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Hammer Museum Presents David Kipen Libros Schmibros

The Hammer Museum’s Public Engagement program will bring an artist project by David Kipen—an interpretation of Libros Schmibros, his hybrid lending library and used bookshop in Boyle Heights—to Westwood from August 27 – October 9, 2011. Libros Schmibros will be set up in the Hammer Museum’s lobby gallery. Kipen, former Director of Literature for the National Endowment of the Arts and a past book critic for the San Francisco Chronicle, established Libros Schmibros in July 2010 with his collection of roughly seven thousand books, in response to the lack of accessibility to books in his Boyle Heights community.


interior of Libros Schmibros Photo: Marianne Williams

Westwood has also seen the closure of several bookstores recently, as well as a reduction in some hours at nearby libraries. Libros Schmibros at the Hammer will increase Westwood’s access to books, while serving as a public square where visitors can check out, acquire, or donate books, and interact with Kipen, his team of volunteers, and other visitors. Authors will also serve as bookstore volunteers and give free readings in the intimate setting of the lobby gallery. This project will further the Public Engagement program’s commitment to strengthen the connections between artists and visitors.

Libros Schmibros at the Hammer will resemble the original location not only in its pricing structure, but also aesthetically, as it will be an informal place for guests to linger and engage with others. The collection of available books will include a strong selection of literature and Californiana, and gradually will begin to mirror the Westwood community, as residents donate books. Libros Schmibros in Boyle Heights will remain open concurrently with Libros Schmibros at the Hammer.

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