LA Public Library Joins Forces With Renowned Local Press To Become A Book Publisher

At a time when libraries across the country are redefining themselves as hubs of social services, the Los Angeles Public Library took the unusual step of delving into an age-old medium — publishing.

“Angel City Press is both a small business but it’s also a very loved and cherished institution within Los Angeles,” said John Szabo, city librarian of Los Angeles.

Founded in 1992, the small publishing operation has produced more than 135 titles spanning the history of the West. In December 2023 the press was donated to the library by founders Scott McAuley and Paddy Calistro when they retired.

The agreement includes the fully operational book publisher and its backstock of titles, as well as the preservation of its contracted working relationships with numerous Los Angeles-based authors.

While the library didn’t pay for the small business, it will receive profits from book sales. Szabo plans to use the funds to expand Angel City Press’ offerings to potentially include publishing children’s books as well as e-books and audio versions of previously published material.

“Those are certainly opportunities and I would imagine authors would be excited about it,” Szabo said.

Editorial decisions will be headed by Terri Accomazzo, who has more than a decade of experience at Angel City Press. She will work in conjunction with library staff to oversee editorial guidelines, acquisition, production and distribution.

Szabo said the types of authors and books Angel City Press publishes will remain the same, with a focus on the art, architecture, history, and personalities of Los Angeles and Southern California, but city oversight is required in some situations.

The L.A. City Council has to approve contracts with authors that last more than three years.