Winona Phillabaum and The Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Public Library
Set along the coastal bike path and adjacent to Admiralty Way, The Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Public Library overlooks Basin F of the Marina. Filled with thousands of books, the library is frequented by locals of all ages. The library’s “sail window” in the Nautical Wing looks out onto boats in the harbor, the perfect backdrop for an afternoon read. The library was originally built in 1976, and in 1999, the Nautical Wing was added. Major donors include William R. Pagen, Greg and Mimi Wenger, and Lloyd Taber. Marina del Rey Patch recently wrote about the library’s extensive history here.
Recently, we got to meet the Community Library Manager, Winona Phillabaum. After studying library science and working at other libraries, Phillabaum found her home at the Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Public Library five years ago.
How did you become a librarian?
“I started by reading books to children, and then started volunteering at a local library while in high school. I went to the University of Tennessee for Library Science. My friends are in LA, so I moved out here after college to be close to them, and the water. I love Marina del Rey, and can’t imagine leaving.”
What’s your favorite part of being a librarian?
“I love finding answers for people, offering advice on new reading materials. I think it’s great that this is the one government organization where someone can walk-in and ask for what they need, and then get it immediately.”
What are special features of the library?
• The Maritime Collection includes books and periodicals specific to all things nautical. If you have a paper on a ship’s final voyage or how to tie a proper knot, this is the place to go.
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the library and parking lot. Perfect for travelers to check their email and locals to surf the web while watching the Marina outside.
The library also offers a Children’s Wing, Laptop Room and 11 public computers.
What special events are offered at the library?
• Weekly Children’s Storytime – Every Tuesday, 10:30AM. For toddlers & preschoolers. Opens with a half-hour playtime. Stories read by Children’s Librarian, Alex Echevarria. During summer, there are special guests like magicians and bubble blowers.
• Book Group – Every third Tuesday, 6:30PM. Books are provided in advance. Printed copies, EBooks (14 day checkout), Books on CD (3 weeks). Non-fiction and fiction. May’s book is The Perfect Scent by Chandler Burr.
• Film Group – Meets usually once a month. Talk about the history and the actors of various films. Hosted by a professor of Santa Monica College.
• Friends of the Library – Every third Wednesday, 6:45PM. $10 to join. Special author events, movie nights, DVD rentals and book sales.
What are some of your favorite places in Marina del Rey besides the library of course?
”I enjoy walking the Promenade that overlooks the Marina, spending time in Yvonne B. Burke Park and grabbing lunch at Mendocino Farms.”
If you could experience one action water sport, which one would it be?
“I haven’t done much on the water, honestly, but I would love to try sailing someday…”
The Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Public Library is open on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The library welcomes all LA county residents. Car and bike parking is available, free of charge. For more information about the Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Library visit the County of Los Angeles Public Library website.