Title
a. Authorize and approve the Director of the Monterey County Free Libraries to accept a grant award of $116,869 from the State Library of California, through the Lunch at the Library program, to provide food and activities to youth, and
b. Authorize Library Director to take all steps necessary to implement the grant, and
c. Authorize the Library Director to execute up to three (3) future amendments that do not significantly change the scope, terms, and conditions or do not exceed 10% (11,686) of the original Agreement amount, and do not increase the total not to exceed amount over $128,555
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Authorize and approve the Director of the Monterey County Free Libraries to accept a grant award of $116,869 from the State Library of California, through the Lunch at the Library program, to provide food and activities to youth, and
b. Authorize Library Director to take all steps necessary to implement the grant, and
c. Authorize the Library Director to execute up to three (3) future amendments that do not significantly change the scope, terms, and conditions or do not exceed 10% (11,686) of the original Agreement amount, and do not increase the total not to exceed amount over $128,555
SUMMARY:
Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) will accept a grant to offer Lunch at the Library services during summer 2026, partnering with local school districts and food providers to offer free and healthy food to children and families.
DISCUSSION:
The staff of the Monterey County Free Libraries have successfully applied for a grant from the California State Library for $116,869 to in order to continue working with community partners to serve healthy food and offer engaging activities to youth. Grant activities will take place over 2026, primarily in the summer when most children are out of school, with participation at various levels and formats across the branch libraries.
The grant is part of Lunch at the Library, a program of the California State Library, and funded by the State of California. This program enables libraries to partner with schools and other food providers, who can leverage federal school lunch funding, enabling students to continue having access to healthy meals when their school is closed. The food is provided by and prepared by partners, and offered at the libraries. Library staff prepares games, crafts, and other learning opportunities to enable a rich and fun experience. In addition, some library staff will visit other summer meal sites, bringing library outreach and activities to those sites.
The grant funds direct expenses for the activities, and supplies to properly serve the food such as gloves, tongs, and coolers. The grant funds also support food handling certificates for all staff handling food for this program, mileage for staff picking up the food from partners, and supports some of the extra staffing required to offer this program.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
County Counsel has reviewed as to form.
FINANCING:
Direct supplies for the activities are supported by this grant, along with expenses to handle the food. Some staffing is supported in the grant, and the rest will be absorbed by the Library’s operational budget. This grant is anticipated in preparation of the Library budget, and no additional appropriations are required. There is no impact to the General Fund.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
Ongoing opportunities for the community to have free and accessible educational, recreational, and service 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: Ava Rivera, Senior Account Clerk, x7559
Approved by: Hillary Theyer, Library Director, x7566
Attachment A:
Lunch at the Library 2026 Grant Award Packet and Forms