LA Central Library celebrates 100 years with unique stamps at every branch

The Los Angeles Public Library is celebrating the Central Library's 100th anniversary with unique stamps showcasing the architecture of each branch.

The collectibles are available at any of the system's 73 locations scattered throughout the city. Dubbed the Card Catalog Stamp Collection, this program allows visitors to visit the reference or information desk at any library to receive a genuine card catalog that once helped people navigate the Central Library's collection. Each will come with a commemorative stamp of each branch's facade.

The collectibles are just one part of the Central Library's year-long centennial celebration. Every branch is also offering a limited-edition library card, but only while supplies last. In January, librarians also opened a time capsule that was placed a year before the Central Library opened its doors. 

A calendar of the events celebrating the 100th anniversary can be found at the public library's website: lapl.org.

The Central Library opened to the public on July 5, 1926. The city held a formal dedication ceremony 10 days later, on July 15.

"Dedicated in July 1926, the Los Angeles Central Library became an instant architectural icon and guiding light of learning for the city," LA Public Libraries wrote in an Instagram post. 

The Central Library's board considered the construction complete in 1933, when illustrator Dean Cornwell finished his massive mural depicting California's history on the rotunda walls. 

The location served as a resource for residents during World War II, sharing information about air raids, bomb shelters and civilian and military defense jobs. 

In 1970, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.