SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, September 1, the Santa Monica Public Library (SMPL) is celebrating Library Card Sign-Up Month this September with a special-edition library card designed by local artist Al Mercado and the return of the Library’s Read Local, Shop Local: Community Discount Program.
Throughout September, individuals who sign up for a library card at any of SMPL’s five locations will receive the special-edition card, while supplies last. Families are also invited to join SMPL at the Main Library (601 Santa Monica Blvd.) on September 12 to decorate a colorful card sleeve and lanyard to personalize and protect their library cards.
The special-edition card features artwork from Santa Monica’s Art Everywhere: Local Canvas initiative, which showcases the work of local artists throughout the city’s streetscape.
“Libraries are places where creativity, learning and community come together, and this special-edition card is a wonderful expression of that spirit,” said Recreation and Arts Department Director Jenny Rogers, who oversees the city’s Cultural Affairs division. “We’re proud to partner with the Santa Monica Public Library and local artist Al Mercado to celebrate the important role that arts, culture and libraries play in connecting people to their community.”
A Santa Monica Public Library card provides free access to books, music, movies, video games, databases, study rooms and other resources. Cardholders receive access to exclusive offers from local businesses through the Library’s Read Local, Shop Local: Community Discount Program.
“Your library card opens the door to far more than books. It connects you to resources, experiences and the people and places that make Santa Monica special,” said Director of Library Services Erica Cuyugan. “Through the continuation of our Community Discount Program, we’re excited to give our cardholders even more ways to explore Santa Monica while supporting the local businesses that make our city unique.”
Launched in September 2025 during Library Card Sign-Up Month, the Read Local, Shop Local: Community Discount Program was created to encourage residents to get a library card while strengthening connections between the Library and Santa Monica’s business community. By presenting their library card at participating businesses, cardholders can enjoy special discounts and offers while discovering local restaurants, retailers, cultural attractions and service providers.
The program returns for its second year. Returning partners include Bike Attack Electric, Crow Comedy, Good Body Pilates, Offhand Wine Bar, Santa Monica History Museum, Solidarity, Sweet Lady Jane and The Curious Palate, along with several other restaurants, retailers and service providers. New partners joining the program this year include AJA Vineyards, Alinea Orthodontics, Backyard Bowls, Chick-fil-A Santa Monica, Crossroads Trading, Harvelle’s, Love Tap, Road Runner Sports and The Spot.
To view the current list of participating businesses and available discounts, visit www.santamonica.gov/programs/library-community-discount-program.
Library Card Sign-Up Month started in 1987 in response to then-U.S. Secretary of Education William Bennett’s call for every child to have a library card.
Obtaining a Santa Monica Public Library card is easy and free. Bring a photo ID and proof of address to get started, then use the card to access books, digital resources, programs and more. For more information, please visit santamonica.gov.
California residents 18 and older can apply in person during open hours, while qualified Los Angeles County residents can apply online. Teens ages 13–17 can register in person with a school ID. For children under 12, a parent or guardian must be present and provide the required documents.
By Danny Jones