In 1992 the Library began charging borrowing fees to non-City of Monterey residents after the county library eliminated their reimbursement to city
libraries for county resident use. Non-resident fees reduced library use and generated much negative publicity for the
Library. Fourteen years later, in July 2006, the Library Board voted to stop charging these fees, and library cards became free to all
California residents.
In 2001 the City of Monterey faced an economic downturn. During the next four years the library's budget was cut by 115%; 11 positions were eliminated library wide, hours were reduced and the materials budget was decreased by 35%. Due to public, Board, Friends and Council support, however, the Library's seven-day-a-week open schedule and unique community services such as the Bookmobile, Stories for Adults, California History Room and youth programs were maintained.
In many ways, the Monterey Public Library of the 21st century has a close connection with the past. Every day hundreds of library customers of all ages are welcomed by helpful librarians and staff, browse the shelves, select books and other library materials, ask for reference assistance, reading recommendations and enjoy library programs with family and friends.
The Library continues to be a well-used community resource. In fiscal year 2006/2007, 426,994 books, CDs, DVDs, magazines and other
items were checked out at the Library; 354,524 adults, teens, children and babies visited the Library and Bookmobile; 32,624
reference questions were answered at all service points, and 9,484 children, teens and adults attended Library programs.
