October 2024
Donald Bruce Kaufman Brentwood Library Continues Children’s Programs Into the Future Senior Librarian Lists Upcoming Events, Offers Alternatives for Storytime Fans After the departure of Children’s Librarian Maddy Gillette at the Donald Kaufman Brentwood Branch Library, Senior Librarian Bennett Rankin expressed heartfelt thanks to the community for their support during Gillette’s final weeks. Gillette, who served as Children’s Librarian with dedication, was deeply touched by the outpouring of kind words and gestures following the announcement of their departure. “While I could never pretend to be the Children’s Librarian that Maddy is, I am happy to continue working with all of you to provide programs, books, and enrichment
for the children of the Brentwood Branch Library,” Rankin said in a recent statement. Although Gillette will be missed, Rankin reassured patrons that the library remains committed to delivering engaging programming for children. The programs that will continue after 10/16: • Every Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Caregiver & Kid Language Learning • Every Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Brick Building Playtime • STAR Volunteers (Tuesdays 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesdays 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m.to 12:00 p.m.) Rankin also highlighted Who Framed the Big Bad Wolf? Puppet Show, scheduled for November 2 at 2 p.m. This all-ages event is sure to be a hit with the community. However, two programs will be discontinued after October 16: Wednesday morning Storytime and Baby Music & Play. Patrons seeking similar activities
are encouraged to explore offerings at neighboring branches, including: • West Los Angeles Regional: Baby/ Toddler Storytime on Wednesdays at 10 a.m., All Ages Storytime on Thursdays at 4:15 p.m. • Palisades Branch: Baby/Toddler Storytime on November 13 and December 4 at 10:15 a.m., Family Storytime on November 21, and December 19 at 4:00
p.m. • Westwood Branch: Preschool Storytime on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit the Donald Bruce Kaufman Brentwood Branch Library’s website or stop by to pick up flyers from neighboring branches. “We are grateful for your continued support of our library, and we hope to see you soon,” Rankin added.
Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission Rejects Demolition of Dutton’s Books Building Despite Safety Concerns, the Commission Upheld the Building’s Protected Status
According to the South Brentwood Resident’s Association Newsletter, The Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission recommended certifying the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the former Dutton’s Books building but opposed its demolition after the last meeting held on September 5. The vacant building at 11973 San Vicente Boulevard is the issue and the owner wants to demolish the building but would have to get a waiver because the building has historically protected status. The commission recommended that the Department of Building and Safety certify the EIR for the site. However,
design would exceed its value. Councilwoman Traci Park, who supports the demolition, was represented at the meeting. Her office stated that Park had secured an agreement with the owner to retain key architectural elements in any new construction on the site. Despite these arguments, the commission upheld the building’s protected status, citing its historic value. As a result, the former Dutton’s Books they did not support adopting a Statement of Overriding Considerations, a step that would allow the demolition of the building despite any adverse environmental impacts. At the hearing, members of the South Brentwood Residents Association and other community residents supported demolition, arguing the structure is neither seismically sound nor ADA compliant. Engineering assessments presented by the owner indicated that retrofitting the building’s soft-story
building, which some residents view as an eyesore, will remain for the time being. The SBRA newsletter urges supporters of demolition to contact Councilmember Traci Park and city officials to request that the Department of Building and Safety certify the EIR, adopt a Statement of Overriding Considerations, and issue the necessary demolition permit.
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