We love the Octavia Lab and hope that not enough people learn about it so that there's always room to play there but please learn about it because it's pretty amazing, but you just have to go through the proper steps to do anything there. But it is amazing but don't let me know that you know about it so it still feels like a secret to me. I don't want to keep the information because it's pretty amazing. Yeah, the library is great. It looks really cool. To validate parking you have to have your library card. Everyone should have a library card. There's a lot of benefits that you can learn about online. There are security guards everywhere here, even though there are also a lot of fun house people walking around. They still have DVDs and CDs that you can check out. I remember back when I used to check out VHS tapes from here. Watch out for books. Thank you read more

Central Library - Surprises - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

The Central Library is WONDERFUL! Where do we start? The building's Art Deco architecture is iconic. The garden is a small oasis amidst a bustling downtown. The collection spans 7 floors. The librarians are really helpful and knowledgeable about their departments. Their calendar is filled with a variety of workshops and cultural events. The wonders don't just stop at the collections of media... you can also try your hand on a creative project with the crafting equipment (e.g. 3-D printer, embroidery, sewing machines, etc.) in their Octavia Lab! The Central Library is a true L.A. treasure. So why -1 star? Two things: sketchy patrons, and run-down restrooms. I've seen people do some pretty nasty things from time-to-time (to put it lightly). There is security and police presence -- and let's not kid ourselves, we know what downtown looks like -- but I'd be a little more careful about my surroundings. Report suspicious activities, and keep the library safe for everybody! Then, there are the restrooms (especially the men's restrooms). Boy-oh-boy are they in disrepair! I've had to run through 5 different floors to find a toilet stall that isn't busted and at least has a latch. I get it, the facilities are chronically messy because the unhoused folks need to use them, but things need to be fixed! read more

The Los Angeles Central Library is a stunning mix of 1920s Art Deco and modern design. The historic Rotunda with its zodiac chandelier is a must-see. The Children's Literature Department is the real heart for families. It's a huge, colorful space with its own murals and a world-class book collection. Holiday Highlights: Christmas Magic: During the season, the library looks festive with decorations and often hosts a massive, beautifully decorated tree in the lobby or rotunda. Events: Check their calendar for holiday-themed puppet shows, "Winter Reading" challenges, and festive crafts in the kids' wing. They also host a Noon's Eve party for little ones Dec 31 to ring in the new year! The Library Store: Perfect for high-quality, literary-themed Christmas gifts and LA-centric stocking stuffers. Tip: Use the library's 524 S. Flower St. garage and *validate your ticket* inside for a huge discount on parking. We visit on Saturday mornings to avoid the weekday traffic in that area. read more

Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Beautiful night at the library event! I wish they were more explicit about the details of each booth/activity offered at the event and signs around the space but it was fun nonetheless read more

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What a beautiful place to check out while in DTLA. I have been living in LA over 30 years and this is the first time I came here. After having lunch with my husband at the Italian restaurant we walked over to the library to walk around. It's has been here for 100 years. That is just amazing. The building is historic and beautiful. There are a few floors, each floor has a category of books etc... there is also a gift shop that sells the most cutest items. A bit pricey but very special. I enjoyed browsing thru the shop. There were a lot of people at the library, some unpleasant ones as well. What can you do they are all over LA nowdays. If you find yourself in DTLA stop by and check it out. read more

Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

If you haven't been to the public library since you were a kid, let me tell you... it has grown up as much as you have! First off, the Central Library branch is particularly beautiful with photo-worthy architecture on the outside, and multiple levels of amazing materials on the inside. I wish I could get back all that money I've spent at the bookstore over the years, as the library has pretty much everything you could want for free! But it's not just books... if you still have your DVD player, you'd be amazed at the selection of movies and tv show collections that is available. I used to think they'd only have dated stuff like the 'latest' Charlie Chaplin film, but I was happy to prove myself wrong. New releases include last year's Oscar contenders and current HBO shows, etc! I especially appreciate the foreign film section where you can find all the popular Korean favorities like 'Parasite'. Their French movie collection is impressive too... vive la difference! Magazines? I'm never buying one again as all the current editions of everything from Rolling Stone to The New Yorker are waiting to be easily checked out. As far as technology goes, there's a computer center, a 3-D printer... you name it! Bring a bag, as you're allowed to check out 30 items at a time! No more worries about late fees either, as they'll auto-renew most books for you and send you a courtesy email when it's time to return your materials. Another plus is that you can return your check-outs at ANY L.A. Public Library branch that's convenient; not necessarily the branch where you checked out your picks. Getting a library card is super-easy too. Just apply online on the public library website, then go to the check-in/check-out counter to get your physical card. Why no fifth star? Well, being downtown, the clientele can be a bit sketchy sometimes. The park right in front is usually occupied by folks with nowhere better to go, accompanied by the pungent smell of cheap weed wafting about. Also, being a free place to be, lots of those same folks are inside using the outlets to charge devices, using the bathrooms, or using the reading cubbies as a napping spot, so if I were bringing kids, I might remind them to hit the bathroom before leaving home. But don't let that deter you from the chance to broaden your horizons! The restaurant next-door, Settecento, is pretty good too... especially for outdoor patio enjoyment, homemade pasta and homemade gelato...(see my separate review). If you enjoyed reading this, you'll definitely enjoy what you find at the Central Branch! Thanks for reading! read more

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LA's LEGACY of LEARNING! So often do we take for granted the the importance of reading and education, LA's Central Library is a physical reminder of the beauty of books. It may sound weird, but I felt safe here. There's solace in learning of the many individuals who have fought to preserve and expand literacy and access to citizens across Los Angeles. Their accounts of enduring fires, financial hardship, and reconstruction are encouraging and compelling. I'm SO happy my Mom re-introduced me to this library, we've hadn't come here in YEARS. We used to come here when I was small, I felt an Instant connection to the children's room when I walked in. The stunning design of the Central Library is impressionable, from the detailed carpets in the children's section to the art deco ceilings and sculpts. The building feels loved and cared for, it's elegant and incredibly clean. From patrons to staff, everyone respected Central's quiet space. Central Library has sections for everything, fiction, informational texts, a dedicated, inclusive space for teens called TeenScape, and plenty of computers for public use. I also spotted a museum-like exhibit honoring the library's timeline and introducing all the features of the facility. If you're looking for a momento, there's even a gift shop! Note: This library has multiple stories and escalators, it's pretty accessible. Additionally, a cafe is nearby, enjoy a cup of Joe while you're basking in written delight. read more

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Came here solo to use the computers and get a few printouts since I was in the area. I went ahead and knocked out many birds with one stone on this visit. Among them was the need to actually get a City of Los Angeles library card, my first in many years. That little card alone can open up many doors for people who are willing to invest a little time depending on what their interests and passions are. After being directed to level L3 where the computers were, all went pretty well with some great surprises. The lone drawback (and perhaps this is just the new societal norm that everyone is just going to have to deal with) is that there were plenty of homeless people going in and out of the library and it's various levels with the only exception being that of the Octavia Lab. (More on that later). Unfortunately, not only were many of them unclean and unkept, but many had their belongings all over the place and still others were asked to leave as they were either talking and disturbing other people or talking to themselves very loud. Perhaps the worst part about the L3 level where the public computer's are, is that the place smells to Holy High Hell. Not poking fun, but no exaggeration either. I get it, believe me I do. Many of the homeless use the library not only for its resources, but also as a place to have a roof over their head if only to knock out a portion of their day. It's a societal challenge that certainly has no easy end in sight. I would have to say aside from getting the printouts and a little work on the computer done among the homeless down on level L3, there were two awesome surprises I came across here at Central library, and they easily trumped any negative. The first awesome experience was with Kelly Wallace, who is the California History Subject Specialist. I informed her I was doing research on a topic that few, if any people are aware of, that being the ties between Creoles of Color from New Orleans (Pope Leo has ties to this community) and their interactions and in some cases flight to Mexico way, way back in the day. Even she had never heard of these historical occurrences. That being said, she wasn't deterred in the least and spent more than a fair amount of time with me. I'll be grateful for her time ,energy, and overall effort she put in for quite a while while searching for any materials on that subject matter that may have been in her department. Ms. Wallace is a pro and and a great representative for the city of Los Angeles. She was clearly the CSA, or Customer Service All Star of this experience! The last great experience was coming across the Octavia Lab. I'll let you guys do the research and the googling and all that other stuff, but suffice to say it's a world within a world here at the Central Library and can only be accessed by those who are members and have an appointment. I went ahead and signed up while I was here, as they have a litany of really cool things you can do. All in all, a great experience at the Central library today. read more

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This library is just as amazing as I remember as kid. I was only in the kid section and on certain days they would have story time. I'm glad that people actually utilize the library and I was amazed how many people (black) were in there reading. I wish more Latinos would read or see them in there. read more

This might be the first review I ever do of a library. I visited for the first time a few days ago and left beyond impressed! I arrived and parked at the attached parking structure, where you can park and only pay $1 on Sarurdays with library validation. The caveat to getting validation is that you must possess an LA City Library card, which I thought I had, but it turns out LA County Library system is a thing. Anyway, no big deal, I got a card and am now also part of the amazing city library system! Because I was visiting this gorgeous place for the first time, I decided to join one of the art and architecture tours. This made me truly appreciate everything so much more than having explored on my own. I didn't realize, aside from the beauty, how many resources are available here. I can't say enough great things. I felt like a kid again when I got my library card there. read more

Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Parking is $1 for first hour with validation. This library has great resources and is open 7 days a week. Sundays they are open until 5pm. read more

Central Library - Outside - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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The library itself is an amazing resource for people in LA. It houses books for every age, stage, genre and curiosity you can imagine. It also doubles as an art gallery with different displays throughout the year. Beautiful architecture on the inside and located in the heart of downtown. I visited in a rainy day and there were many unhoused people (mostly men) occupying space throughout the various levels of the library. Security and police presence was there so it never felt unsafe, and I was there alone. Getting a library card is easy if you have an ID and proof of residence and you can check out 30 items at a time. 30?! I don't think I can carry that many books. read more

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This is a main library branch for the city of Los Angeles. The facility itself is beautiful the architecture the design from outside and the inside. There are several levels within the library itself. I really like the kids section which they have their own dedicated area. Since this is in downtown Los Angeles, there are quite a few homeless people in and out of the facility. Parking is located downstairs they do validation, but sometimes it is limited. Parking is available in the structure below, and they do offer validation, though sometimes spaces can be limited especially during busy hours. They have kiosks that you can check out your books or they have the front desk as well. Definitely worth checking out if you're in downtown! read more

I was in the dowtown area ( financial district to be specific ) and I always wanted to see what the libraries were like in downtown LA so I came here. Even though I only been to one part of the library, I was told by one of the librarians that this central Library has many different sections and I believe him. I will definitely be coming here in future to fully explore this place and because it's really quiet. read more

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Came here for a tour of the library on a Sunday. Parking underneath was inexpensive with validation provided by the library. Quite a few people in the group. The tour was very informative and it was so cool to see so many interesting rooms. I would highly recommend the tour and the library itself! The tour even included the exterior of the library. A lot of interesting history! The gift shop had many interesting things to purchase like cards, books, baby stuff, and other knick knacks. I LOVED the sale rack!! You can't beat a good sale rack! read more

First time visiting this huge public library in the city! It's like a giant art with full of history and arts as well as public spaces! Definitely a must come and look around! We had a good time looking around! Cheers read more

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I came here for the first time in years to check out their gift shop (yes I AM serious), because I've just moved back to LA from being away in grad school and they have a bunch of California / specifically Los Angeles themed merch + LAPL merch that I figured seeing in person was better than grabbing on their website. Parking nearby is incredibly challenging, even on a good day, you'd have to find metered street parking and walk a few blocks (at least) over. Central library does have their own underground parking structure (park at P4 and below if you don't want to leave your keys w/ an attendant) where you should get your ticket validated at the information desk and rates start at $1 / hr (w/ library card validation!!!). The gift shop itself was cute and had exactly what I was looking for. There are free phone chargers in the main lobby if you need them. Overall, this is a beautifully decorated public library in the heart of DTLA that also features the brilliant Octavia Lab (named after Angelino Octavia Butler) that is a diy makerspace with so many great art supplies you can use for free!! Support LAPL and visit your local library! read more

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I love studying here! The library is very pretty, and I especially love the central corridor. There are also plenty of rooms with tables to work in, and the library staff was helpful and kind when I needed to get a card. read more

From the brief visit to the LA library, it's definitely an architectural landmark to see, it almost doesn't seem like a library, entering up the set of stairs from the back, the lobby space can be overwhelming at first with hallways leading down all four ways and stairs leading up and down. The bathroom was an outdated but I supposed that's the history of the building in place with the older style sinks. The information desk was ever to helpful depending on who you speak with. I was trying to get the new centennial library card so that just lets you know this place is 100+ years old! The line system at check out is interesting as there is only one line. There's two computers on the side that you can use to sign up for library card application page, and then you have to get in the single line in the middle to wait for a turn to speak to a librarian at the counter. The whole process for me took mere minutes and the line moved relatively quickly. Then we stuck around for the lunar new year celebration and managed to snag an LA lunar new year inspired tote bag! They handed them out on a first come first serve basis and it moved quickly as well. We were barely there for an hour and were planning to be there longer. Overall, it was a pleasant visit, there is also security or police presence inside the library as well. read more

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This library boasts stunning architecture and a wealth of resources. Each floor is lined with an impressive collection of books, making it a great place for research or quiet exploration. If you're sensitive to air quality, I recommend bringing a face mask as a precaution. I ended up with a sore throat and mild respiratory infection after my visit--likely due to the pollution in LA, which I'm not used to since I'm from NorCal and currently live in OC. Visitors can enjoy guided tours at specific times or opt for a self-guided tour using a brochure available at the front desk. California residents can also sign up for a library card (in person or online if you're an LA resident), which grants access to a variety of services: language learning, job resources, veteran support, Korean language classes, a makerspace, musical instrument lending, and more. Learn more here: https://www.lapl.org/services-programs Since it's located in Downtown LA, there may be some transient individuals around. During my visit, I noticed two police officers searching for someone inside, which was a bit unsettling. Just stay aware of your surroundings and bring hand sanitizer and a mask if you're prone to getting sick. All that said, it's a beautiful, historic building well worth the visit. :) (63/100) read more

Such a beautiful library! Free phone chargers in the main lobby. There's a library store/gift shop. discounted parking if you have a library card. A great place to beat the heat and chill for a few hours. Make sure to go do the art & architecture tour! Very informative and cool! you'll learn so much! read more

Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Lived in the LA area for over 40 years and just discovered what a gem we have in this library. We took the one hour decent led tour (free) and loved it! So much architectural and other history in and around the library. Thank you Lisa, our decent, who is so knowledgeable, friendly & inviting. We went the following weekend and walked around DTLA & went to the chalk drawing class (also free!) This was a fun experience as we've never tried tundra with chalk on paper. They provided the chalk, eraser, black paper, instructor, table, etc. We also checked out books and a state park pass. The libraries have so much to offer. This one is like a museum. I'm glad we are discovering things & utilizing what is offered. Check out the library website for parking. We can't find parking for that cheap in DTLA. Kudos to those who take care of the libraries & give of themselves so freely. read more

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This massive library is located in Downtown Los Angeles and has a room of resources/amenities. I'm looking forward to using their 3D printers. That being said, the patrons have a lot to be desired. Have heard many people take phone calls/play audio on speaker. The staff have taken care of it when it catches their attention at least, but just be aware that you might be disturbed if you're looking for quiet. The bathrooms (at least the men's on LL3 and especially the ones in the same floor as the Octavia) aren't that great though - they are just barely clean enough, stocked with soap, but overall seem to be falling apart. The stall doors of the restroom on the Octavia lab floor are completely broken in one way or another. And with how the bathrooms look, some paper towels would be nice so you wouldn't have to touch the door/faucet handles again after you're done washing your hands... read more

I hate having to write this review, especially about a library, but this is in regards to my recent experience with an employee at the Information Desk. I was super excited to get a card and then that was quickly dashed because of the poor customer service. First, this lady told me that I needed to fill out an application at a computer. Easy enough. Then she instructed that I come see her again to show my license. I do as directed and then she tells me that I have to wait for the check-in section to call my name. Okay, so I do as she tells me. I'm waiting for about 30 minutes and then she informed that I was supposed to line up. That was not the direction I was given. At this point, I was fed up so I left and didn't bother getting the card. Was really looking forward to borrowing books at this location, but now that isn't happening. read more

An outstanding and honored landmark in downtown Los Angeles. The library is a monument to reading and knowledge. It provides access to books, movies, computers, etc to the public at no charge. An architectural gem, I enjoy visiting just to wander the building and marvel at the buildings many wonders. It draws you back to a time when knowledge and learning were more valued... read more

Central Library - Entrance - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This is the grandfather of all LAPL libraries (NOT the same as white card/LA County Libraries). If you are uncomfortable with a lot of homeless people, I advise against coming here or going to the computer lab down on the lower floor, because this place is not only in proximity to Skid Row, but also provides free services to people experiencing homelessness (i.e., The Source resource fairs). Stick with a smaller, local branch instead. LOTS of cops around here-- private security, armed and unarmed guards, public safety officers, LAPD officers. Of course, since this is the largest library, it's going to have the most books and the biggest selection, especially with the fiction books (3rd upper floor). I used to come here ever since I was 18/19 and would hang out in the teens area (2nd upper floor) with the big bean bag cushions. This is also the place where they host the Teens Leading Change summit that I did over the summer when I was 18 (I miss it so much). I'm not too sure about the availability of volunteering opportunities besides being a literacy tutor; a lot of stuff has changed since COVID. I know they have used book sales here on one Saturday a month. I mainly go here just to look at the Popular Library, maybe get some books here that I can't find at more local branches, and don't wanna spend the money on books at bookstores. There's also a place for you to rent out movies, DVDs, and CDs, along with a maker's space downstairs (Octavia Lab, courtesy of Octavia E. Butler). This place is always hosting stuff because it's the highest volume out of all of the locations. The building/architecture is old, and the lighting is dim. Gives off nice dark academia vibes, but in the urban sprawl way and not the cozy, prep school way. Also, a ton of buses go here. I can't even name them all off the top of my head, but the A DASH is one of them. You can also use the train, but you gotta walk a couple of blocks. This is also the only library that I know of that is open on Sundays (for four hours). But some stuff is always going down here. Fire alarms get pulled here now and then, and belligerent people have to be escorted out. This is not the most ideal place to study quietly, unless you have nowhere else to go. read more

Great folks at the desk and at the help center, you can print a lot for free before they charge you

Books invite all they constrain none  Wisdom is the ripest fruit of much reflection ... Wow, definitely will return to this library. Modern. Impressive. Spacious. Homeless. There is too much to talk about this wonderful library ... but the bathroom trip stands out. I went to the bathroom and a person with big bag was behind me. As usual, I held the door ... who thanked me. But for a moment, I wished for more people. Inside the bathroom, one stall has toilet paper filling the gaps. At first I thought it was out of order. But then heard movement ... just not a scene I expected to see in a library. But again, it's what life: see, learn and enjoy. read more

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I visited the library for the first time via the Silverstreak line. The hours are shorter on Sundays 1-5pm and I didnt realize how much there was to do. There is security at the entrance monitoring who goes in and out. I highly recommend the free tours, they are so informative and interesting to hear about the history of the building itself. The octavia lab offered so many cool options for artists and creatives to create work for free. So many tools, resources , art , books, maps , etc. and so many things to discover here. read more

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This place is HUGE. It's like a cake, it has so many layers. Multiple escalators, different levels for different sections, it's truly incredible! The artwork is beautiful. The staff is very nice. Even what they offer in the Octavia Lab is remarkable! Perfect for a hot day because the AC is blasting in this place! Can't wait to come back ;) read more

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The central library is a great place to check out! There's a surprising amount of resources available! For example, you can borrow laptops, get 3D printing done, free news and magazine subscriptions, not to mention free classes and events for all ages. You just have to look for them... Personally, I was shocked to find out how there's a really good selection of manga and comics (yes weebs unite). The library really caters to all audiences~ In addition, the library is a great visit for it's architectural and historical value! I highly recommend going on one of the free library tours to learn more. The only possible downside is concerns of safety in DTLA. It's not the library's fault, but a larger systemic issue. For instance, have had occurrence of seeing half naked ppl full on washing themselves in the restroom... But there is security onsite and they seem quick to response. read more

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Big library in the center of LA. It's about 4 levels. We went during a book festival. Very spacious. Only downside is the homeless due tend to camp out outside and even in the mens restroom at times. Parking can be difficult. We parked at Paragon Parking lot. $23 for the whole day. A bit pricey, but it's all day and right in front of the library. We loved that there's one big room for all Spanish books for kids. Biggest selection we've seen in a library. read more

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Why it's taken me so long to check out the central library in downtown is beyond me. If you haven't already, I highly suggest you check it out. Even if you don't like to read, the library offers so much more. They have historical LA pictures, documents and maps. There is a computer lab you can use at no charge. Printers. The children's area is huge! So many books and the room is beautiful. There's also a special section for teens, artists, crafters, bloggers and so on. There is so much this branch offers...you can check out their website for all the info. Whether you grew up in LA or visiting, I recommend you take the docent art and architectural tour which is free and lasts an hour. The library website will have the schedule. You learn a bit of history about the library and how the building and art came about. We had our tour a few days ago with Billy who did a fantastic job taking us around. The library does offer parking validation which is a really nice perk, the weekends is all day for $1, weekdays can get expensive if you plan to stay several hours. Taking the train in would be the best idea. read more

Parking in Sunday's, a whole dollar, with your library card. Which any CA resident can get for free. The elevator from the garage was not working on the day we went. So just know that. And there is an elevator on flower st., which I didn't find, but it is there.. We went to the weekend Art and architecture tour. This was soooo enjoyable and enlightening. Our docent Mary really got into the details of the library, I loved it!! I could spend days here!! The highlights of the tour for me, were in the history section. They have an amazing map section! If you have any research look here!! And genealogy section, you can look up your family name to see where it is in any of the publications. I saw old phone books, ship manifests.. all the things. Go here, let the light of learning shine on you! read more

Honestly, this is the real reason why I love libraries. It is hard to find something comparable to this library on the west side of the US and I am so fortunate to live nearby it. I love the historic/ aesthetic value, the vast collection of books, the revolving galleries in recent years, and the Octavia lab. It is hard to find a comparable library nearby. Despite not reading for most of my adulthood due to school, I am glad to be reading again albeit it takes me awhile to actually finish a book (I love the Libby app, too!) Tips- Come on weekends for $1 paid parking ($1 all day during library hours) or after 3pm (with a valid library card). This has been the rate for decades! Sunday has free parking for metered parking nearby. (-): -I wished requesting new material was easier. -I also wished there were more subscriptions to magazines like the Economist/ the Atlantic available online. read more

I owe an apology for keeping one of Los Angeles' best-kept secrets to myself: the Octavia Lab. Nestled inside the historic Downtown Central Library, the Octavia Lab is a haven for creativity, offering state-of-the-art equipment to its members. There is so much to explore here, so let me start by describing the offerings. Personally, I've been making the most of the memory lab. This lab allows you to digitize various mediums, including: - Documents - Photos, slides, negatives - Super 8 and 8mm film (picture only, no audio) - Compact audio cassettes - CDs and DVDs - DV and MiniDV (SP) - 3.5" floppy disks - Minidiscs - Reel-to-reel audio tapes - VHS (SP and EP; NTSC) - Vinyl records (LP and 45) I've been digitizing my family photographs, slides, negatives, and 8mm movies. Eventually, I plan to move on to my LPs and reel-to-reel audio tapes. But that's just the beginning. The Octavia Lab offers so much more, including 3D printing, engraving machines, embroidery machines, and "The Studio," where you can do podcasting, sound editing, and video editing. The range of resources is incredible--there's too much to cover here, so I encourage you to Google it and see for yourself. Every week, you can print a poster, yes, a full-sized poster, provided it meets the lab's guidelines. The lab also features a laser cutter, vinyl cutter, sewing machines, and a photography studio. The opportunities are endless. Whether you're an artist, a creative type, or simply someone looking to explore a new hobby, there's something for you here. Check out their website and decide where you want to start--there's so much to discover. I must mention the amazing team that runs the lab, whom I affectionately call the Fabulous Four: Lauren, Richard, Al, and Miguel. They have been incredibly helpful, kind, and patient. I wasn't the easiest person to assist when I first started, but they always guided me through my issues with professionalism and a smile. Sadly, I've seen some lab attendees treat the staff disrespectfully. I want to remind everyone that lab membership is a privilege. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to digitize my irreplaceable family history here. Despite the busy environment, I've never seen any of the staff lose their composure. All these incredible services and equipment are available at no charge--you just need to be a lab member and hold a Los Angeles Public Library card. There's so much more I could say about this place and its mission. The importance of digitizing and providing creative equipment to the community cannot be overstated. But I'll keep it brief: I urge everyone to take a tour, Google it, and check it out for yourselves. Share this treasure with friends and family--they'll thank you. read more

This is one of the spots I was looking forward to during my visit in LA. This library is HUGE!!! I got to take a look at different floors & sections. I checked out a book I came across in the sports section (any And 1 supporters out there... there's a book called Streetball: All The Ballers, Moves, Slams & Shine that's available). There's a kids section that includes a mural on the ceiling. The art's hypnotizing & very detailed. We were having issues during self checkout so we got in line to handle the checkout. The librarian helped us out & made checkout easier, he was very nice. read more

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I was inspired to come here because of a TikTok and I'm so glad I did ! There are so many great resources available here. The real gem was the Octavia Lab. Here you can access their 3D printing, sewing machines, embroidery machine, poster printing, audio room, studio, and more ! I highly recommend visiting. read more

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I love libraries and bookstores, and I especially love them when located in classy historic buildings like this one. My online card stopped working, so I went to the checkout window, she pointed out the application computer for a new one, and I had it within minutes. Everyone is so helpful, even in the cute gift shop inside the library building. I ogled all the historic ceilings, and read numerous historic signs on all the levels on my last visit. I especially liked the motto over one of the entrances: Books invite all. They constrain no one. read more

Central Library - Gift shop - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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The Downtown LA library is really worth a visit. I read they have a really cool kids play section there. This is outdated post. The librarian in the kid's section seemed well-versed in answering this question. It seems many people come to the kid's section in the DTLA library to be instantly disappointed as there's no play section for kids. Supposedly, it was taken out during COVID. Anyways, the architecture of the DTLA library is very beautiful inside and out. There's lot's of homeless people wandering the library, but that's expected in any library especially one that's in DTLA. Bring your ID and a copy of bill with your address on it and you can get a city of Los Angeles library card even if you don't live in LA. As long as you have a state of California ID. read more