The Southern California Library is a Los Angeles treasure. We are devoted to making the history of labor, civil rights, women’s, immigrants’ and other grassroots movements meaningful—and useful—to a new generation. We are an independent resource for students, scholars, and activists shaping a progressive vision for Los Angeles.

The Library is a non-profit organization open to the public. See our hours. It's always a good idea to call in advance to let us know you're coming (323-759-6063). Archival materials do not circulate, but books may be checked out by Library members. Membership is $40.00/year or $20.00/year for students. The membership includes a subscription to Heritage, the Library's newsletter.

Researchers are encouraged to visit the Library. Staff will answer brief research queries at no charge by fax, e-mail, phone, or standard mail. For more involved queries a fee of $20.00/hour is charged. Photocopying is 15 cents per copy.

Our Mission The Southern California Library is a vital community resource in the heart of Los Angeles dedicated to education for social change. The Library offers unique and accessible collections and programs on Southern California's social and progressive history. We engage people across generations in using history to advance social justice.

What We Do
What the Southern California Library does is unique --and needed more now than ever before. We are dedicated to education for social change, engaging people across generations in using history to advance social justice. So, among other things, we:

• Preserve the documentary record of social justice movements in our unique and accessible collections
  
• Connect that documentation (through programs, events, and publications) to contemporary issues like peace, civil liberties, racial profiling, the living wage, and affordable housing
  
• Serve as a gathering place for people making social change in Los Angeles  and
  
• Celebrate our progressive heritage through films, music, and more.
  

SCL Staff

SCL Board of Directors

SCL Advisory Committee