Small Library Makes a Big Difference

The Cerritos Millenium Library in Cerritos is known for its architectural and technological capacities. With silver titanium plates, a towering stature emphasizing its modernist design, and thousands of books to be enjoyed by avid readers, it certainly is grandiose. Cerritos Library also hosts numerous large events throughout the year and is often in the news.

However, this grandiosity puts other libraries in the region at a disadvantage. Smaller libraries, like the Artesia Library, often hold events with low publicity and attendance. Yet this library has much to enjoy.

Saurav Chhapawala, a high schooler and volunteer at the Artesia Library since 2013, told JSR that he enjoys the closeness he feels at the library.

Chhapawala said, “Whether I walk in here to volunteer or read, all of the librarians know my name, and I know theirs, and it is not [special treatment] towards me. All the librarians have a personal connection to the visitors in the library.”

This personal connection is what allows for many of the “regulars” to enjoy their stay at the library. Visitors can receive a custom experience at many of the unique presentations Artesia Library provides, like Opera Magic, Interactive Crafts, and Homework Help. Arts and crafts activities are popular among kids, while adults have the opportunity to enjoy lessons from professional gardeners and artists.

Chhapawala also enjoys the variety of activities and events and said, “Artesia Library hosts dozens of activities every month directed toward children and adults, and the accessibility is just amazing, [with] no signups or reservations. Just show up, and you’re pretty much guaranteed a first row spot.”

Smaller libraries in the Southern California region are rich sources of activities and information for their respective communities. Visit Los Angeles County’s library website at colapublib.org for more information.