 744-7272. Central Library originated program.
Online Book Group
Saturdays, March 22 & April 26 | 10:30 a.m. Zoom | REGISTER Join us in March to discuss the 2025 One City, One Story selection, James by Percival Everett. Join us in April to discuss Glimmer Girls by Jennifer Coburn. For ages 50+.
West Pasadena Book Group Linda Vista and San Rafael branches joint book group
Saturday, March 22 | 11 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library Saturday, April 19 | 11 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library
In March we will discuss our 2025 One City, One Story book, James by Percival Everett at San Rafael Library. In April we will discuss Necessary Trouble: Growing up at Midcentury by Drew Gilpin Faustat at Linda Vista Library.
Octavia E. Butler Science Fiction Book Club | REGISTER Saturday, March 22 | 3 p.m. | Octavia's Bookshelf | 1353 N Hill Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104
Saturday, April 19 | 3 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library Join us for a monthly book club discussing the works of Octavia E. Butler and Science Fiction authors of color. In March we will discuss Clay's Ark by Octavia E. Butler. In April we will discuss Survivor by Octavia E. Butler. Presented in partnership with Octavia's Bookshelf, Octavia E. Butler Magnet School, and The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens. |
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Registration Required Programs | Good Steward Financial Coaching
Saturday, March 1 | 11 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Learn about the importance of financial literacy with financial coach Anthony Joseph. This session will cover valuable topics such as creating a personal budget, saving for a rainy day, how to eliminate debt, investing and building generational wealth and more.
An Introduction to Pilates Thursdays, March 6 & April 3 | 10:30 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
A whole-body method of movement focusing on the unison of breath, proper form, and flow to create a mind-body connection. It is low impact exercise. Please bring a yoga mat.
Zumba
Saturdays, March 8 & 22, April 12 & 26 | 10: 30 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER Join us for Zumba, a great way to lose weight, tone up, increase cardio strength, improve coordination, gain self-esteem and feel happy! Beginners welcome. To register call (626) 744-7266.
Seed to Supper: Learn How to Grow Your Own Food (Series) | REGISTER
Saturdays, March 8, April 12, & May 10 | 10 a.m. - Noon | Hastings Branch Library (classes) Saturday, March 22, April 26, & May 24 | 3 – 5 p.m. | City of hope Garden of Hope (workday)
Seed to Supper is a comprehensive beginning gardening program that provides novice, adult gardeners the tools they need to learn how to successfully grow a portion of their own food on a limited budget. Classes are taught at the Hastings Branch Library and include hands-on garden workdays at the City of Hope's teaching garden, Garden of Hope. Please register once to attend all sessions, including the City of Hope’s Garden workdays.
Mosaic Sun Catcher Friday, March 14 | 3 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library | REGISTER
Create designs out of glass tiles and make a whimsical sun catcher for your window.
All Abilities Club Thursdays, March 27 & April 24 | 10:30 a.m. Santa Catalina Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER
This is a multi-sensory club for adults with developmental disabilities. Enriching activities include games, arts and crafts, based on interest and level of ability, so please share your ideas with us. Adults of all ages are welcome, as well as caregivers, aides, family members and teachers. To attend, call (626) 744-7272.
Mosaic Watercolors Class Saturday, March 29 | 11 a.m.
La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER Artist Jennifer Hafner will be back for a fun and easy mosaic watercolors class drawing inspiration from the work of Alma Thomas. To sign up, call (626) 744-7268.
ReMemory Landscape Art Workshop Saturday, April 12 | 1 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER
Tuesday, April 15 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER
Inspired by the idea of the “rememory” as found in Toni Morrison’s Beloved, this workshop shares how to capture the abstract notion of memory through material exploration. Participants will explore how to depict their personal memories of specific landscapes through the use of fabric collage and abstract imagery. Experience with hand sewing is not required but encouraged. Presented by artist Aneesa Shami Zizzo. Call Hastings Branch Library, (626) 744-7262, to attend the April 12 event. Call La Pintoresca Branch Library, (626) 744-7268, to attend the April 15 event.
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Walk-in Programs |
Pasadena Grows: Native Plants & Fire Resiliency Saturday, March 1 | 2:30 p.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library
Join us for a friendly community conversation about native plants, their adaptation to fire, and how we can become more fire resilient through the use of native plants in landscaping. Free native seeds available to all who attend - while supplies last! For ages 5+
Free Health Screening Monday, March 3 & April 7 | 10 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Tuesday, March 11 & April 8 | 10:30 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library
Thursdays, March 13 & April 3 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library Wednesdays, March 19 & April 16| 10 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library Tuesday, March 25 & April 22 | 10:30 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library
Registered nurses from Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedar Sinai, provide referrals, health education and free blood pressure blood glucose screening. A two-hour (minimum) fasting time is required before blood, glucose testing. Central Library originated program.
Databases 101: Pasadena History Research Tuesday, March 11 | 1 p.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library Learn about online resources to research and discover Pasadena’s rich history.
Death Cafe Saturday, March 22 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
We all will die, but death is a subject we often feel uneasy or hesitant to talk about. Join us for a group-directed open discussion of life, death, and everything in between.
All Abilities Game Days
Tuesday, March 25 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | Puzzles Tuesday, April 29 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | Lotería and Bingo Games
Enjoy a fun and relaxed morning at the library with games-- all abilities welcome, and no registration required. Presented in partnership with Ability First. Adults of all ages are welcome, as well as caregivers, aides, family members and teachers.
Winged Wonderland: Native Plants and Restoration Gardening for Better Backyard Birding Saturday, March 29 | 11 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library
Guest speaker, Parker Davis, co-partner of "Hardy Californians," a native plant nursery and garden design studio, presents how to create beautiful, sustainable native-plant gardens that capture rainwater, regenerate soil life and build a healthy habitat for people, pollinators and wildlife. Enjoy morning coffee on the patio at 10 a.m. prior to the event.
Crafty Cats Saturdays, March 29 & April 26 | 2:30 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Bring your own craft project for a couple of hours of crafting and community.
Pasadena Grows: Milkweed for Monarchs Saturdays, April 12 | 2:30 p.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library
Join us for an informal talk on growing native milkweed for monarchs. Free native milkweed seed for all who attend - while supplies last! For ages 5+
FILMS @ Lamanda Park Branch Library
Wednesday, April 16 | 1 p.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library In April we will present the 1957 film “April Love.” Presented by The Friends of the Library Central Library originated program |
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Teens and emerging adults ages 13-24 unless specified. |
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Weekly Programs | Video Game Club
Thursdays | 4 – 6 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
Stop in for gaming on the Nintendo Switch and enjoy Super Smash Brothers, Mario Kart, and more! For ages 14-19. |
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Registration Required Programs |
Printmaking Wednesday, March 12 | 4:30 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library | REGISTER
Join us for an introduction to printmaking with foam printing plates and learn about relief painting, negative and positive space, and how to make your own printing plate. For ages 13-19. Sew & Sew: Empowering Youth and Adults
Saturdays, March 15 & 29 & April 19 | Noon – 3 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
In this alterations and sewing for beginners class, you will learn how to use a sewing machine, make alterations and sew clothes by using a pattern. Taught by instructor Renetta Lipscomb. You'll receive a list of needed materials at your first meeting. For ages 15-18.
Paper Marbling Wednesday, April 2 | 4:30 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library | REGISTER
Learn about the Japanese art of Suminagashi. Create beautiful, marbled patterns by using hydrophobic inks, a tray of water, and paper. Drop different colored inks into the water and create different patterns by mixing and manipulating the ink. Each hydro-dipped paper will create a unique pattern. For ages 13-19. |
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Ages 5-12 unless specified. |
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Weekly Programs | Homework Help Kindergarten – 5th Grade
Mondays – Thursdays 4 – 6 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
Kindergarten – 8th Grade Mondays – Thursdays (except April 7-10) 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Writing tutor available on Mondays, please call in advance (626) 744-7268. | |
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Barks & Books Saturdays, March 1 & April 12 | 11 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Tuesdays, March 11 & April 8 | 4 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library*
Children can read to a gentle therapy dog, removing the anxiety they may experience when reading aloud to an adult or their peers. This helps strengthen reading skills and boosts confidence in reading aloud! Presented by Love on a Leash and Pet Partners. First-come, first-served. For ages 5-12. Central Library originated Youth Services Program.
ATLAS: At The Library After School Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 17 & 24 | 2:30 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Drop in on the last two Thursdays of the month for an after-school craft or activity perfect for grades K – 5! |
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Registration Required Programs |
Barks & Books: Read with Cody Mondays, March 10 & 24 & April 14 & 28 |
1 p.m. | San Rafael Branch Library | CALL TO REGISTER
Come to the library for a visit with Pet Partners Sharon and Cody. Cody the dog loves listening to children read to him and can’t wait to hear their favorite stories! Reading to a specially trained therapy dog builds confidence and is dog-gone fun. To attend, call (626) 744-7270. Presented by Pet Partners. For ages 3-12.
Fun with Mixed Media with Armory Center for the Arts Tuesdays, March 11 - April 22 (except April 1) | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL TO REGISTER
Have fun exploring familiar and new art materials. Discover different ways to paint, draw, and work with clay. Share your ideas while you learn about the world of art! Presented by Armory Center for the Arts. Call (626) 744-7268 to register. For ages 6-12.
Sidestreet Projects Woodworking Bus Session 1: Ages 5 – 8 Thursdays, March 13 – May 8 (except April 3) | 3:30 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL TO REGISTER
Learn how to build with tools on the Woodworking Bus. Must be able to attend full 8-week session. Call La Pintoresca Branch to register: (626) 744-7268 starting March 1. For ages 5 – 8. Sidestreet Projects Woodworking Bus Session 2: Ages 9 – 12
Thursdays, March 13 – May 8 (except April 3) | 4:45 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL TO REGISTER Whatever your mind can imagine, your hands can create! Learn how to build with tools on the Woodworking Bus. Must be able to attend full 8-week session. Call La Pintoresca Branch to register: (626) 744-7268 starting March 1. For ages 9 – 12.
Kids Comic Book Club
Tuesdays, March 18 & April 22 | 4:30 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Do you love Smile and Diary of a Wimpy Kid? Join us for Hastings’s new monthly Kids Comics Book Club! Read and discuss graphic novels, learn about the art of comics, and do fun crafts and activities with other kids who love comics as much as you do! Contact the branch for this month's book selection. For ages 8-12.
Mighty Chondria Thursdays, March 27, April 24 | 5 p.m. | Zoom | REGISTER
Join us on Zoom to explore, science, fun, and more. For ages 7-12. Microscope Mysteries
Tuesdays, March 25 & April 29 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch| REGISTER
Join Caltech graduate students in an exploration of the world too small to see with your eyes. March's activities will be focused on understanding the microbial microcosm. Participants will practice microscopy and observe different aspects of the microbial world, and help find lost microbes. April’s activities will be focused on understanding microscopic plant materials. Participants will practice microscopy and observe different aspects of the plants that grow all around us, and classify mysterious plant samples. For ages 7-11.
Art with Jeanette
Wednesdays, April 16 | 3:30 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Study the art of flowers by artists such as Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, Odilon Redon, Georgia O’Keeffe and more. Create your own flower composition inspired by colorful flowers. Ages 7-12.
Speech Collective Workshop
Wednesday, April 23 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch| REGISTER
Join members of the Polytechnic Upper School Speech Collective for a fun kids' workshop designed to build your storytelling, communication, and public speaking skills with fun activities and games! For ages 5-12. |
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For all ages unless specified. |
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Walk-in Programs | Artful Adventures
Saturdays, March 8 & April 19 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library Join us for a morning of fun art activities with the family. Learn how to use a variety of different art materials that inspire you to use your imagination and get creative. Art supplies provided.
Family Yoga Wednesday, March 19 | 11 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Families are invited to experience the enjoyment of Hatha yoga with Merry Birchfield where they will learn techniques designed to help them relax and find focus. |
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Registration Required Programs | Tell Your Story
Saturday, April 12 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | CALL BRANCH TO REGISTER Children are invited to a storytime where the kids tell the stories. Over the past few months, children in our community have lived through a lot, and writing/storytelling is an important way to process that. Even the youngest kids have stories to tell! We'll give you and your child the tools to write and illustrate your own story together. To sign up, call (626) 744-7268. For ages of 3 and 8 and their caregivers. |
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For ages 0-5 and their caregivers unless specified.
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Weekly Storytimes | Read and Play - For ages 0-5 and their caregivers Mondays
10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library Baby Storytime - For ages 0-18 months and their caregivers.
Wednesdays
10:30 a.m. | Allendale Branch Library
Toddler Storytime – For ages 18-36 months and their caregivers Tuesdays | 10:15 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library Tuesdays (except April 29) | 10:30 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library
Thursdays | 10 a.m. | Jefferson Branch Library* * Central Library Youth Services program
Preschool Storytime - For ages 3-5 and their caregivers Tuesdays | 10 a.m. | Jefferson Branch Library* Wednesdays | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Wednesdays | 11 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library Thursdays | 10 a.m. | Villa Parke Branch Library Thursdays | 10:30 a.m. | Lamanda Park Branch Library
Thursdays | 10:30 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library * Central Library Youth Services program
Read! Build! Play! – For ages 0 – 5 and their caregivers Wednesdays | 11:30 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library
Bilingual Spanish Storytime – For ages 0 – 5 and their caregivers Wednesdays | 10 a.m. |Villa Parke Branch Library
Léeme Un Cuento Wednesdays (except April 9 & 16) | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Attend our weekly Spanish-language storytime. For families with children up to age 10.
STEAM Storytime – For ages 0 – 5 and their caregivers
Thursdays | 10:30 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Play & Learn - For ages 3-5 and their caregivers.
Fridays | 10 a.m. – noon | Villa Parke Branch Library
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Walk-in Programs |
National Panda Day Storytime Friday, March 14 | 10:30 a.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library Join us for a story involving cute and funny panda bears as we get ready to celebrate National Panda Day! We'll also craft our own little pandas to take home! For ages 3 – 5 and their caregivers.
Hooray for Libraries! Preschool Storytime Wednesday, April 9 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Help us celebrate National Library Week with a special storytime devoted to the libraries we love. What a great time to register your child for their own free library card! Best for ages 3-5 and their caregivers.
Bilingual Chinese Storytime
Saturday, April 26 | 10:30 a.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library Come visit us for a special bilingual Chinese/English storytime. Whether you’re a native speaker or hoping to learn something new, it’s a perfect way to have fun with language, stories, and crafts! For ages 3-5 and their caregivers.
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Sensory Programs | Inclusive Sensory Art & Craftmaking – Spring Jamboree
Saturdays, March 15 & April 26 | 11 a.m. | Jefferson Branch Library | REGISTER
Join us for this inclusive sensory art and craftmaking program for children of all abilities (ages 3-10). We'll have paints, bubble wrap and other art materials on hand for exploration. Stations with bins full of water beads and space sand plus ingredients to make spring slime round out the fun for sensory seekers. Children with disabilities and their families are welcome! |
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Early Learning Resource |
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten*
Start your child’s journey on 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten! The concept is simple: read 1,000 books to your child before they start kindergarten. This multi-year (or month) early learning initiative helps children gain familiarity with printed books, expand their vocabulary and enter kindergarten ready to learn. Pick up a starter kit (while supplies last) and sign up at any Pasadena Public Library location or online. For more information, visit Pasadena-Library.net/Kids/1000books or call (626) 744-8046.
* Central Library Youth Services Program
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Registration Required Programs | Parents Take the Lead: A Read Aloud Workshop
Tuesday, March 25 | 6 p.m. | Villa Park Branch Library | REGISTER
Sunday, March 30 | 2 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
Saturday, April 5 | 11 a.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library | REGISTER
Thursday, April 24 | 11 a.m. | Jefferson Branch Library | REGISTER
Get the tools to present your own at-home storytime. You'll learn the basics of early literacy and storytime components, explore different reading materials and reading techniques, and discover ways to "play" and use your voice and facial expressions in engaging ways as you read and interpret a story. This workshop focuses on parental and caretaker involvement as the child's "first teacher." Each family will receive a storytime starter tool kit including a simple flannel story set, a booklet of songs and fingerplays, list of suggested books, and books for your home library. These info sessions are for parents and caregivers of children ages 0-5 and will include a storytime, play time and activities for children. Refreshments provided. Presented in collaboration with Flights of Fantasy Story Theatre.
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Walk-in Programs | Family Navigator
Tuesdays & Thursdays | 10 a.m. - noon | Jefferson Branch Library
Beatriz Dzul Perera, Family Navigator, Pasadena Public Health Department, will be available for drop-in appointments to answer questions about resources and support, including questions about healthcare, developmental screenings, school enrollment, childcare, or other family needs. Walk-ins welcome. For families with children ages 0-5. |
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Take & Make: Year of the Snake Paper Cup Craft Monday, March 3 | 10 a.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library | While Supplies Last No reservation needed. For ages 5+. |
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Make & Take: Good Luck Monday, March 3 | 2 p.m.| San Rafael Branch Library |While Supplies Last No reservation needed. For ages 3-12. |
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For accessibility information and requests, contact the library site hosting the program. Providing at least 72 hours advance notice will help ensure availability.
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The library often photographs or videotapes programs for use in publicity materials. By being present during these activities, you consent to use of your appearance or likeness by the library and its licensees, designees, or assignees, in all media, worldwide, in perpetuity. To ensure the privacy of individuals and children, images will not be identified using names or personal identifying information without written approval from the photographed subject, parent or legal guardian.
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All Pasadena Public Library programs and events listed in this newsletter are free and open to the public.
Our programs and events are extremely popular. Registration may be required. Check program and event listings for details.
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The Pasadena Public Library is an information center for the Pasadena community in order to preserve and encourage the free expression of ideas essential to an informed citizenry.
A variety of highly vetted programs are presented for children and adults, and they represent the research and opinions of the presenter and do not reflect an endorsement by the City of Pasadena nor the Pasadena Public Library. |
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Many thanks to The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library for their continued support of Pasadena Public Library’s programs. To learn more about The Friends and how you can become a member, visit
http://FriendsPPL.org/.
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