Carlsbad Library Foundation donates $235,000 for arts and cultural programs

In the heart of Carlsbad's city hall, a sense of gratitude filled the air as Library and Cultural Arts Director Suzanne Smithson took the podium to acknowledge a significant donation from the Carlsbad Library and Arts Foundation. With a warm smile, she expressed appreciation for the foundation's generous contribution of $235,000 for the fiscal year 2025-2026, which will enhance library services and cultural programs in the community.

Smithson highlighted the importance of this funding, which supplements the primary financial support from the city’s general fund. "This donation helps us provide wonderful library, arts, music programs, and events," she stated, emphasizing the positive impact on the community. She was joined by Geeta Nasiri, president of the foundation, who further elaborated on the foundation's mission and achievements since its establishment in 1998.

Nasiri proudly noted that the foundation has raised over $2 million to support various arts and cultural initiatives in Carlsbad. This year’s donation, which includes funds from three endowments, will specifically benefit programs such as the Robert H. Gartner Endowment Fund for events in the Schulman Auditorium and the Benson Family Foundation Endowment Fund for library collections.

In an exciting addition, the foundation is also funding a $40,000 interactive percussion play sculpture to be installed at the Coe Library Sculpture Garden, set to be completed in the fall. This project aims to engage visitors of all ages with musical sculptures, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

Moreover, Nasiri shared that the foundation is sponsoring the return of "Pop Up Arts" at the popular TGIF concerts, a project that had been missed by the community. With a modest allocation of $4,500, this initiative not only brings back art to the concerts but also provides dance lessons, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the events.

As the meeting progressed, the council members expressed their appreciation for the foundation's ongoing support and the positive influence it has on the city's cultural landscape. The discussions underscored the vital role of community contributions in enriching the lives of Carlsbad residents, leaving a legacy that will benefit future generations.