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In today's world, security is an essential component of life. For individuals, that could mean having a firearm available and a plan of action in place if a break-in or other criminal act occurs. Many business owners in California, however, need more than a simple plan. They need a reliable, proven security guard company in Palm Springs, CA, that can provide them with the armed or unarmed security needed to stay safe and keep criminals at bay. After all, the reality of running a successful business in California is that nefarious actors will do everything in their power to take what's yours. California's overall violent crime rate increased by 1.7%, from 495 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022 to 503 in 2023. While property crime fell marginally, violent crimes are up in just about every county of The Golden State.
The next minute, they're up at gunpoint and robbed outside of their storefront. At best, the individual loses money. At worst, they get injured or even die. We've all seen similar on the news. It makes sense, then, that more and more business owners and executives are relying on security guards to protect dispensaries, sporting events, concerts, corporate events, and more.
The peace of mind that comes from having security services is both immediate and enduring. There's simply no substitute for the physical and emotional reassurance of knowing that you are protected-whether it's yourself, your family, your valuables, or your business and its employees. Security officers play a crucial role in providing this sense of safety with their specialized skills, especially in tense or threatening situations. If you're looking for an industry-leading security guard company, look no further than Capital security guard.
- The Capital Security guard Difference
- Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
- Security Guards for Events in Palm Springs, CA
- Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Palm Springs, CA
- How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
- How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
- Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
- Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
6+ Years of Experiences2018 - 2024
The Capital Security guard Difference
Capital Security guard is the top choice for security services in California, and for good reason. We share your commitment to keeping our community safe. As your go-to security guard company, we offer foolproof executive protection, impenetrable capital security services, and the peace of mind that you and your business will remain safe.
Armed Security
Unarmed Security
Security Guards for Dispensaries in Palm Springs, CA
Security Guards for Events
Security Guards for Concerts
Security Guards for Sporting Events
Security Guards for Executives
Security Guards for Corporate Events
Security Guards for Hospitals
After-Hours Patrols and Alarm Response
Much More
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Security Guards You Can Rely On
As one of the most trusted security guard companies in California, you can rest easy knowing we've got your back when you need us most. Like Moorten Botanical Garden in San Francisco, we stand tall for our clients and make it a point to provide them with the most dependable, full-service security guard solutions available.
Our commercial and residential clients refer their friends and business connections to our security agency because they know we always:
Remain Calm and Stay in Control
Our security guards give you the confidence needed to run your business safely and safeguard your assets.
Have Eyes Everywhere
Nothing gets past our armed and unarmed security guards in California. Period.
Prioritize Privacy
When you're running a successful business or are trying to live in peace, privacy is paramount. That's why we make every effort to help you feel secure, safe, and protected while keeping your privacy top-of-mind.
Use Innovative Security Strategies
Our impenetrable security and strategy solutions don't just deter criminals and bad-faith actors - they prevent crime from happening in the first place.
Provide Dependable Protection
We know you want to protect yourself, your business, and your quality of life. We're here to help ensure that happens 24/7, 365 days a year.
Flexible & Responsive
We believe customer service and ongoing communication are key aspects of providing you with a safe environment. In fact, our security guards make it a point to work with your environment, whether it's residential, commercial, industrial, or something in the entertainment industry. That way, you can do what you need to do to keep being successful while we provide you with full security coverage.
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Highly Trained Professionals
Capital Security guard only employs the best of the best when it comes to unarmed and armed security. In fact, each security guard we hire is trained specifically to remain vigilant and to keep you safe. Every team member at our security guard company in citname, CA, is carefully screened. We hire only the most conscientious and professional candidates before sending them through our vigorous training program.
Our unique security training program includes:
- Use of Force Training
- Firearms Training
- Oral Communication Skills
- Protocol and Strategies for Reporting Suspicious Activity or Persons
Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
One of the reasons why so many clients choose Capital Security guard over other security guard companies in Palm Springs, CA, is that we put a strong emphasis on customer service. We provide exceptional service not only from our office when clients call but also in the field when our security guards are at work. Here are three ways that our security guards use customer service to create safer environments.
1. Clear Communication
An important aspect of excellent customer service involves cultivating robust communication skills. Security personnel frequently engage with both employees and co-workers. A competent security guard needs to communicate effectively with individuals across various organizational levels, ranging from entry-level staff to the company's president or owner.
2. Staying Calm in Contentious Situations
Customer service skills are essential for effectively resolving conflicts, particularly for security guards who often face high-pressure situations. Their ability to remain calm and communicate clearly can significantly influence the outcome of these encounters. That's why our security guard company in Palm Springs, CA instructs security guards to implement de-escalation techniques. This approach equips them to handle disputes in a manner that reduces tension and fosters cooperation. By doing so, we ensure that potentially challenging situations are addressed swiftly and amicably.
3. Positive Public Impressions
When security guards excel in customer service, they become true ambassadors for the companies they represent. At Capital Security guard, our security guards recognize that they play an important role in shaping how the public views our clients' businesses and properties. Whether it's guiding a visitor to their destination or calmly managing a challenging situation, delivering excellent customer service makes clients and visitors feel both welcomed and valued.
Now that you know more about our security guard company and what sets us apart from others in our field, you're probably anxious to learn about our areas of focus. While we offer a wide range of services, from crowd control and alarm response to access control and perimeter security, some of our most popular services are included below.
Security Guards for Events in Palm Springs, CA
When you're looking for the best steak in town, you don't go by your local fast-food joint and expect to get anything great. Instead, you go to Copley's on Palm Canyon in Palm Springs, CA. When you're looking for a large event to attend, you don't go to a small city in California - you go to LA.
From Coachella to the Academy Awards, Los Angeles and the greater California have more high-profile events than there are palm trees. If you're a guest, your goal is to enjoy the event without worrying about potential threats. On the other hand, if you're an organizer, your priority is to ensure that the event is safeguarded from nefarious individuals and criminal activities. And that, in a nutshell, encapsulates why event organizers hire professional security guard companies like Capital Security guard. Our security guards are specially trained to handle large crowds at events and know precisely how to manage situations to prevent panic from breaking out.
Below are a few of the basic measures that we take at Capital Security guard for event security:
- Each security guard for your event is well trained in how to enforce the appropriate safety and security measures in place.
- All staff are expertly trained to provide medical assistance or contact the appropriate third party.
- All security personnel understand your venue's layout, emergency exit locations, and possible wrong points of entry.
To enhance your event security, we'll first assess the level of security required for your event. Striking the right balance is crucial; while excessive security can make guests feel uneasy, insufficient measures may leave them vulnerable.
- Security Guards for Sporting Events
- Security Guards for Concerts
- Security Guards for Corporate Events
- Security Guards for Business Conferences
- Security Guards for Enthusiast Events Like Comic Con
- More
If you're unsure what type of security you might need for your event, try reaching out to organizations that have hosted similar events to gain insight from their experiences. You can also consult with an event security company like Capital Security guard, which can provide you with a full picture of what to expect. We collaborate with all event performers who hire us. That way, we can identify your security needs and provide you with armed or unarmed guards to keep your event safe.
Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Palm Springs, CA
Running a cannabis dispensary can be both hugely rewarding and sketchy. While there's a huge demand for legally grown cannabis, those who own and operate the stores that sell the plant are often at risk. We're talking vandalism, theft, assault, and other crimes that threaten both customers and employees.
While investing in high-quality security systems can help address these issues, they don't always reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses. This brings us to an important question: Should you hire a security guard for your cannabis dispensary? The short answer is yes. That's true even if you're working there on a daily basis. Why? The truth is that it's very difficult to prevent theft entirely.
Failure to take security measures in your dispensary seriously can lead to significant losses, which can happen quickly. With the increase in daytime crime, potential thieves can easily enter your property and steal products - and that's just the start.
How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
Well-trained security guards play a pivotal role in preventing the theft of money and property at your dispensary. They help reduce vandalism and protect against assaults. A guard is skilled in spotting suspicious behavior and addressing potential issues before they escalate. It's important to note that criminals are often deterred by the presence of armed security personnel. Plus, because guards collaborate with local law enforcement, it becomes easier to resolve any crimes that may occur at your cannabis store.
Unlike security cameras, guards provide a more effective visual deterrent. They ensure that everyone adheres to the established rules and regulations. Any misconduct by employees or customers can have serious repercussions for your cannabis dispensary. A trained guard not only prevents unwanted behavior but can also take disciplinary measures or legal action if required.
How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
If you own a cannabis shop in California, chances are you've worked long hours and invested a lot of money into making it successful. But that success can come at a steep price, especially when criminals see what you're selling. Sure, you've installed locks on your doors and taken basic steps to prevent crime. But modern-day criminals are savvy and know how to get around standard types of security. That's where security guards for cannabis growers in Palm Springs, CA, start to make a lot of sense.
Keep the following red flags in mind. If your dispensary is growing, it could be time to hire security.
- Quick Growth or Increase in Income
- High Foot Traffic
- Lots of Public Exposure and Media Attention
- Location of Your Cannabis Company
- Physical Accessibility
Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
If you're wondering whether a security guard is appropriate for your needs, call our office today. We'll take as much time as needed to learn about your challenges, goals, and overall needs. Once we know more about your situation, we can offer viable security guard for consideration.
When you're a high-level executive or celebrity, living a normal life can be hard. It's not like you can wake up and decide to go to Palm Canyon in San Francisco without people noticing - and that's incredibly frustrating. Luckily, you can still do normal things that average people do - but you may have to take a few additional steps to make sure you and your family are safe.
At Capital Security guard, we recognize that each executive client has needs as unique as the threats they encounter. That's why we focus on delivering an elite level of personalized executive protection services for high-profile individuals. Our approach ensures top-notch protection that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle while respecting your security and privacy preferences.
Whether you require round-the-clock security or need bodyguard services for a specific event, our highly-trained team of executive security professionals is equipped with the expertise and skills necessary to exceed your expectations. This commitment provides you with peace of mind, allowing you to feel secure while living life on your own terms.
Some of the top benefits of executive security from Capital Security guard include:
- Having a security team for a CEO or other executive can free up time and reduce the amount of energy spent on security-related incidents.
- Executive security from a firm like Capital Security guard can protect organizations and individuals from hazards like cyber threats, physical threats, and reputational threats.
- Bringing in a team of executive security can improve a company's reputation and send a signal to investors, partners, and clients that the company is trustworthy.
- Executive security guards help reduce the chances of being physically assaulted in public.
- Executive security can also help you address ongoing personal security and privacy issues.
Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
If you've been searching endlessly for "security guards for hire near me in Palm Springs, CA," all that time and effort has paid off. With decades of combined experience, Capital Security guard has assembled a team of expert security guards dedicated to delivering solutions that surpass industry benchmarks. Whether you need security guards for a local event or protection for a high-profile individual, our security guard company is equipped to provide you with trustworthy protection in The Golden State and beyond. Contact our headquarters today to learn more about how our armed and unarmed guards can meet your goals and adapt visibility to fit your unique environment.
What clients say about Us!
unarmed security for J C
patrol services for Wesley Samms
alarm response for Leo Romero
cannabis security for CASA de ESPAÑOL
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Latest News in Palm Springs, CA
Commission selects ‘Desert Bloom’ for $50,000 public art project aimed at providing shade
Kendall Balchanhttps://thepalmspringspost.com/commission-selects-desert-bloom-for-50000-public-art-project-aimed-at-providing-shade/
The Palm Springs Public Arts Commission has unanimously selected “Desert Bloom” by artist Roger Reutimann as the winning design for a $50,000 shade structure to be installed in a Palm Springs park.The colorful, umbrella-like sculpture will provide seating and shade for park visitors, with installation expected by September.Local reporting and journalism you can count on.Subscribe to The Palm Springs PostAt a meeting last week, commission members expressed interest in placing the artwork in Ruth Hardy P...
The Palm Springs Public Arts Commission has unanimously selected “Desert Bloom” by artist Roger Reutimann as the winning design for a $50,000 shade structure to be installed in a Palm Springs park.
The colorful, umbrella-like sculpture will provide seating and shade for park visitors, with installation expected by September.
Local reporting and journalism you can count on.
Subscribe to The Palm Springs Post
At a meeting last week, commission members expressed interest in placing the artwork in Ruth Hardy Park, but agreed to consult with the Parks Department to determine the optimal placement. Suggestions included positioning the sculpture near areas where families watch soccer practices or in spaces currently lacking shade.
“If we took one of these organic pieces and had the shade over the water fountain, I mean, every kid knows when you go to the water fountain that’s 120 degrees and you push that metal button, your finger is on fire,” Chair Gary Armstrong suggested.
Commissioners praised the design for its joyful and bright aesthetic, which they felt would enhance the park experience for residents and visitors alike.
“I think it’s playful, it’s fun,” said Commissioner Carlos Silveira during the Jan. 16 meeting. “I love the Condor [another finalist], but I think in terms of shade, this one works better.”
The sculpture, inspired by the iconic “Poolside Gossip” photograph, reflects Palm Springs’ mid-century modern heritage while offering a practical solution to the desert heat.
“Right now, I think we need joy, and I think we need to be putting joy and brightness and community into our parks,” Armstrong said, explaining his preference for Desert Bloom over other finalists.
Safety and durability were key considerations in the selection process. The commission addressed concerns about potential misuse by requesting the artist incorporate 4-inch dividers on the seating to prevent sleeping and skateboarding on the structure.
The project is part of the larger “Beautiful Shade” initiative aimed at enhancing public spaces with functional art. Commissioners emphasized the importance of creating inviting areas that encourage residents to enjoy outdoor spaces while providing practical shade solutions.
Reutimann, known for the “Cadillactus” piece that occupies a Tahquitz Way median, impressed the commission with his detailed presentation, which included renderings showing how the sculpture’s shade would shift throughout the day.
The $50,000 budget allows for up to five months of fabrication time. Commissioners are exploring the possibility of installing multiple “Desert Bloom” sculptures in various parks if additional funding becomes available.
In addition to the main project, the commission recommended artist Addie Boswell’s dragonfly design for a potential $30,000 secondary project. This decision came after the no projects were submitted for a $5,000 commission and submissions for the $25,000 category were less compelling than those for the higher budget.
The commission also plans to engage with the Palm Springs Convention Center and Airport for potential additional art installations, recognizing that different spaces may have unique requirements and opportunities for public art.
Palm Springs parking study reveals underutilized spaces, recommends improvements
Mark Talkingtonhttps://thepalmspringspost.com/palm-springs-parking-study-reveals-underutilized-spaces-recommends-improvements/
A recently-completed parking study in Downtown Palm Springs offers a series of recommendations to improve the parking experience for residents, employees, and visitors.The assessment, conducted by DIXON Resources Unlimited and funded by PS Resorts, analyzed both on-street and off-street parking, finding that the average occupancy rate was just 29%, with on-street parking more impacted than off-street facilities.Local reporting and journalism you can count on.Subscribe to The Palm Springs PostThe company also found...
A recently-completed parking study in Downtown Palm Springs offers a series of recommendations to improve the parking experience for residents, employees, and visitors.
The assessment, conducted by DIXON Resources Unlimited and funded by PS Resorts, analyzed both on-street and off-street parking, finding that the average occupancy rate was just 29%, with on-street parking more impacted than off-street facilities.
Local reporting and journalism you can count on.
Subscribe to The Palm Springs Post
The company also found that weekday parking (32% occupancy) was more impacted than weekend parking (27% occupancy). Notably, the noon hour was the most congested across all data collection dates, with a 35% occupancy rate.
“There is a general lack of uniformity located throughout the study area in terms of signage and wayfinding, which makes for a confusing experience for both locals and visitors,” the report states.
To address these issues, the study recommends implementing consistent, comprehensive signage throughout the downtown area. This includes exploring opportunities for static and digital signage along Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive, displaying real-time capacity information for off-street parking garages, including those located underground that can hold hundreds of vehicles.
The report, which follows a series of community meetings last fall, also suggests adjusting on-street parking time limits to encourage compliance and turnover, and that, “Employees will be directed to park in off-street locations, therefore maximizing the availability of the curb and increasing turnover.”
A key recommendation is the establishment of an employee parking permit program. The existing municipal code allows for employee permits to be issued for a fee to qualified individuals, exempting them from posted time limits. The study proposes updating this language to prohibit overnight vehicle storage and clarify enforcement procedures.
Maintenance and upkeep of parking facilities, particularly garages, were identified as areas needing improvement. The report’s authors recommends introducing a routine maintenance plan for both downtown parking garages, including regular sweeping, power-washing, and painting.
“Incorporate preventative measures that discourage skateboarding, roller skating, scooter-riding, etc. to promote the safety of the community,” the study advises for the downtown parking garage.
To enhance the aesthetic appeal of parking structures, the report suggests exploring the feasibility of commissioning local artists to revitalize both parking garages with a uniform design that captures the essence of Palm Springs.
The study revealed that most parkers (92%) stayed for short durations of 0-3 hours, indicating a bustling commercial area. To further promote turnover, the report recommends establishing a no re-parking ordinance to deter abuse of on-street parking regulations.
While not likely to be adopted by city officials, the report also proposed the possibility of introducing a special event parking management plan that could include paid parking during events at the soon-to-be restored Plaza Theater, during Palm Springs Pride, VillageFest, and other major gatherings. It also suggests the city update its charter to allow for the possible implementation of paid parking systems in the future.
To improve enforcement, the study recommends modernizing the parking management program and utilizing license plate recognition technology to optimize enforcement and assist in data collection.
Looking to the future, the study suggests exploring a micro-shuttle or circulator program — similar to the Buzz Bus that used to be seen on city streets on VillageFest evenings and weekends — to provide alternative mobility options for residents, employees, and visitors.
Jan. 20 Daily Briefing: Library’s unique offerings, picnic planned, winter baseball, and more
Post Staffhttps://thepalmspringspost.com/jan-20-daily-briefing-librarys-unique-offerings-picnic-planned-winter-baseball-and-more/
Welcome to a new week, and welcome to the day we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Were he alive on this particular day, we think he would encourage us all to act with hope, courage, and a sense of our shared humanity as we build unity across divides. For more on his philosophies, we’d encourage you to take time to dive deeper here. You also might want to note that all the regular places that...
Welcome to a new week, and welcome to the day we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Were he alive on this particular day, we think he would encourage us all to act with hope, courage, and a sense of our shared humanity as we build unity across divides. For more on his philosophies, we’d encourage you to take time to dive deeper here. You also might want to note that all the regular places that are closed on federal holidays are closed today, including City Hall, and that trash service is on a regular schedule this week.
???? Setting the mood: “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
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LEADING OFF
City library thrives as vital hub for physical media, community events
As it marks its 50th anniversary and prepares for a major renovation, the Palm Springs Public Library stands as one of the city’s last remaining free public spaces, offering unrestricted access to physical media and community gatherings.
Driving the news: Despite the dominance of streaming services, the library’s extensive DVD and Blu-ray collection — totaling nearly 24,000 titles — continues to see strong demand from patrons who prefer physical media without subscription fees or data tracking.
By the numbers: Netflix currently offers just four films from before 1970, while the library maintains a comprehensive collection spanning decades and genres.
Bigger picture: Unlike algorithm-driven streaming services, the library’s collection is curated by human experts like librarian Scott Biegen, who tracks award nominees and film festival selections to maintain a diverse catalog.
Why it matters: The library serves as a rare public space where residents can gather without financial barriers or commercial pressure.
Between the lines: The library’s DVD collection provides an experience similar to browsing at Blockbuster—minus the late fees—offering a tangible alternative to endless streaming scrolling.
Read much more in our complete story online
BRIEFLY
???? Neighborhood picnic planned for March
The Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) will host its 16th annual Picnic & Community Expo on March 22 at Ruth Hardy Park, bringing together residents, organizations and businesses from the city’s 52 recognized neighborhoods.
???? Tribe donates $100K for LA fire relief
The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross to support those affected by Los Angeles-area fires.
TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregiver Support Group2:30 p.m. | Mizell Senior CenterThis weekly support group offers a safe, confidential, supportive environment for individuals caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia.
CalComMen’s Monday Coffee5 p.m. | Play Lounge & CaféJoin the group for coffee, chat, and chew! No RSVPs necessary.
Mon Petit Salon5 p.m. | Palm Springs Cultural CenterEnjoy an evening of live music from the award-winning team from the high desert: Mon Petit Mojave ($22)
Fabulous Bingo7 p.m. | Kings Highway at Ace HotelJoin Bella Da Ball for a night of fabulous bingo. (Must spend $30 at Kings Highway to participate.)
SAVE THE DATE
AND FINALLY …
Professional baseball’s California Winter League opens its 16th season this week in Palm Springs, featuring an international roster that includes 26 players from Team China across seven competing teams during the 21-day schedule.
Driving the news: The league, which has helped launch more than 850 professional baseball careers since 2010, starts play at Palm Springs Stadium on Thursday with former St. Louis Cardinals player and World Series champion Aaron Miles making his desert debut as one of seven managers.
Why it matters: The CWL serves as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring professionals, with 32% of last season’s participants receiving contract offers from professional leagues.
The schedule: Games will be played daily at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. through February 16th, when the season concludes with the championship game. You can see the entire schedule here.
Fan engagement: The league offers various promotional events throughout the season, including discounted admission for local residents and international visitors.
Details: Fans can purchase general admission tickets at the stadium box office or watch live broadcasts of all 2025 games on the league’s YouTube channel. Tickets range from $5 for youth to $10 for adults (and are $8 for seniors).
Palm Springs Library thrives as vital hub for physical media amid streaming dominance
Kendall Balchanhttps://thepalmspringspost.com/palm-springs-library-thrives-as-vital-hub-for-physical-media-amid-streaming-dominance/
This year marks 50 years since the Palm Springs Library opened its doors for the first time. Since then, the library’s collection and its role in the community have expanded, necessitating a rethinking of the library’s future and its infrastructure.The library’s traditional role as a place to read and check out books has not changed; in fact, it’s thriving. In Fiscal Year 2023-24, the library saw a 17% increase in foot traffic and issued 19% more library cards. Library patrons checked out 6.5% more physical boo...
This year marks 50 years since the Palm Springs Library opened its doors for the first time. Since then, the library’s collection and its role in the community have expanded, necessitating a rethinking of the library’s future and its infrastructure.
The library’s traditional role as a place to read and check out books has not changed; in fact, it’s thriving. In Fiscal Year 2023-24, the library saw a 17% increase in foot traffic and issued 19% more library cards. Library patrons checked out 6.5% more physical books and media.
Local reporting and journalism you can count on.
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The biggest increase, however, was in the number of people attending library programs.
The popularity of the programming is one of the driving forces behind the design of the library’s major renovation. Staff hopes to submit construction documents to the city sometime in the coming months to begin renovations funded by $6.5 million from the California State Library Grant Program with matching funds from Measure J.
The plans for the renovation will double the capacity for events and add a maker space, flexible rooms that can be used as demonstration spaces for art or cooking classes, private study rooms, and an increased children’s section.
The library hosted 19% more programs, and 29% more people attended those programs.
Library staff don’t need the data to tell them how popular the programming is because they’re the ones turning people away at the door when an event reaches capacity.
“Honestly, we’ve had to scale back in terms of what we do because we just don’t have the space,” admits Julie Warren, library and public services manager.
She recounts several past events in which the library had to turn away more people than it could admit.
“We hosted [HGTV’s] Desert Flippers; we had to turn away probably 200 people because we only had room for about 100,” she said.
The library hosts roughly 300 programs a year that go far beyond the usual book clubs and kids’ reading hours.
In 2017, the library gave people eclipse glasses to view the total solar eclipse. They quickly ran out of glasses while a line stretched down to the corner of Ramon and Sunrise. A popular music program, Notes in the Desert, was axed in part because it outgrew its space.
Another popular program is the regular film screenings offered by the library, selected by librarian Scott Biegen, who also curates the library’s extensive film collection totaling more than 21,600 DVDs and 2,195 Blu-Rays.
Similar to how the library is expanding programming to meet demand, the film section has also expanded, offering more Blu-Rays, foreign films, and blockbusters.
“DVDs are one of our most popular circulating items,” said Jeannie Kays, director of library services.
The demand is a testament to the city’s deep connection to the film industry, the ease of renting from the library, and the breadth of its collection.
Biegen works hard to curate the films and ensures the shelves are stocked with blockbusters, foreign films, classic films, and films from a diverse spectrum of people.
“It’s important because we want everyone to be welcome here and be seen in this collection,” he said. That’s why anyone browsing for women directors, Black directors, Hispanic filmmakers, LGBTQ+ filmmakers, and more should be able to find something among the stacks.
Kays said the popularity of DVDs at the library contradicts the common narrative about the rise of streaming services killing interest in physical media.
But it makes sense. There’s no paywall at the library. No ever-increasing monthly fee locking out people who can’t afford to pay. The library won’t sell data about your movie preferences to the highest bidder.
Browsing the library’s shelves of films might remind visitors of browsing the aisles of Blockbuster but without the fear of late fees. It’s the exact opposite experience of scrolling through the home page of a streaming service’s seemingly infinite options.
Film options on streaming services only seem infinite, but in reality, their offerings of older films and foreign films are shrinking.
Currently, Netflix has just four films available to stream from before 1970, and two of them are from one director, Alfred Hitchcock.
Biegen contends that the library has a better variety than most streaming services, particularly in older and foreign films. He also keeps up with emerging films by tracking award nominees and offerings from the Palm Springs International Film Festival.
“The other day I went to see the film “I’m Still Here” directed by Walter Salles, starring Fernanda Torres, who just won the Golden Globe,” he said. “If you want to see his other film, “Central Station,” you would have to go and get a physical DVD of it. It’s not available anywhere else.”
Biegen’s selections are informed by his expertise and passion for films, adding a human touch that’s missing from the streaming services’ algorithms.
That human touch is found throughout the library. The library is a place of socialization, community, and learning, and it’s also a place where visitors can just be.
“It’s one of the last free places that you can come to and not be required to buy anything,” Kays said.
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