Written by Melani Morose Edelstein | 2026 | July | Issue 74
A Historic Landmark Welcomes Visitors Once Again
This summer, Shakespeare by the Sea will bring its celebrated outdoor performances to Veterans Park, offering audiences more than an evening of theater. Just steps from the stage, the beautifully restored Redondo Beach Historic Library is preparing for its long-awaited July reopening. Following an extensive renovation, the nearly century-old landmark has been transformed into a vibrant community gathering place and premier oceanfront venue, breathing new life into one of Redondo Beach’s most cherished historic treasures.
Perched above the Pacific in Veterans Park, the historic library has long occupied a special place in the memories of South Bay residents. Opened in 1930 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building served as Redondo Beach’s main library for more than six decades. Now, after more than five years of closure, visitors will once again be able to experience the landmark’s grand architecture, sweeping ocean views and renewed sense of purpose.
A Personal Connection to a Historic Treasure
The revitalization comes under the leadership of Meg Walker, CEO and Executive Chef of MBM Hospitality and founder of Made by Meg Catering, which now manages the venue.
“A breathtaking place to experience your event and share memories with others, Redondo Beach holds a deeply personal space in my heart,” Walker said. “My first retail location was just a few blocks away from the Redondo Beach Historic Library, and I met my husband at a dog park in Redondo Beach. Also, my grandfather is a veteran and his memorial plaque is at the memorial in Veterans Park, which makes this an extremely special place to my family.”
Walker saw an opportunity to preserve the building’s historic character while preparing it for a new generation of visitors.
“I saw so much potential for the space, from its unique oceanfront location to the sheer size of the interior floors, all three of which have ocean view windows,” she said. “I enjoyed the process and final product when I renovated La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes Estates, and wanted to bring the same breath of fresh ocean air to another historic South Bay venue.”
Inside the Historic Library’s Transformation
The renovation includes a refreshed grand ballroom, an updated mezzanine level, a new prep kitchen and improvements throughout the 11,400-square-foot building. The venue now features a ballroom, mezzanine, two getting-ready suites, catering facilities and panoramic ocean views from multiple levels. An indoor-outdoor café overlooking the Pacific is also planned to open in the near future.
While the venue will host everything from weddings and galas to comedy shows and art exhibits, community access remains at its heart.
Preserving Memories While Creating New Ones
“The library has a strong nostalgia value,” Walker said. “A lot of people stop by to tell us their sentimental stories about coming to the library.”
This summer’s Shakespeare by the Sea performances will introduce many visitors to the revitalized landmark for the first time.
“It brings new energy by encouraging visits from people who otherwise wouldn’t experience the Redondo Beach Historic Library,” Walker said.
As the curtain rises on another season of Shakespeare by the Sea, a new chapter begins for one of Redondo Beach’s most cherished landmarks.
Click to learn more about Redondo Beach Historic Library‘s venue and events, and see Shakespeare by the Sea‘s summer tour dates and schedule.
