Carlsbad libraries report outreach wins: staff sent to ALA, homeless resource fair serves 115

Library staff told the Carlsbad Library Board on Aug. 28 that a renewed emphasis on professional development and community partnerships has translated into service gains.

Laura Mendez, principal librarian for partnerships and community outreach, said the American Library Association conference held in San Diego in June drew more than 13,500 attendees and enabled the library to send a record 41 staff members, including 23 part-time employees who rarely access such training. Staff later shared insights through recorded internal “ignite” sessions so those who did not attend could benefit.

Mendez also highlighted a July 26 homeless resource fair at the Library Learning Center, a collaboration with Carlsbad Housing and Homeless Services and the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. The event served 115 attendees (up from 63 in 2022) and offered services including mobile showers, health screenings, mental health referrals, on-site homeless court to address warrants and citations, DMV staff printing identification on-site, and transportation options to a new transitional housing unit in the South Bay. Qualified participants could opt for community service or rehabilitation program enrollment through restorative justice approaches.

"This was a huge collaborative effort with multiple city departments," Mendez said, adding that the fair is part of a rotating countywide program and the library hopes to host a similar event again in the future.

The board had no public speakers on the item and thanked staff for the report.