What’s That Wooden Box at Pasadena’s Central Library?

Wooden structure to protect the historic fountain (Photo – PPL)

The wooden enclosure protects the Central Library’s historic courtyard fountain as seismic retrofit and renovation work continues.

By News Desk

The fountain, which has welcomed visitors since the Central Library opened in 1927, sits beneath the building’s grand façade at the entrance to the tripartite courtyard, serving as the architectural centerpiece of the courtyard. Following the library’s 2002 renovation, the fountain was dedicated to Ann and Douglas Longyear in recognition of their generous support of the Pasadena Public Library.

The wooden enclosure is designed to shield the fountain from potential damage during construction while allowing crews to safely complete work throughout the courtyard. The structure will help preserve the historic feature until renovation work is complete.

Designed by architect Myron Hunt in the Renaissance Revival style, the Central Library is one of Pasadena’s most significant architectural landmarks. Set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, the building’s Mediterranean-inspired design has long been celebrated for its beauty and remains a source of civic pride for residents and visitors alike.

The courtyard fountain is an exact replica of the fountain at El Mirador de Daraxa, located in the Patio de Daraxa in Granada, Spain. El mirador, meaning “the lookout,” is a 16th-century pavilion within the Nasrid Palaces of the Alhambra. The original fountain is renowned for its intricate mocárabe arches, colorful tilework, and poetic inscriptions.

Although the fountain remains out of view during construction, it will once again become the courtyard’s focal point when the Central Library reopens, restoring the familiar sound of flowing water that has greeted generations of library visitors.

A file photo of the historic fountain (Photo – PPL)