Octavia Lab
Creativity Within Reach
The Octavia Lab, named after the award-winning science fiction author Octavia E. Butler, is a do-it-yourself makerspace located inside the Los Angeles Public Library's historic Central Library. Octavia Lab provides library cardholders free and unlimited access to state-of-the-art design, fabrication, preservation, and story-telling technologies.
Open Hours
- Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday & Saturday: 1 - 5 p.m.
- Wednesday & Thursday: 3:30 - 7:30 p.m.
- City holidays: Closed
Location and Parking Information
The Octavia Lab is located in the Central Library
630 W. 5th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071
On Lower Level 2 next to the Science, Technology and Patents Department.
Reservations
Lab members may reserve equipment by calling 213-228-7150. If you don’t reach a staff member, please leave a message with your request.
As a reminder, equipment reservations are only accepted by phone or in person, not by email.
Lab tours are available during our hours of operation, and do not require a reservation.
If you have any questions about the lab, our equipment, or services, email us at octavialab@lapl.org.
Become an Octavia Lab Member
To use the Lab, you must first become a member of the lab, which requires a library card in good standing, photo ID, and a signed user agreement. Lab applications must be filled out and submitted in person during lab hours.
Class Visits and Field Trips to Octavia Lab
Students of all ages are welcome to the lab to learn and explore the various forms of creative technology available in the Octavia Lab! If you are interested in bringing your students to the lab, please contact Lauren at exploreoctavialab@lapl.org to schedule a date and time for your visit.
Each visit includes a tour of the maker space, equipment demonstrations, and opportunities to use select equipment.
Equipment
The Octavia Lab’s maker space has tools for all types of creators. Whether you’re recording music, editing photos, or 3D printing your gadgets, the lab is filled with endless opportunities for creation and education. Check out our list of available equipment to inspire your next project or learn something new through in-software tutorials and online learning resources, including LinkedIn Learning, free with your library card.
3D Printing
Bring your digital creations to life by printing them on one of our 3D printers.
3D Scanner
Try our 3D scanner to scan various objects to create digital assets or to 3D print.
CNC Mill
Our Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Mill can design PCB circuit boards and engrave on materials like acrylic, aluminum and more.
Digital Illustration Station
Design, edit photos, paint digitally, create 3D models, mix audio, edit videos, and more.
Digital Media Station
Design your own graphics, 3D modeling, sounds, and more at one of our Digital Media Stations equipped with Apple Mac computers and Adobe Creative Cloud.
Embroidery Machine
Get creative with our computerized embroidery machine. Customize your own monograms and patches.
Laser Cutter
Cut and engrave designs on a number of materials to customize your creations.
Photography
Create scenic photos and videos with a backdrop of your choice.
Podcast/Livestream Studios
Explore our Podcast/Livestream Studios, equipped with iMacs, recorders, microphones, and live-streaming gear.
Poster Printer
Design your own graphics, 3D modeling, sounds, and more at one of our Digital Media Stations equipped with Apple Mac computers and Adobe Creative Cloud.
Sewing Machines
Explore crafts involving textile creations with our sewing machines, serger and computerized embroidery machine.
The Studio
Itching to record your original music? Looking for a place to edit your student film? Reserve The Studio.
Vinyl Cutter
Create stickers or heat-transfer designs for custom t-shirts, tote bags and more.
