Your Los Angeles Library Card isn’t just a ticket to books: it’s a gateway to a wealth of free resources. From online courses to museum passes, explore 20 complimentary benefits that extend beyond books, enriching your experience with your card. Dive into a world of knowledge, culture, and entertainment, all at your fingertips, as we delve into the hidden gems awaiting discovery thanks to the L.A. public library card benefits!
1. Expand your knowledge by exploring Los Angeles museums
Gain access to a wealth of cultural experiences with your L.A. Library Card, using the Discover & Go program. This program offers complimentary or discounted entry to various museums and art galleries to see the city’s best art and cultural exhibitions. Some places you can visit include:
- Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- The Broad
- California Science Center
- Aquarium of the Pacific.
- California Botanic Garden.
- Chinese American Museum.
- Japanese American National Museum.
- La Brea Tar Pits.
- LA Galaxy.
- La Plaza de Cultura y Artes.
- LA Opera.
- Museums of Jurassic Technology.
2. Roam with the wildlife at the LA Zoo
In case you were wondering, Is the LA Zoo free with a library card? The answer is yes! With your L.A. Library Card, you can score free admission for up to four people to the Los Angeles Zoo. Again, you must reserve your free pass through the library’s Discover & Go program website, but be sure to book well in advance as these passes are popular.
3. Get free day access to 200 state parks
Your L.A. Library Card, gets you a day-use entry to over 200 state parks. This pass allows you to one passenger vehicle carrying up to nine individuals, or one highway-licensed motorcycle, at the participating state park units, providing an excellent opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural wonders of California.
4. Take a hike with special and free gear
Are you looking for your next adventure this weekend? The L.A. Library Card allows you free access to hiking gear including backpacks, a compass, a flashlight, two trekking poles, and a printed hiking guide! The hiking bundle is available at Central Library, Baldwin Hills, and Chatsworth. You can get it for three weeks with no renewal. With all of these, you’re already set up for your next outdoor activity.
5. Get 24/7 free access to streaming services
With your library card, you gain round-the-clock access to an extensive array of e-books, audiobooks, magazines, music, movies, and TV shows. All of these are available through platforms like OverDrive, Hoopla, Kanopy, allowing you to indulge in reading, watching, and listening on any device.
6. Borrow a tablet or laptop
Check the TechKiosk at the library, which offers six Dell laptops and six Nexus tablets for patrons to use anywhere in the library for up to two hours. Scan your library card and get devices equipped with cloud-based word processing, Android apps, and free Wi-Fi.
7. Learn a new language or get a new skill
Are you keen on honing a fresh skill or mastering a different language? The L.A. Library Card allows you to get online resources, from platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Gale Courses, Brainfuse, Mango Languages, or ABCMouse.
8. 3D print your most original creations
Another awesome free perk you can get with the L.A. Library Card is using the library’s 3D printer. To do so, you should be a member of the Octavia Lab which, of course, you can do for free. Those unfamiliar with the printers can access a selection of instructional resources, including books, in-software tutorials, and online courses via LinkedIn Learning and NicheAcademy. The lab staff does not offer individualized instruction.
9. Digitalize your old photos and videos
As time passes, numerous analog formats like VHS deteriorate and require digitization to prevent the loss of recordings. The Los Angeles Public Library offers various services aimed at assisting individuals in their personal archiving and digital preservation endeavors.
10. Make merry melodies with a ukulele
The L.A. Library Card allows you to pick up this lovely musical instrument totally for free. You can have it for three weeks with a full kit that includes the case, chord book, and tuner. So, you can get almost a month to learn your and your friend’s favorite song to become the life of the party at your next gathering. Or simply, to unlock a new hobby.
11. Access immigration and citizenship counseling
Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the country and a multicultural melting pot of people from all corners of the world. This is why the library offers help and counseling for free in 60 minutes sessions, under the New Americans program. Get help on citizenship applications, Green Card renewals, work permits, and more.
12. Get your very own librarian
Looking for some personalized assistance? The L.A. Library Card allows you to get one-on-one help by booking a Librarian. You can submit your help request and inquiry online. Then, connect with a librarian in person to help you with finding books you need, guide you through the vast collection in the library, or assist you in case you’re working on a research project.
13. Read newspapers and magazines from all over the world
Your Library Card grants you access to PressReader. This platform hosts an extensive collection of newspapers and magazines from diverse regions globally, offering you the opportunity to stay informed on a wide range of topics and current events.
14. Help your kids with their homework
Struggling to assist your child with algebra? Your L.A. Library Card grants you access to free, one-on-one online homework help from expert tutors via tutor.com, available daily from 11 am to 11 pm. Support is provided in a range of subjects, in both English and Spanish, for students from grades K-12 and adult learners.
Can you use a library without a card?
Even without a library card, you can avail yourself of certain resources and facilities provided by the L.A. public library system. You can freely enter and check out their collections, utilize available seating areas, and immerse yourself in the ambiance of the building.
You can also use their Wi-Fi services, in case you need to do some Google searches to discover cool things to do in Los Angeles, for example.
How do I get a Los Angeles library card?
To get a library card, you can either fill out an application in person at any Los Angeles Public Library location, download and complete the application form to bring with you, or pre-register online by visiting the Library’s Web Pre-Registration Page. If you’re a Los Angeles City resident and only need access to online resources, you can apply for an eCard online. Library cards are free for California residents.
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