Our libraries serve as an intellectual hub and community commons stimulating intellectual curiosity, promoting literacy, and fostering life long learning. Our collections of books and digital media provide resources for research, personal development, and entertainment. Our public access computers provide opportunities for Internet search, job applications, and worldwide communication. Our programs such as Somerville Reads, Summer Reading, and English as a Second Language build a community of readers and thinkers who expand their knowledge and embrace diverse perspective. Our dedicated staff provide youth, reference and technology services.
    o We hope to expand our collections for residents with an increase in the materials budget (Somerville spends $2.80/capita whereas the state average is $7/capita.)
    o Through coordination with City IT, DPW, OSPCD, and the Mayor's Office, we plan to upgrade the Library's computers, add new computers for the Library's Youth Services departments, and make improvements to all Library facilities.
    o The new Director will continue to enhance and expand Library programming and strategic partnerships. Currently there isn't a line item for programming. The Library has requested a new budget line item to support these exciting initiatives.
    o Over the next year we will continue to promote literacy and reading for school and life success. We hope that funding for an additional Youth Services Librarian will help us to provide a much needed third hand in the Children's Services department, a critical early literacy area, and to increase services to teens as we plan for a dedicated teen space.

The Library's vision builds on the rich tradition of public Libraries across America that provide their residents robust programs in common spaces-- places to dream, learn, explore, and interact.

Friends of the Somerville Public Library Book Sale Don't miss out on this chance to get incredibly good deals on new and used books, movies, music, and more - and show your support for the Library! Proceeds from the book sale help support library programs for adults and children, including the popular "museum membership" program which allows Somerville residents to visit local museums free or at a discount. Friday, May 18th ~ 12 pm to 4 pm Saturday, May 19th ~ 10am to 4 pm Sunday, May 20th ~ 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm Preview* Thursday, May 17th ~ 5 pm to 8 pm *for Friends who have joined at the $50 level or higher Thank you - SPL is not accepting any more book donations for now. We have all we need for the Spring Book Sale. We will notify you when we resume accepting donations.

- No ESL classes on Tuesday, May 15 because of booksale set up.

In conjunction with out food-themed Somerville Reads, we've set up a donations box for the Elizabeth Peabody House food pantry next to the auditorium door at the Central Library. According to the latest data, members of 1 in 10 Massachusetts households don't get enough to eat. Every donation helps. Please give. For more information about the issue, read the Project Bread Status Report on Hunger in Massachusetts.

HELP SUPPORT AND IMPROVE YOUR LIBRARY! We have many funding needs and plans for improved services that can only be accomplished with your additional private support. Help us make a good library even better. Please click here to see our Funding Priorities and give as generously as you can to these, or to our general Friends fund. Any amount is helpful, and all gifts are welcome. Thank you!

The Children's room in the West Branch is closed because of emergency renovation, and will remain closed until further notice.

NEW PURCHASES

BOOKS, CD'S, MOVIES, ETC.

LEARN A LANGUAGE!