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Cynthia Swanson and her book
Shanna Kim, Children's Librarian, Children's Literature Department, March 28, 2026

If you're an indie author interested in reaching a wider reading audience, building buzz for your literary work, or you're an avid reader looking for exciting new literary voices in a variety of genres, check out the Indie Author Project (brought to you by our partner, Biblioboard!). This ebook discovery platform provides Library card holders access to the best indie ebooks from local...

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Young person dreaming big

21st Century Kids: Dream Big

Mona Gilbert, Children's Librarian, Northridge Branch Library, Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Having dreams, wishes, and goals are human aspirations. After all, striving to improve one's lot in life is encouraged. Our dreams and hopes bolster our emotions when times are challenging; somewhere on the horizon is a better version of ourselves and our lives.


1935 postcard of the Los Angeles Central Library

Yes Virginia, There is a Central Library

Glen Creason, Librarian III, History & Genealogy Department, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Dear History and Genealogy Department:
I am 8 years old.
Some of my little friends say there is no Central Library anymore.
Papa says, ‘If you see it in on the website it’s so.’
Please tell me the truth; is there a Central Library?


Author Charlie N. Holmberg and her latest book, Spellbreaker

Interview With an Author: Charlie N. Holmberg

Daryl M., Librarian, West Valley Regional Branch Library, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Charlie N. Holmberg is an award-winning, best-selling, and internationally published author of fantasy and romantic fiction. She was raised a Trekkie alongside three sisters, who also have boy names. She is a proud BYU alumna, plays the ukulele, owns too many pairs of glasses, and finally adopted a dog.


Hansen sketch of Los Angeles after statehood. A War Department publication in 1856, “Reports of Explorations and Surveys”

What Christmas in L.A. Was Like in 1851

Glen Creason, Librarian III, History & Genealogy Department, Thursday, December 24, 2020

We don’t have a typical Christmas season here in L.A., like the ones in syrupy movies with snow, ear muffs, winter coats, and people standing in a blizzard preparing to jump off a trestle.


A close-up of a fashion drawing and color swatches

21st Century Kids: Emerging Designers

Mona Gilbert, Children's Librarian, Northridge Branch Library, Tuesday, December 22, 2020

What are the qualifications to be a designer? One can argue, people possessing creativity, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to fail, all have the capacity to engage in the design process.


Christmas films adapted from books

Read it First! Seasonal Stories

Elizabeth Graney, Librarian, Literature & Fiction Department, Monday, December 21, 2020

This difficult year is, once again, taking its toll on beloved holidays and traditions. As we find ourselves separated from family and friends during a time of celebration, we could all use some good old fashioned holiday cheer.


Author P. Djèlí Clark and his latest book, Ring Shout

Interview With an Author: P. Djèlí Clark

Daryl M., Librarian, West Valley Regional Branch Library, Thursday, December 17, 2020

Phenderson Djéli Clark is the award-winning and Hugo, Nebula, Sturgeon, and World Fantasy nominated author of the novellas The Black God’s Drums and


A santa and a ghost decoration on a porch

Ghost Stories at Christmastime

Daniel Tures, Adult Librarian, Edendale Branch Library, Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Ghost stories have been shared as long as we have wondered what happens to us after we die, and sought to connect with spirits of the departed. Midwinter is the perfect time for them. The nights grow long and dark, and winter weather brings us together to huddle around the fire and share tales.


Family members making crafts with plastic and paper products

21st Century Kids: Limit Plastic Use

Mona Gilbert, Children's Librarian, Northridge Branch Library, Tuesday, December 15, 2020

What was once seen as a remarkable new material, is now viewed, by many, as a menace to the environment. Although it’s evident that plastic, in modern times, is the go-to choice for many businesses and homes, it is single-use plastic consumption that is causing great harm to our oceans and marine life.


Author David Gerrold and his latest book, Hella

Interview With an Author: David Gerrold

Daryl M., Librarian, West Valley Regional Branch Library, Thursday, December 10, 2020

David Gerrold has been writing professionally for half a century. He created the tribbles for Star Trek and the Sleestaks for Land of the Lost.


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