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San Diego Old Central Library Public Art
820 E Street, San Diego
The future of San Diego’s former Central Library at 820 E Street is once again at a crossroads. The City has issued a Notice of Availability to sell or lease this historic building—a 1954 Modern International Style landmark designed by Johnson, Hatch, and Wulf, and the last major work of San Diego Master Architect William Templeton Johnson.
As proposals move forward, we raise this important issue now. Regardless of what new use or project is envisioned—housing, mixed-use, or something else—we cannot lose sight of the library's irreplaceable public art.
Renowned San Diego artist Donal Hord created a pair of sculptural reliefs on the theme of "literature," depicting historic figures with books in 1953. Architect Carleton Winslow Sr.’s terrazzo entryway, featuring emblems like an ancient lamp of learning, a sailing ship, and the California and San Diego seals embody the city’s civic, cultural, and artistic legacy. These integral, site-specific artworks express regional pride and love of learning.
As redevelopment plans take shape, we urge our community to remain alert and diligent. These valuable artistic elements must not be overlooked, neglected, or endangered. Should relocating the building ever be considered, as a last resort, these artworks must remain on permanent public view for free in an appropriate new location. Anything less for the work of two masters would be an unacceptable loss to San Diego’s cultural heritage.
This building has served as a symbol of learning, culture, and public life for more than six decades. Its architecture and certainly its public art must continue to uplift the public by being preserved, respected, and integrated into any future vision.
Now is the time to pay attention. Let’s ensure that whatever comes next honors not only the building's potential and enduring legacy, but also safeguards its priceless public art for generations to come.
Please contact city leaders today and urge them to prioritize the preservation of the old Central Library and its public art.
Ask them to:
- Preserve the artworks in place as the first and best option.
- If relocation is ever unavoidable, guarantee that the art remains free and accessible to view in a new, appropriate civic setting.
(Scroll to view more photos)
 Literature East is situated to the right of the library entrance
 Literature West is situated to the left of the library entrance
 Terrazzo entryway
 Terrazzo entryway. Photos by Richard Schulte, courtesy coolsandiegosights.com
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