The new West Hollywood Library will house an expansive collection of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual or Transgender) literature and history, including the Ron Shipton HIV Information Center. Not only is this collection of interest to the public at large, it is particularly relevant to the demographics of the City of West Hollywood community, an estimated 35 percent of which identifies itself as LGBT and 10 percent of which is HIV positive. The new West Hollywood Library is located at 625 N. San Vicente Boulevard in West Hollywood. The library will continue to be operated by the County of Los Angeles Library.

On opening day, the new West Hollywood Library’s LGBT Collection will have 3,000 volumes as well as DVDs and periodical subscriptions. It is unique in that it is not an archive, but a circulating public library collection. Notable among the holdings is an array of Lambda Literary Award-winning books (the “Lammy” is the most prestigious, competitive and comprehensive award given specifically to LGBT authors.) The LGBT space in the new library has room to eventually expand the collection to 7,000 volumes. The library will host speakers and book talks on LGBT-related and other topics.
The new West Hollywood Library will be home to the newly-expanded Ron Shipton HIV Information Center. It was established in 1989 at the behest of community activist Ron Shipton, who asked the West Hollywood Library to purchase materials on HIV/AIDS that would be accessible to the entire community. The Ron Shipton HIV Information Center’s holdings have grown to 600 books and videos on HIV/AIDS education, transmission, prevention, treatment and legal issues.

The library’s LGBT section and expanded outdoor park space will be available for programs and events that support the belief that knowledge is a key to dispelling homophobia and affirmation is critical to fostering pride and self-confidence. The library will not only preserve and protect items of the City’s LGBT heritage, but will also serve as a conduit for positive change.

The new West Hollywood Library will house more than 150,000 print books, but it will also house magazines, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks. Among its other special collections will be an International Languages Collection, Decorative Arts and Design resources, large-print materials for Seniors and the visually-impaired, and a West Hollywood Room, featuring archival materials showcasing the City’s rich history.

The new library is part of Phase I of the West Hollywood Park Master Plan, which includes the development of the new West Hollywood Library, City Council Chambers and public meeting rooms, CATV facilities, 2.5 acres of expanded parkland and open space, new tennis courts and 400 parking spaces in two municipal garages. The new 32,000-foot LEED-certified West Hollywood Library will serve as the centerpiece of the West Hollywood community. It is designed to showcase the city’s rich intellectual, literary and cultural diversity and provide a landmark facility for the community’s passional commitment to lifelong learning. The library’s Community Dedication and Grand Opening will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2011.