Fifth & Flower – Library Foundation of Los Angeles http://lfla.org The Library Foundation of Los Angeles provides critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library resulting in free programs, resources, and services available to the millions of adults, children, and youth of Los Angeles. Tue, 23 May 2017 22:14:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Dennis Lehane, Master of All Genres, Coming Soon to ALOUD http://lfla.org/dennis-lehane-master-genres-coming-soon-aloud/ Thu, 04 May 2017 12:20:34 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=93433 International bestselling author and screenwriter Dennis Lehane grew up in Boston and is known for his edgy, morally complex, and effortlessly masterful stories that often take place in his hometown. Now a resident of Los Angeles, many of his novels have been adapted into award-winning films, including Mystic River, Shutter Island, Gone, Baby, Gone, and […]

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International bestselling author and screenwriter Dennis Lehane grew up in Boston and is known for his edgy, morally complex, and effortlessly masterful stories that often take place in his hometown. Now a resident of Los Angeles, many of his novels have been adapted into award-winning films, including Mystic River, Shutter Island, Gone, Baby, Gone, and the recently released prohibition-era drama Live by Night, which is directed by and stars Ben Affleck. He has written for television, including episodes of The Wire and Boardwalk Empire, where he also served as a producer.

Dennis Lehane (credit Gaby Gerster,Diogenes, Zuric)

Dennis Lehane. Phot credit: Gaby Gerster, Diogenes, Zuric.

His new book, Since We Fell, follows the psychological drama of Rachel Childs, a former journalist who after an on-air mental breakdown must reckon with the truths of her new reality. From this searing story of suspense to his literary novels, historical fiction, and work in film and television, Lehane will discuss his dynamic work with fellow book and screen writer Attica Locke at ALOUD on May 23. As we get ready to hear from Lehane—click here for tickets—you can binge on his books, movies, and TV series from the Los Angeles Public Library’s collection.

Mystic River–Check out the DVD or read the book.

Gone Baby Gone–Check out the DVD or read the book.

Shutter Island–Check out the DVD or read the book.

Live by Night–Place a hold on the DVD or read the book.

Boardwalk Empire–Check out the DVDs.

The Wire–Check out the DVDs.


Learn more about ALOUD’s upcoming program with Dennis Lehane.

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Members and Authors Bash It Up http://lfla.org/members-authors-bash/ Thu, 20 Apr 2017 12:31:58 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=92360 The Library Foundation’s biggest Members-only party of the year is around the corner–this Saturday, April 22, the Book Drop Bash will bring together authors from the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books with our Members for an after-hours party at the historic Central Library. Some of the participating authors and honorary hosts of this special […]

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The Library Foundation’s biggest Members-only party of the year is around the corner–this Saturday, April 22, the Book Drop Bash will bring together authors from the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books with our Members for an after-hours party at the historic Central Library.

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Some of the participating authors and honorary hosts of this special event include: Steph Cha, Erwin Chemerinsky, Kim Dower, Geoff Dyer, David Francis, Adam Hochschild, Attica Locke, Tom Lutz, Lisa Napoli, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Nina Revoyr, Mary Roach, Mona Simpson, Rebecca Solnit, Louise Steinman, David L. Ulin, and Charles Yu. Library Foundation Members will get the chance to mingle with the authors, swap books, and enjoy literary libations.

This special evening is just one of the great benefits of Membership. Members also get advanced electronic notice of ALOUD programs, which has featured many of the authors who will be attending the Bash. As we get ready to bash it up, enjoy a few videos from the ALOUD archives with some of the Bash’s honorary hosts. Learn more about becoming a Member to receive these benefits and more, all while supporting the Los Angeles Public Library!

 

 

Check out all of the ALOUD Media Archives, including these podcasts with other Bash participants: Mary Roach, Mona Simpson, Rebecca Solnit, and Louise Steinman and David L. Ulin.

Photo credits: Ryan Murphy.

 

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Samantha Hanks and Busy Philipps Get Ready to Toast http://lfla.org/samantha-hanks-busy-philipps-get-ready-toast/ Thu, 30 Mar 2017 12:01:35 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=89333 As the vanguard of the Library Foundation’s mission to provide critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library, Young Literati brings together engaged Angelenos in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who believe in and celebrate the power of public libraries. On Saturday, April 1, at NeueHouse Hollywood, the biggest Young Literati celebration of the year […]

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As the vanguard of the Library Foundation’s mission to provide critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library, Young Literati brings together engaged Angelenos in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who believe in and celebrate the power of public libraries. On Saturday, April 1, at NeueHouse Hollywood, the biggest Young Literati celebration of the year returns: the Ninth Annual Toast.

Ninth Annual Toast for social media

We recently spoke to two of the masterminds behind this year’s event. Young Literati Chair Samantha Hanks has long been a strong supporter of the Library and is Vice President of Casting for Magical Elves and the Co-founder of Bumble Pie Productions, dedicated to promoting unique talent, especially female voices. Young Literati Honorary Co-Chair Busy Philipps, who is hosting the Toast for the fourth time, is best known for her work as an actor on Freaks and Geeks, Dawson’s Creek, and Cougar Town, and is currently starring in Vice Principals on HBO. Below, this dynamic duo discusses what drives their passion for libraries and gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming Toast. Learn more about the Toast, which will also feature special performances by Andrew Bird, Chelsea Handler, Kumail Nanjiani, Retta, Timothy Simons, and Constance Wu.

Former YL Chair Amanda Fairey, current YL Chair Samantha Hanks, and Annual Toast Host and Honorary Chair Busy Philipps. Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging.

Former YL Chair Amanda Fairey, current YL Chair Samantha Hanks, and Annual Toast Host and Honorary Chair Busy Philipps. Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging.

How did you first get involved with Young Literati?
Philipps:
I was asked to be a reader at the Toast in 2011, and I read a piece I love by Dorothy Parker called A Telephone Call. It was such a magical night, held in the downtown branch of the Library. After the event, I reached out to say I would love to be involved in any way I could and Amanda Fairey, who was the Young Literati Chair, thankfully took me up on that offer!

Samantha, you took over as chair from Amanda this past June. What first drew you to the work of Young Literati?
Hanks:
My step-father Robert Chick was the Library Commissioner for many years and I always thought it was such an important institution to be involved in. Libraries and books shaped my interests as a kid and I like helping to make that connection for a new generation. The YL is a perfect combination of community involvement and cultural satisfaction. Our work aids so many Angelenos and we all get the benefits with amazing programs.

Busy, what do you like best about being involved with Young Literati?
Philipps:
I love being involved in a Los Angeles based charity that benefits EVERYONE living in our great city. As my friend Andrei Cherny said (and I quoted in my YL opening remarks a few years back), the public library is “the great equalizer.” The library doesn’t care about your zip code. The library is there for everyone.

Why are libraries personally important to you?
Philipps:
I’m someone who grew up with a real love of books. My grandmother was a librarian and my mother and father are both avid readers so the library has been an important part of my life for a long time. Obviously, I don’t need to impress the importance of the public library to those reading this newsletter, but I think especially now, we need to remain committed to providing vital services (like the literacy program, the STEAM program, the high school diploma program) for people and children in our community who otherwise might fall through the cracks. The Library offers an amazing way for parents and teachers to expose children to a myriad of ideas that can go beyond “just books.”

Samantha, you helped to launch the popular Young Literati Family Day events to connect more kids to the Los Angeles Public Library. As a kid, what did you love about libraries?
Hanks:
I remember my first tour of the school library vividly. It was so big and had so many books to choose from. The Dewey Decimal System was also oddly appealing to me in its detail.

Busy, you’ve been hosting the Young Literati Toast for several years now—what’s one of your favorite Toast moments from years past?
Philipps:
Russell Brand recapping everyone else’s toasts was a real highlight in 2011. I loved Randall Park’s reading last year of the lifecycle of a water droplet from the DWP pamphlet. Demetri Martin reading from the dictionary, Tig Notaro reading the “GoodReads” reviews, Jenny Lewis and Johnathan Rice performing. There are too many good moments to choose just one!

YL Toast performers 2016

Annual Toast 2016. Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging.

As we are preparing to raise a glass at the upcoming Toast, what are you looking forward to at this year’s event?
Philipps: Well, this year Colin Hanks and I will be hosting together and seeing as we’ve known each for other almost 20 years, who knows what will happen!

Samantha, what are you excited about? Any words of advice that you’re passing on to Colin?
Hanks:
I am looking forward to hearing Chelsea Handler read! Busy is the perfect host and I hope Colin just follows her lead!

Learn more about the Ninth Annual Toast at lfla.org/toast or contact Rebecca Miller, Director of Young Literati, at rebeccamiller@lfla.org or 213.292.6245.

 

 

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ALOUD Spring Preview: Cheech Marin http://lfla.org/aloud-spring-preview-cheech-marin/ Fri, 17 Mar 2017 12:00:56 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=88095 You immediately associate Cheech Marin as half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong, and you know him for his memorable roles in Up in Smoke, Born in East L.A., Desperado, The Lion King, and Jane the Virgin, to name a few. But did you know that Marin is also the owner of the most […]

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You immediately associate Cheech Marin as half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong, and you know him for his memorable roles in Up in Smoke, Born in East L.A., Desperado, The Lion King, and Jane the Virgin, to name a few. But did you know that Marin is also the owner of the most renowned collection of Chicano art in the world? Did you know that before he became a face of the recreational drug movement, he grew up the son of a LADP cop? The ever-evolving performer, actor, director, and art collector is also the author of several art books and children’s books, and now he has penned a long-awaited memoir, Cheech Is Not My Real Name…But Don’t Call Me Chong! In this new memoir, the counterculture legend writes candidly about coming-of-age as the wisecracking kid in 1960s Los Angeles. From hightailing it to Canada to resist the draft as a young man, to delving into the arts as a maker and patron, Marin shares from many surprising journeys along the way that lead to creating one of the most successful comedy acts of all time. Before Cheech visits ALOUD on March 28 to discuss his memoir and incredible career spanning over 45 years, we caught up with Marin about painting, writing, and his love for Los Angeles.

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Cheech Marin. Photo by Hector Levya.

 What are some of the things that you think readers of your memoir will be surprised to learn about you?
Marin:
If someone knows me mostly as “Cheech,” they will undoubtedly be surprised with many of the stories I’m sharing through my memoir; for example, I was a professional potter, I lived in Canada for three years, I was an altar boy, and I have practiced transcendental meditation daily since I was 19.

Also, your collection of Chicano art is such an interesting thing to learn about—why is collecting art—preserving this facet of Chicano culture and history—important to you?
Marin:
I believe that Chicanos are the best painters out there today. I love it because this school of painting offers the widest variety of styles and techniques. I’m passionate about it because Chicano art is American art. Chicano art has been largely kept out of American museums until recently. Chicano artists haven’t been given the shelf space in museums allotted to other American artists. That’s why I’ve worked so hard over the years to get Chicano art on view in the mainstream. My mantra has always been that you can’t love or hate Chicano art unless you see it. Once people see it, often they say something like: “I didn’t think it would look like this” and “I like this.”

From potting to standup, you have expressed yourself through many art forms and now you’ve published your first memoir. Why did you decide to turn to writing to tell your personal story?
Marin:
I’ve always been a writer… it’s been part of what I’ve done throughout my career, from writing dialogue to drafting performances to penning my thoughts about art in exhibition catalogs.

You will be taking part in the Library Foundation’s ALOUD series this spring, and you’ve participated in several other Library Foundation programs like when you interviewed Carlos Santana at ALOUD in 2014. Why is supporting the Library important to you?
Marin: 
The Los Angeles Public Library is where I spent hours and hours teaching myself about art after school.

Finally, since Marin is a lifelong Angeleno, we asked him for his top five L.A. cultural hot spots and these are his picks:

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Malibu Beach. Photo part of the Los Angeles Public Library photo collection.

1. LACMA—“The museum is coordinating the retrospective on Carlos Almaraz for the Getty’s upcoming Pacific Standard Time series of exhibitions.

2. Roy Choi’s restaurants—“Because his cuisine reflects the diversity and integration of cultures that exist side by side harmoniously in Los Angeles from Koreatown to Chinatown, Venice and beyond.”

3. Malibu—“One of the most beautiful beaches in the world.”

4. Downtown Los Angeles—“Currently the center of L.A.’s cultural diverse scene, including Disney Hall and I love this painting of it by Roberto Gutiérrez, one of the painters in my Chicano art collection.”

5. Little Tokyo and Olvera Street—“My father was a police officer and these neighborhoods were part of his beat.”

 

Learn more about this upcoming program and get tickets at lfla.org/aloud.

Tuesday, March 28, 7:30 PM
The Aratani Theatre
An Evening with Cheech Marin
Cheech is Not My Real Name…But Don’t Call Me Chong
In conversation with “La Marisoul” Hernandez
Co-presented with the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center

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Coming Soon: Shakespeare on Film http://lfla.org/coming-soon-shakespeare-film/ Thu, 16 Mar 2017 12:04:51 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=87759 Before the Library Foundation closes the curtain on its special celebration of Shakespeare’s lasting legacy and influence on culture today, Lost and Found at the Movies will take a closer look at the evolving relationship between the Elizabethan era’s great playwright and the 20th century’s great art form. On Thursday, March 23, curator John Nein […]

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Before the Library Foundation closes the curtain on its special celebration of Shakespeare’s lasting legacy and influence on culture today, Lost and Found at the Movies will take a closer look at the evolving relationship between the Elizabethan era’s great playwright and the 20th century’s great art form. On Thursday, March 23, curator John Nein will trace Shakespeare’s cinematic journey from the early silent era to recent Hollywood blockbusters.

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Actor extraordinaire and thespian at heart Alfred Molina will be the evening’s special guest. Joining the conversation to explore the challenges and nuances of approaching Shakespeare as a performer, Molina’s passion for Shakespeare began with his childhood in London and as a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and he has appeared on the big screen in Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of As You Like It, and Julie Taymor’s The Tempest.

And finally, taking the stage for a highly original and likely hilarious Shakespeare production—the Improvised Shakespeare Company will treat the audience to a one-of-a-kind performance. You can RSVP now for this upcoming program, and to set the stage, here is a look at a few clips from some of the diverse ways Shakespeare has left his mark on film.

Orson Welles’ Chimes at Midnight

Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet

Max Reinhardt’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Julie Taymor’s The Tempest

The Improvised Shakespeare Company

 

Learn more about the upcoming Lost and Found at the Movies’ Shakespeare on Film program here.

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RSVP to the Largest Library Party of the Year! http://lfla.org/rsvp-largest-library-party-year/ Thu, 09 Mar 2017 12:45:40 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=86931 As the Library Foundation celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, we are throwing the largest Library party of the year to celebrate all things literary. Join us for the 6th Annual Book Drop Bash, an after-hours soiree following the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books when we throw out all of the library rules and raise our […]

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As the Library Foundation celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, we are throwing the largest Library party of the year to celebrate all things literary. Join us for the 6th Annual Book Drop Bash, an after-hours soiree following the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books when we throw out all of the library rules and raise our voices well above a whisper. On Saturday, April 22, Members of the Library Foundation of Los Angeles will gather with authors from the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at the historic Central Library after dark for this exclusive event.

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Bring a book and take a book–or books–with our legendary book swap, dance to a DJ set sponsored by KCRW, enjoy local brews from Angel City Brewery, a tequila tasting by Dolce Vida, Blue Bottle coffee, tasty snacks, photo booth fun, and other treats. Stay tuned for the slate of authors attending the Festival this year. Past participants have included T.C. Boyle (pictured below), LeVar Burton, Janet Fitch, Jonathan Gold, Attica Locke, Susan Orlean, Luis J. Rodriguez, Kenneth Turan, David Ulin, and many more Library Foundation supporters.

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If you would like to attend and are not a Member, you can purchase a ticket to the event, which will include a one-year Membership to the Library Foundation. Learn more about tickets and make your reservation for the Bash. The special evening kicks-off with a VIP Preview from 7-8 pm offering Contributor Members and higher first access to the Book Swap, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a Champagne toast, and an exclusive giveaway. The official party opens at 8 pm to all Members.

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Thanks to all of our sponsors for making this such a truly special event, including Grand Park, Lyft, and Kind Bars. Learn more about the 6th Annual Book Drop Bash.

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Spring into Action with ALOUD http://lfla.org/spring-action-aloud/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 12:07:17 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=85430 Exchanging ideas, fostering dialogue, and bringing together our community is more important than ever. Spring into action with our upcoming season of ALOUD as a new slate of award-winning authors, trailblazing scientists, renowned historians, and more will explore some of today’s most timely issues. Discussing race and poverty, the current presidency, water wars, and also […]

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Exchanging ideas, fostering dialogue, and bringing together our community is more important than ever. Spring into action with our upcoming season of ALOUD as a new slate of award-winning authors, trailblazing scientists, renowned historians, and more will explore some of today’s most timely issues. Discussing race and poverty, the current presidency, water wars, and also sharing from newly released fiction, memoirs, and poetry—read below to see this exciting spring line-up. Online reservations now available at lfla.org/ALOUD.

The Sellout: A Novel

The Constitution and the Presidency–March 2
Erwin Chemerinsky in conversation with journalist Jim Newton
Chemerinsky, the founding Dean and Professor of First Amendment Law at UC Irvine, discusses the numerous constitutional issues raised in the first weeks of the new administration.

Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City–March 7
Matthew Desmond in conversation with Steve Lopez, columnist, L.A. Times
MacArthur Prize winning and Harvard sociologist Matthew Desmond bears witness to the human cost of economic exploitation and the housing crisis and offers ideas for solving these uniquely American problems in his New York Times bestselling book.

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Night Sky with Exit Wounds–March 13
Ocean Vuong in conversation with author Viet Thanh Nguyen
Navigating worlds of history, sexuality, and humanity, Ocean Vuong reads from his award-winning poetry and reflects on what it means to write as a Vietnamese refugee in the contemporary space, joined by 2016 Pulitzer Prize winner Viet Thanh Nguyen.

Tides: The Science and Spirit of the Ocean–March 16
Jonathan White
A leading environmental advocate considers the current state of our oceans’ infinitely complex and ever-changing ecosystems.

Elif Batuman by Beowulf Sheehan

Elif Batuman by Beowulf Sheehan

The Idiot: A Novel–March 20
Elif Batuman in conversation with author Steve Hely
New Yorker
staff writer Batuman shares her delightfully refreshing coming-of-age novel following a Harvard freshman and daughter of Turkish immigrants in the strange new worlds of academics, friendships, and falling in love via email.

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Cheech Marin.

An Evening with Cheech Marin*–March 28
Cheech Marin in conversation with “La Marisoul” Hernandez
Counterculture legend Cheech Marin candidly reflects on coming-of-age in 1960s Los Angeles and his 45-year career in his new memoir with L.A.’s own Marisol Hernandez.
Co-presented with the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center
*Ticketed event at the Aratani Theater. For more information please visit JACCC or call (213) 680-3700.

Infidels: A Novel–April 12
Abdella Taïa in conversation with poet Steven Reigns
Acclaimed novelist, filmmaker, and one of the most prominent and openly gay Arab writers of his generation, Taïa discusses his latest novel about a young gay Muslim’s search for love and belonging with the first City Poet of West Hollywood.

How Everything Became War and the Military Became Everything–April 13
Rosa Brooks in conversation with Nicholas Goldberg editorial page editor, L.A. Times
Tracing the political, military, and cultural shifts in times of persistent wars, former Pentagon official Rosa Brooks examines the risks facing America’s founding values, laws, and institutions.

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Where the Water Goes: Life and Death Along the Colorado River–April 18
David Owen in conversation with environmental writer Judith Lewis Mernit
Journalist David Owen traces the complexities of the vast man-made ecosystem of the Colorado River and illuminates the high-stakes of the water wars of the West.

Kingsley & Kate Tufts Poetry Awards–April 20
25th Anniversary Celebration and Reading by 2017 Awardees
Hosted by Alice Quinn, Executive Director, Poetry Society of America
Celebrating 25 years of one of contemporary poetry’s most prestigious awards, this year’s awardees Vievee Francis and Phillip B. Williams will read recent work.

From L.A. to the Outback: Two Novelists–May 9
David Francis in conversation with author Jane Smiley
Friends and fellow authors discuss Francis’ (VP, PEN Center USA) latest work set in rural Australia that explores the timeless struggle between the past and present, town and country.

In a Western Light: Poetry at the Edge of America–May 11
Readings by poets Victoria Chang, Brendan Constantine, Kim Dower, Blas Falconer, Amy Gerstler, Doug Kearney and Brynn Saito
Contemporary California poets celebrate the widely diverse poetry of seven distinguished California writers, from Bukowski and Coleman to Stein and Herrera.
Co-presented by Red Hen Press

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The Evolution of Beauty–May 16
Richard O. Prum in conversation with evolutionary biologist Amy Parish
Culminating 30 years of fieldwork, world renowned ornithologist and MacArthur Award-winner Richard Prum presents a scientific vision of how nature’s splendor contributes to a more complete understanding of evolution and ourselves.

Black Hole Blues and Other Songs from Outer Space–May 18
Janna Levin in conversation with theoretical physicist Sean Carroll
Astrophysicist and award-winning writer Janna Levin explores the epic campaign of scientists who embarked on a fifty-year endeavor to capture the elusive sounds of gravitational waves.

Dennis Lehane (credit Gaby Gerster,Diogenes, Zuric)

Dennis Lehane. Photo by Gaby Gerster.

 An Evening with Dennis Lehane*–May 23
Dennis Lehane in conversation with writer and producer Attica Locke
A special evening with international bestselling writer Dennis Lehane discussing his newest suspense novel “Since We Fell” and his wide-ranging work.
*Ticketed event at the Writers Guild Theater. Visit lfla.org/aloud for tickets.

Behave: The Biology of Humans at our Best and Worst–May 25
Robert Sapolsky in conversation with evolutionary biologist Amy Parish
From the environment and endocrinology to genetics and evolution MacArthur Award-winning neurobiologist Robert Sapolsky considers millions of years of science to wrestle with why humans do the things they do.

All events are free and take place at the historic Central Library unless noted. For more information about all of these programs, visit lfla.org/ALOUD. And if you can’t make a program, then listen to the podcast afterwards—explore our media archive for new and old programs.

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Last Call for America’s Shakespeare: The Bard Goes West http://lfla.org/last-call-americas-shakespeare-bard-goes-west/ Thu, 16 Feb 2017 12:29:48 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=82838 Continuing the yearlong celebration of the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s extraordinary legacy, the Library Foundation of Los Angeles is exploring the timeless impact of the Bard on California culture and America as a whole through a series of special programs and events, including a new exhibition America’s Shakespeare: The Bard Goes West. Closing out […]

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Continuing the yearlong celebration of the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s extraordinary legacy, the Library Foundation of Los Angeles is exploring the timeless impact of the Bard on California culture and America as a whole through a series of special programs and events, including a new exhibition America’s Shakespeare: The Bard Goes West. Closing out its run at the Central Library’s Getty Gallery on February 26, this exhibit is a first-time collaboration between the Library Foundation, the acclaimed Folger Shakespeare Library, and the Los Angeles Public Library.

"America's Shakespeare, The Bard Goes West" Exhibit at the Los Angeles Public Library on December 15, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging)

“America’s Shakespeare: The Bard Goes West” Exhibit at the Los Angeles Public Library. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging).

“By presenting the life and work of William Shakespeare in a context that is unique to Los Angeles, this exhibit is now available to the largest, most diverse population in the nation. Angelenos of all ages have unprecedented access to a rare First Folio at their own library and then can explore how Shakespeare’s legacy influences our city even 400 years later,” says City Librarian John F. Szabo. The free exhibit spotlights archival maps, costumes, photographs, playbills, advertisements, books, personal letters, and more from state and local resources to shed light into the unique ways the playwright is woven into California’s history.

"America's Shakespeare, The Bard Goes West" Exhibit at the Los Angeles Public Library on December 15, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging)

Costumes on display. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging).

"America's Shakespeare, The Bard Goes West" Exhibit at the Los Angeles Public Library on December 15, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging)

Interactive theatre. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging).

"America's Shakespeare, The Bard Goes West" Exhibit at the Los Angeles Public Library on December 15, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging)

Movie memorabilia. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging)

Extending the Shakespeare festivities city-wide, neighborhood branches of the Los Angeles Public Library has offered bilingual Spanish/English sonnets readings, acting workshops focused on Shakespeare’s monologues, a Bard-centric screen printing workshop by Self Help Graphics, a demonstration of Shakespearean scenes with real fencing by Swordplay LA, among other free programs. Also, renowned director Joss Whedon sat down for an exclusive interview filmed in the Rare Books room at the Central Library to discuss his film adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing.

 

 

Continuing a look at Shakespeare in cinema, the Library Foundation’s Lost & Found at the Movies series will return for a special program in March. The ALOUD literary series is also hosting two special programs. Peter Sellars and Ayana Thompson discussed the role of race in Shakespeare last month and you can listen to the podcast here. Coming up on February 16, James Shapiro and Lisa Wolpe will explore gender, identity, and why Shakespeare still matters in contemporary America.

Visit lfla.org/shakespeare for more details on the exhibit and a calendar of the remaining programs.

 

 

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L.A. Love at The Library Store http://lfla.org/l-love-library-store/ Thu, 09 Feb 2017 13:25:25 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=83426 Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we’re declaring our love for Los Angeles at The Library Store this month. With a swoon-worthy selection of gifts made by local artisans–from yummy chocolates, honey, and jam, to handcrafted jewelry and ceramics, stationery, and more–we’ve got you and your loved ones covered! Look for these locally […]

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Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we’re declaring our love for Los Angeles at The Library Store this month. With a swoon-worthy selection of gifts made by local artisans–from yummy chocolates, honey, and jam, to handcrafted jewelry and ceramics, stationery, and more–we’ve got you and your loved ones covered! Look for these locally sourced goods in our downtown shop located at Central Library or check us out online at shop.lfla.org. Plus, all sales from The Library Store support the Los Angeles Public Library, so it’s a true L.A. romance.

PinkGlazeBowl

This stunning Pink Drip Large Bowl is made and designed in Los Angeles, and features a ceramic glaze drip that is unique to each bowl. Perfect as a fruit bowl, salad bowl, or as a decorative centerpiece to hold your Valentine candy.

BrassCuffs

One-of-a-kind jewelry handcrafted by @maddalenabearzi uses a variety of reclaimed, vintage, and fine metals. These Terra Brass cuffs are gorgeous works of wearable art.

bananas

You’ve probably got some correspondence to take care of for Valentine’s Day. Make The Library Store your first stop for card shopping; we have something to please everyone in the bunch including many locally designed cards.

LAblend

The fan-favorite Mast chocolatiers have concocted a uniquely L.A. flavor.

Or shop all of our one-of-a-kind Valentine gifts at The Store like these:

helloBeaut

Pretty in pink–this is a great catchall for all things sparkly. Your special someone will love this sweet reminder of your adoration.

CapturedHeart

Our heart-shaped macaroon trinket box is the perfect spot for stashing treasures like this adorable heart pin.

Shop now at The Library Store!

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The post L.A. Love at The Library Store appeared first on Library Foundation of Los Angeles.

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Get Toasty With Young Literati http://lfla.org/get-toasty-young-literati/ Wed, 01 Feb 2017 18:22:29 +0000 http://lfla.org/?p=77824 On April 1 at Neuehouse Hollywood, the Library Foundation of Los Angeles’ young and inspiring membership group Young Literati will host its Ninth Annual Toast gala. Hosted by Colin Hanks and Busy Philipps (pictured below), the event includes performances by comedian and Netflix talk show host Chelsea Handler, comedian and actor Kumail Nanjiani, musical guest […]

The post Get Toasty With Young Literati appeared first on Library Foundation of Los Angeles.

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On April 1 at Neuehouse Hollywood, the Library Foundation of Los Angeles’ young and inspiring membership group Young Literati will host its Ninth Annual Toast gala. Hosted by Colin Hanks and Busy Philipps (pictured below), the event includes performances by comedian and Netflix talk show host Chelsea Handler, comedian and actor Kumail Nanjiani, musical guest Andrew Bird, and other special guests to be announced.

Busy1

Funds raised at this event will support Student Zones at the Los Angeles Public Library. Student Zones are dedicated spaces within Library branches that provide kids and teens with a safe, welcoming environment to study and to access state-of-the-art computer technology, individual tutoring, and school supplies at no cost. There are currently 34 neighborhood libraries across the city of Los Angeles that have Student Zones and last year nearly 30,000 students used their resources. Programs like this are part of the Library Foundation of Los Angeles’ mission to support student success programming at the Los Angeles Public Library.

toast-2016-buyepongo-crop

As we get ready to raise our glass at the Young Literati’s biggest celebration of the year, here’s a look at some of our special guests who will gather to toast the Los Angeles Public Library. Learn more about attending the Toast here—tickets go on sale February 1.

Andrew Bird, a one-man orchestra of the imagination:

 

Kumail Nanjiani talks Freddy vs Jason, The Elephant Man, and being comforted by his mother:

 

Chelsea Handler’s nugget of wisdom:

 

Colin Hanks on his new show, Life in Pieces:

 

Learn more about the Ninth Annual Toast at lfla.org/toast or contact Rebecca Miller, Director of Young Literati, at rebeccamiller@lfla.org or 213.292.6245.

 

The post Get Toasty With Young Literati appeared first on Library Foundation of Los Angeles.

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