The Council is the Library Foundation’s premier fundraising group, supporting the Los Angeles Public Library’s Central Library and 72 branches. This group of ambassadors are steadfast champions of the LAPL’s impactful work.
Since its founding in 1994 by the late Flora Thornton, The Council has raised over $35 million. The Council produces the Council Literary Series and the biennial Council Literary Feasts, and provides significant support to critical LAPL programs that promote literacy skills, student success, and technological access.
The Council Literary Series is a beloved monthly event that brings members together for engaging experiences with outstanding authors. Each program features an author presentation or moderated conversation, audience Q&A, a delicious meal, and a book signing, with books available for purchase before and during the event. These gatherings offer a unique opportunity to connect with remarkable literary voices and foster relationships with fellow Council members in a vibrant and welcoming setting.
The Literary Feasts, a biennial fundraiser, is a one-of-a-kind celebration of literature and community in support of the Los Angeles Public Library. On a single extraordinary evening, 50 intimate dinners are hosted in distinctive homes across Los Angeles, each featuring distinguished writers who share their insights and stories.
The Council of the Library Foundation was established in 1994, inspired by Flora Thornton’s vision after attending the gala celebrating the Central Library’s reopening in 1993. Moved by the library’s renovation, she recognized the need for a volunteer group to enhance public awareness of the Los Angeles Public Library and its services.
With the backing of Lodwrick M. Cook, Founding Chairman of the Library Foundation, the initiative took shape. Thornton invited Joni Smith to lead the effort, and the initial organizational meeting was held at Smith’s home. Under her guidance as the first president, The Council flourished, with Smith serving in this role until 1997.
All Council Memberships include invitations to the Council Literary Series programs, the biennial Literary Feasts, Library Foundation special events, and exhibit openings, along with an exclusive discount at the Library Store.
To become a Member of The Council, a candidate must be sponsored by a current Member.
For more information, please call us at 213.228.7506 or message us through this contact form.
As President and CEO of the Library Foundation of Los Angeles (LFLA), Stacy Lieberman is an innovative and inclusive leader whose career dwells at the intersection of arts and culture, lifelong learning, storytelling, and equitable access. Stacy guides the Foundation’s philanthropic and public-facing priorities to serve the Los Angeles Public Library, embracing the notion that libraries are beacons of democracy where everyone is welcome. She works intentionally with community leaders, donors, and internal and external strategic partners to raise awareness and resources for the Library and its life-changing initiatives.
With more than 20 years of experience as a senior executive, Stacy has left an indelible mark on iconic L.A. arts, non-profit, and educational institutions such as The Broad, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Skirball Cultural Center. Building on an early career in book publishing, she has dedicated her professional life to sharing stories and broadening the reach of public institutions to welcome visitors and students of all ages and backgrounds to experience educational, arts, and cultural opportunities.
