Your Library Card Unlocks More Than Books
A library card gives you access to much more than books — from free museum tickets and state park passes to streaming, audiobooks, learning tools, and family-friendly resources you can use year-round.
How to book a pass
- 1 Get a physical LA County or LAPL library card.
- 2 Create or log in to your account.
- 3 Go to Discover & Go (LA County) or Explore LA (LAPL).
- 4 Browse available passes and select your date.
- 5 Download or print your pass.
Before you reserve anything
The two main systems most families use are LA County Library and Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL). Both offer great perks, but the eligibility rules and attraction selection can differ.
Know before you go
- Reserve through Discover & Go
- Book up to 3 months in advance
- New passes are typically released on the 1st of each month
- First come, first served — popular spots go quickly
- Must be 18+ with a full-access LA County Library card
- Must live in LA County zip codes 90000–93599
- Limit of 2 active reservations at a time
- Some museums may limit visits to 1 per year
- Photo ID required and must match the reservation
- Many passes must be printed (some locations may accept mobile)
- Passes usually cannot be canceled after printing/downloading
- Parking is not always included
Know before you go
- Reserve through Explore LA / Discover & Go
- Book up to 3 months in advance
- New passes are typically released on the 1st of each month
- First come, first served — popular spots go quickly
- Must be 18+ with a physical LAPL card
- Must live in eligible LA zip codes 90000–93599
- Limit of 2 active reservations at a time
- Photo ID required and must match the reservation
- Most passes must be printed (some may accept mobile)
- Passes usually cannot be canceled after printing/downloading
- Availability may depend on your zip code eligibility
LA County Library perks
🎟️ Free Museum Passes
Reserve free tickets to local museums and attractions through Discover & Go.
- Book ahead
- Released monthly
- Limited availability
🎧 Audiobooks & eBooks
Borrow digital books through Libby / OverDrive right on your phone.
- Great for drives and downtime
- Strong adult + kids selection
- No late fees
🎬 Free Movies & Shows
Stream movies, documentaries, and family content through Kanopy and Hoopla.
- Family-friendly options
- Educational content
- Monthly viewing limits apply
👶 Kids Digital Learning
Interactive books, read-alongs, and skill-building resources for younger kids.
- Toddlers through elementary age
- Great for early learning
🌲 California State Parks Pass
Borrow a vehicle pass for free day-use entry to participating California state parks.
- Covers one vehicle, typically up to ~9 people
- Valid at many participating parks
- Usually checked out for 2 weeks
- Limited availability by branch
🎨 Free Library Programs
Storytimes, crafts, seasonal events, and family activities at local branches.
- Many are free and drop-in
- Some require advance registration
💻 Online Courses
Free LinkedIn Learning access for business, tech, and creative skill-building.
- Self-paced
- Useful for parents and professionals
🧰 Borrow More Than Books
Select branches offer WiFi hotspots, laptops, and activity kits.
- Varies by location
- May require holds or reservations
LAPL card perks
🎟️ Free & Discounted Tickets
Reserve museum, attraction, and event tickets through Explore LA.
- Book in advance
- Availability can vary by zip code
- Includes select cultural venues and attractions
🎧 Audiobooks & eBooks
Use Libby / OverDrive for digital books and audiobooks for adults and kids.
- Great for walks, drives, and downtime
- No late fees
🎬 Free Movies & Shows
Stream family content, documentaries, and more through Kanopy and Hoopla.
- Educational + family-friendly picks
- Monthly limits apply
👶 Kids Learning Apps
Interactive books, read-alongs, and early literacy tools for younger kids.
- Toddlers through elementary age
- Helps with engagement + reading
🎨 Free Programs & Events
Storytimes, crafts, and family library events across Los Angeles.
- Many are free and drop-in
- Some may require RSVP
💻 Online Learning
Get free access to LinkedIn Learning for business, tech, and creative courses.
- Self-paced learning
- Great bonus perk for adults too
🧰 Borrow More Than Books
Some branches offer laptops, hotspots, and other practical lending items.
- Varies by branch
- May require holds
🎵 Free Music Downloads
Use Freegal to download and keep music with your library card.
- Weekly download limits apply
- No subscription needed
Museum ideas through library passes
A few family-friendly examples that may appear through LA County Library or LAPL, depending on availability.
Selected library branches to check
West LA
- Malibu Library
- West Hollywood Library
- Lloyd Taber-Marina del Rey Library
- Westlake Village Library
The Valley & Mid LA
- San Fernando Library
- Topanga Library
- Central Library
- Arroyo Seco Regional Library
- Brand Library and Art Center
East & Central Hubs
- East Los Angeles Library
- Culver City Julian Dixon Library
Availability of passes and physical lending items can vary by location, so it’s always worth checking your nearest branch first.