Libraries are full of stories in a variety of formats from picture books to large print, audiobooks to e-books. But there's so much more to the story.
Libraries are welcoming spaces that bring communities together for entertainment, education, and connection through book clubs, storytimes, movie nights, crafting classes, lectures, and more. Library infrastructure advances communities, providing internet and technology access, literacy skills, and support for businesses, job seekers, and entrepreneurs. We encourage all community members to visit your local library branch during National Library Week, April 23-29, to explore all we have to offer.
A Library Story by the Numbers
2.9 million cardholders
6.2 million books and other items in collection
18.9 million items borrowed
(includes e-media)
Over 50,000 people attended a library program
12.3 million website visits
4,550 computer bundles and hotspots borrowed
For fiscal year 2021-2022.
A Library Story by Impact
A World of Opportunity
City Librarian John F. Szabo knows that libraries lead their communities and transform lives every day. From education to job resources to lifelong learning, your library provides access to the programming and services you need to you reach your goals.
Unleash your curiosity and fulfill your potential.
Intergenerational Connections
As part of our Teens Leading Change program, Westwood teens partnered with Belmont Village Assisted Living to help make accessing e-media easier for seniors and to promote intergenerational learning.
Do you have a great idea to make a difference in your library, your community, or the world? Your volunteer journey starts at the library.
Common Ground
Aphasia is a communication impairment that is often aquired due to stroke. Public services librarian Francie Schwarz, and her husband, speech pathologist Michael Biel, started Aphasia Book Club for adults affected by Aphasia at Echo Park Branch Library to discuss books and connect with one another.
Find a local book club to share your thoughts and start a discussion.
Exploration
Megan Panatier Zapf has a goal: visit all 73 locations of the Los Angeles Public Library.
She loves the experience of visiting different parts of our city and sharing the joy by reading with her daughter in our unique communities.
New Beginnings
Sergio Sanchez and his wife Francisca came to the United States in 1991. With the library's help, Sergio was able to fulfill his dream of becoming an American citizen.
For Sergio, the library is a place where everyone belongs and is welcome, and where dreams can come true.
Passion Projects
Arianne Edmonds' passion is to make sure Jefferson Lewis Edmonds and The Liberator are not forgotten. She partnered with the library to digitize this influential publication.
Explore our digital collections and online research tools to find your past or new passion project.
New Opportunities
Valentin Valdez is learning new skills and opening new doors with the help of his tutor, Brad Damaré, and the Adult Literacy program.
Adult Literacy offers a variety of programs for learners and opportunities to volunteer as a tutor to build new skills and connections.
National Library Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of our library and library workers, and an opportunity to promote library use and support. First celebrated in 1958, National Library Week, is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. To learn more, visit www.ala.org.