Santa Monica Public Library Earns a Top, Five-Star Rating for the Seventh Year
February 21, 2017 4:35 PM
Santa Monica, California – For the seventh year in a row, the Santa Monica Public Library has earned top marks from Library Journal’s national rating of public libraries.
The Library Journal (LJ) Index of Public Library Service 2016 ratings, announced November 1, 2016 are based on 2014 data from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The LJ Index ranked 7,349 public libraries on the level of service they provide by evaluating per capita circulation, visits, program attendance and public Internet computer use. A total of 260 public libraries earned three, four, or the highest, five-star rating.
In 2016 a fifth statistical measure was added to the scoring – circulation of electronic materials (e-circ). E-circ involves ebooks and downloadable audio and video.
The LJ Index offers an overall indication of how a library’s performance stacks up to peer libraries and provides guidance on how public libraries can better inform their stakeholders of achievements, service opportunities, and improve library awareness and funding.
Erica Cuyugan, Interim Director of Library Services stated, “It is an honor to once again receive a Five-Star rating from Library Journal. The Santa Monica Public Library has been a well-used, cherished part of this community for 125 years. With over 2.1 million total visitors this past year and the adoption of a new strategic plan, the Library aspires to meet community needs by being a vibrant, responsive, and collaborative institution. From pop-up library experiences to dynamic summer reading programs, and interactive festivals and classes, the Library supports learning and personal growth at any age. We look forward to piloting new initiatives, programs, and services that continue to enhance and transform the lives of the people we serve.”
The Library offers a variety of services and engaging programs for all ages and interests at five neighborhood library locations. For more information, visit a Santa Monica Public Library branch or the Library’s web site www.smpl.org.
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