Two Santa Monica neighborhood libraries have officially reopened with expanded, in-person services, restoring full-service library access to the Fairview and Ocean Park communities.
The Fairview and Ocean Park Branch Libraries resumed full-service operations on Tuesday, Jan. 20, expanding beyond the self-service model that had been in place. The reopening brings back librarian staffing, technical assistance, traditional library services, and in-person programs and events.
An opening ceremony will be held today, for the Ocean Park Library (2601 Main Street) from noon to 2 p.m. today.
City officials say the restoration of library services is part of the Realignment Plan, a two-year initiative approved by the Santa Monica City Council in October 2025 that commits $60 million to service restorations, street improvements, safety investments, and business support.
“Fully restoring service at the Fairview and Ocean Park Branch Libraries is about getting back to what residents expect and deserve,” Mayor Caroline Torosis said in a statement. “Reopening our libraries with full hours is a concrete step in rebuilding trust, restoring access, and delivering the quality of life people count on.”
The Fairview Branch Library, located at 2101 Ocean Park Blvd., is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Ocean Park Branch Library, at 2601 Main St., operates Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon to 8 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional service restorations are planned beginning in July 2026, when full-service hours at the Fairview, Ocean Park, and Montana Branch Libraries are scheduled to expand to four days per week.
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