From the groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 (Photo – altadenalibrary)
Community members and local leaders gathered at 10:00 am on Saturday, Feb. 28, for a heartfelt groundbreaking ceremony at the Altadena Main Library on East Mariposa Street, marking the official start of a major renovation project expected to take 14 to 18 months.
By News Desk
The ceremony celebrated the transformation of the beloved mid-century modern building, which will undergo its most significant renovation in decades.
Among the featured speakers were U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, Assemblymember John Harabedian, Principal Architect Mark Schoeman, California State Librarian Greg Lucas, Altadena Town Council Chair Nic Arnzen, Altadena Heritage Chair Hans Allhoff, Altadena Historical Society President Veronica Jones, Altadena Library District Board Trustee Dr. Katie Clark, and District Director Nikki Winslow.
A special highlight of the morning was the unveiling of a new painting by artist Keni Arts, offering a vivid vision of the renovated Main Library.
During the ceremony, Trustee Clark announced several commemorative dedications within the updated facility. The newly renovated children’s area will be named in honor of Anthony Mitchell Sr. and Justin Mitchell. The patio and outdoor reading area on the library’s north end will be designated the Thomas A. Tombrello Jr. and Kerstin Arusha Reading Pavilion. Additionally, the library’s dedicated bookstore will honor longtime Altadenan and Friends of the Altadena Library volunteer Kathy Mahaffey.
Attendees also viewed architectural renderings of the renovation, providing a first look at the future of the Main Library as it embarks on a new chapter serving the Altadena community.
“So excited to finally kick this amazing project off! Thanks to everyone who was there to support us!” Winslow said following the ceremony.
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