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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

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New L.A. Public Library Card Is A Work Of Art

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Jessica Flores/KPCC
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New L.A. Public Library Card Is A Work Of Art

The L.A. Public Library is issuing new art cards that feature a painting of a Japanese folklore character by artist Gajin Fujita, who grew up going to his public library in Boyle Heights. 

The new card is adorned with Fujita's painting, titled Guardian Angel. It’s an image of the Japanese folklore character Kintaro, also known as Golden Boy, fighting a demon. Kintaro represents strength and courage, and is celebrated on Children’s Day in Japan.

Fujita's art card image gives Kintaro a contemporary L.A. twist -- he's dressed in a Dodgers jersey with a bright blue bandana around his neck. 

There are only 100,000 of these new cards. New applicants can get them for free at all 73 locations, and if you’re already a card holder, you can exchange it for $3.

Read more at LAist: What Do You Get When You Put A Dodgers Jersey On A Superhuman Japanese Folk Hero? A Library Card!

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