The book collection includes key reference works on Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley, and general California history. Popular reference sources include a nearly complete run of Pasadena city directories dating from 1893 to 1976, and the 1910 and 1930 editions of Sanborn fire insurance maps. Manuscripts, scrapbooks, newspaper clippings, and ephermera provide rich sources of important historical and biographical information. Special collections include many important Pasadena city documents, the Tournament of Roses files of photographs and memorabilia, the Pasadena Black History Collection, the Sylvanus Marston architectural collection, and bound volumes of Pasadena newspapers from 1886 to 1929. A professional archivist is in charge, and trained volunteers are available to assist visitors and readers.
Collections are open for research only and are non-circulating.
Photocopy and reproduction services are available. Bungalow Heaven Landmark District. Flag Photo Collection. Circular Bridge, Mt. Lowe Railway, circa 1890.