United Music Scene

On April 29, 1986, an arson fire devastated Central Library, damaging the building and destroying parts of its vast collection. Months later, a second fire did even more damage. While renovation and expansion plans were already in the works, the tragic events galvanized the public and cemented the devotion of an already dedicated staff. On October 3, 1993, Central Library re-opened its doors to a jubilant city, and 25 years later Central Library still fulfills its promise as a light of learning. Join us Saturday, October 13 for a day celebrating the 25th anniversary of the re-opening of the renovated and expanded Central Library. Read more...

 Pasadena city officials this week put a hold on a Kimpton Hotel project proposed to occupy the vacant Julia Morgan -designed YWCA building on the edge of that city's historic civic center plaza after the developer sought more than $30 million in concessions. Local preservation group Pasadena Heritage supports the hotel because, "it is an ideal reuse for the former YWCA building, which has sat vacant now for 20 years, complies with the original Bennett Plan that called for a future building in this location, would do much to enliven the Civic Center and provide public amenities, and increase pedestrian activity throughout the day and evening hours," the group said in its April newsletter. Read More...