FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 23, 2009
Contact: Rachel Foyt,
Administrative Analyst
Phone: (310) 458-8608
E-mail: rachel.foyt@smgov.net
Santa Monica,
California – Santa Monica Public Library earned four stars from Library Journal’s national rating of
public libraries, the L J Index of
Public Library Service 2009.
The ratings, announced November 15, were based on 2007 data
from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The L J Index rated 7,268 public libraries
on the level of service they provided and identified 258 star libraries.
Libraries were evaluated on per capita statistics that included: visits,
circulation, program attendance, and public Internet computer use. The top libraries
in each group received five, four, or three stars.
“Library staff is
working hard to help residents cope with the economy, educational needs and
personal interests, and we’re happy to be rated among the top libraries in the
nation. Our goal is to help each person be successful, so if we’re successful
that means we are making a difference in the community,” said Library Director,
Greg Mullen.
The newly created L J
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 assess
and improve the services they present to users.
The Santa Monica Public Library offers a variety of services
and engaging programs for all ages at four neighborhood library locations. For
more information about the library, its programs, and services visit your local
branch or www.smpl.org.
# # #