Founded in 1907, GLAC includes eight neighborhood libraries including the Brand Library & Art Center, a regional visual arts and music library, galleries, and performance venue housed in the historic 1904 mansion of Glendale pioneer Leslie Brand; and the Central Library, a 93,000 square foot center of community where individuals convene, collaborate, and create. In addition to the galleries at Brand, GLAC also hosts the ReflectSpace Gallery at Central Library. As a member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, ReflectSpace is an exhibition space designed to explore and reflect on genocides, and human and civil rights violations 

GLAC also serves as the chief liaison to the Glendale Arts and Culture Commission, which works to continually transform Glendale into an ever-evolving arts destination. Because of this activity, GLAC manages the Urban Art Program and Fund, including citywide public art initiatives and arts programming. Through this work, GLAC seeks to promote a diverse and stimulating cultural environment to enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors.