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Headshots of Laing Rikkers and Christine Koenig along with cover of Laing's book Morning Leaves on top of a diagonal rainbow of colors

Register 30 Seats Remaining

Identity, Reinvention, and Grief as Transformation

In-Person Program
2026-06-13 16:00:00 2026-06-13 17:30:00 America/Los_Angeles Identity, Reinvention, and Grief as Transformation Join award-winning author and grief expert Laing Rikkers in conversation with grief educator, speaker, and storyteller Christine Koenig for an intimate and affirming discussion for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. For adults. West Hollywood Library - Meeting Room

Saturday, June 13
4:00pm - 5:30pm

Add to Calendar 2026-06-13 16:00:00 2026-06-13 17:30:00 America/Los_Angeles Identity, Reinvention, and Grief as Transformation Join award-winning author and grief expert Laing Rikkers in conversation with grief educator, speaker, and storyteller Christine Koenig for an intimate and affirming discussion for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. For adults. West Hollywood Library - Meeting Room

West Hollywood Library

Meeting Room

Join award-winning author and grief expert Laing Rikkers in conversation with grief educator, speaker, and storyteller Christine Koenig for an intimate and affirming discussion for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. For adults.

Together, they’ll explore how grief can be a pathway to growth, self-discovery, and joy, touching on identity shifts, chosen family, and the courage to evolve.

Laing Rikkers is the author of Morning Leaves: Cultivating a Life of Beauty, Meaning, and Joy (Red Hen Press, March 24, 2026). A keynote speaker, executive coach, and trained grief counselor, her work blends art, nature, and reflective practice to help individuals transform loss into resilience and renewed purpose. Drawing from a career spanning leadership, organizational psychology, and creative healing, Laing leads workshops and conversations that invite people to reconnect with meaning, creativity, and community.

Christine Koenig is a respected voice in conversations around identity, reinvention, and personal growth. Known for her thoughtful approach to storytelling and community dialogue, Christine brings a grounded, compassionate perspective to discussions about transformation, helping audiences explore how change shapes who we become. Her work centers on connection, authenticity, and creating spaces where people feel seen and supported.

Attendance is limited and advance registration is required. Please register every individual in your party. This will be used to save your spots in the program. We cannot guarantee availability for any unregistered attendees.

AGE GROUP: | Older Adults | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Lectures & Conversations | History, Society, & Culture | Books, Poetry, & Writing |

TAGS: | LGBTQ+ Pride |

West Hollywood Library
Phone: 310.652.5340
Hours
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Mon, Apr 20 11:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, Apr 21 11:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, Apr 22 11:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, Apr 23 11:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, Apr 24 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Apr 25 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, Apr 26 1:00PM to 5:00PM
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About the branch

West Hollywood Library began service to the area (then unincorporated ) in 1913. The library was previously located at Sherman School, a cottage on Clark Street, a building on Westbourne Drive, and a building near the present site. The Library has an active Friends of the Library group.

The new library was dedicated October 1, 2011.

Upcoming events

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The WeHo Sci-Fi Book Club - In-Person Program
Fri, Apr 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Are you a fan of robots, aliens, dystopian worlds, or science gone astray? If so, join the WeHo Sci-Fi Book Club! We'll supply copies of the book a month in advance, meet every month, and dive deep into discussion about the reading! For adults.
Life Lines: An Autobiographical Poetry Writing Workshop - In-Person Program
Sat, Apr 25, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Meeting Room
Join us for a one-day workshop focused on autobiographical writing taught by City of West Hollywood Inaugural Poet Laureate Steven Reigns. For adults.
This event is full
Ms. Bits N Bobs Visits the Land of Imagination - In-Person Program
Sat, Apr 25, 11:00am - 11:30am
Children's Theater
Journey to the land of imagination with Ms. Bits N Bobs in this fanciful storybook program! Listen to stories about Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and more familiar characters! For ages 2 - 5 with parent or caregiver.
West Hollywood Cribbage Club - In-Person Program
Sat, Apr 25, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Room
Do you like to play cribbage? If so, the West Hollywood Library is looking for people like you! Whether a beginner or expert, come by and play a few games with the locals! For adults.
LGBTQ+ Book Club Discussing Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa - In-Person and Virtual Program
Tue, Apr 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Room
Join the LGBTQ+ Book Club for a hybrid (in-person and online) discussion of Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa. For adults.
Naloxone (Narcan) and Fentanyl Strip Clinics - In-Person Program
Wed, Apr 29, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
We've partnered with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and California Department of Health Care Services to offer free doses of Naloxone (Narcan). For all ages.
Teen Advisory Board - In-Person Program
Wed, Apr 29, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Teen Study Room
Are you a teen interested in making a difference in your library and community? Join the Teen Advisory Board! For teens, ages 13 - 17.
Writers Supporting Writers - In-Person Program
Sat, May 02, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Room
Looking for a place to connect with fellow writers and grow your craft? Join Writers Supporting Writers! For adults.
Play & Explore - In-Person Program
Tue, May 05, 11:15am - 11:45am
Meeting Room
Join us for a session of play, curiosity, and creativity with infant toys, art supplies, puppets, and more! For ages 0 - 5 with their parent or caregiver.
AANHPI Month: Celebrating the Tiger - In-Person Program
Tue, May 05, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Children's Theater
You may know Derpy Tiger from KPop Demon Hunters, but did you know that tigers have a long history in Asian cultures? Learn about the tiger in Asian art and mythology, then paint your own tiger with watercolors! Recommended for ages 6 - 12.
Women and Books Discussing Flashlight by Susan Choi - In-Person and Virtual Program
Tue, May 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Room
Join the book club for a hybrid (in-person and online) discussion of Flashlight by Susan Choi. For adults.
Rainbow Parenting & Family Program: Decorate a Rainbow - In-Person Program
Wed, May 06, 11:15am - 11:45am
Meeting Room
For some a rainbow is more than just pretty colors; it’s a special symbol that stands for kindness, friendship, and accepting everyone no matter who they are. Decorate your own rainbow and share what it means to you! For ages 2 - 5 with a caregiver.
Naloxone (Narcan) and Fentanyl Strip Clinics - In-Person Program
Wed, May 06, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
We've partnered with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and California Department of Health Care Services to offer free doses of Naloxone (Narcan). For all ages.
Beginner Sewing Workshop, Week 1 of 4 - In-Person Program
Wed, May 06, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room
Curious about sewing but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly introduction to the basics of sewing! For adults.
This event is full
Drop-In Tech Help - In-Person Program
Thu, May 07, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Got a tech question? We’ve got you covered! Stop by our Drop-In Tech Help sessions for one-on-one assistance with your devices and digital questions, with no appointment needed. For adults.
Brain Games - In-Person Program
Thu, May 07, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Room
Keep your brain fresh with engaging games like Qwirkle, Qwix, Kingdomino, and more! Games are provided by the Friends of the West Hollywood Library. Especially for adults 55 and up.
Free Basic Tech Training - In-Person Program
Fri, May 08, 10:00am - 6:00pm
Meeting Room
Learn Basic Tech (LBT) is dedicated to bridging the digital divide in Los Angeles County. For adults.
Register
ESL Conversation Circle - In-Person Program
Fri, May 08, 10:30am - 11:30am
Teen Study Room
Join us for conversation circle. We will meet to practice conversational English in a fun, informal, and supportive environment. For adults.
Movie Monday: Lucky Grandma (2020) - In-Person Program
Mon, May 11, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Room
Join us for a screening of the 2020 film Lucky Grandma, starring Tsai Chin and directed by Sasie Sealy. Not rated. For adults.
Yoga for Toddlers - In-Person Program
Tue, May 12, 11:15am - 11:45am
Meeting Room
Join us for a fun yoga session with instructor Petra Poschmann! Parents and toddlers will practice basic yoga poses inspired by nature and animals. For ages 0 - 5 with their parent or caregiver.
Baby & Toddler Storytime - In-Person Program
Wed, May 13, 11:15am - 11:35am
Meeting Room
Reading books and singing songs help develop babies' print awareness, reading skills, and fine motor skills. Join us for a session of stories, fingerplays, and more! For ages 0 - 2 with their parent or caregiver.
Naloxone (Narcan) and Fentanyl Strip Clinics - In-Person Program
Wed, May 13, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
We've partnered with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and California Department of Health Care Services to offer free doses of Naloxone (Narcan). For all ages.
Beginner Sewing Workshop, Week 2 of 4 - In-Person Program
Wed, May 13, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room
Curious about sewing but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly introduction to the basics of sewing! For adults.
This event is full
Drop-In Tech Help - In-Person Program
Thu, May 14, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Got a tech question? We’ve got you covered! Stop by our Drop-In Tech Help sessions for one-on-one assistance with your devices and digital questions, with no appointment needed. For adults.
Smarty Pants Storytime - In-Person Program
Thu, May 14, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Children's Theater
Let’s get ready for school! Enjoy books, songs, rhymes, and movement while learning school readiness skills and having fun. For ages 2 - 5 with their parent or caregiver.
Teen Designer Toy Maker Club - In-Person Program
Thu, May 14, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Teen Study Room
Have you ever been curious about the world of designer toys? We’ll brainstorm our own toy design, sculpt it, and then have it 3D printed for your collection. We’ll design and receive a new toy each month! For ages 13 - 17.
ESL Conversation Circle - In-Person Program
Fri, May 15, 10:30am - 11:30am
Teen Study Room
Join us for conversation circle. We will meet to practice conversational English in a fun, informal, and supportive environment. For adults.
One Book, One Coast: Memory Boxes - In-Person Program
Fri, May 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Create a small memory box of photos, keepsakes, and short captions that reflects a personal or family story of resilience or belonging. Boxes will be displayed in the library for one month. For adults.
Understanding AI: Everyday Uses, Risks, and How to Stay Safe - In-Person Program
Sat, May 16, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Meeting Room
Led by Terezita Overduin, Library Coordinator at Chaffey College, this program introduces participants to how artificial intelligence appears in daily life and explores both its benefits and potential risks. For adults.
Cribbage Club - In-Person Program
Sat, May 16, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Do you like to play cribbage? If so, the West Hollywood Library is looking for people like you! Whether a beginner or expert, come by and play a few games with the locals! For adults.
BYO Book Club - In-Person Program
Mon, May 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
The BYO Book Club meets on the third Monday of the month and invites readers to gather for community without required reading. For adults.
Activity Hour for Kids: Build Your Own Volcano - In-Person Program
Tue, May 19, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Children's Theater
Did you know that volcanic eruptions may actually cool down the planet? Learn how important volcanoes are to the environment and recreate your own volcanic eruption with dish soap, baking soda and vinegar! Recommended for ages 6 - 12.
Japanese American Postcard Watercolor Landscapes - In-Person Program
Tue, May 19, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Room
Join us to create a postcard watercolor landscape inspired by professional artists and Japanese American incarceration camp inmates Chiura Obata and George Matsusaburo Hibi. For adults.
Baby & Toddler Storytime - In-Person Program
Wed, May 20, 11:15am - 11:35am
Meeting Room
Reading books and singing songs help develop babies' print awareness, reading skills, and fine motor skills. Join us for a session of stories, fingerplays, and more! For ages 0 - 2 with their parent or caregiver.
Naloxone (Narcan) and Fentanyl Strip Clinics - In-Person Program
Wed, May 20, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
We've partnered with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and California Department of Health Care Services to offer free doses of Naloxone (Narcan). For all ages.
Beginner Sewing Workshop, Week 3 of 4 - In-Person Program
Wed, May 20, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room
Curious about sewing but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly introduction to the basics of sewing! For adults.
This event is full
Drop-In Tech Help - In-Person Program
Thu, May 21, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Got a tech question? We’ve got you covered! Stop by our Drop-In Tech Help sessions for one-on-one assistance with your devices and digital questions, with no appointment needed. For adults.
Brain Games - In-Person Program
Thu, May 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Keep your brain fresh with engaging games like Qwirkle, Qwix, Kingdomino, and more! Games are provided by the Friends of the West Hollywood Library. Especially for adults 55 and up.
Smarty Pants Storytime - In-Person Program
Thu, May 21, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Children's Theater
Let’s get ready for school! Enjoy books, songs, rhymes, and movement while learning school readiness skills and having fun. For ages 2 - 5 with their parent or caregiver.
ESL Conversation Circle - In-Person Program
Fri, May 22, 10:30am - 11:30am
Teen Study Room
Join us for conversation circle. We will meet to practice conversational English in a fun, informal, and supportive environment. For adults.
One Book, One Coast Book Club: They Called Us Enemy - In-Person Program
Fri, May 22, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ruth Bader Ginsburg Room
Join us for a community reading program of exceptional scope – one book for all of the west coast. This special book club will feature discussion about They Called Us Enemy by George Takei. For adults.
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