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 - Sensory Room
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), sensory kits, noise-canceling headphones, reader pens


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


Children playing with magnatiles, light tables, a toy car town, play kitchen, and tracer
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
Join us for a day of imagination, connection, and hands-on fun! Children ages 0–8 can explore and play safely while parents relax and share...


hands smearing paint on paper
January 21, 2026 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Get messy and express yourself through this tactile sensory experience using only your fingers and paint. All ages welcome to...


printing circles with various round objects
January 24, 2026 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Celebrate shapes with art activities and fun games! Suggested for ages 0-5.


Children's hands 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...


Family cooking together
January 28, 2026 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Kids will get hands-on experience preparing delicious recipes with a focus on nutrition to gain confidence in helping out in the kitchen at...


Toddlers Sitting
Wednesdays at 4 p.m.
Join us for small group storytime. These storytimes are a great fit for children who are sensory-sensitive, prefer smaller groups, or have...


Neurodivergent AF (And Fierce): Books for Teens

Neurodiverse and Mighty: Books for Kids

Neurodiverse & Thriving: A Parent's Reading List

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