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NewsSanta Monica Daily PressNovember 2, 2026Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County places ballot drop box next to library book return in Santa Monica

Photo: Santa Monica Daily Press

An official Los Angeles County ballot drop box is located on the curb next to a Santa Monica Public Library book return on Montana Avenue, prompting questions from some voters about potential confusion. A printed reminder sign has been posted on the library return bin, and voters interviewed reported no actual misdirected ballots. County ballot drop boxes operate 24 hours daily and close at 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

ElectionsLibrariesPublic Services
Read the full story at Santa Monica Daily Press

Why It Matters

The close proximity of election infrastructure to library drop bins affects how voters navigate ballot submission, with local residents noting the potential for mix-ups despite clear signage.

Key Facts

  • An official Los Angeles County ballot drop box is located at 1704 Montana Ave. outside the Montana Avenue Branch Library.
  • The ballot drop box sits directly next to a Santa Monica Public Library book return bin of a similar size and shape.
  • Some voters have questioned whether ballots could accidentally be placed in the library book return.
  • A printed reminder sign has been posted on the library return bin to help prevent confusion.
  • The Daily Press could not confirm any instances of ballots being incorrectly deposited into the book return.
  • County ballot drop boxes remain open 24 hours a day until closing at 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationSanta Monica Public Library“Operates the book return bin”OrganizationLos Angeles County“Maintains the official ballot drop box”OrganizationMontana Avenue Branch Library“Site of the ballot drop box and book return”OrganizationDaily Press“Local news publication reporting on the drop box”PersonWalker Henderson“Voter who noted the close proximity of the boxes”location1704 Montana Ave.“Address of the library and drop box”PersonMelanie“33-year resident who used the ballot drop box”locationSanta Monica“City where the library and drop box are located”other8 p.m.“Closing time for ballot drop boxes on Election Day”