Library says Same Day Solutions fair helped 90 people experiencing homelessness; July metrics largely steady

At the Aug. 26 meeting of the Carlsbad Library Board of Trustees, Principal Librarian Andrea Hilliard reviewed July 2026 library operations and highlighted community partnerships that extend library services beyond books.

Hilliard told trustees that "From 9AM to 1PM, the fair served 90 individuals experiencing homelessness, providing immediate on-site assistance designed to reduce barriers and connect participants to critical resources." She described the event as a cross-departmental partnership that included the City of Carlsbad's Housing and Homeless Services Department, the San Diego district attorney and public defender offices, the County of San Diego and local service organizations. Library staff staffed a booth distributing free books and information about programs including career online high school, literacy tutoring and ESL classes.

On statistics, Hilliard said most July metrics were within roughly five percentage points of last year's numbers. She reported library visits were up about 2.3% and noted that program counts and attendance were lower than July 2025, which Hilliard characterized as an unusually strong comparison month. Hilliard said RFID installations and holiday closures reduced available program days this July and could explain declines in program attendance.

Deputy Library Director Crosby confirmed that city communications and the city manager's weekly update often feature library events, and that the library's communications team coordinates with the city manager to decide which department items appear in citywide messaging.