I am the kind of person who plans vacations around book stores and libraries. During my latest visit to Los Angeles, we visited the Los Angeles Public Central Library and it was love at first sight.

I have always had a thing for buildings and the LA Central Public Library building was designed by Bertram Goodie in the 1920’s. It is a beautiful building. The exterior has a distinct Art-deco feel and the sculptures by Lee Lawrie fit in perfectly.

The interior of the building is equally awe-inspiring. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to look at the books or the bricks. It is the kind of dilemma I enjoy. The floor plan of the library was mainly created by the librarian Everett Perry.

The Rotunda is probably my favorite space. The soaring dome and the zodiac chandelier made me gasp. The old library catalog now contains names of patrons and supporters. It felt good to see the old wooden boxes put to use.

The Children’s library is where I spent most of the time watching kuttyma read. It is one of those spaces that closely resembles the 1920 original. If there was one thing I would have loved to see in the space, it would be more light. The place did feel a tad dark.

The newer Tom Bradley’s wing with its glass roofed atrium floods the place with light. The massive chandeliers by Therman Statom capture everyone’s attention. I had a lovely time walking through the books and running my hands along the book spines.

The elevator walls in the library were covered with catalog cards. What a great idea

The probability of me going back to LA is non-existent but someday I would love to go back and spend a day or two or a week at the LAPL.

You can read more about the history of the library here.