LA-based Echo Park Library to be Dedicated to Fil-Am Labor Activist/Writer

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA-The Board of Library Commissioners of Los Angeles has approved last April 9, 2026 the dedication of the Echo Park Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library in recognition of renowned Filipino American migrant worker, labor activist, writer, and poet Carlos Bulosan.

In a press release by Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles (PCGLA), it said the approval follows a comprehensive public consultation process, during which the Board received a total of 121 comments, all in support of the dedication.

In his endorsement, PCGLA Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz said, “Dedicating the Echo Park Branch Library in honor of Carlos Bulosan would be a fitting tribute to his legacy and would affirm Los Angeles’ commitment to celebrating the diversity of its cultural heritage.”

Born in Pangasinan, Philippines, Bulosan arrived in the United States in 1930 as a young migrant worker and later became a nationally recognized author.

Bulosan's 1946 work "America Is In The Heart" is widely known for its account of the experiences and challenges faced by Filipino migrants in the United States.

In November 13, 2025, the dedication process kicked off after the Board's earlier approval to begin formal proceedings, including a 90-day public comment period.

The initiative also strong received strong support from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and the Filipino-American community.

The Friends of Echo Park Library, which helped establish a Philippine Heritage book collection at the branch, founded the Carlos Bulosan Book Club in 2017 and actively campaigned for the library's dedication in his honor.

Further details regarding the dedication ceremony and related programming are expected to be announced by the Los Angeles Public Library. The Echo Park Library, which serves Historic Filipinotown and surrounding immigrant communities, is located at 1410 W.Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026.

Photos: LAPL.org