The Transformative Legacy of Everett Perry at the Los Angeles Public Library

Everett Perry, who served as the city librarian of Los Angeles from 1911 until his death in 1933, played a pivotal role in transforming the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) into a vital community resource. Under his leadership, the library evolved from a struggling institution with limited accessibility into a prominent cultural hub, culminating in the establishment of the Central Library building that still serves Angelenos today.

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When Perry took charge, the LAPL lacked a permanent location and had been forced to operate out of various rented spaces, including a department store. In a 1912 report, Perry highlighted the library's challenges, stating, “The modern library aims to be a vital force in a community... if its usefulness is limited by an inaccessible location.” This sentiment underscored his vision for a library that was not only accessible but also a cornerstone of community engagement.

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Perry's tenure was marked by several innovative changes that significantly improved user experience. He advocated for the construction of a central library, which was funded by a $2 million bond measure passed by voters in the 1920s. The resulting Art Deco building incorporated novel ideas, such as organizing books by subject rather than the traditional Dewey decimal system, making it easier for patrons to locate materials. Additionally, Perry redesigned the library's layout, placing the circulation and card catalog area centrally, surrounded by reading rooms that benefited from natural light.

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Recognizing the importance of skilled staff, Perry revamped the LAPL's librarian training program into an accredited library school, which became the best in California. This initiative not only enhanced the quality of library services but also expanded the workforce from 98 to 600 employees during his tenure. The library's book collection grew from 200,000 to 1.5 million volumes, and numerous branch libraries were established, further extending access to information across the city.

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While Perry was known for his effective leadership, some critics described him as an "iron-fist leader." His strict approach to library practices and staff management drew mixed reactions, with some praising his commitment to excellence while others felt constrained by his methods.

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Perry's legacy is celebrated for its lasting impact on library practices across the United States. His innovative approaches to library accessibility and education have influenced library systems nationwide, demonstrating the importance of adapting to community needs.

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• “The modern library aims to be a vital force in a community,” — Everett Perry, City Librarian

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• “By grouping books under subjects, Perry made it much easier for people to find what they wanted.” — Los Angeles Public Library

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Everett Perry's contributions to the Los Angeles Public Library not only reshaped the institution but also set a standard for libraries across the country, emphasizing accessibility, education, and community engagement. His vision continues to resonate in the library's operations today.

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