Altadena Library District

E-CONNECT | FEBRUARY 2026 UPDATE FROM THE ALTADENA LIBRARIES

Altadena Main Library Renovation Closure 
Last Day Open: Saturday, Jan. 31
Furniture/Book Sale: Feb. 18-21, 10am-3pm
Main Groundbreaking: Saturday, Feb. 28, 10am

 

The Bob Lucas Library and our Loma Alta Park site will be closed on Monday, Feb. 16 for Presidents' Day

As Community Mural at Bob Lucas Library Nears Completion, We Want to Properly Recognize Those Who Supported Project

If you were involved during the Original Mural Project, Creative Community Design Workshops (poetry writing), or Mural Painting Sessions, please take a moment to check the Contributor List to ensure that your name is included. We want to acknowledge all of the amazing Altadenans who helped make this mural project possible. 
 
Be part of history—open the link and look for your name. If your name is misspelled or missing, please email us to let us know by February 6, 2026!

Thank you for supporting this special project!

Extended Branch Hours During Renovation
(Starting 2/2/2026) 

Bob Lucas Memorial Library, 2659 Lincoln Ave (Open Daily)
Mon-Thu: 10:00am-8:00pm
Fri-Sat: 10:00am-5:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm
 
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave
Mon-Thu: 10:00am-6:00pm
Fri-Sat: 10:00am-5:00pm
 

Seeking Applicants for 2026-2028 Poets Laureate
Application Guidelines
Deadline to Apply: Feb. 15, 2026
The Altadena Library’s current Poets Laureate are seeking applicants for Poets Laureate for the 2026-2028 term. The Altadena Poets Laureate play an important role in promoting poetry in Altadena through curating public poetry readings and workshops at the Altadena Libraries and serving as editor for the publication of the virtual and printed Altadena Literary Review Anthology.
 
The Altadena Poets Laureate are volunteers who are officially appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Altadena Library District, which provides an annual operating budget for Laureate programming.
 
To apply, please submit the following application and attachments (in Word or PDF format) via email to altadenapoetryreview@gmail.com by February 15, 2026. Any applications received after the due date will not be considered. 
 
Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the Altadena Poet Laureate Volunteer Services Agreement on the Altadena Library District website to gain a full understanding of the responsibilities and expectations for this volunteer role.
 
How to Apply 
Please submit the following documents in one email:
 
  • An application letter with contact information, biography and past experiences in directing/curating readings, workshops, or other community events as well as past editorial and online publishing experience. Please also share the work you envision doing while serving as Poet Laureate.
  • A resume (no more than three pages) that includes your full name, professional name (if different), home address, phone, email, website (optional), your publication history, your own publications, featured readings, and other activities in the Altadena/Pasadena community or the poetry community at large
  • Two one-page poems that you feel best represent your work 
Candidates will be interviewed by members of a selection committee.
 
Due to the substantial workload of the Poet Laureateship, two Poets Laureate will be selected:
  1. Poet Laureate for Community Events
  2. Poet Laureate Editor in Chief 
 
If you prefer to be considered for a particular role, please indicate this in your letter.
 
Roles: 
Poet Laureate of Community Events is the point person on producing literary readings and/or workshops with the library, including the annual Altadena Poetry Review/ Anthology reading, and will also periodically represent the Laureate program at community-sponsored literary events at public schools, bookstores, libraries, and other venues.
 
Poet Laureate Editor in Chief is primary editor of the online Altadena Literary Review and/or the printed Altadena Literary Review Anthology, including soliciting submissions, reconciling editorial decisions, notifying poets, posting/printing poems/bios/pics, and planning the annual reading. The Poet Laureate Editor in Chief will either take this work on directly or outsource the work. The Poet Laureate Editor in Chief shares the workload with the Poet Laureate of Community Events and has the option of working with an editorial committee.
 
Eligibility & Requirements:
 
  • Be at least 18 years of age AND reside or work in Altadena, Pasadena, or the surrounding area.
  • Agree to serve as Poet Laureate for the Altadena Library for a term of two years from May 2026 through April 2028 and dedicate 8-12 hours a month to the position. Applicants for Poet Laureate of Community Events will conceptualize, organize, and lead at least one public program per month at the Altadena Library (poetry readings or workshops), in addition to organizing the annual April reading. Applicants for Poet Laureate Editor in Chief will manage submissions, selection, and publication of the online Altadena Literary Review and/or the printed Altadena Literary Review Anthology. The Poets Laureate also lead the search for the following Poets Laureate toward the end of their term.
  • Organize and attend the Altadena Library Laureate Inauguration as part of the library’s annual Poetry & Cookies program.
Applicants are rated by: 
  1. The quality and appeal of their poetry
  2. Their activities and involvement in Altadena/ Pasadena or the poetry community at large, including their editing and online publishing experience
  3. Their ideas for projects, workshops, readings, and other community events
Applications sent to any other email address sent via hard copy through postal mail, or delivered to the library or any other destination will not be considered. 

Spice Club! • February: Lavender
Bob Lucas Memorial Library, 2659 Lincoln
Join our Monthly Spice Club! From January through May, visit the Bob Lucas Library to pick up a spice kit during regular business hours. Monthly kits consist of a spice sample and 2 recipe cards to try cooking with the featured spice at home. While supplies last.
February spice: Lavender

Open Mic Night at Callisto Tea House!
Monday, Feb. 2 
6-7:30pm
Callisto Tea House, 1359 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena

 
Come share your music, story, or latest spoken word poem! We'll spend the evening cheering on our neighbors' work. All ages and genres welcome.
Older Adult Grief & Loss flyer

Altadena Historical Society & NAACP Altadena Present The Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers in the US Army/ a presentation by Charles Hancock 
Tuesday, Feb. 3 • 6:00-7:30pm
Bob Lucas Library, 2659 Lincoln Ave.

In honor of Black History Month, Altadena Library, NAACP Altadena, and the Altadena Historical Society welcome Retired Sergeant Major Charles Hancock, vice president of the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers, for a talk about African American contributions to our military. You will have the chance to ask questions after his presentation.
 
Registration is required.
Register for Buffalo Soldiers Talk
Music & Movement flyer

   

English Classes
(English as a Second Language)
Monday-Thursday every week
10:30am-12pm
Bob Lucas Memorial Library, 2659 N Lincoln

Build your English fluency to help work through everyday situations. Our casual, small group sessions are designed for beginning English learners. Classes are free and in person. To sign up, call (626) 798-0833 x 102.
 
   

February Storytimes!

Baby: Thursday, Feb. 5 • 10:30-11:15am
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

Toddler: Tuesday, Feb. 10  • 9:30-10:15am
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

Preschool: Tuesday, Feb. 17 • 3:30-4:15pm
Bob Lucas Library
 
Family: Wednesday, Feb. 25 • 5:00-5:30
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park
Open Mic Night flyer

Music & Movement
Friday, Feb. 6 • 9:30-10:30am
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

 
Children ages 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to join us for Music & Movement! Through songs, dancing, and free exploration of musical instruments, little ones will develop early literacy skills and have the opportunity to discover rhythm and sound!
Older Adult Grief & Loss flyer

Older Adult Grief & Loss flyer

Let’s Make Gimbap!

Saturday, Feb. 7
11:00am-12:00pm
Bob Lucas Library
Join us for a fun and delicious cooking event led by Emmy Lam from Very Fun Programs! In this special family program, children will participate in a hands-on workshop to learn how to make Gimbap, a popular Korean rice roll dish, using rice, fresh vegetables, and seaweed—with no meat included. Caregivers are welcome to join and assist as children discover new flavors, develop basic culinary skills, and experience Korean food culture. 
Register for Gimbap Workshop

Rest & Reset w/ practiceALTADENA

This tender practice invites our minds and bodies to prioritize ease and release as a means to cultivate space, peace, and bringing ourselves into balance from within. Engage rest as a way to reflect, release and reset; come practice doing less, and be-ing more. Come as you are! No previous experience required. Wear comfortable, cozy, loose fitting clothing. this practice is 90 minutes. Tea and community to follow. Please only register for one workshop to allow more participants. For Adults, 18+.
Saturday, Feb. 7
1:00-2:30pm
practiceALTADENA, 2462 Lake Ave
Register for Feb. 7 Session
Friday, Feb. 27
6:00-7:30pm
practiceALTADENA, 2462 Lake Ave
Register for Feb. 27 Session
Art + Connections for Families flyer

Huntington Health - Health Screening at Bob 
Tuesday, Feb. 10 • 10am-12pm
Bob Lucas Memorial Library
Come and receive free health counseling and screenings by a registered nurse.
  • No appointment/registration is necessary.
  • Personal health guidance
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure) screening
  • Diabetes (high blood sugar) risk assessment and screening (min. 2 hour fasting)
  • Medical and social services and referrals
  • Health promotion literature and resources

Heartthrob Hangout Book Club
Thursday, Feb. 12 • 4:30-5:30pm
Bob Lucas Library

Check out our newest book club and join us for a monthly discussion of a selected romance novel. This month's romance pick: "The No-Show" by Beth O'Leary
 
Heartthrob Hangout flyer

Valentine Paint Social

Friday, Feb. 13
3:00-4:30pm
Bob Lucas Library
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your partner, friends, or solo at a painting session, guided by artist Joe (JT) Bruns. Create an art piece to take home! Supplies included and light refreshments will be served. Space is limited. Registration required. Each attendee must sign up.
 
Register for Valentine Paint Social

Goat Yoga for Families!
Saturday, Feb. 14 • 1:00-3:00pm
Bob Lucas Library Parking Lot

friendly program offers a unique yoga experience where gentle goats roam and interact with participants as they stretch and unwind. Children are welcome to participate, however, all attendees must be at least 70 lbs, and a signed waiver and registration are required. Please bring a yoga mat.
 
Register for Goat Yoga
Holiday Card Watercolor Workshop flyer

Older Adult Grief & Loss flyer

Bilingual
Storytime

Saturday, Feb. 14
3-4pm
Altadena Library (Social Hall) at Loma Alta Park
Join us as we welcome Families in Schools as they share stories that span English and Spanish language and culture.
 
Book bags with high-quality books will be provided for children ages 4–8.

Adult Crafternoon

Wednesday, Feb. 18
4:00-5:30pm
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park
Join us for an afternoon craft at Loma Alta Park. This month, we'll be making a macrame heart craft!

Celebrating Black Artists for Kids!
Thursday, Feb. 19 • 4-5pm
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

Children ages 6–12 are invited to celebrate Black History Month with a fun art workshop! Participants will learn about influential Black American artists and create their own artwork inspired by their unique styles to take home.
Canva Design Workshop flyer

   
 
Teen Volunteer Orientation
Thursday, Feb. 19, 5-5:30 p.m., 
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park 
Teens (ages 13-18) are invited to volunteer and can earn service hours. Drop-ins welcome! Learn more at https://www.altadenalibrary.org/teens
 
   

Theatre & Recovery: Creative Workshop for Teens Impacted by the Altadena Fires
Friday, Feb. 20 • 4-5pm
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

This workshop is designed to help teens who have been impacted by the Eaton Fire reconnect with themselves and their community through the power of theatre. Using classic theatre games and exercises, participants will explore creative ways to express their feelings, share their experiences, and build a sense of unity.
 
Altadena-raised facilitator Emily Rodríguez will guide the group through activities that foster healing, encourage self-expression, and strengthen connections with others in the aftermath of the fire.
 
Registration required.
Register for Theatre & Recovery

Final Craftdown
Saturday, Feb. 21 
10am-1pm

Altadena Library 
(Social Hall) at 
Loma Alta Park
Did you miss a craft that you really wanted to try? Now's your chance!
Join us for this open event and help us use all the leftovers from past craft programs! This event is first come first serve for adults 18+.
Winter Sensory Play graphic

To Submit or Not, and Where, and When
with Lynne Thompson
Saturday, February 21 • 11:00am-1:00pm
Mirror Room (Gymnasium) at Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln
This workshop will assist you in navigating the sometimes confusing world of literary submissions, primarily for single or groups of poems and, tangentially, chapbook or full-length poetry manuscripts. Tips and suggestions for maintaining and organizing your work for submission as well as resources to use to find appropriate submission sites will be offered, with some of the convener’s personal experiences added to the mix! 
 
There will be some discussion about giving readings and engaging in other activities as a way to tap into markets that could be receptive to publishing your poems. The session will be interactive and you will be encouraged to ask questions.
 
Supported by Friends of the Altadena Library, the Altadena Library Foundation, Octavia's Bookshelf, and Academy of American Poets.
Message Mori flyer

   

Want to find out more about our Board? 

Join our Regular Meeting of the Altadena Library Board of Trustees on Monday, Feb. 23 at 5pm virtually at 
https://www.youtube.com/AltadenaLibrary

   

Kid's LEGO Club
Tuesday, Feb. 24 • 3:30-5:30pm
Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park

Join us for an afternoon of LEGO building at our Loma Alta park location! We will have LEGO blocks to build anything your imagination can think of, and challenges to level up your LEGO skills. Ages 6-12 welcome to participate, no registration required.
Altadena Poets Laureate flyer

DIY Clay Mirrors for Teens

Thursday, Feb. 26
4-5:30pm 
Bob Lucas Library

Come make DIY Clay Mirrors using foam air dry clay, mirrors, and hot glue guns with other teens. Registration is required, all supplies will be provided.
Register for Clay Mirrors

Bilingual Storytime flyer

Cozy Crafters Club

Friday, Feb. 27
4-6pm
Callisto Tea House,
1359 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena

Immerse yourself in crafty arts! Bring your own project to work on or dip into our supply basket. We'll socialize, help each other out when we get stuck, and maybe, just maybe, finish that thing you've been working on.

Author Visit: Mirelle Ortega
Saturday, Feb. 28 • 1:00-2:00pm
Bob Lucas Library
 
Pura Belpre award honoree Mirelle Ortega joins us to read her book "River of Mariposas," with a signing and book giveaway to follow. While supplies last. For Families.
 
Featuring Neelanjana Banerjee, Teresa Mei Chuc, Hazel Clayton Harrison, Jimmy Vega, workshop participants & more  Poets will read along the theme of Fire & ICE, a continuation of the poetry started at the October 11 workshop led by Teresa Mei Chuc; workshop participants are invited to share at the open mic.

Rooted in Us: Celebrating Black Writers 
and the Legacy of S. Pearl Sharp Reading + Open Mic
Saturday, February 28 • 2:00-4:00pm
Mirror Room (Gymnasium) at Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave.
Featuring Hazel Clayton Harrison, V. Kali, Dorothy Randall Gray, Lynne Thompson,  Conney Williams, Beverly Lafontaine, Pam Ward + Open Mic
​​​​​​​
Join us for an evening of poetry, remembrance, and celebration as we honor Black writers whose words have expanded the landscape of literature. Tonight, we also recognize the lasting influence of Pearl S. Hope, whose vision and dedication continue to guide and inspire. Hosted by Sehba Sarwar and Lester Graves Lennon.
 
This event will be livestreamed at youtube.com/ AltadenaLibrary.
 
Supported by Friends of the Altadena Library, the Altadena Library Foundation, Octavia's Bookshelf, and Academy of American Poets.
 
Altadena Poets Laureate flyer

True Crime All The Time Virtual Book Club

 

Saturday, Feb. 28, 4-5 p.m.

Zoom

 

Book: "The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi" by Wright Thompson

Sign up

 
Library Lovers Month Reading Challenge
February 1 - February 28
Bob Lucas Library, Loma Alta, or online at Beanstack
 
Celebrate Library Lovers Month by reading 300 minutes to receive a prize! Starting February 1st, you can visit one of our service desks to sign up or sign up online on Beanstack! Ages 6-12
 

Connect with us through our App

Listen to FREE audiobooks, 
discover new music, 
learn new skills through Linkedin Learning,
get homework help from online tutors, 
explore events and more!
 
Search for "Altadena Library District" in the Apple App Store or on Google Play to download! Or stop by any Info Desk for help!

Friends' Library Book Store Is Closed
The Book Store at Altadena Main Library will reopen when the Library’s renovation is complete.
 
We are truly grateful for your wonderful support — it has meant so much to all of us. We look forward to welcoming you back and sharing more great books when the Book Store reopens. Thank you for being part of our library community.” — The Friends of the Altadena Library 
Altadena Library Foundation strengthens the mission and resources of the libraries through fundraising and advocacy. Learn more at
The Friends of the Altadena Library stimulate public interest, assist with funding to purchase materials, and support cultural and educational programs. Become a member at

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Main Library
600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena, CA  91001
Phone: (626) 798-0833
 
Closes for renovation Jan. 31, 2026
 
 
Bob Lucas Memorial Library & Literacy Center
2659 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena, CA  91001
 
Mon-Thu: 10:00am-8:00pm
Fri-Sat: 10:00am-5:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm
(Starting 2/2/2026) 
Altadena Library 
at Loma Alta Park*
3330 N. Lincoln Avenue
Altadena, California 91001
 
Mon-Thu: 10:00am-6:00pm
Fri-Sat: 10:00am-5:00pm
(Starting 2/2/2026) 
 
 

 

*Altadena Library at Loma Alta Park is located in the park’s Social Hall. The Social Hall is a unit of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation System.

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