South L.A. Library Closing for Renovation

The Graham Library--a crowded, fortress-like building at 1900 E. Firestone Blvd.--will close for about six months, starting Sunday, to undergo a $623,000 renovation, Los Angeles County Library officials said.

The branch library, one of the county’s most crowded and neglected facilities, has metal gates and wrought iron bars to protect against vandalism and crime in the poor community in South Los Angeles.

As part of a renovation project for several inner-city libraries, county officials plan to redesign the library’s exterior and entryway and add a new roof, library officials said.

The heavy metal gates at the entry will be replaced by glass doors that will be treated with a special film to protect against vandalism. Two pillars that resemble the spines of books will be added. The interior will get a new paint job, carpeting, floor tile and energy efficient lighting.

Residents can return books to a temporary book drop outside the Graham Library or at any other county library.