CITY OF SIMI VALLEY
STAFF REPORT
N
ovember 17, 2025
To: Cit
y Council
Fr
om: Office of the City Manager
Luis Garibay, Assistant City Manager
Subj
ect: Authorization to Accept Funding from the American Library Association’s Grant Program for Literacy Services at the Simi Valley Public Library and Approval of a Supplemental Budget Request
Staff Recommendation
I
t is recommended that the City Council:
1. A
uthorize the acceptance of a $76,000 grant from the American Library Association (ALA) for Literacy Services (Attachment A) at the Simi Valley Public Library (Library); and
2. A
pprove a supplemental budget request from the Library Fund (Fund 250) in the amount of $76,000 for expanded literacy services at the Simi Valley Public Library.
Background
I
n 2022, the Board of Trustees (City Council) adopted the Library’s 2023- 2027 Strategic Plan. On May 15, 2023, the City Council approved an amendment to the contract with Library Systems and Services (LS&S), LLC. for enhanced Library services to include the addition of in-house Adult Literacy Services. On behalf of the City, LS&S applied for grant funding to expand the program with the American Library Association (ALA) and received a Libraries as Literacy Centers: Strengthening Libraries’ Capacity to Meet Local Literacy Needs award in the amount of $65,000. In addition, the Library will receive a $9,000 award to distribute to community partners, a two- year ALA organizational membership, and a $2,000 travel stipend to support a library representative’s attendance to the 2026 annual conference, for a total grant amount of $76,000.
Discussion
T
he 2023–2027 Library Strategic Plan was developed following an extensive community engagement process and a detailed analysis of statistics and trends from annual reports.
Findings indicate that Simi Valley has a diverse population, with a substantial number of households where English is not the primary language. The demand for adult literacy support continues to grow, as reflected in Fiscal Year 2024 –25, when the Library tripled the program’s reach. Currently, trained volunteers provide individualized and small-group literacy instruction and coaching to adults seeking to improve their English skills.
AGENDA ITEM NO.
Consent (4)
However, the increasing reliance on technology in education, employment, and daily life has highlighted a growing need for digital literacy training. Many residents lack the foundational computer and internet skills necessary to access online services, complete job applications, or communicate effectively in digital environments. Without these skills, individuals face significant barriers to full participation in the workforce and civic life.
To address these needs, the Library applied for grant funding from ALA to expand its literacy program. The proposed expansion would establish a Literacy L earning Hub, bringing qualified instructors into the L ibrary to lead programs and workshops that build on existing literacy services. Planned offerings would include a digital literacy series for an instructional cohort covering computer use, internet safety, email communication, basic productivity tools , and workforce development skills. These programs will be supported by access to laptops, essential software, and Mobile Library technology initiatives, which will extend resources and instruction directly to residents who have limited access to the library.
Providing these expanded literacy and digital learning opportunities through the Library will help reduce barriers to education and employment, promote equity, and equip residents with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Financial Impact
Approve supplemental budget request in the amount of $76,000 from Fund 250 for the cost of expanded literacy services at the Simi Valley Public Library. This action has no impact to the City’s General Fund.
City Council Priority
This item supports the Fiscal Stability and Thriving Community Pillars of Excellence.
Suggested Motion
I move to authorize the acceptance of a $76,000 grant from the American Library Association for Literacy Services a t the Simi Valley Public Library and a pprove a supplemental budget request from the Library Fund.
Summary
In 2022, the Board of Trustees adopted the Library’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan. On May 15, 2023, the City Council approved an amendment to the contract with LS&S for enhanced Library services to include the addition of in-house Adult Literacy Services. On behalf of the City, LS&S applied for grant funding to expand the program with the ALA and received a Libraries as Literacy Centers: Strengthening Libraries’ Capacity to Meet Local Literacy Needs award in the amount of $65,000. In addition, the Library will receive a $9,000 award to distribute to community partners, a two- year ALA organizational membership, and a $2,000 travel stipend to support a library representative’s attendance to the 2026 annual conference, for a total grant amount of $76,000. Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council authorize the acceptance of a $76,000 grant from the 2 American Library Association (ALA) for Literacy Services at the Simi Valley Public Library and Approve a Supplemental Budget Request.
Prepared by: Anna M. Medina, Deputy Community Services Director Attachment:
Attachment A - American Library Association Grant Award 3 Attachment A
4