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Belmont Library reopens refreshed makerspace; SMC Libraries report record digital checkouts
Summary
San Mateo County Libraries reported record e‑resource usage and local circulation increases in FY 2024–25; Belmont Library reopened after a short refresh with a new makerspace, and staff highlighted programs for older adults and Mandarin‑language citizenship classes.
Belmont’s library reopened this fall after a months‑long refresh that added fresh paint, new carpeting, updated furnishings and a new makerspace, Library Manager Chris Liu told the City Council on Oct. 28.
San Mateo County Libraries reported strong systemwide usage in fiscal year 2024–25: more than 1.7 million in‑person visits, 2.4 million checked‑out items (physical and digital combined) and more than 11,600 programs. Belmont Library itself recorded nearly 182,000 visitors and circulated 297,226 items in the year. Countywide e‑resource checkouts exceeded 1,000,000 for the first time, a 23% increase year‑over‑year.
Local highlights: the Belmont makerspace debuted at the refreshed site; the library expanded 55‑plus programming for older adults and piloted a Mandarin‑language citizenship class, which staff said helped at least three participants prepare for and pass citizenship examinations. The county‑wide Dolly Parton Imagination Library mailing program and outreach at community events such as Giants Library Night and the county fair were also noted as successful engagement strategies.
Council reaction: Members praised staff and volunteers for the refresh, called the library a community hub and encouraged residents to use the expanded programming and online event calendar.
Why it matters: The numbers show continuing shifts toward digital circulation and highlight the library’s role as an educational and social resource in Belmont’s civic life. The makerspace and language‑targeted programming were singled out as ways to serve residents with differing needs and to reach multilingual households.
Ending: Library staff asked residents to check the San Mateo County Libraries events calendar (smcl.org) and to visit the Belmont branch to see the new space and program offerings.
