Claire and Magela will gather this Saturday with neighbors around a cast iron skillet at the Hastings Branch Library, sharing more than just recipes for seasonal cooking — they’re serving up the kind of community connection that has kept Pasadena’s library system alive while its flagship location remains shuttered.
The “Simply Yum Cooking” demonstration on September 6 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. underscores how the library continues fostering learning and togetherness four years after the Central Library closed for earthquake retrofitting in May 2021.
“Join us for an in-person cooking demonstration at the library with home cooks and library staff, Claire and Magela, as they share recipes and kitchen tips. Learn about cooking with a focus on seasonal and healthy food choices. For ages 13 and older,” according to the library’s event description.
Library Director Tim McDonald, who took the helm in December 2022 during this challenging transition, notes these community programs as essential to the library’s mission.
“I’m looking forward to seeing people of all ages return to their beloved library, a transcendent space that inspires us to pursue lifelong learning, wonder and curiosity,” McDonald said in discussing the Central Library retrofit project.
The cooking program spotlights seasonal and healthy food choices while providing practical kitchen tips from the home cooks and library staff leading the session.
Registration is required through the Pasadena Public Library’s online sign-up system.
For accessibility information, participants should contact the library site prior to their visit in accordance with Pasadena Public Library’s official ADA policy.
“Simply Yum Cooking” will run on Saturday, September 6 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Hastings Branch Library, 3325 East Orange Grove Blvd., in Pasadena. For more call (626) 744-7262 or visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/library/calendar/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D187635849.
