South Pasadena reviews historic integrity of Library Park and surrounding districts

The South Pasadena Library/Community Center Site Plan Ad Hoc Committee convened on July 3, 2025, to discuss the future of the library located within the South Pasadena Historic Business District and the adjacent Mission West Historic District. The meeting focused on the preservation of the library's historic elements and the surrounding area's architectural significance.

Key discussions highlighted the library's designation as a South Pasadena landmark, particularly the 1930 Community Room and the Morton Bay fig tree, which is recognized as a heritage tree. The committee emphasized the importance of maintaining the building's historic character while considering potential renovations. Specific elements of the library, such as the primary significant features marked in red and contributing items in yellow, were identified for preservation during any proposed reuse of the structure.

The committee reviewed the surrounding area, noting the presence of both designated and eligible historic districts. The Mission West Historic District, which includes Library Park, is recognized for its concentration of commercial and industrial buildings dating back to the late 1880s to 1925. The discussion also included the scale and compatibility of nearby buildings, which range from one to two and a half stories, ensuring that any future developments align with the historic context of the neighborhood.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the need for careful consideration of the library's historic elements in any future planning efforts. The next steps will involve further analysis of the building's features and community input to ensure that the library remains a vital part of South Pasadena's cultural heritage.