Landa Library has reopened after being closed from June to September 2017 for renovations. The former historic home looks better than ever, and has a few changes inside to make it more welcoming and efficient for library patrons. A ceremony on October 14, 2017 will celebrate the library branch’s 70th anniversary.
The exterior got a new coat of paint in subtly different colors—a return to the house’s original palette. The renovations also brought a new roof and repaired the doors and windows.
Inside, the entrance lobby is more open and has a welcoming sitting area.
Beyond the lobby is a public service area. Here, librarians staff the circulation desk, and patrons can pick up their books on hold. (Landa veterans: this space is where the teen section used to be.)
The teen section is now in a room at the house’s northeast corner. The tile floor, in a blue wave pattern, is now visible. (Landa veterans: this room is where the children’s section used to be.)
The children’s section, and the desk for the children’s librarian, is in a room at the southeast corner. This space is always a hub of activity after school. Whenever we visit, my kids, G.N. and F.T., like to spend a few minutes at the game computer.
The library’s eclectic architectural details look better than ever.
Landa Library has played an important role in my children’s education at many different stages of their lives. When my son. F.T., was a toddler, we would visit the playground and stop inside to pick up a few board books and picture books. F.T. did not want to sit still for story time, but many children enjoy the sights and sounds; you can find story times (including events for babies and toddler) on the library’s events calendar. As a young mom who sometimes felt isolated and deprived of adult conversation, meeting other parents at the library was a highlight of my days.
As F.T. and my daughter, G.N., developed into readers, Landa Library became our go-to place to get fresh books. F.T. likes to browse the nonfiction shelves, especially science and geography. When your child is hooked on a series like Magic Tree House, you can search the library catalog for the next title and have it sent to your local branch to pick up. The library mobile app helps us stay on top of renewals and due dates.
Making a habit of going to the library will benefit your children’s education during their school years and beyond. I hope you connect with your local branch and get to be a regular there, too.
Fans of Landa Library are invited to a ceremony on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the library’s 70th anniversary with music, food, games, and more. The ceremony will recognize the generosity of Harry Landa, who donated the home in 1946 in memory of his late wife, Hannah Mansfield Landa, and these organizations: San Antonio Public Library, San Antonio Public Library Foundation, Friends of the San Antonio Public Library, Monte Vista Historical Association, and Landa Gardens Conservancy.
Read more:
- “Landa library reopens,” Scott Huddleston, San Antonio Express-News, September 20, 2017
- “Landa Branch Library Reopens Thursday, September 21st”, San Antonio Public Library news release, September 19, 2017
