The following is a release from the City of Santa Monica.
Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20, the Fairview and Ocean Park Branch Libraries will expand from a self-service model to in-person, full-service operations three days per week.
Full-service offerings include librarian staffing, technical assistance, library services, programs, and events available to both the general public and library cardholders.
This expansion is part of the two-year Realignment Plan renewal effort, approved by the Santa Monica City Council in October 2025. The plan includes $60 million in restorations, street improvements, safety investments, and business support to help re-establish Santa Monica as a safe, clean and vibrant coastal community.
“Fully restoring service at the Fairview and Ocean Park Branch Libraries is about getting back to what residents expect and deserve,” said Mayor Caroline Torosis. “Through the Realignment Plan, we are making deliberate investments in everyday services that strengthen neighborhoods, support learning and make Santa Monica a better place to live. Reopening our libraries with full hours is a concrete step in rebuilding trust, restoring access and delivering the quality of life people count on.”
Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, full-service hours will be as follows:
Fairview Branch Library
2101 Ocean Park Blvd.
- Tuesday: Noon – 8 p.m.
- Wednesday: Noon – 8 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ocean Park Branch Library
2601 Main St.
- Wednesday: Noon – 8 p.m.
- Thursday: Noon – 8 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
To celebrate the expansion, reopening celebration events will take place at the Fairview Branch on Tuesday, Jan. 20 and the Ocean Park Branch on Wednesday, Jan. 21, from noon to 2 p.m. City leadership will welcome patrons and answer questions about the city’s Realignment Plan and library services. Light refreshments will be provided. No RSVP is required, and all ages are welcome to attend.
The Realignment Plan also outlines further restoration of library services, including increasing full-service hours at the Fairview, Ocean Park and Montana Branch Libraries to four days per week beginning in July 2026. This expansion would increase total full-service operating hours from 108 hours per week across five locations to 154 hours per week. The Montana Branch will retain its self-service hours as full-service expands, while the Main and Pico Branches will maintain their existing full-service schedules.
“The unanimous approval of the Santa Monica Realignment Plan reflects a renewed sense of optimism and momentum for our city and the services we provide,” Director of Library Services Erica Cuyugan said. “I am proud that the Library is part of this revitalization and grateful for our team’s dedication and strong connection to the community. While there is still more work ahead, this milestone represents a meaningful step toward restoring the services our residents rely on.”
For more information about the Santa Monica Public Library, including locations, hours and how to obtain a library card, click here.
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