At last night’s meeting, the Santa Monica City Council approved funding to enhance operating hours at the Santa Monica Public Library, including new Saturday service at the Montana Avenue and Pico Branch libraries. Operating hours will increase from 84 hours per week across four locations to 116 hours per week across all five locations. Expanded library hours are scheduled to begin in the Fall.
Erica Cuyugan, Director of Library Services, said, “The enhancement marks a milestone in library restoration. For the first time since April 2020, the library will be able to provide service at every neighborhood branch location through a combination of self-service and in-person models. The Main and branch locations will offer evening hours and two branch locations will be open every Saturday.”
A focus on neighborhood and branch services will include additional programming for youth and families, alignment, and coordination of Main Library services, such as the Literacy Education for Adults and Families (LEAF) program through which adults can reach their reading and writing goals with the assistance of our one-on-one literacy tutoring, workforce development services, and an increase in branch staffing support.
Most residents will be able to walk to their neighborhood branch to browse the adult and youth collections, pick-up holds, check out materials, interact with staff, and use a computer, meeting or study room. The library continues to rebuild services and hours as funding is restored. Staff is committed to exploring opportunities to increase hours of operation, programs, and services.
Join the library in celebrating National Literacy Month and Library Card Sign-up Month during September by signing up for your no-cost and fine free library card!
Libraries play a crucial role in the education, literacy, and development of children, offering a variety of programs to spark imagination and stimulate an interest in reading and learning. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams, explore new passions and interests, and find their voice.
We invite you to explore the library in-person and virtually. For more information on programs and services offered at each Santa Monica Public Library location, visit our program page.
Please reach out if you have questions. Friendly Library staff are available to assist you Monday, Tuesday, Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Wednesday, Thursday 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Call (310) 458-8600 or email library@santamonica.gov.
Original source can be found here.
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