The Daly City Library Board of Trustees held a regular meeting on May 21, 2024, focusing on critical issues affecting library services amid California's significant budget deficit. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding proposed cuts to essential library funding and services.

One of the primary discussions revolved around the potential reduction of funding for the California Library Services Act (CLSA), which supports resource sharing among libraries statewide. The board expressed that halving this funding would severely impact their ability to provide services and resources to the community.

Additionally, the board addressed the proposed elimination of the "Lunch at the Library" program, which supports summer lunch sites for children. Although Daly City does not directly provide lunch, the library enriches these sites with educational activities. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining this program to ensure children receive nutritious meals during the summer months.

Another significant concern was the potential discontinuation of the HelpNow online tutoring service, which offers free homework help to students across the state. The board noted that while some libraries might be able to absorb the costs, many, particularly those in underserved areas, would struggle to maintain such services without state support.

In light of these challenges, the board discussed the possibility of sending a letter to local state representatives advocating for the preservation of these vital programs. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among library boards across the state to address these funding issues collectively.

The discussions underscored the library's commitment to serving the community and the pressing need for advocacy to protect essential services in the face of budget cuts. The board's proactive approach aims to ensure that library resources remain accessible to all residents, particularly children and families in need.