The Santa Monica Public Library is the top public library in Southern California for the third year in a row after the Library Journal awarded it the prestigious five-star rating — the only library in SoCal to earn this rating.
The Library Journal (LJ) Index of Public Library Service 2012 ratings, announced Nov. 1, are based on 2010 data from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The LJ Index ranked 7,570 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 262 public libraries earned three, four, or the highest, five-star rating.
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.
Santa Monica City Librarian Greg Mullen said its Public Library was an excellent starting place for whatever residents want to do or be.
“Thousands visit every day to accelerate their job search, explore new business ideas, stimulate their imagination or build new connections,” Mullen said. “The Library offers a variety of services and engaging programs for all ages and interests at four neighborhood library locations.”
For more information, visit a Santa Monica Public Library branch or the Library’s web site www.smpl.org.
