By Lookout Staff

February 26, 2021 -- Santa Monica Public Library was one of ten libraries across the State that received a grant to boost access to its collection through a unique self-service model, City officials announced this week.

The innovation grant -- provided by the California State Library in partnership with Bibliotheca, LLC -- will allow the Ocean Park Library to install Open+, a new technology that will "provide library service in a post-COVID world," officials said.

The technology allows the branch to "operate via a comprehensive self-service model" that provides controlled access "to valuable library collections, space, and services."

To participate, library patrons must sign Self-Service Hours Terms and Conditions and agree to library policies in order to scan their library card at the entrance and gain access to the building.

“We look forward to installing the new technology and to securely opening the doors of the beloved Ocean Park Branch to library patrons who are eager to once again explore the shelves of their local branch,” said Patty Wong, Library Services Director.

“We are preparing the facility and Open+ technology and will welcome patrons back through this new self-service model as soon as we can open safely,” Wong said.

Details and instructions on how to sign up for Open+ will be released as the project gets ready to launch.

The Open+ Pilot Project is part of the California State Library’s Bringing the Library to You Mobile Library Solutions grant initiative.

"This is a smart way to improve service to the Santa Monica community by keeping library doors open and offering services when they're needed," said State Librarian Greg Lucas.

"The project makes valuable library services more convenient and more accessible,” Lucas said.

Library buildings remain closed to the public as required by LA County's Public Health Department.

Books and audiovisual materials are available for pickup through contactless curbside service. By popular request evening hours are being added to curbside pickup.

Curbside service hours at all pickup locations will be 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays beginning March 17. For more information visit smpl.org/curbside.

For more information on the grant, visit https://califa.org/openplus-grant.