Serving All Youth: Resources for Neurodiverse Kids, Teens, and Their Families

Illustration of different brains in four profiles

At the Los Angeles Public Library, every mind is welcome, and every story is worth telling. This is a place where all kinds of thinkers, dreamers, and creators belong. Whether you love to dive deep into stories, explore new ideas, or find a quiet spot to recharge, we’ve got something just for you. Discover books that celebrate neurodiversity, resources that support your journey, and a community that sees your brilliance.


Library Locations With Sensory Spaces:

Sensory-friendly spaces have been specifically designed to minimize overwhelming sensory input to better accommodate the needs of neurodivergent youth and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome to use our sensory-friendly spaces!

Arroyo Seco Branch Library
Features: Sensory-friendly seating (children’s area), quiet nook (children’s area), sensory kits, noise-canceling headphones

Canoga Park Branch Library
Features: Sensory-friendly seating (children’s and teen areas), sensory kits, noise-canceling headphones

Central Library - Teen'Scape
Features: Sensory-friendly seating and lighting, sensory fidgets, noise-canceling headphones

Harbor City - Harbor Gateway Branch Library
Features: Sensory room, sensory-friendly seating and lighting (children’s and teen areas), sensory kits, noise-canceling headphones

Venice Branch Library
Features: Sensory friendly seating (children’s and teen areas), quiet nook (children’s area)


This project was supported in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.


Library Locations With Sensory Kits:

Sensory kits are designed to assist anyone with special sensory processing needs. Each kit supports a different facet of sensory processing and includes an insert with a description of each item. Borrow a kit for in-library use at the following locations:


Sensory Friendly Events


hands doing sensory play with play dough
Fourth Mondays at 4 p.m.
Families are invited to join us for art activities and open-ended play with new sensory toys and tools from our children's area.
Resources...


Children seated on the floor with adults, listening to a story read by a librarian
Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Join our Children's Librarian Elaine for stories, songs and creative movement. Meet new friends and promote early literacy by talking,...


child's hands covered with clay
May 3, 2025 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Join special guests from POT Studio for a pottery class for kids ages 3-8 plus their grown-ups!
In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month...


New sensory friendly blue furniture for youth
May 3, 2025 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM
The Venice Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library invites the community to explore and engage with our newly designed Youth Sensory Space!...


three mothers holding their newborn babies
First & Third Mondays of the Month
Parents and caregivers of children newborn to 4 months old are welcome to attend this bi-weekly 45 minute session of community gathering...


The Sensory Room at the Harbor City Branch Library
May 8, 2025 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The Harbor City-Harbor Gateway Branch is the home of the Los Angeles Public Library's first sensory room. Sensory rooms promote calm, focus...


Neurodivergent AF (And Fierce): Books for Teens

Neurodiverse and Mighty: Books for Kids

Neurodiverse & Thriving: A Parent's Reading List

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