LA County Library Offers Unlimited Digital Copies of George Takei Memoir

The expanded access eliminates wait lists, allowing readers to borrow the title instantly.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:08pm

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A bold, abstract composition of stark black geometric shapes and silhouettes, conceptually representing the themes of George Takei's memoir and the LA County Library's program to promote it.The LA County Library's initiative to offer unlimited digital access to George Takei's memoir aims to spark community conversations around themes of history, identity, and civic engagement.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles County Library is expanding access to its regional reading initiative, offering unlimited digital copies of actor George Takei's memoir 'My Lost Freedom' as part of the 'One Book, One Coast' program. The expanded access, which began on April 2 and runs through June 6, eliminates wait lists for the e-book, allowing readers with a valid library card to borrow the title instantly.

Why it matters

This initiative reflects the library's commitment to ensuring equitable access to stories that educate, inspire and connect communities. By offering unlimited digital access, the library aims to remove barriers and invite everyone to take part in a shared reading experience that encourages reflection, dialogue and deeper understanding around themes of history, identity and civic engagement.

The details

In addition to digital access, participating libraries will host programs, discussions and events throughout the spring, including an author talk with the 88-year-old Los Angeles native George Takei scheduled for May 31 at the East Los Angeles Library, followed by a book signing.

  • The expanded access began on April 2, 2026.
  • The program runs through June 6, 2026.

The players

George Takei

A pioneering actor most famously known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the 'Star Trek' series, and a justice activist who recounts his childhood experience in U.S. incarceration camps during World War II in his memoir 'My Lost Freedom'.

Dr. Skye Patrick

The director of LA County Library, who stated that this initiative reflects the library's commitment to ensuring equitable access to stories that educate, inspire and connect communities.

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What they’re saying

“This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring equitable access to stories that educate, inspire and connect our communities. By offering unlimited digital access, we are removing barriers and inviting everyone to take part in a shared reading experience that encourages reflection, dialogue and deeper understanding.”

— Dr. Skye Patrick, Director of LA County Library

What’s next

The author talk with George Takei is scheduled for May 31 at the East Los Angeles Library, followed by a book signing.

The takeaway

This program demonstrates the library's efforts to foster community engagement and promote understanding through shared literary experiences, especially around important historical and social themes explored in Takei's memoir.