A C Bilbrew Library of South Los Angeles is about to undergo $4.4-million transformation, slated to begin April of this year. Located at 150 East El Segundo Blvd, the 21,000-square foot facility will receive a drastic renovation/well needed improvements. I must stop and commend Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas, this man does not take a break. Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas has made amazing strides for our community and should be praised and applauded for all his accomplishments. Lead by the Chair, The county Board of Supervisors approved $4.4-million plan to refurbish and update much of the interior and exterior of the library using environmentally friendly materials and sustainable design techniques. Workers will use recycled materials, incorporate energy-efficient lighting, cooling and heating systems and other consumption-reducing measures. They will also install new walls and custom cabinetry, replace the carpet and ceiling, and update the data systems and public restrooms.
The library was named after Madame A C Bilbrew, a community leader, poet, musician and deputy to the late Los Angeles
County Supervisor James Hahn. She was also a radio pioneer, becoming the first black person in the country to have her own radio show. A C Bilbrew Library houses the Black Resource Center, which supports research and study on social, historical, musical and cultural aspects unique to the black experience. It has hosted the Los Angeles County Public Library system’s African American History Month Celebration since 1980.
