New Weho Library Gets 30,000 Visitors in First Month

The appears to be off to a great start. In October (its first month), it had a whopping 30,000 visitors, according to city officials. The old library averaged 8,000 per month.

Architect Steve Johnson led a tour earlier this week at the celebration of the opening of the Mani Family Floor, named for the family that donated $1.5 million to support the LibraryPark campaign.

"People want to get out of their pajamas and away from their computers and meet each other in person," Johnson said, making the case for the importance of a library. "Starbucks is an example of that need."

We all know how valuable the internet has been (FYI, you can reserve all your books online!), but nothing takes the place of that in person, face-to-face experience that a library can provide. Strolling through the community center, I reflected on this past summer.

Donned in a white hard hat for the tour led by Johnson (), we walked passed ladders, paint cans and empty bookshelves. I imagined what it would be like when the library was open and filled with people. I remembered feeling so proud to be part of this unique, diverse and fascinating community.

Even if you were not a supporter of this West Hollywood development, at least check it out. Have a coffee in the cafe, peek into the new Council Chambers, and maybe even check out a book for a stimulating read at bedtime.

-Tracy Pattin AdventurizeYourLife.com