Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Create then Color

 

image of hand coloring next to elaborate scribble

Who: Adult primarily but everyone is welcome

What: Swing by for a relaxing, art filled afternoon. We will be creating zentangle frames and filling them with our own colors. Set your cares aside and join us.

When: Saturday, August 9 at 3:00 pm

Where: Arroyo Seco Library, 6045 N. Figueroa Street.

Why: For fun & relaxation

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
3:00 Game Day: Scrabble

Monday
6:00 Finding Peace Through Meditation (email wwood@lapl.org for link)

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
2:00 Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
2:00 Operación de Cocinas Caseras de Microempresa (MEHKO) (LAPLYouTube)

Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
3:00 Create then Color

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, July 30, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Autographs

 

signature of Jane Adams dated Nov 9. 1900

Today we’re looking at the autograph of Jane Addams. Addams was an American settlement activist/reformer, social worker, public philosopher, sociologist, author, & suffragist.  A page of written material is included with the autograph. Find the complete document here 


Monday, July 28, 2025

Arroyo Book Club August Read

 

image of book cover

August is a non-fiction month for the Arroyo Book Club. The book we will be reading is Knife by Salman Rushdie.  The catalog describes the book as:

"...a searing, deeply personal account of enduring--and surviving--an attempt on his life thirty years after the fatwa that was ordered against him. Speaking out for the first time, and in unforgettable detail, about the traumatic events of August 12, 2022, Salman Rushdie answers violence with art, and reminds us of the power of words to make sense of the unthinkable."

Stop by the branch to pick up a copy to read, while they last. You will find them in the usual location, just ask if you don’t know where that is.  

We will come together to discuss the book on Saturday, August 23 at 3 p.m. It will be a hybrid meeting so you have the option of attending in person or via Zoom. If you’d like to join us via Zoom let us know at ayosco@lapl.org so we can get the link to you


Sunday, July 27, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Community Mural Art With Crush + Touch

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
6:00 Highland Park Walks

Saturday
10:30 Thor's Reptile Family
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Catch up with us on various sites...

This is the last week of the Summer Reading Challenge. It’s not too late to join. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)


Wednesday, July 23, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Menus

 

image of dessert menu

Today we’re looking at a dessert menu for Abiquiu, a Santa Monica based restaurant. The menu is from the 1990s. Find the full menu here


Monday, July 21, 2025

The Arroyo Writing Group’s August Prompt

 The Arroyo Writing Group will be meeting on Thursday, August 21st at 6 p.m. We will be sharing our responses to the writing prompt:

Think back to an event in your life that could have gone disastrously awry (near accident, missed connection, etc.) and fictionalize it.  Put a character into that scenario and make the disaster happen.

The Arroyo Writing Group is for anyone interested in trying their hand at writing. We welcome you whether you are new to the art or and old expert looking for convivial place to share your work. Join our group for practice both writing short pieces across many genres and sharing your writing with others.

Questions? Need more information? Reach out to us at ayosco@lapl.org


Sunday, July 20, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar https://lapl.org/whats-on/calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 DIY Moveable Animal Puppet

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
12:00 Rights of Immigrant Business Owners: Protecting Yourself and Your Employees (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
4:00 Slime
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
1:30 Struggling With Medical Bills? We Can Help (LAPL YouTube)

Friday
10:30 Storytime Under the Pepper Tree at the Audubon Center (Offsite Event)

Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
3:00 Arroyo Book Club 

Catch up with us on various sites...

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)


Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 


This month’s question was what is the national anthem of Chile? The national anthem of Chile is "Himno Nacional de Chile" ("National Anthem of Chile"). Lyrics by Eusebio Lillo and Bernardo De Vera; music by Ramón Carnicer. Music adopted in 1828, lyrics in 1847.  Visit the source of the question and you can hear it played.

The question and answer were found in CultureGrams. CultureGrams provides Brief country reports with concise information on the history, people, customs, lifestyle, society, travel information and more for over 175 countries. Find it on the library’s Research & Homework page under “C” and access it with your library card.


Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Highland Park Walks

 


Thursday, July 31 at 6 p.m.

Join us as we explore our local neighborhood on foot. It’s summer so put your sun block on, bring some water, and be prepared to sweat. We will meet in the library lobby and collectively decide upon a route before setting out.  Casual chat about the books you love to read encouraged!

Everyone is welcome so bring the whole family


Sunday, July 13, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 How to Draw Superheroes With Evan Burse

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 How To Avoid Scams and Stay Safe Online (LAPL Youtube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Conoce tus derechos: Protegiéndote a ti mismo y a tus empleados (LAPL Youtube)
6:00 Arroyo Writing Group

Saturday
10:30 Splashy Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Catch up with us on various sites...

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Book Plates

 

black and beige with text

Today’s book plate is black and beige plate contains only the motto and the name of the owner. The text reads: “Books are friends that never intrude, betray or desert.” A sentiment it’s hard to refute. Find the image here


Tuesday, July 8, 2025

10,000 Steps a Day in L.A.

 


If you are an inveterate walker with a hankering to see the back routes & interesting side alleys of Los Angeles then you’ll want to take a look at 10,000 Steps a Day in L.A. by Paul Haddad.  In the book Haddad lays out 57 walking tours of Los Angeles.  The tours range across the city from San Pedro to the Valley.  Each tour is laid out in explicit detail with chatty extras from the author to provide additional cover.

Recommended to anyone looking to explore while racking up their daily steps. Grab this book and start walking!


Sunday, July 6, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Shark Week Returns

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
4:00 Create with Colorful Beads

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
3:00 Fun with Paper

Catch up with us on various sites...

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Fun with Paper

Who: Adults primarily but everyone is welcome!

What: Come have crafty fun with paper. Several project ideas will be provided but you are welcome to free your self from the bounds and design your own creation.

When: Saturday, July 12 at 3 p.m.

Where: The Arroyo Seco Library, 6145 N. Figueroa St.

Why: For fun, to stretch your creative muscles, just because…

Make plans to join us!

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Monday, June 30, 2025

Arroyo Book Club July Read

 


The theme of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge is “Reading Brings Us Together” so join our book club as we read the book Absolution by Alice McDermott for our July meeting.  

The book is described as “A riveting account of women's lives on the margins of the Vietnam War, from the renowned winner of the National Book Award”

Stop by the branch to pick up a copy to read, while they last. You will find them in the usual location, just ask if you don’t know where that is.  

We will come together to discuss the book on Saturday, July 26 at 3 p.m. It will be a hybrid meeting so you have the option of attending in person or via Zoom. If you’d like to join us via Zoom let us know at ayosco@lapl.org so we can get the link to you


Sunday, June 29, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Note that the library will be closed on Friday in celebration of the Fourth of July
 
Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….
 
Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
 
Monday
4:00 Your Author: Alexander Vidal
 
Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
 
Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
 
Thursday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
 
Friday
Library Closed for Independence Day
 
Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
 
Catch up with us on various sites...
 
LAPL platforms:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lapubliclibrary/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lapubliclibrary/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/losangeleslibrary
 
Arroyo Seco Social Media:
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl
 
The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Movie Posters

Three faces peer around the words "Doctor X"

Today’s movie poster is for the movie Doctor X. The poster has depictions of three characters from the horror/science fiction film, left to right, Lee Taylor (Lee Tracy), Dr. Jerry Xavier (Lionel Atwill), and Joanne Xavier (Fay Wray). View the full image here: https://tessa2.lapl.org/digital/collection/movie/id/0/rec/6

Monday, June 23, 2025

The Arroyo Writing Group’s July Prompt

The Arroyo Writing Group will have a special Summer with the Library meeting on Thursday, July 17th at 6 p.m. We will be sharing our responses to the writing prompt:

Setting, a very hot day in LA. Story, open

The Arroyo Writing Group is for anyone interested in trying their hand at writing. We welcome you whether you are new to the art or and old expert looking for convivial place to share your work. Join our group for practice both writing short pieces across many genres and sharing your writing with others.

Questions? Need more information? Reach out to us at ayosco@lapl.org

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Camp In

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 L.A. Zoo at Your Library
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
 
Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
4:00 Breakdancing With Eric Nishimoto

Friday
10:00 Gentle Yoga Series With Elisa

Saturday
11:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey
3:00 Arroyo Book Club 

Catch up with us on various sites...

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)


Friday, June 20, 2025

Breakdancing with Eric Nishimoto



Join us for Breakdancing with Eric Nishimoto on Thursday, June 26 at 4 p.m. The program starts with an exciting breaking aka breakdance performance followed by a brief history of the hip-hop culture and breaking, a new Olympic sport in 2024. Eric will introduce and show the various dance components in breaking (ie: toprock, footwork, freezes, power-moves) and how these dance components all come together. The audience will be able to participate in a hands on learning experience followed by a group showcase to demonstrate the new dance moves.


Thursday, June 19, 2025

The Goblin Emperor

 


If excellent, stylized world building supplemented by an interesting plot and fascinating characters is what you’re after they you’ll definitely want to pick up The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison.  Maia, our goblin emperor, is a set aside son of the previous emperor.  When his father and all his brothers die in an air ship accident he is left as the new ruler.  He comes to the court untutored and finds the court a morass of political infighting, social expectations, and unspoken mores.  He soon discovers that the accident that killed his predecessors was no accident and so must also battle against those who would remove him from his throne.

Addison creates a fascinating society, a likeable emperor, and a plot that pulls you in.  Highly recommended for all who have a taste for fantasy.


Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 

picture of a lizard

This month we asked what type of food does the endangered blunt-nosed leopard lizard eat? The lizard in question is an insectivore that eats “insects (mostly grasshoppers, crickets, and moths) and other lizards; some plant material is eaten rarely or is perhaps consumed unintentionally with animal prey.”

Learn all about the blunt-nosed leopard lizard in the database that was the source of this question (and answer). Specifically, Beacham's Guide to the Endangered Species of North America. This is a Gale Virtual Reference e-Book.  It has extensive data on the habitats and ecosystems of more than 1,200 species identified by U.S. Fish and Wildlife service, arranged taxonomically in 6 volumes.

Find this e-reference work  on the library’s Research & Homework page under “B” and access it with your library card.


Sunday, June 15, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Please note that the library will be closed on June 19 in celebration of Juneteenth.

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
3:00 Meditative Coloring

Monday
4:00 Tin Foil Boats

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 Arroyo Writing Group (Special Meeting)

Thursday 
Library Closed

Friday
10:00 Gentle Yoga Series With Elisa

Saturday
10:30 Splashy Saturday

Catch up with us on various sites...

LAPL platforms:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lapubliclibrary/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lapubliclibrary/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/losangeleslibrary

Arroyo Seco Social Media:
Blog: arroyoseco5.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArroyoSecoLibrary
Instagram: www.instagram.com/arroyosecolapl

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Personal Archiving 101

 

scanned documents under banner "community: memory and belonging in los angeles"

Join us for the first in a series of archive & oral history workshops

When: Saturday, June 21 at 3:00 PM

Where: The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library, 6145 N. Figueroa Street

What: Do you have old photographs, letters, and documents, and years of memories stored away in boxes long forgotten? Have you wondered about what will happen to these precious artifacts in the future? Join us and learn the basics of how to think like an archivist. This workshop is open to anyone interested in documenting and preserving personal, family, or community stories.


Wednesday, June 11, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Travel Posters

 

a birds-eye view of the town of Assisi, showing the Basilica Papale di San Francesco

Today’s travel poster provides a birds-eye view of the town of Assisi, showing the Basilica Papale di San Francesco (Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi).  View the full image here: https://tessa2.lapl.org/digital/collection/travel/id/168/rec/7

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Contact Paper Collage

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
2:00 Government Contracts: A Beginner's Guide (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Friday
10:00 Gentle Yoga Series With Elisa

Catch up with us on various sites...


Friday, June 6, 2025

Gentle Yoga with Elisa: A Series

 

woman sits in yoga pose in front of a fireplace

Who:

Everyone who is looking to reduce stress and increase strength, flexibility, and balance.  All levels welcome.

What:

Release habitual tension in your body and mind, linking breath and movement as you unwind through the ancient practice of Yoga. Create more strength, flexibility and balance in your body while soothing your soul. Learn and practice proper Yoga alignments. Be present while letting it all go. 

When:

We will have 3 sessions. Friday June 13, June 20, and June 27 all at 10 a.m.
All sessions are FREE

Where:

The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library 
6145 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, 90042

Questions:

Email us at ayosco@lapl.org


Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question…

 This month let’s ask what type of food does the endangered blunt-nosed leopard lizard eat?

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Beginning Operations


If you are looking for classic SF that still reads (reasonably) well today then check out the author James White.  White was best known for a series of stories set in the far future on a multi-species hospital.  The stories follow Doctor Conway.  We meet Doctor Conway at the start of his career and follow him as he meets weird and wonderful sick aliens and manages to cure what ails them.  White has a deft hand with aliens and the books are full of every possible kind of creature you can imagine from plant based intelligence, through water based forms, to continent sized creatures, (there’s even a levitating brontosaurus type).  Beginning Operations collects the first 3 novels into one book.

Because the novels are set so far in the future among characters that are more often alien then human, they stand up better to the test of time then some older SF does.  I would recommend the books to anyone with a taste for medical problem solving set among the stars.


Sunday, June 1, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

The Summer Reading Challenge starts on June 1 and runs through August 1. Stop by the branch to sign up or sign yourself up via Beanstack (more info here)

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Giant Games

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
4:00 Feeling the Spirit of the Drum With the Konga Kid

Saturday
10:30 Ahoy Matey! Pirate Puppet Show

Catch up with us on various sites...


Friday, May 30, 2025

2025 Summer Reading Programming for Adults

 

drawing of assorted animals reading against an LA backdrop

This year’s summer reading theme is “Reading brings us together” and we have a summer full of free, interesting programs we can do together.  Below you will find a listing, with brief details, of all of the programs planned for adults.  Look them over and make plans to join us.

Friday, 6/13 at 10 am Gentle Yoga with Elisa. First of three sessions. All levels welcome.

Sunday, 6/15 at 3 pm Meditative Coloring. Relax and take your mind of your troubles with intricate coloring fun

Wednesday, 6/18 at 6 pm Arroyo Writing Group. Bring your writing on the prompt: First sentence begins “Reading brings us together” This is a hybrid meeting so send an email if you’d like the Zoom link

Friday, 6/20 at 10 am Gentle Yoga with Elisa. Second of three sessions. All levels welcome. Come even if you missed the first session.

Friday, 6/27 at 10 am Gentle Yoga with Elisa. Third of three sessions. All levels welcome. Come even if you missed the first sessions.

Saturday, 6/28 at 3 pm Arroyo Book Club. Reading The Art Thief by Michael Finkel. Pick up a copy and join us for discussion

Saturday, 7/12 at 3 pm Fun with Paper. Make pretty things from that most basic of ingredients, paper!

Thursday, 7/17 at 6 pm Arroyo Writing Group. Bring your writing on the prompt: Setting, a very hot day in LA. Story, open  This is a hybrid meeting so send an email if you’d like the Zoom link

Saturday, 7/26 at 3pm Arroyo Book Club. Absolution by Alice McDermott. Pick up a copy and join us for discussion

Thursday, 7/31 at 6pm Highland Park Walks (while talking about books)

If you have questions about any of these programs please email ayosco@lapl.org

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

2025 Summer Reading Program

 

drawing of a number of animals reading against an LA backdrop

Participate in Summer with the Library by picking up a game board at any library location. You can also take part by logging your reading and activities online through Beanstack or by using the Beanstack Tracker app. Once you sign up everyone gets a sticker sheet and children & teens also get a book to keep (while supplies last).

Each week, when you have read for one hour or attended a library program, mark that week’s space on the game board (you may of course do more than the minimum within the week, customize the challenge to your level). Once you have marked a box in at least three of the weeks, bring your game board to your local library to receive a prize (tote bag, while supplies last). 

Continue reading and attending library programs through August 1 (and return your game board to your local library by August 8) for a chance to win a VISA gift card.

Please note that an email address or phone number is required to enter prize drawings so winners can be notified.

Learn more at lapl.org/summer


LAPL’s Digital Collection: Fashion Plates

 

drawing of woman from back wearing dress and carrying an umbrella

Today’s fashion plate comes to us from September 1, 1809. Depicted is a promenade dress. Rear view of an empire waist white dress with a blue scarf looped around the body. Accessories include a straw bonnet with blue and white plumes and a blue parasol. View the full image here: https://tessa2.lapl.org/digital/collection/fashion/id/194/rec/4

Monday, May 26, 2025

Arroyo Book Club June Read

 

cover of book The Art Thief


The theme of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge is “Reading Brings Us Together” so join our book club as we read the book The Art Thief by Michael Finkel.  The publisher describes the book with:

In this spellbinding portrait of obsession and flawed genius, Michael Finkel gives us one of the most remarkable true-crime narratives of our times, a riveting story of art, theft, love, and an insatiable hunger to possess beauty at any cost

Stop by the branch to pick up a copy to read, while they last. You will find them in the usual location, just ask if you don’t know where that is.  

We will come together to discuss the book on Saturday, June 28 at 3 p.m. It will be a hybrid meeting so you have the option of attending in person or via Zoom. If you’d like to join us via Zoom let us know at ayosco@lapl.org so we can get the link to you



Sunday, May 25, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Note that the library will be closed on Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day. Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
Closed for Memorial Day

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Banking Services for Small Businesses (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
4:00 Teen Volunteer Orientation for Summer at the Library
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

 

picture of number of men holding shovels some wearing turbans

This month the question was approximately how many Indians (country of India) settled in the US between 1899 and 1914? To quote from our source:

Approximately 6,800 Indians settled in the western U.S. between 1899 and 1914. During this period, India's Punjab region was undergoing rapid modernization that displaced many people from their land. At the same time, such cash crops as indigo instead of food crops were being grown for the British Empire, which then ruled India; this led to famine for many Punjabi farmers. As a result, the youngest sons of Punjabi families were encouraged to immigrate to the U.S. to find work to support their families in India. Most of the immigrants came from landowning Sikh families. However, the U.S. public generally believed that these immigrants were impoverished "Hindoos" (Hindus).

The question, and answer, were found in The Asian American Experience database.  The Asian American Experience is a digital resource that illuminates the histories and contemporary culture of Asian Americans. This resource includes references, scholarly works, primary documents and papers, photographs, audio clips, and maps.

Find this e-reference work  on the library’s Research & Homework page under “A” and access it with your library card.


Monday, May 19, 2025

The Arroyo Writing Group’s June Prompt

 The Arroyo Writing Group will have a special Summer with the Library meeting on Wednesday, June 18th at 6 p.m. We will be sharing our responses to the writing prompt:

The first sentence of the piece begins “Reading brings us together”

The Arroyo Writing Group is for anyone interested in trying their hand at writing. We welcome you whether you are new to the art or and old expert looking for convivial place to share your work. Join our group for practice both writing short pieces across many genres and sharing your writing with others.

Questions? Need more information? Reach out to us at ayosco@lapl.org


Sunday, May 18, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
3:00 Game Day: Scrabble

Monday
4:00 Regulate and Recharge: Sensory Play and Community Support

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
3:00 Arroyo Book Club (in person OR Zoom, email ayosco@lapl.org)

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, May 14, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Maps

 

clip of map showing Southern California

Today we’re looking at Barclay's Map of Southern California from 1914. It includes table of distances showing mileage over highways between the county seats. Includes index to cities, villages, post offices, and stations. Relief shown by hachures. View the full map here: https://tessa2.lapl.org/digital/collection/maps/id/84/rec/5

Monday, May 12, 2025

Liquor

 


In Liquor Poppy Z. Brite gives us Gary “G-Man” Stubs and John Rickey, called Rickey, two New Orleans men who’ve worked their whole lives as cooks.  Rickey has an idea for a new restaurant that would suit New Orleans to a T. What follows is the tale of the birth of that restaurant.  Rickey and G-Man find a partner to foot the bill, navigate the murky political waters of New Orleans, site the restaurant and make peace with their new neighbors, and survive vengeful ex-employers.

This book provides an engrossing look at the subculture of chefs and the city of New Orleans. Pick it up for a real slice of life take on a life that is (if you’re not in the restaurant line) far different from your own.


Sunday, May 11, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Joyful Song: Learn About Jewish Naming Traditions

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
6:00 Arroyo Writing Group

Saturday
10:30 The Alana Banana Show
3:00 Presentación de la trilogía de libros Todo Personal

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question…

This month the question is approximately how many Indians (country of India) settled in the US between 1899 and 1914?

Sunday, May 4, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
4:00 Children’s Program

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, April 30, 2025

CANCELLED: LA Made Presents: Guzheng and Vocal Performance

 We have, sadly, to announce the cancellation of LA Made Presents: Guzheng and Vocal Performance.

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Fruit Crate Labels

 

Aliso Lemons with lemons drawn down either side

Today we have a lemon fruit crate label.  This one is for the Carpinteria Mutual Citrus Assn. No date is provided for this label. View the full image here

Monday, April 28, 2025

The Arroyo Book Club’s May Pick

 


Our May read will be Station Eleven by Emily St. James Mandel. To quote the Kirkus Review: 

“An audacious, darkly glittering novel set in the eerie days following civilization's collapse, Station Eleven tells the spellbinding story of a nomadic group of actors roaming the scattered outposts of the Great Lakes region, risking everything for art and humanity.”

Stop by the branch to pick up a copy to read, while they last. You will find them in the usual location, just ask if you don’t know where that is.  If you prefer an ebook, you’ll find copies of the title in Libby.

We will meet to discuss the book on Saturday, May 24 at 3 p.m. It will be a hybrid meeting so you have the option of attending in person or via Zoom. If you’d like to join us via Zoom let us know at ayosco@lapl.org so we can get the link to you


Sunday, April 27, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
2:00 Renting vs. Buying For First-Time Homebuyers

Monday
12:00 Being a Smart Investor (LAPL YouTube)
4:00 Regulate and Recharge: Sensory Play and Community Support

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
10:30 Pottery for Kids With POT Studio

Catch up with us on various sites...


Thursday, April 24, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Autographs

image of signature

Today we’re looking at the autograph of John Quincy Adams (not the president). This John Quincy was Cofounder and secretary of the American Flag House and Betsy Ross Memorial Association. Find the complete set of documents here


Wednesday, April 23, 2025

LA Made Presents: Guzheng and Vocal Performance

 CANCELLED

image of woman in black dress leaning against a guzheng

Saturday, May 10 at 3 p.m.

Explore Asian American music with Jett Kwong… Experience a performance of the ancient Chinese guzheng with vocals sung in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. Alongside the performance the history of the guzheng and its contemporary utilizations will be explored.

Everyone is welcome to join us for this free performance!

This LA Made program was made possible with the generous support of the National Endowment for the Humanities.


Monday, April 21, 2025

The Arroyo Writing Group’s May Prompt

 The Arroyo Writing Group will meet on May 15th at 6 p.m. We will be sharing our responses to the writing prompt:

Your favorite fairy tale … set in 2025

The Arroyo Writing Group is for anyone interested in trying their hand at writing. We welcome you whether you are new to the art or and old expert looking for convivial place to share your work. Join our group for practice both writing short pieces across many genres and sharing your writing with others.

Questions? Need more information? Reach out to us at ayosco@lapl.org


Sunday, April 20, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
Library Closed for Easter

Monday
4:00 Nathalia's Bilingual Family Concert

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Borrowing 101 (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
10:00-12:00 Financial Literacy Day
12:00 After the Fire: Navigating Insurance For Homeowners and Renters
3:00 Arroyo Book Club Discussion

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help
2:00 Renting vs. Buying For First-Time Homebuyers

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question (Answer)….

screen clip of dictionary page / text too small to read

This month we asked what the earliest known use of the word “dictionary” is. To answer this question we turned to a dictionary. Specifically, the Oxford English Dictionary.  There we learn that the word is from the Middle English period (1150-1500) and their earliest evidence is from around 1480 in Medulla Grammatice. 

The Oxford English Dictionary is your source for everything you want to know about the words you use, from their meaning to their pronunciation to their etymology to frequency to related words and beyond.  

Find this e-reference work  on the library’s Research & Homework page under “O” and access it with your library card.


Monday, April 14, 2025

Renting vs Buying for First-Time Homebuyers: A Workshop

key on top of legal looking documents


What:
In this interactive workshop, the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Los Angeles will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of renting vs. buying a home, affordability and the typical process and tips to buying your first home.

When: Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.

Where: The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library, 6145 N. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, 90042

Questions: email us at ayosco@lapl.org


Sunday, April 13, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
12:00 Building Wealth Through Saving and Investing (LAPL YouTube)
3:00-5:00 LA Department of Transportation Table
4:00 Organic Home Gardening for Kids

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 Your Money Values and Influences (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
6:00 Arroyo Writing Group

Friday
10:00 Yoga & Meditation With Master John (email dmatthews@lapl.org for link)

Catch up with us on various sites...


Friday, April 11, 2025

Financial Literacy Day

 

image of people sitting around a table talking text says Financial Literacy day

What: Don’t miss this opportunity for a free, private consultation with a Certified Financial Planner™ on a variety of personal financial issues, including debt management, retirement planning, investment strategies, income taxes, insurance, and estate planning, among many others.

Plus: The Financial Planning Association will also provide a presentation that will help homeowners and renters affected by the Eaton and Palisades Fires better understand their insurance policies, rights, and options for recovery.

When: The one-on-one appointments will take place from 10 a.m. - 12 noon, followed by the presentation from 12 noon - 1 p.m.

Where: The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library, 6145 N. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, 90042

Please call 213-228-7140 to make an appointment.


Thursday, April 10, 2025

LAPL’s Digital Collection: Menus

image of menu

Today we’re taking a look at the menu for Abacus from 1990. Abacus specialized in food with a Chinese inspiration. Find the complete menu here

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
3:00-5:00 LA Saves Table
4:00 Make Your Own Nature Paint Brush

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
12:00 Disasters: Financial Preparation & Recovery (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine
6:00 Círculo de Lectores

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
9:30-11:00 Solar Telescope Viewing with the Sidewalk Astronomers
9:30-12:30 Free Income Tax Preparation and Filing
3:00 UCLA Gluck MODEM Reed Quintet

Catch up with us on various sites...


Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Monthly Trivia Question…

 This month let’s ask what the earliest known use of the word “dictionary” is?

Monday, March 31, 2025

UCLA Gluck Music Performance

 

image of 5 people holding reed instruments

What: Join us for a wonderful afternoon of music as we host the UCLA Gluck MODEM Reeds Quintet from UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's Gluck Fellows Program.

When: Saturday, April 12 at 3 p.m.

Where: The Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library, 6145 N. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, 90042

Questions: email us at ayosco@lapl.org


Sunday, March 30, 2025

Programming Coming up This Week

Note that the library will be closed Monday to celebrate César Chávez Day

Find the in person programs at our branch as well as a selection of the exciting, virtual programs offered by branches across the city during the rest of the week below (programs in person at our branch unless otherwise noted). Visit our online calendar for our complete program selection….

Sunday
1:00-5:00 Tech Help

Monday
Library Closed

Tuesday
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
3:00 STAR Reader: Jeffrey

Wednesday
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime
12:00 From Launch to Likes: Websites and Social Media Basics (LAPL YouTube)
3:00 STAR Reader: Miss Katherine

Thursday 
10:00-3:30 Tech Help
10:30 Baby & Toddler Storytime

Saturday
9:30-12:30 Free Income Tax Preparation and Filing

Catch up with us on various sites...


Saturday, March 29, 2025

View the Sun Up Close

(through a solar telescope)

photo of sun

Take an up close and personal look at the sun safely with the help of the Sidewalk Astronomers.

The Sidewalk Astronomers will set up telescopes with hydrogen-alpha blocking filters, which will allow safe viewing of sunspots and solar prominences, on the sidewalk in front of the library. Come by and take a look on Saturday, April 12 between 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Everyone is welcome