Armed with my new camera on a sunny Sunday morning, I navigated my way to the Los Angeles Central Library at downtown. The relatively light traffic provided an enjoyable drive through the 110 freeway into downtown. Nice to get away from the usual placidity of the neighborhood I live in; and the mediocre library nearby that I have to put up with when in need of a quiet place to read.

The library is situated amidst towering office buildings in the heart of downtown. Given the potential land value it seats on, the library provided no disappointment both in its contents and aesthetics. I spent a great deal of time browsing the Literature and International Language sections. The library's Chinese language collection was a slight letdown, though, comprise of no more than 3 to 4 aisles of books that one would easily spot at a local Chinese bookstore. But I did find a Chang Aileen novel of my liking. I sat down at the Literature section of the library and help myself with a copy of Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge.

The library offers parking validation on weekends for only one dollar. Given the skyrocketing downtown parking price one has to endure, it's nice that the library is able to gather a deal with the parking garage for a obscure fee. But do be aware, stupid me, for being there 10 minutes before opening time. I was required to pay the full day rate of $7 because of my car's being there earlier than the library opening hours. The automatic teller/pay machine offers no concession. You bloody hound!

If one gets tired of browsing and reading of books, the library is walking distance to many major Los Angeles landmarks, such as the Biltmore Hotels, Bunker Hills Steps, Maguire Square, and so on. I just find the little newspaper stands charming.



It was nice to get away from my everyday suburban surroundings and for once experience what is it like to be in a American metropolitan. Being away from Taipei made me realize how grown used to I have become to noises that are indispensable to any city of large size. The car horn, street hawkers and the relentless pace of pedestrians all became a familiar and reassuring scene for me.