Moneta Branch, Los Angeles
historic place
The Moneta Branch, a historic place in Los Angeles County, began its service to the community in 1908 as a book depository. By 1915, it had evolved into a formal branch library, located in a rented store building on West 45th Street. It took its name from nearby Moneta Avenue. During World War I, the Moneta Branch served as a local headquarters for war efforts, including Liberty bonds and the Red Cross. The current Mediterranean Revival style building, designed by architect Lyman Farwell, opened in 1923. In 1934, the branch was renamed the Junipero Serra Branch, honoring Junípero Serra. The Moneta Branch was designated a Historic-Cultural Monument by Los Angeles in March 1984. It was then added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The library building closed in 1987 following the Whittier Narrows earthquake and has remained closed since. This site is significant for its role in community life and its architectural style.