USC Roski Eye Institute Offers Vision Screenings at LA Times Festival of Books

The USC Roski Eye Institute provided 100 free vision screenings to attendees at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books held Saturday, April 26, 2025 on USC’s University Park Campus.

Volunteers from Roski set up the booth at the festival’s Hero Complex row, where staff and medical students fielded questions from attendees while physicians provided medical advice.

“We saw a lot of patients, especially patients with cataracts and things that should get worked up,” said Kyle Bolo, MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology. “It was a very productive day.”

The annual literary event also offered USC medical students practical experience administering basic eye exams to community members.

“It’s great to apply what I’m learning in medical school and give back,” said Chris How, a second-year USC medical student. “This event gives me the chance to spend time with classmates and faculty and get to know the people in my community.”

Festival attendees left with information about prescription glasses, various eye conditions and treatment options – especially essential information for attendees without health insurance.

Madi Dela Gente, a USC undergraduate majoring in neuroscience who works as an optometric technician in the USC Village eye clinic, emphasized the importance of community outreach.

“I think it’s really important to provide screenings and interventions to the local community, increasing accessibility healthcare-wise,” she said. “I appreciate interacting with patients and giving back to the community. The LA Times Festival of Books is always a fun event and I’m excited I get to be a part of it.”