Title
Approve the Library Director to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership from July 7, 2026 - July 6, 2029 to offer digital literacy programs, classes, and outreach to the community via public library locations.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Approve the Library Director to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership from July 7, 2026 - July 6, 2029 to offer digital literacy programs, classes, and outreach to the community via public library locations.
SUMMARY:
Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) will support the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) to bring digital literacy workshops, classes, and other opportunities to MCFL locations.
DISCUSSION:
MCFL partners with various community organizations, non-profits, and other government agencies to bring a variety of programs, workshops, classes, and opportunities to the community via branch libraries. This increases and enhances opportunities in communities for free and local options for learning.
The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) offers workshops and classes to assist the public in digital literacy, mastering basic computer skills and learning how to navigate the online world. In order to reach unserved or underserved communities, while offering options in local and accessible places, MCFL will assist through scheduling opportunities at branch libraries. Branch libraries offer robust public wireless internet and public computers in an indoor and suitable environment, and are spread through areas of the County that do not have other publicly accessible locations with access to technology. Five branch libraries offer stand alone meeting rooms that could be equipped with portable technology to hold a larger class. MBEP will offer the classes, workshops, or other opportunities. MCFL and MBEP will work together to set up the best options and opportunities for the public, and to further MBEP’s programmatic goals for digital literacy.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
County Counsel has reviewed as to form.
FINANCING:
Services provided by MBEP will be provided at no charge to the public. Minor ancillary costs to MCFL, such as promotion of these opportunities, will be absorbed into the MCFL operational budget. There is no impact to the General Fund.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
Ongoing opportunities for the community to have free and accessible learning options.
X Well-Being and Quality of Life
____ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
Prepared by: Jennifer Hansen, Administrative Services Officer, x7569
Approved by: Hillary Theyer, Library Director, x7566
Attachments:
MOU MCFL and MBEP 5.2026