Friends of the Library groups are non-profit organizations that engage in activities that increase community awareness of Los Angeles Public Library, provide volunteer and program support, raise funds to enhance library services of a branch, department or special service, and advocate for the financial support of the library.
The Los Angeles Public Library has over sixty active Friends of the Library groups. Groups hold book sales or raise funds in other ways. Annually, Friends give thousands of dollars to individual branch libraries and Central Library departments.
If you would like to join or donate to a Friends group, ask to speak to the Senior Librarian of your preferred branch library or Central Library department. You may also contact Friends groups directly from the list below.
Note that not all of the Friends groups have websites. The Los Angeles Public Library does not endorse the information presented and is not responsible for the accuracy or content on any of these sites.
Central Library Friends Groups
Docents
Docents provide tours to the public and work on volunteer projects at the Central Library. Email docents@lapl.org or call 213-228-7168 for more information.
BEST Friends
Supports the Business and Economics, and Science, Technology, and Patents Departments, as well as the Octavia Lab. The group’s purpose is to raise funds and provide financial assistance to these departments, enabling them to host special events and notable speakers, acquire new materials, and fund programs that benefit the public.
Culinary Historians of Southern California
Provides public programs on the role of food in society and supports the culinary collections at the Central Library.
FOCAL
The Friends of Children and Literature (FOCAL) brings children, books, and authors together through special events and programs at the Central Library. The group has established the FOCAL Award which is presented annually to an author or illustrator for a creative work which enriches a child’s appreciation for and understanding of California.
Photo Friends
Supports activities related to the historic photograph collection at Central Library.