Friends of Children and Literature | Los Angeles Public Library

Established in 1979, the Friends of Children and Literature (FOCAL) brings children, books, and authors together through special events and programs at the Central Library. FOCAL also 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 history.

The FOCAL used book sale is held the 3rd Saturday of every month from 9:30 a.m. until 12 noon in the Rotunda, located on the second floor. All proceeds benefit the Los Angeles Public Library.

Visit focalcentral.org or call 213-228-7252 for more information or to become a FOCAL volunteer.

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Why support the Library?

The Los Angeles Public Library serves the largest most diverse population of any library in the United States.

Through its Central Library and 72 branches, the Los Angeles Public Library provides free and easy access to information, ideas, books and technology that enrich, educate and empower every individual in our city's diverse communities.

With more people than ever before using the library—a record 17 million last year alone—your support helps the Library provide people with the resources they need to succeed and thrive.

How to support the Library

You can support the Los Angeles Public Library in several ways:

Join a “Friends” group. There is a “Friends of the Library” group for most branch libraries and departments of the Central Library. Friends groups raise money for improvements to their library through memberships, used book sales and other activities. For more information click here or talk to your local librarian.

Join the Library Foundation of Los Angeles. The Library Foundation is a non-profit organization that raises funds for Library enhancement programs such as adult and early literacy, children and teen reading clubs, technology, and cultural programs. Foundation members receive a variety of benefits with their membership. For more information, see http://www.lfla.org.

Make a donation by check to the Los Angeles Public Library and send it to:
Support the Library, 630 W. Fifth St., Los Angeles CA 90071 or call (213) 228-7272.