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LIBRARY NEWSLETTER

JANURARY - FEBRUARY 2026

Library News

Stay up-to-date on library news. For full stories, see our latest Off the Shelf print newsletter edition.

News from the Director

The New Year is an opportunity for a fresh start, a vantage point to focus on our hopes for the future, and a time to reflect on a year of growth and change now behind us. This edition of our newsletter highlights some of Pasadena Public Library’s 2025 accomplishments. Read on to see what lies ahead for us; the coming year will bring our 24th One City, One Story celebration, an exciting roster of events for Black History Month, and much, much more.

We remain on track to reopen Central Library in 2028. This year, we will move ahead with Phase 2 of the project, award a construction contract, and begin retrofitting the library to protect it from seismic activity.

[more]

For the full story, see our latest Off the Shelf print newsletter edition.

Urban Libraries Council Recognizes Pasadena Public Library

Pasadena Public Library has been named a Top Innovator for 2025 by the Urban Libraries Council (ULC), North America’s leading nonprofit for urban libraries. This recognition is in honor of Pasadena Public Library’s Building Resilience After the Eaton Fire project, which transformed the Jefferson Branch Library into a cornerstone of recovery. The project created a safe, structured hub for learning, care and connection by providing innovative childcare alternatives, education opportunities and disaster response resources. As a result, 2,628 children were connected with emergency learning programs and 533 people were connected with wellness sessions in January 2025.

[more]

For the full story, see our latest Off the Shelf print newsletter edition.

ULC Top Innovators

Central Library Update

The City of Pasadena commemorated an important step in the Central Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovation Project with a groundbreaking ceremony for the preconstruction phase, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. More than 150 people gathered in the library parking lot for the event, which featured remarks from Mayor Victor M. Gordo, District 3 Councilmember Justin Jones, Public Works Director Greg De Vinck and Library Director Tim McDonald. Speakers provided an update on the project and checked out the ceremonial final book from Central Library, marking the symbolic start to a 3-year-long project. Attendees left with a keepsake memento – a brick taken out of Central Library during selective demolition, stamped with the groundbreaking date.

Phase 1A of the Central Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovation Project commenced on Aug. 18, 2025, marking the start of on-site activities.

[more]

For the full story, see our latest Off the Shelf print newsletter edition.

2025 By the Numbers

439,055 participants attended 2,100 library programs and events.
Patrons checked out 705,315 print books, AV, magazines, DVDs and CDs, eMaterials and items from the library of things.
108,145 items were added to the library’s collection, for a total of 2,420,824 print and eMaterials.
The library grew its Facebook and Instagram audience by 30%, reaching an audience of 15,791 and earning 2,157,289 total impressions. Total impressions grew by 62.5%. Video views increased by 12%. Post link clicks increased by 371%. Total engagement increased by 21.9%. Our YouTube channel attracted 103,168 views with 3,257 subscribers. Our website had 216,769 visits.
371 community organizations partnered with the library on services, programs and events.
3,441 Summer Reading participants received 3,947 books to help them build their home libraries. 2,418 received new library cards. 3,029 participants enjoyed 533 summer programs.
4,137 meals were provided by the Jefferson and Villa Parke branch libraries’ Lunch at the Library program. In partnership with Pasadena Unified School District, the program addresses student food insecurity and learning loss throughout the summer.

Holiday Closures

All Pasadena Public Libraries will be CLOSED for

JANUARY

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | Sunday & Monday, Jan. 18 & 19

FEBRUARY
Lincoln’s Birthday | Thursday, Feb. 12
Washington’s Birthday | Sunday & Monday, Feb. 15 & 16

Reading Recommendations

Browse our libraian selections

BROWSE

Special Events

For all ages unless specified

For a full list of programs, see the event calendar below

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

FEBRUARY

Eat the Culture: African Foodways & Traditions

Saturday, Feb. 7 | 11 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library
Saturday, Feb. 14 | 10:30 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library | REGISTER
African cooking techniques, traditions and flavors have traveled all over the world. This culinary diaspora was shaped initially by the brutalities of the transatlantic slave trade, which forced African people separated from their homelands to retain and reinvent traditional dishes, find and experiment with substitute ingredients, and pass down to their children the cultural significance of particular foods to nourish the soul as well as the body. In this workshop, Chef Denà Brummer will share the delights, comforts, revelations and recipes of Black foodways. For ages 18+.

Celebrating the Life of Bridget “Biddy” Mason

Friday, Feb. 20 | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Lorinda Hawkins Smith’s theatrical presentation brings to life the extraordinary story of Bridget “Biddy” Mason, a formerly enslaved woman who became a nurse, real estate entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a foundational figure in Los Angeles history. Mason (1818–1891) won her freedom in a landmark California court case and became one of the first Black women to own property in Los Angeles, using her wealth to support her community. Join us for a celebration of resilience, community and empowerment. For ages 5+.

Celebrate Black History from 1865 to Juneteenth!

Friday, Feb. 27 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
Join us for a special Black History Month program featuring the talented artist John Barge! Discover the powerful journey of Black history from 1865 to Juneteenth, as Barge guides students through this crucial period, highlighting key historical dates and milestones in a unique, engaging presentation.
Every student will receive an illustrated coloring book featuring the events discussed and then choose a historical event page and bring it to life by coloring their own piece of history. For ages 5 – 19.

BOOK LIST
Would you like to learn more? The Pasadena Public Library has a list of titles available by Black authors, and on topics and experiences of Black Americans.

BOOK LIST

2026 One City, One Story Announced, The Dream Hotel

Conversation with Laila Lalami

Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 2 p.m. | Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E. Colorado Blvd.

Books are available while supplies last at any of our Pasadena Public Library branches starting Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. LIMIT – one copy per library cardholder.

One City, One Story Community Program Offerings Include:

Rooms of our Dreams: A Community Story Wall

Monday, March 2 -Tuesday, March 31 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library
Share a short reflection, dream or memory inspired by The Dream Hotel, creating a growing installation.

Free IT Café
Saturday, March 7 | 10 am – noon | 236 W. Mountain St., #113

Presenter: Pasadena Village

Introduction to Generative AI
Saturday, March 7 | 2 p.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library

Presenter: Bridgid Fennell, USC Librarian and Library Commissioner
Sponsored by the Linda Vista Library Associates

Dreams, Data, and Destiny: How AI and Emerging Science Will Shape Our Future Lives
Thursday, March 12 | 6 – 7 p.m. | Huntington Medical Research Institute, 686 S Fair Oaks

Presenter: Dr. Rashid Alavi, J.G. Boswell Fellow at HMRI and Caltech

Frankenstein: Myths and the Real Story?

Sunday, March 15 | 3 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library
Presenter: Rosemary Choate, Comparative Literature/Humanities Instructor and Founder, Pomona College Alumni Book Club

Dr. Michael Lennox: The Beginner’s Guide to Dream Interpretation
Monday, March 16 | 3 p.m. | Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 East Colorado Blvd. Sponsored by the La Pintoresca Library Associates

PPL Anywhere! eResouces
Thursday, March 19 | 2 p.m. | Pasadena Senior Center, 85 East Holly St.
Presenter: Shauna Redmond, Virtual Services Manager, Pasadena Public Library

BOOK REC

More Than a Parade

by Michael K. Riffey

PLACE A HOLD

For the Community

Programs that span a wide age range

For a full list of programs, see the event calendar below

Get to Know the City

Royalty & Tea

Saturday, Jan. 10 | 1 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Future kings, queens, princes and princesses: come dressed in your finery for an afternoon with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Royal Court. Her Highness and princesses will share their recent experiences with attendees, then read their favorite royal stories. Bring a camera and a smile to pose with royalty. For ages 1-12.

Bird Walk with the Audubon Society

Saturday, Jan. 17 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Join the Pasadena Audubon Society for a walk through the surrounding area in search of local birds. Perfect for beginners! Meet at the Santa Catalina Branch Library. Comfortable walking shoes, water and clothing appropriate for the weather are recommended. For ages 5+.

Explore the Arts

Discover Opera with Pacific Opera Project

Saturday, Jan. 31 | 4:30 p.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library

Enjoy an impossibly magical mashup opera telling the story of Cinderella, presented by world-class professional opera singers from Pacific Opera Project! A fun musical experience for the whole family. For ages 3+.

Ghibli Party

Saturday, Feb. 14 | 10:30 a.m. | Jefferson Branch Library

Bring a friend and your love for this beloved film studio and enjoy games, photo spots and crafts dedicated to some of your favorite films. For ages 5 –19.

Simply Yum Cooking

Saturday, Feb. 21 | 2 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Join us for an in-person cooking demonstration at the library 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. To attend, sign up every member in your party. For ages 9+.

Valentine's Day at the Library

Valentine’s Day Card-Making Workshop

Friday, Feb. 6 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Drop in and make something to share with a friend or loved one! Choose a pre-fab craft or from a variety of crafting supplies and let your creativity be your guide. For ages 12 and under.

Valentine’s Day Storytime

Saturday, Feb. 14 | 10:30 a.m. |
Santa Catalina Branch Library

Join us for stories, songs, movement, and interactive fun—perfect for building early literacy and motor skills at a developmentally appropriate level. This storytime will have a focus on Valentine's Day! Storytimes range from 20-40 minutes and followed by an activity.

Jazz on Valentine’s Day

Saturday, Feb. 14 | 4:30 p.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library

Join the Ann Louise Trio for a musical afternoon as they perform romantic classics from the Great American Songbook. The trio features Ann Louise on keys and vocals, Geno E on drums and vocals, and Geoff Nudell on woodwinds. Grab your sweetheart or a friend and come celebrate Valentine’s Day. For ages 9+.

Martry!

Kaveh Akbar

PLACE A HOLD

For the Adults

Programs for ages 18+

For a full list of programs, see the event calendar below

JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS

Community Healing Yoga

Saturday, Jan. 10 | 2 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Join us as we honor the one-year anniversary of the Eaton Fire. Instructors Jennifer Hafner and Brandon Walls will guide a gentle, beginner-friendly flow focused on grounding, breath, and collective healing. Together, we’ll move, meditate and create space for restoration and community connection. All are welcome, no experience needed. Bring a mat and beach towel if you have one and come as you are.

Death Café

Saturday, Jan. 24 | 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.

Backyard Composting Workshop

Saturday, Jan. 24 | 2 p.m. | Hill Avenue Branch Library

Turn your food scraps into nutrient-rich soil for your garden and help reduce landfill waste. Participants will receive a free compost bin! Registration is limited to the first 20 people and opens Jan.11. Presented by Pasadena Public Works Department.

SPHEREx: A Launch Odyssey

Saturday, Jan. 31 | 11 a.m. | Linda Vista Branch Library

NASA launched SPHEREx from Vandenberg Space Force Base in March 2025. This space observatory is currently creating an all-sky map of the universe. Learn about the mission science and the patience needed to weather the repeated launch delays. Presented by Dr. Roberta Palidini, senior research scientist from Caltech/IPAC and Katie Clark, Team Family member.

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

Sober Curious Sips

Saturday, Feb. 21 | 4 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Looking for ways to extend your Dry January? Or just curious about the buzz around alcohol-free drinks? Join Burden of Proof, LA's home for non-alcoholic beverages, to learn what’s out there, how they’re made, and why so many people are reaching for zero-proof options. We’ll talk ingredients, flavor and inspiration for enjoying these drinks at home. Plus, we'll be sampling the best of non-alcoholic wine, beer, spirits and functional mocktails so you can try for yourself and maybe even find a new favorite!

Watercolor Workshop

Saturdays, Jan. 31 & Feb. 28 | 10:30 a.m. | San Rafael Branch Library

Relax and enjoy the spontaneity of watercolor. Bring your painting supplies if you have them. If you are new to watercolor, basic supplies will be provided. To attend, call the branch at (626) 744-7270. For ages 18+.

MORE ADULT EVENTS

ASAP

Axie Oh

PLACE A HOLD

For the Teens

Programs for ages 13 - 19

For a full list of programs, see the event calendar below

JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS

DIY 3D Paper Flowers

Monday, Jan. 12 | 4 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library

Get a jump start on spring and learn to make paper blooms with the Cricut. We’ll teach you the tech and provide you with all the materials you need to grow your skills!

Library Art Collective

Thursdays, Jan. 22 & Feb. 19 | 3:45 p.m. | Allendale Branch Library

Join us for an art-focused study hall where you’ll get to work on your own projects. Use the time to focus on your latest masterpiece or share work with your peers. Inspiration and some art materials are provided, but bringing your own is encouraged.

Learn How to Play MTG!

Monday, Jan. 26 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

It’s the world’s most popular and social trading card game and this is YOUR chance to learn the basics and start playing today! We'll have custom-made starter decks and an instructor ready to teach you everything you need to know, from combat tricks to patient plotting. Already know how to play. Then bring your own personal deck and catch a few quick games! All formats invited!

Photocard Holder Decorating

Tuesday, Jan. 27 | 3 p.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Calling all K-Pop fans! Come join us to decorate and customize your very own photocard holder (toploader). Bringing along photocards to show off is encouraged! All supplies provided.

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

K-pop Nite

Saturday, Feb. 7 | 3 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library

Meet and socialize with other K-pop listeners and fans while trading photocards, decorating toploaders and pickets, making bias bracelets, or collaging with K-pop albums. We’ll also have music videos playing and a photo booth to snap a pic! Whether you're here for the music, crafts, or community, there's something for every K-pop fan to enjoy.

Pokémon Night for Teens!

Monday, Feb. 23 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Come into trade and battle with all the official Pokémon platforms! Bring your main line titles, your TCG and Pocket pulls, and even your Pokémon Go finds. It’s all about meeting other trainers who love Pokémon just as much as you do! Participants will walk away with a few goodies by the end of the night so everyone's a winner!

MORE TEEN EVENTS

Spy School: Blackout

Stuart Gibbs

PLACE A HOLD

For the Youth

Programs for ages 0 - 12

For a full list of programs, see the event calendar below

LIBRARY KIDS (AGES 5 - 12)

JANURARY HIGHLIGHTS

All About Light

Fridays, Jan. 16 & Feb. 13 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Is light a particle? What about a wave? In this workshop, we will explore the nature of light, its behavior, and how our understanding has changed over time. There will also be interactive demonstrations (such as recreating the experiments of scientists like Newton), which should help visualize complicated concepts! For ages 9-12.

Art with Jeanette - Portraits

Wednesday, Jan. 21 | 3:30 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Start the year by making a portrait! Learn basic techniques of drawing a face. Bring in a photo of yourself or a favorite person, or draw someone in class. Try to capture their personality as well as outward features using various media, including drawing and collage. For ages 7-12.

Wow! That’s STEM

Thursday, Jan. 22 | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Wednesday, Jan. 28 | 4 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Experience the FUN side of STEM at a free workshop taught by Pasadena-area high school students. At each workshop, kids will learn cool science concepts and build a fun project, reinforcing these concepts. Then they will test and play with their projects to come up with ideas for improving them. For ages 6-11.

Discover Art with Norton Simon Museum

Tuesday, Jan. 27 | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library
Saturday, Jan. 31 | noon | Norton Simon Museum

On Tuesday, Jan. 27, the Norton Simon Museum will host an art workshop at La Pintoresca Branch Library. Students will be introduced to Norton Simon exhibitions and make their own artwork. All supplies provided. On Saturday, Jan. 31, at noon, participating families are invited to the Norton Simon Museum for a complimentary tour. Open to families with children ages 6+.

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

Art with Jeanette – Abstract Art

Wednesday, Feb. 18 | 3:30 p.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Look at the abstract art by Swedish artist Hilma af Klint, who was among the first artists in Western Art to make abstract paintings. Use nature as inspiration for making your own abstract botanical art, focusing on color, form and space. For ages 7-12.

Amazing Owls

Saturday, Feb. 28 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Swoop on down! Learn all about nature’s amazing owls with the help of Pasadena Audubon Society's Jodhan Fine. For ages 5-12.

FAMILY PROGRAMS (AGES 0-12)

Pixar & Popcorn

Saturdays, Jan. 24 & Feb. 14 | 2:30 p.m. | Allendale Branch Library

Join us for an afternoon matinee of your favorite Pixar movies. Enjoy a trip to the "theater" with the whole family for free! Snacks provided. For ages 3-12 and their family members.

Frozen Sing-Along and Craft Adventure

Saturday, Jan. 31 | 11 a.m. | Hastings Branch Library

Calling all Frozen fans! Come sing along to your favorite songs, celebrate the magic of winter, and finish the day with a fun Frozen-inspired craft you can take home. It’s a cozy, creative way to spend a wintry morning—perfect for families and fans of all ages! For ages 3+.

Make a Horse Marionette for Lunar New Year

Monday, Feb. 9 | 4 p.m. | La Pintoresca Branch Library

Celebrate the Year of the Horse by making an adorable pony marionette! All materials provided, while supplies last. For ages 3–12.

EARLY LEARNERS (AGES 0-5)

Mindfulness Storytime

Saturday, Jan. 10 | 10:30 a.m. | Santa Catalina Branch Library

Join us for stories, songs, movement, and interactive fun—perfect for building early literacy and motor skills at a developmentally appropriate level. This storytime has a focus on mindfulness. Storytimes range from 20-40 minutes and followed by an activity.

Bilingual Chinese Mandarin Storytime

Saturday, Jan. 31 | 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 2-6 and their caregivers.

MORE YOUTH EVENTS

The Yes Brain

Daniel J. Siegel

PLACE A HOLD

For the Parents/

Caregivers

Programs and resources for parents and caregivers

Family Navigator

Thursdays (except Jan. 1 & Feb. 12) | 10 a.m. - noon | Jefferson Branch Library

Beatriz Dzul Perera, Family Navigator, Pasadena Public Health Department, will be available for drop-in appointments to provide resources and support, answering questions about healthcare, developmental screenings, school enrollment, childcare or other family needs. Walk-ins welcome.

Emotional Hygiene for your Child!

Thursday, Feb. 5 | 5:30 p.m. | Jefferson Branch Library

Emotional Hygiene teaches parents how to help children care for their thoughts and feelings every day, not just during meltdowns. Just like brushing their teeth, emotional health becomes a simple daily ritual that builds resilience, connection and calm. Presented by parent educator and child development specialist Gina Gambaro Blount. A light dinner will be served.

For the Supporters

The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library

ESTABLISHED 1975

LEARN MORE

The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library Bookstore

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.

Offering a vast array of used books, DVDs, CDs, LPs and lots and lots of children’s books.

Open House and Stuffed Animal Naming Contest Awards Ceremony

Saturday, Jan. 31 | 3 – 5 p.m. | The Friends Bookstore, 1500 E. Villa St.

The Friends of the Pasadena Public Library will hold an open house and announce the winners of the Stuffed Animal Naming Contest. Winners will be awarded prizes. Refreshments will be served and there will be grab gifts for all the kids.

Patio Book Sale

Saturday, Feb. 14 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | The Friends Bookstore, 1500 E. Villa St.

Books make wonderful gifts for loved ones. Fill a paper grocery bag with books from the patio for $5. Then visit the bookstore and fill a bag with books, CDs and DVDs for $5 (except for the premium books). Premium books are 50% off.

Proceeds from book sales fund programs at all 10 library branches, 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 and more.

Connect with #PPL

The library often photographs or videotapes programs for use in publicity materials. By being present during these activities, you consent to the 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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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 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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Reporting Fraud, Waste or Abuse
For reporting suspected cases of fraud by the City or its employees, officials, contractors, or vendors, call the HOTLINE at (626) 744-7448 or visit https://www.CityOfPasadena.net/City-Manager/Internal-Audit/Fraud-Hotline.

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Pasadena Public Library
285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91101
Phone: (626) 744-4066

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