The City of Carlsbad's Library Board of Trustees meeting on July 23, 2025, highlighted significant community engagement through recent library events and programs. Principal librarian Andrea Hilliard presented key updates from the May and June reports, showcasing the library's commitment to cultural celebration and literacy.

One standout event was the Dia Family Book Festival held on May 3, which attracted 36 attendees and featured performances and crafts aimed at engaging Spanish-speaking families. This initiative reflects the library's dedication to inclusivity and cultural relevance in its programming.

In June, the local author fair drew approximately 200 attendees, featuring 24 authors from Carlsbad and surrounding areas. This event not only celebrated local literary talent but also strengthened the library's role as a cultural hub, fostering connections between authors and the community.

The meeting also introduced a new reading intervention program launched on June 16, aimed at K-12 students facing reading challenges due to COVID-related learning loss. The program has already paired 16 students with tutors, indicating strong community interest and a waitlist for participation. This initiative will continue into the school year, providing essential support to local youth.

Statistical trends from the reports indicated a decrease in physical book circulation, while attendance at library programs increased significantly. Notably, June marked the first month since February 2020 that the library offered in-person services seven days a week, resulting in a 12.7% increase in library visits.

As the summer reading adventure progresses, nearly 3,000 patrons are participating, with over 1.5 million minutes read—a 12% increase from the previous year. These developments underscore the library's ongoing efforts to engage the community and promote literacy, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for all residents.