AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Consider approval of Resolution 2026-20R, approving a Memorandum of Agreement with the Friends of the San Marcos Public Library to formalize roles, responsibilities, and expectations for mutual support; authorizing the City Manager, or her designee, to execute the agreement on behalf of the city; and declaring an effective date.
Body
Meeting date: February 3, 2026
Department: Library, Director - Natalie McAdams
Amount & Source of Funding
Funds Required: $0
Account Number: N/A
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Fiscal Note:
Prior Council Action: N/A
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Background Information:
The San Marcos Public Library has a long-standing collaborative relationship with the Friends of the San Marcos Public Library (“Friends”), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to raise funds and promote public awareness in support of library programs, services, and initiatives. While the Friends work closely with the Library, they are a legally distinct entity and operate independently of the City.
The proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) formalizes the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of both the Library and the Friends to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with City policies. The agreement outlines how the Library and the Friends will coordinate on planning, fundraising, advocacy, and the use of donated or discarded materials, while clearly stating that funds raised by the Friends are intended to supplement-not replace-public funding for library services.
The MOA establishes a one-year initial term with automatic annual renewals for up to ten years, and includes provisions addressing termination, indemnification, governing law, and the disposition of funds and property should the agreement end. Approval of this agreement provides a clear framework for continued cooperation, supports the Library’s strategic goals, and protects the interests of the City, the Library, and the Friends organization.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
Approval by Library Advisory Board.
Approval by Friends of the San Marcos Public Library Board.
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval