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Carlsbad libraries report rising digital use and expand community programs
Summary
At its Dec. 11 meeting, the Carlsbad Library Board received October activity reports showing modest increases in electronic circulation and large jumps in streaming and Wi‑Fi sessions, heard about new library‑of‑things items and upcoming community programs, and approved the meeting minutes.
The Carlsbad Library Board of Trustees on Dec. 11 received reports showing growing digital use and continued expansion of community programs across the city's three library locations.
Principal Librarian Andrea Hilliard told trustees that while physical circulation was roughly flat year over year, electronic materials circulation increased about 5% and "streaming music and video ... are up 46 from October 2023 to October 2024." Hilliard said the library recorded a high of 41,196 Wi‑Fi sessions for July–September 2024 and that those statistics informed plans for digital‑literacy programming, including basic computer tasks, Word and Excel instruction, resume writing and mobile‑device help.
Deputy Director (listed later as Director) Sheila Crosby announced service expansions and community resources the library is adding. Crosby introduced Matt Beatty as the new lead librarian for public services at Dove Library; Beatty said, "I'm thrilled to get this position in Carlsbad" and that his onboarding will include time at all three locations. Crosby also reported that the Friends of the Carlsbad City Library's holiday boutique had raised more than $5,000 so far and that donated children's books are being distributed to Head Start and outreach collections.
Hilliard attributed a rise in visitors to the placement of ballot‑drop boxes at all three libraries during the 2024 election and said the board will receive November ballot‑collection counts at the January meeting. Crosby outlined new items for the library of things, including stargazing kits (from an existing parks/state‑parks grant) and four induction cooktops donated by the U.S. Green Building Council — California and the Carlsbad Sierra Club chapter; those devices circulate for 10 days and patrons can place holds through the catalog.
Procedurally, Trustee McBride moved to approve the Oct. 23 minutes and Trustee Laufer seconded; the minutes were approved by the minutes clerk.
The board also heard reminders about upcoming events and closures: a volunteer expo Jan. 11, an all‑ages reading registration opening Jan. 1, a New Year's Eve family program Dec. 31, and library closures on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. The board adjourned at 4:46 p.m.
