Jan. 2026 Message from Chief Librarian Tom Fay
Chief Librarian Tom Fay shares the Library’s community impact in 2025, and what programs, services, and improvements we have planned for 2026.
Dear patrons,
This year is shaping up to be an exciting one for Seattle with the Super Bowl and the World Cup on the horizon. We have a great year planned at The Seattle Public Library, too!
Already this year, we have expanded 7-day service locations by increasing hours at the Montlake Branch; celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Broadview Branch; introduced a new guest-curated program series called “We Belong Together”; and launched a new Collection Spotlight exhibit at the Central Library, highlighting the diversity and depth of our collections.
You can find many more Library programs and events at www.spl.org/Calendar, including author talks, family story times, after school Homework Help, Tax Help, small business consults, AI learning classes, and much more.
We are also excited to be working on expanded summer programming for all ages across the city; as well as renovation and seismic safety improvements at the University Branch, new electric HVAC systems at the Columbia, Fremont, and West Seattle branches; and new electric vehicle car charging stations at the Central Library and Beacon Hill and Broadview branches.
And, as we enter the final year of the 7-year, $219.1 million 2019 Library levy, we are also preparing for a 2026 levy renewal proposal.
Look for more information about these efforts and more later this year!
A Focus on Impact
In 2025, the Library supported over 3.4 million Library visits, answered over 37,000 patron questions through Ask Us, and offered over 5,800 programs and events. But most importantly, we heard from our community members that we made a positive impact on their lives.
In a 2025 survey of Seattle residents, 98% of respondents said they believe the Library improves the quality of life in Seattle, and 97% believe the Library is worth the money invested. Respondents also shared their personal stories with us. I want to share a few that made an impact on me and may resonate with you, too:
“Our kids have read hundreds of books that we would have not bought; reading levels have greatly improved. Our quality of life is better because of the Library and its resources.”
“With online reservation and Peak Picks, I am able to read books of interest – this enriches my life tremendously.”
“[The Library] has provided me with invaluable resources to learn, both personally and for professional development. I would not be where I am now without the resources the Library has provided to me at no cost.”
“The Library helps us feel connected and invested in the local community. [It is] one of the few third-place spots in the city where we can gather without spending money.”
We are incredibly grateful to our community for sharing their stories with us. You can read more in-depth stories about the Library’s impact on our ShelfTalk blog, including how the Library works to build literacy and reading joy, support local nonprofits, preserve Seattle’s diverse history, empower immigrants and refugees, offer access and connection to Seattle seniors, and so much more.
Don’t Miss These Great Additions
If you missed these announcements in 2025, be sure to check out:
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Our new Mobile App – downloaded over 25,000 times from the Apple App and Google Play stores – letting patrons explore the Library (and check out books!) right from their phone or tablet.
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The expanded Museum Pass program, now with the Seattle Japanese Garden and the Volunteer Park Conservatory, along with Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Aquarium, Wing Luke Museum, and other cultural institutions.
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New collectible postcards, featuring the work of local artists and photographers, to celebrate each of Seattle’s unique libraries.
Connect with Us
We love to connect with our community in person and online. Join us on our social media channels, including Instagram, BlueSky, LinkedIn and YouTube.
I look forward to seeing you at the Library – we are here for you!
Tom