Tuesday opening after 18-month closure
By Sam Catanzaro
Two years after closing in the wake of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Santa Monica Public Library Montana Branch will reopen this week.
The library, located at 1704 Montana Avenue, will open on March 1 for in-person service twice a week on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“Patrons often comment that one of the things they love most about the Montana Avenue Branch is its ‘neighborhood-y’ feel,” said Erica Cuyugan, Interim City Librarian. “The affinity patrons feel for the Montana Branch is reflected in the high visitation numbers and number of items that patrons check out.”
For the past 18 months, the Montana Branch has offered only curbside service. When patrons return this week, they will be able to browse shelves, pick up holds, use computers for up to 30 minutes and interact with staff.
“Library spaces have been reconfigured to provide welcoming environments that also accommodate social distancing. If you haven’t visited the Library in a while, come back. If you are new to Santa Monica, join us,” officials said.
In addition, patrons will be able to enjoy the Santa Monica Public Library’s Fine Free for All program which eliminates fines on overdue books and materials.
For more information on hours and services offered at each Santa Monica Public Library location, visit smpl.org/reopening.
