Libros Schmibros is a Los Angeles lending library & used bookshop located in the once majority-Jewish, now majority-Latino neighborhood of Boyle Heights. Hatched by former NEA literature director and San Francisco Chronicle book critic David Kipen, Libros Schmibros is dedicated to bringing together writers, scholars, readers, and neighbors from across a large segment of Los Angeles–from Pasadena to the sea–for the exploration of literature and the study, questioning, celebration, and betterment of Southern California.
Founded on July 19, 2010–the day LA Public Library branches both two blocks away and citywide relinquished all Monday hours for the first and, thankfully, last time in their history–Libros Schmibros lends books free of charge to all comers. Should patrons want to keep a book, visitors are asked to make a donation ranging from $1 to half the cover price of the book. In a storied neighborhood with good new public transit but not enough books, Libros Schmibros offers low- or no-cost literature and literary events to Latinos, Jews, and everybody else east of the ocean.
Visit us at our new location at:
1711 Mariachi Plaza de Los Angeles.
next to the Mariachi Plaza Metro Station
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday 12 – 6 PM
Libros Schmibros works with residents, writers, and public officials as catalysts towards the greater revitalization of Boyle Heights and the enrichment of the literary life around greater Los Angeles. Our mission is full-throated advocacy of the literary arts through public presentations, workshops, film series, museum exhibitions, reading groups, symposia, and conferences. Though our mission is the dissemination of literary culture to all Los Angeles, our name reflects both a commitment to Latino L.A. and a dedication to re-gathering the Jewish diaspora around its first ark: the book. Follow us online!
Libros Schmibros is fiscally sponsored by Pasadena Arts Council
tax-exempt ID 95-2540759
and generously supported by the Rosenthal Family Foundation.
