After the amalgamation of Pasadena and Midland in 1955, the community began to grow enormously over the years. Over time, it became evident that there was potential for a library to exist in the community. The first library board was formed in March of 1971, with William Pardy elected as the first chairmain. The first library was opened in Pasadena on June 10, 1972. Marjorie Goodyear was the first librarian. The population of Pasadena at the time was 1058. The shelving for the library came from the old Gosling Memorial Library in St. John’s, which was being renovated at the time. Through the Western Region of the Newfoundland Public Library Services, the Pasadena library was able to obtain 1500 books, and a grant of $1600.
Pasadena continued to grow and develop, and by the 1970s, the population had reached close to 3000. Due to these developments, the library also grew, expanding its book stock to over 6000 books, and increasing the opening hours from 12 to 20 hours. By 1980, it was evident that the library was in desperate need of expanding, as they were running out of space. Construction of the new library began in 1983, and was opened in June of 1985.
Today, the library is still an important part of the community. The current (2015) librarian is Angela Menchion, and she has had the position for the last seven years. Even with advancing technologies, the library continues to be a resource in the community. They offer programs for younger children, including story and craft time. They also offer a book club for elementary school students. The head individual for the elementary school book club currently is Rachel Spicer.
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For another point of view check out our interview with Barb Spontaneo.
I Remember When…
I remember the St. David’s Anglican Church that burnt in the 1980s.
- I remember when I was a little girl visiting my family who lived in Pasadena and having lots of fun.
- Awesome beach. We would love to move here someday.
- I remember when King/Bonia were still a lovely forest.
- I remember picking strawberries at Mr. Earle’s strawberry field.
I remember when we used to go swimming at “concrete”.
- My greatest memory of Pasadena is where I have my trailer (Pine Ridge). Love it!
I remember working on the Winter Carnival Committee.
I remember having fun at the Strawberry Festival.
I remember swimming on Pasadena Beach and collecting pretty rocks.
I remember Sunday drives to South Brook Park.
I remember Pasadena Beach in the summer.
I remember going to the Strawberry Festival.
- I remember when me and my buddies used to go to the Hi-Way Diner ,which played mostly country on the jukebox ,and cue up Ted Nugent and Alice Cooper songs. The server […]
I remember my white go go boots dancing in the dance hall in South Brook Park.
I remember the 25 cents for a movie, pop and chips. Remember Mrs. Mitchell’s money purse, the black one with the tie string.
I always remember sneaking into Maxwells & playing in their playground when I was young
The chip stand that Allen French had. It was across from Brennan’s store, across the TCH. Of course Brennan’s store was not there at that time. Those fries were the best.
Favourite Date Activity? Skating! Swimming at the beach! Dinner and a movie courtesy of The Hiway Diner and Mitchells!
