Perched at the top of Altadena's beloved Christmas Tree Lane and surrounded by towering deodar trees, the city's main library branch offers Internet access, a well-stocked DVD and VHS borrowing library, and a community room used for community events and art exhibits.

The Altadena Public Library was opened in 1967, and the modernist main reading room is circled by wide, bright windows, which sport great views of the outdoor landscaping.

The children's library is very pleasant, with pint-sized tables and chairs and bean bags for lounging. It has a solid non-fiction section and a mystery and detective section, as well as many picture books.

tips:

Free Wifi is available at this branch.

getting there:

From the 210 east or west, exit at Lake Avenue and travel north toward the mountains for approximately two miles. Turn left on Marcheta/Mariposa and drive three blocks west. The parking lot is behind the library, entered from Santa Rosa Avenue.