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The Children's Literature Department

Located on Level Two (L2) of the Goodhue Building: Department Layout

Department Photo

Phone Icon  Phone: (213) 228-7250  |  Fax Icon  Fax: (213) 228-7259  |  email Icon  E-mail (form)

Department Staff

  • Eva Mitnick, Department Manager (213) 228-7480
  • Madeline Bryant, Senior Librarian (213) 228-7251

Materials & Collections

The Children’s Literature Department is a “library within a library”. Children, parents, teachers, scholars, librarians and entertainment professionals are drawn to the 250,000 books, audiobooks, music CDs, and DVDs housed in the Department. Emphasis on the history and criticism of children’s literature, fiction, picture books, poetry, fairytales, and Californiana creates a comprehensive resource collection. Surrounded by the acclaimed California History Murals by the internationally recognized artist Albert Herter, the Department is a “must see” on any visit to Central Library.

Special Collections include:

  • Gladys English Collection of Original Illustration for Children’s Books
    Gathered in 1962 by the California Library Association and acquired by Los Angeles Public Library in 1989, this is a collection of over 200 pieces of art in various media, representing some of the treasures of American children's books illustration, including pieces from more than twenty Caldecott Medal recipients. 

  • International Language Picture Book Collection
    A historic collection of over 5,000 titles from more than 50 countries. (sponsored by the Riordan Foundation)

  • Mother Goose Collection
    An extensive and historic collection of Mother Goose literature. (sponsored by Muriel P. and Gordon Bodek)

Storytimes & Events

Click here for a list of "Fun for Kids" events at Central Library.

Every Saturday at 2pm the Children’s Literature Department sponsors a free program that highlights part of the collection and promotes literature. Puppets shows, storytellers, musicians, actors, and magicians are entertaining for the whole family.

Preschool storytime for children ages 3-5 is held every Tuesday morning at 11am in the Story Corner.

GAB volunteers are available to read stories to children of all ages. No reservations required. Schedule is subject to change.

Sat 10-2 Sat 12-2 Thur 3:30-5:30
Debra Susan Luci

For more information about becoming a GAB volunteer reader visit www.lapl.org/about/gab.html  or call (213) 228-7487.

Tours & Teacher Services

Field trips for Grades K-5 take place on Thursday and Friday mornings and include a docent-led tour of Central Library and a storytime in the KLOS Story Theater Call (213) 228-7055 to make a reservation.

Preschool classes (up to 20 people) may reserve at spot at Preschool Storytime on Tuesday at 11am. If there are over 20 people in your group, you may book a preschool storytime on Wednesday morning. Call (213) 228-7250 to make a reservation.

Teachers have the option to pre-arrange any of the following:

  • Selection Requests- If you have a special class project assigned or need books to support your lesson plan, we can pull materials in advance of your visit.

  • Book-talks- We’ll do quick previews of great books for your class on any subject or genre…just let us know! Any grade.

  • 30- Minute Library Skills Workshop- Includes a Department orientation, special focus on the subjects you are covering in class, a computer catalog demonstration, overview of important resources and how to use them, and optional book-talk or read-aloud by a librarian.

Call (213) 228-7250 to make a reservation.

Computer Zone

The Computer Zone features 23 computers, available for use by children 11 and under. These computers offer limited internet access to information, games, fun websites and live homework help through Kids’ Path.

FOCAL (Friends of Children and Literature)

Established in 1979, The Friends of Children and Literature brings children, books, and authors together though 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 in the Rotunda.

For more information or to become a FOCAL volunteer visit www.focalonline.org or call (213) 228-7251.

 
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