Friends of Bell Gardens Library

The first libraries in Bell Gardens were in private homes.  Then Charles Harpe put some books on shelves in the back of his drugstore on Live Oak, which could be borrowed by readers.  Also, the Collins Malt Shop, across from Eastern Hardware, a gathering place for children, had books to borrow.

Mr. Sharpe, a founding father of his depression-born community, talked to the County and decided to build a stucco building in back of his drugstore.  Mrs. Lucille Donica was in charge with a book stock of 3993 books.  By 1940-1941 there were 5,335 books, 2,830 borrowed books, and a book circulation of 37,828.
We are a group of individuals that want to promote literacy throughout Bell Gardens.