The future of public libraries appeared to be somewhat bleak, that is until the slump in the economy began to take a toll on the pocketbook. Now people have rediscovered these local treasures as resources for job searches, entertainment, online research, and, of course, free books. But there is one San Antonio library in particular that offers another experience altogether. Certainly you can access one of several computers, check out books, CD's and DVD's, but you do it all in the beautiful Italian-style former home of Harry and Hannah Landa.
The home, built in 1929, was donated to the city in 1946. Located in Monte Vista, across the street from Trinity University, the Landa Library sits under the shade of huge graceful live oaks. The two-story house itself is quite dreamy. Wander the halls and imagine what it would be like to actually live there. With the tiled entry and curving staircase, the carved marble mantel, the terraces, a carved crystal chandelier from Venice and the ornate iron-work, it's a very charming place.
It was always a part of the plan to use the land as a children's playground. In 1998 that playground was added. Then, in 2008, the Landa Gardens Conservancy (an off-shoot of the Monte Vista Neighborhood Association) restored the grounds completely. They did an amazing job. Now there is a medieval garden, landscaped winding paths, curved driveway with added parking, and the wonderful 30 - 15 ft. faux bois Valero Pavilion. Michael Kaminski, Landa's interim branch manager, said the terrace, meeting room, and treed pavilion are all available for renting - very affordably, I might add.
These days libraries in general are so much more...'user-friendly.' You can go online and put a book on hold, they notify you by email that your book is on the shelf, and then you just pop over, find the book on the hold shelf, and run it through a self-checkout - all by yourself!
Kaminski said the library is celebrating Hispanic Heritage this month with a Spanish guitar concert. Guitarist Luis Berrios will perform tunes from Puerto Rico and the Caribbean at 2 p.m. on Sept. 19. You should check the Landa's schedule for other special programs and regular story times for different age groups.
Right next door to the Landa is the San Antonio Library Foundation building. It is also a former residence that has been beautifully renovated in the Craftsman style. They use it for meetings and such, but there are also plans to renovate the tiny log cabin in the back and make it available for children's party. That's a great idea considering it is adjacent to the Landa playground - a perfect venue!
So, check out the Landa Library. You will want to add it to your list of favorite hangouts. As always, the Central Library downtown is also a great place to spend some time, along with the Semmes Library on Judson at Nacogdoches. The Semmes shares a parking lot with Comanche Lookout Park - that is an interesting concept in itself.
