Community Mapping creates guiding principles for Santa Monica Public Library’s future

March 18, 2026 11:43 AM

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (March 18, 2026) - The Santa Monica Public Library (SMPL) released its Community Mapping Findings and Insights Report earlier this month, which will serve as a key resource for the development of SMPL's next strategic plan.

The report's findings and insights will help SMPL shape its programs and services, plan future partnerships and make strategic decisions that reflect the needs and vision of the Santa Monica community.

Participants provided feedback across priorities, such as the importance of reliable access and hours; clean, safe and welcoming spaces; youth and family programming; culturally relevant services; and digital literacy support.

SMPL has already begun implementing improvements aligned with these priorities, including restoring full-service operations at the Fairview and Ocean Park Branch libraries in January 2026 and installing new wayfinding signage at the Main Library.

"The community voice is at the heart of everything we do," Director of Library Services Erica Cuyugan said. "This report reflects the public's vision of an ideal library, one that meets the needs of residents today while inspiring growth and engagement for the future. By capturing the ideas, experiences and priorities of our community, the findings provide a roadmap for how we can continue to evolve as a welcoming and inclusive hub for learning and connection."

Feedback was gathered throughout the latter half of 2025 from residents, patrons and community members through online and print surveys in English and Spanish, targeted focus groups, community conversations at the Main Library, Pico Branch and Montana Branch, and pop-up outreach events, including the 2025 State of the City celebration at Christine Emerson Reed Park.

A limited number of Community Mapping Findings and Insights Report summary booklets are available at SMPL locations.

Designed to provide a more visual and accessible overview of the report's key findings, the summary highlights community priorities and insights in a concise, easy-to-navigate format.

To read the full report online, visit santamonica.gov/programs/community-mapping.

Media Contact

Tati Simonian
Public Information Officer
[email protected]

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