Remember when going to the library for school assignments involved researching books, filing through microfiche, or scanning encyclopedias for necessary content? We spent hours searching card catalogues and had due dates written on paper inserted into those little envelopes in the back of the book. Late fees were a reality. There was no internet. It was a different world.
Fast forward a few decades, and families today have a different “library story” to tell. Today, libraries are more than a place to find books for free. While they remain a crucial resource for accessing literary opinions, truths, and ideologies, many libraries also serve as our community hubs for social, emotional, and recreational purposes. There is something for everyone at the library.
Libraries on the Central Coast have a unique history. The Monterey Public Library, California’s first public library, was established in 1849. Monterey County Free Libraries, established by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, opened its first location in 1912 in Greenfield. Original library branches started in people’s homes, storefronts, and even the Post Office in Big Sur. Current library branches span the county. Many of the municipalities have their libraries too.
Here on the Central Coast, we are lucky enough to have well-supported libraries with incredible staff and volunteers who not only add valuable books to vast collections but believe in a place where everyone is welcome and inclusive access to information is a fundamental right.
While libraries are still predominantly known for lined shelves of books and periodicals, libraries also offer Ebooks, movies and DVDs, custom book bundles, and zip books for checkout.
Programming has also become an essential component of library services. For toddlers, there are weekly story times. For tweens, there is art programming like sewing. The Paws To Read Program at the Monterey Public Library encourages children to read by bringing in certified therapy dogs on-site. There are button-making workshops and design projects for teens. There’s SAT and ACT online help, homework assistance, College Board search, and so much more, all for free. Did you know high schoolers can even volunteer at the library for community service hours? Libraries are a comfortable place to do homework, charge cell phones, and “hang out,” regardless of weather conditions.
According to Brian Edwards, Library & Museums Director for the City of Monterey, “libraries allow kids space for independent choice and serendipity to find new interests. Let them browse the stacks and choose new topics to build on. By embracing your local public library, you can instill a love for learning and independence at a young age.”
With summer around the corner, many libraries will offer Summer Reading Programs. Programming incentivizes kids (and some adult programs) to continue reading books and learning during summer. Rewards, gift cards, and prizes are usually associated with charted completed book logs. (See page 20-21 for details).
Adults can join book clubs (traditional ones and walking ones) and attend travel workshops, historical lectures, author discussions, and signings on Zoom and in person. There is free wifi, laptop access, and even basic tech support. Families can often get free passes to Monterey Bay Aquarium, State Parks, and museums at local libraries.
If history is your passion, search for historical collections from hundreds of years ago. Adults can search not only for their favorite authors but also their family histories. The John Steinbeck Library in Salinas offers some exceptional readings on its namesake. Many local branches also offer genealogy databases free of charge.
For the history lover, there are books about anthropology, archeology, and local history. The Monterey Public Library has a dedicated room for California History, with various typescripts, photographs, news clippings, and printed archives. There are even old newspapers on microfilm dating back to 1846.
In addition to all the in-person benefits libraries provide, they are now cognizant of the need to reach more people, often in remote areas. With community purpose being a part of serving the public, local Bookmobiles visit schools, parks, and senior centers to provide access to those who may not be able to travel to their local branch.
Community hubs are built on partnerships, and libraries are no exception. Many Central Coast local libraries have built strong partnerships with local businesses, hospitals, and nonprofits to provide funding, donations, lecturers, and other joint endeavors, building strength and providing additional access to our community. Several branches offer free meeting spaces with reservations.
Funding for most libraries primarily comes from taxes. Library Foundations and Friends of Libraries are often created to supplement funding and provide community support. “One of the Carmel Public Library Foundation’s mission statement tenets is relevancy. As part of our efforts to continue to purpose our library in ways that truly matter, we provide opportunities to advance early literacy, provide programs that inspire and engage and encourage and support life-long learning. says Alexandra Fallon, Executive Director of the Carmel Public Library Foundation.
It’s important to mention all of the devoted volunteers who work tirelessly for our community to support our local library systems, from sorting books to making summer reading packets to organizing galas.
This summer, if you have a few extra hours, think about taking a break from all of the screens and heading out to your local library. You might be surprised by your local library’s plethora of activities and services. And, while you are there, grab a summer reading log!
Ilana Bofford Entin is the owner of BluePrint Communications LLC, a full service boutique public outreach and communications firm. Ilana lives on the Central Coast with her husband, and has two children and a labradoodle.