Title
Adopt a Resolution to Accept and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Documents to Receive Grant Funds in the Amount of $9,000 from the Pacific Library Partnership (PLP) Innovation and Technology Grant to Fund the Memory Care Kits and Community Engagement Projects at the San Leandro Public Library.
Staffreport
COUNCIL PRIORITY
• Quality of Life
SUMMARY
The San Leandro Public Library, with funding from the Pacific Library Partnership Innovation and Technology Grant, is launching a Memory Care Initiative to support adults in the community experiencing memory challenges, along with their families, caregivers, and those interested in cognitive wellness. Central to this initiative is the creation of a circulating collection of Memory Care Kits (each containing themed materials, sensory items and interactive activities and tools designed to stimulate cognitive function), designed to foster memory retention, social engagement, and awareness of cognitive health. Through partnerships with local organizations such as the San Leandro Senior Center, assisted living facilities, and retirement communities, these kits will be available to both individual borrowing and on-site use, extending their impact across multiple community settings.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Staff recommend the City Council adopt a resolution to accept the grant award for FY 2026 totaling $9,000 from Innovation and Technology Grant of Pacific Library Partnership (PLP) and to authorize the City Manager to execute all documents and appropriate the funds.
BACKGROUND
The San Leandro Public Library currently offers Mental Health and Wellness Kits but has identified a need for resources specifically designed to support memory care. To address this gap, the library will introduce Memory Care Kits, collections of materials and interactive activities available for checkout. To bring this initiative to life, the library applied for the Pacific Library Partnership (PLP) Innovation and Technology Grant, an annual program that funds innovative projects across member libraries. Through this grant, the San Leandro Public Library will enhance community services for adults living with memory loss, strengthen its partnership with local organizations and provide lasting value to residents. The library has been awarded PLP funding for FY 2026, based on the established funding formula (Attachment B).
Analysis
For FY 2026, the award packet (Attachment C) provides $9,000 to the library to be appropriated to the purchase of Memory Care Kits and be added to the library collection.
Applicable General Plan Policies
• GOAL CSF-3: Sustain and expand a public library system that provides a destination for exploration and discovery, knowledge and information, leisure and cultural enrichment, and life-long learning opportunities for persons of all ages.
- Policy CSF-3.5: Resources for Self-Improvement. Ensure that San Leandro’s libraries and other community institutions provide a setting for the open exchange of ideas and information and provide an opportunity for residents of all backgrounds to improve their skills and knowledge.
Summary of Public Outreach Efforts
In September 2025, Library staff-initiated collaboration with the San Leandro Senior Community Center, part of the City’s Human Services Department. During meetings with the Human Services Manager and Program Coordinator, staff discussed strategies for promoting and implementing the new Memory Care Kits. Library staff also began outreach to local assisted living and retirement communities to identify opportunities for on-site demonstrations of the collection once it is launched at the library. Additional outreach efforts are planned for early 2026, including coordination with local healthcare providers, caregiver support groups, and other community partners to increase awareness of the new collection. The library will further promote the Memory Care Kits through its website, newsletter, social media channels, and flyers to inform the public and encourage participation.
Legal Analysis
The City Attorney reviewed these documents and agreements and approved them as to form.
Financial Impacts
Acceptance of this grant does not impact the FY 2026 General Fund budget. PLP grant funding will be awarded upfront and deposited into the 150-3643 Account, with a corresponding appropriation as follows:
• San Leandro Public Library PLP Grant Fund Account 150-68-106: $9,000
• Total $9,000
This Council action will not impact fund balance because the grant funds will be awarded in advance and expended in the same fiscal year.
ATTACHMENT(S)
Attachment A: Resolution of the City of San Leandro City Council to Accept and Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Documents to Related to the Pacific Library Partnership (PLP) Innovation and Technology Grant Award of $9,000 for FY 2026 and to Appropriate These Funds for Creating Memory Care Kits and Community Engagement Projects at the San Leandro Public Library.
Attachment B: PLP Grant Guidelines- FY 2025-2026
Attachment C: PLP Grant Award Letter for San Leandro Public Library- FY 2025-2026
PREPARED BY: Sara Behimehr, Librarian, Library Services Department, and reviewed by Brian Simons, Library Director, Library Services Department.