Kids and adults at the newly renovated Bob Lucas Memorial Library, Saturday, August 16, 2025 (Photo – Brin Wall)
The Altadena Library District held a grand reopening ceremony for the Bob Lucas Memorial Library and Literacy Center on Saturday, August 16, marking the completion of a 16-month renovation project that revitalized the cherished neighborhood library. The newly renovated facility at 2659 Lincoln Avenue now boasts an expanded 1,000-square-foot area, boosting its overall size by 50%, and features a variety of modern upgrades designed to better serve the community.
By News Desk
The $4.5 million renovation was made possible through the support of local residents and the passage of Measure Z in 2020. Key improvements include a dedicated children’s area, an upgraded literacy center with a classroom and tutoring rooms, and a fully accessible design to ensure that all community members can enjoy the space. The library also received a new roof and modernized electrical and mechanical systems. Additionally, an outdoor reading garden provides a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The grand reopening ceremony featured remarks from local elected officials, community leaders, and the Bob Lucas family. The event began with a prayer and land acknowledgment from tribal councilwomen of the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation, honoring the indigenous lands on which the library stands. Congressmember Judy Chu (CA-28) presented a Certificate of Congressional Recognition to Branch Manager Diana Wong in recognition of the library’s pivotal role in the community. Representatives from State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, Assemblymember John Harabedian, and L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger also presented certificates and proclamations to mark the occasion.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony heralded a new chapter for the Bob Lucas Memorial Library, ensuring that the west-side library will continue to serve as a vital hub of education, connection, and inspiration for generations to come. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to tour the newly expanded facility before it reopens for regular hours on Monday, August 18.
For more information on library programs and hours, visit the Altadena Library District’s website.
From the ribbon-cutting ceremony (Photo – Deb Halberstadt)
(L-R) Dr. Letitia Wright and Autumn Mora, members of the Bob Lucas family (Photo – Brin Wall)
(L) Crowd checking out the newly renovated library. (R) Rep. Chu and branch manager Diana Wong (Photos – Brin Wall)
Interior of the Bob Lucas Memorial Library and Literacy Center ((Photo – Deb Halberstadt)
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