Santa Monica Public Library Board Meeting Audio February 12, 2026

The City of Santa Monica Public Library Board held a meeting on February 12, 2026, focusing primarily on communications, marketing updates, and community engagement efforts. The communications coordinator presented a comprehensive update on the library's branding refresh, including improvements to newsletters, signage, social media presence, and outreach programs such as a community discount initiative with local businesses. The board also discussed ongoing and future projects aimed at increasing library card signups and enhancing event promotion. Additionally, the meeting covered the reopening of library branches with expanded hours, staffing updates, and a detailed community mapping report highlighting community needs and priorities such as access, safety, youth services, and digital literacy. The Friends of the Library provided a report on fundraising efforts, including bookstore sales and online sales, noting operational efficiencies and challenges such as cash-only transactions and volunteer turnover. Plans for upcoming events, including Children’s Book Week and the library’s 20th anniversary, were also discussed with an emphasis on collaboration and volunteer involvement. No specific contract awards, RFPs, or procurement decisions were mentioned during the meeting.