Branch History
The South Branch’s architecture was described in the Library's 1911 Annual Report as English Gothic, and the interior as the Tudor style. Building architect Henry D. Whitfield cited as the inspiration for the library Houghton Tower in Lancastershire, England. The building is constructed of rough-hewn gray stone. There is an octagonal skylight over the central court from which radiate ceiling panels to the flat arches which are supported by eight piers. The building opened on June 12, 1911, and this branch measures in size 9,500 square feet.
Special Features
Many South Branch staff members speak and understand Spanish. South Branch has a very large collection in Spanish of movies, fotonovelas, magazines, music, novels, and informational books, as well as a great selection of English language materials. Our programs are always free and open to the general public.