Installation view of Luceros y Penumbras, giant pop-up book in Los Angeles Public Library's Art Deco hall.

World’s Largest Pop-Up Book Unveiled in L.A.’s Historic Art Deco Library

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Written by Seth Sebastian

2026-07-24

Immersive Ingenuity at the Central Library

The Richard J. Riordan Central Library in Los Angeles, renowned for its Art Deco architecture, houses over 10 million items. As it celebrates its 100th anniversary, the library introduces an awe-inspiring giant pop-up book, the largest ever created. This monumental work, titled “Luceros y Penumbres,” is a tribute to knowledge, crafted by local artist Daniel González.

Giant pop-up book displayed in the main hall, with intricate designs.

Breaking Records with Visionary Art

Partnering with paper engineer Matthew Reinhart, González’s creation spans approximately 31 by 20 feet when open, surpassing the previous Guinness World Record. Towering over 11 feet high and weighing nearly a ton, it uses conventional book materials like fabric, paper, and adhesive.

A Tribute to Los Angeles and its Heritage

The installation reflects González’s personal memories and views of Los Angeles as a hub of culture and learning. One of its spreads features a massive tree against a backdrop of the city’s skyline, highlighting the region’s cultural diversity and ecological richness. Another spread showcases the library’s facade, emblazoned with the bilingual phrase, “Each person is a library.”

If you’re intrigued by the use of paper in art, explore twirling flowers crafted from paper strips for creative inspiration.

For another fascinating exploration of artistic expressions, discover KVANT-1’s surreal Temple series, offering an ode to exploration and the unknown.

Two visitors pointing at a detail on a giant pop-up book's nighttime scene.
two visitors point at a detail on a nighttime scene of a record-breaking giant pop-up book in the main hall of Los Angeles Public Library
Close-up of a tree detail on the giant pop-up book in the library.
a detail of a tree on a record-breaking giant pop-up book in the main hall of Los Angeles Public Library
Detailed nighttime scene from the giant pop-up book in Los Angeles Public Library.
a detail of a nighttime scene of a record-breaking giant pop-up book in the main hall of Los Angeles Public Library

An Unmissable Exhibit

Visitors can admire “Luceros y Penumbres” alongside treasures from the library’s Toy Moveable Collection, featuring over 2,000 pop-up books and objects. This exhibit is available until November 2026, offering a unique blend of history, art, and innovation.

Sources & Links

Source: thisiscolossal.com

Frequently asked questions

Where is the world’s largest pop-up book located?

The world’s largest pop-up book is located at the Richard J. Riordan Central Library in Los Angeles.

Who created the giant pop-up book at the Central Library?

The giant pop-up book, titled ‘Luceros y Penumbres,’ was crafted by local artist Daniel González in partnership with paper engineer Matthew Reinhart.

How long will the pop-up book exhibit be available?

The exhibit will be available until November 2026.