By Erica Cuyugan, Santa Monica Public Library Director
In Santa Monica, we understand the importance of connection – whether it’s between community groups and neighbors or local businesses and customers.
That’s why Santa Monica Public Library is proud to launch a new initiative this September that celebrates our connections and fosters community spirit.Just in time for Library Card Sign-up Month, the “Read Local, Shop Local: Community Discount Program” is more than just a fun perk for cardholders. It’s a reflection of the library’s role in supporting Santa Monica’s economic growth and opportunity.
Starting Sept. 2, library cardholders can receive exclusive offers and discounts at a growing number of local businesses by showing their Santa Monica Public Library card. It’s a simple idea with a big impact. Your library card, a symbol of lifelong learning and access, now doubles as a way to explore all that our city has to offer.We’re excited to team up with an inaugural group of businesses that span everything from fitness to food to the arts. From Pilates studios and pet training services to performance venues and pubs, these businesses demonstrate the diversity of Santa Monica’s local economy. Our hope is that this program encourages residents to discover new experiences throughout Santa Monica and highlights the library’s role as a vibrant community and cultural connector.While the connection between libraries and businesses may not seem immediately obvious, economic development has been a long-standing and valued part of our mission. And it’s more than shopping discounts. The library has a deep commitment to fostering learning and growth across all disciplines and interests.
Following the Palisades Fire, the library provided space for the Small Business Administration, or SBA, to meet with impacted business owners and help them navigate everything from insurance claims to finding new space for their damaged businesses.
And earlier this year, we partnered with the El Camino College Small Business Development Center, or SBDC, to present a series of free business education programs for entrepreneurs.In March, we partnered with SBDC to celebrate Women’s History Month at the Main Library with a panel discussion featuring women entrepreneurs, including Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, owner of the Santa Monica Music Center, and former Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce CEO Laurel Rosen, owner of One from the Heart. In June, we hosted an SBDC workshop at the Fairview Branch on financing strategies, covering everything from loans to crowdfunding.
In July, the city of Santa Monica hosted a Small Business Resource Fair for Palisades and Malibu business owners. Exhibitors, such as SBA, SBDC, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc., turned the Main Library’s Central Courtyard into a one-stop shop for business support and city resources, providing information about loan opportunities, city permits, short-term office space, and more.
Later this month, we’re offering a free branding workshop at the Montana Branch led by Mellissa Tong of Duckpunk Productions. Attendees will learn how to craft compelling stories and help their small business stand out from its competitors. Through initiatives like these, and with the launch of our Community Discount Program in September, the Santa Monica Public Library continues to evolve with our community’s needs. We’re not just a place to read and relax. We’re a place to gather, connect, learn and grow.To learn more about the Santa Monica Public Library, visit santamonica.gov/library. If your Santa Monica-based business is interested in participating in SMPL’s Community Discount Program, please email library@santamonica.gov.