Library COVID-19 Policies
Here’s what you need to know:

• Refrain from entering the Library if you are demonstrating recognized signs of COVID-19 or other similar illness.
• Masks that cover the nose and mouth are highly recommended.
• Maintain a 6-foot physical distance from others that are not in your same household.
• Practice good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing or hand sanitizing. When feasible, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Children must remain with a parent or caregiver at all times.
• Limit your visit to 2 hours or less.
• Eating and drinking in the Library is prohibited.
• Limited seating (2-hour limit) at the Main Library is available on the 2nd floor. Computer stations are located on the 1st floor; sessions are limited to 60 minutes per day with a valid library card.
• Meeting Room rentals and Study Rooms are available at some locations.

FAQs for Library Patrons - Updated 10/31/2022

Is the Library open at full capacity?
Not yet! The Main Library, Montana Avenue Branch, and Pico Branch are operating in-person services at a reduced capacity limit. The Ocean Park and Fairview Branches are now offering Self-Service Hours for approved library cardholders.

Can I enter the Library without a mask?
Yes. However, masks that cover the nose and mouth are highly recommended.

Is the book return open?
Yes! Book returns are open at all Santa Monica Public Library locations.

Are the computers available?
Yes! Computer stations are available at the Main Library on the first floor Reading Room and in the Youth Services area for children and teens. Computer stations are also available at the Montana Avenue Branch, Pico Branch, and Ocean Park Branch. Time limit for all computers is 60 minutes per day.

There are two 15-minute computer stations available at the Main Library that do not require a library card. Please see staff at the Customer Services Desk for a guest pass.

Computer stations at the Ocean Park Branch are available for approved library card holders. You will need a valid library card to use these stations. Time limit for computers is 60 minutes per day.

Is the kids and teen area open?

Youth Services at the Main Library is open for browsing by families, children, and teens but the seating and toys have been removed. We also highly recommend that masks are worn in Youth Services for the health and safety of our youngest patrons. 

Can I browse the Library stacks?
Yes! You can browse the first and second floor collections at the Main Library, and the collections at the Montana Avenue Branch and Pico Branch. Apply for Self-Service access to browse the collections at the Ocean Park Branch.

Can I get a book from the second floor of the Main Library?
Yes! The second floor is open for browsing and checkout. See one of our helpful staff at the first floor Information Desk for assistance. 

Can I use the restroom?
Yes. Restrooms are open on the first floor of the Main Library to our patrons. Restrooms in the Youth Service area are open to families, children, and teens. Restrooms at the Ocean Park and Fairview Branches are available for approved library card holders.   

Can I read or study while I’m at the Main Library?
There is limited seating for up to 2 hours on the 2nd floor near the top of the stairs. Study rooms are available for one 60-minute session per day in Youth Services and 2nd Floor; a valid library card and reservation are required. Limited seating in other areas are available.

Can I read or study while I’m at the Pico Branch?
Yes, limited seating for up to 2 hours in designated areas are available. Study rooms are available for checkout (limit one 1-hour session per day) with a valid Santa Monica library card. See the Pico Branch page for details.

Can I read or study while I'm at the Ocean Park and Fairview Branches?
Yes! The Ocean Park and Fairview Branches are available for studying, working, and reading (pre-authorization required). COVID-19 restrictions may affect how this service is provided.

Are fines being waived?
Yes! Beginning March 1, 2022, the Library has eliminated fines for overdue books and materials. This change is only for overdue fines. Charges related to lost or damaged materials continue to apply. Replacement fees for lost items remain in effect.

Is the Library taking book donations?
Yes! The Santa Monica Public Library welcomes donations for the Library’s collections and the Friends of the Library Bookstore. Donations are accepted at the Main Library. We welcome books, vinyl, CDs, and DVDs, but no galleys or screeners. If you have any questions please contact us at 310-458-8600 or email us at library@santamonica.gov.