Library Celebrates 120 Years with South Pasadena: Through the Decades
Published on September 03, 2026
September 3, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jennifer Colby, Public Affairs Manager
Phone: (626) 403-7215
Email: socialmedia@southpasadenaca.gov
Subject: South Pasadena Public Library Celebrates 120 Years with “South Pasadena: Through the Decades”
South Pasadena, Calif. – In celebration of its 120th anniversary, the South Pasadena Public Library is launching a campaign that includes special programming and limited-edition giveaways.
In 1906, Andrew Carnegie donated $10,000 toward the construction of the South Pasadena Public Library, helping establish a lasting institution dedicated to learning, culture, and community. In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the Library has received another $10,000 grant from the Carnegie Foundation, creating a meaningful connection between the Library’s beginnings and its continued role in the community today. Now, 120 years later, the Library is celebrating that legacy with “South Pasadena: Through the Decades”, a campaign honoring the culture, eccentricity, creativity, and community spirit that make South Pasadena unique.
As part of this campaign, the Library will launch a limited-edition library card available beginning September 14 as a special keepsake commemorating the celebration. The Library will also offer 11 Decades Kits for checkout, each representing a different decade from 1900 through 2000. These kits have been curated by Library staff to reflect popular culture and reading habits of each decade. Each Decade Kit includes two children’s books and two toys or games, giving families a hands-on way to explore how children played, read, and experienced everyday life throughout the 20th and early 21st century.
Upcoming Library Programs
The Library’s full lineup of upcoming Carnegie-funded programs includes:
Family Retro Game Day
September 11, October 9, November 13 | 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Step back in time with classic board games and family fun!
Lotería Family Night
September 16 | 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Enjoy an evening of Lotería, the beloved traditional Mexican game, with family and friends.
Genealogy Fair
October 3 | 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Discover your family history and explore the world of genealogy. Connect with genealogical resources, local cultural organizations, and community groups to uncover family stories and learn more about researching your roots.
Frida Kahlo Portrait Craft
October 5 | 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
South Pasadena Senior Center, 1102 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Celebrate the iconic Mexican artist with a creative, hands-on portrait craft.
Citrus Talk & Tasting with Culinary Historian George Geary
October 10 | 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Explore the history of citrus in Southern California with culinary historian and author of Citrus, Illustrated George Geary. Registration required. Registration will open on September 25 at 10:00 a.m. Visit www.southpasadenaca.gov/register or call (626) 403-7330 to register.
Flamenco Performance
October 12 | 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Experience the passion, rhythm, and artistry of flamenco during this special live performance.
Mahjong with the South Pasadena Chinese American Club
October 17 | 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Learn and play mahjong while celebrating a game with deep cultural and community roots.
Spirited Away (2001) with Live Piano Score
November 28 | 6:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Experience the beloved animated film Spirited Away accompanied by a live piano score. Registration required. Registration will open on November 9 at 10:00 a.m. Visit www.southpasadenaca.gov/register or call (626) 403-7330 to register.
About the City of South Pasadena
The City of South Pasadena is a charming community, situated only six miles from downtown Los Angeles. Called the City of Trees, the area is known for its stunning homes, unique small businesses, and top-quality schools. South Pasadena’s diverse population of about 25,000 occupies a mere 3.44 square miles of flatlands and hillsides on the west side of the San Gabriel Valley. This small-town atmosphere makes South Pasadena one of California's most desirable locations.
For more information about the City of South Pasadena, visit www.southpasadenaca.gov. Follow us on social media to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
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