15 May National Library Week Proclamation
On April 8th, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors officially recognized April 6th through 12th as National Library Week, honoring the vital role libraries play in our community. More than just buildings filled with books, libraries offer essential services and educational resources daily, serving as a pillar of our democracy.
To accept the proclamation, Foundation Director Lauren Trujillo spoke on behalf of the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation and libraries county-wide. Also in attendance, Acting Library Director Brandon Beaudette, Santa Maria Librarian Dawn Jackson, and members of the Friends of the Library from Orcutt. Roy Lee, District 1 Supervisor, kindly presented the certificate to the library team, all standing together to represent our libraries.
Lauren began her speech by emphasizing the transformation of Library supporters to Library defenders in recent years. She referenced the most recent attack on libraries on a national scale: the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding cut. Being the only federal agency that funds libraries, IMLS provides $15 million to libraries alone. While our Library and many other libraries nation-wide are funded locally, IMLS funding directly supports Lunch at the Library, Adult Literacy initiatives, community cultural events, connectivity needs, and providing affordable broadband services for all.
Lauren brought the Library’s impact to life by sharing heartfelt community stories. She shared how bilingual storytimes have helped local families feel seen and connected, and how one newcomer to Santa Barbara landed her first job interview using the Library’s free career resources. These are just a few examples of how libraries transform lives and build community every day.
She ended with a powerful message, asking the County Board and the Santa Barbara community to continue standing with our libraries. By proclaiming National Library Week, the County has sent a strong message of support and hope this continues to inspire residents. The Library needs our support now more than ever, so thank you to all of our Library go-ers. With your continued support, we’ll keep opening doors together.
Posted by SBPLF Intern Briana Ibarra-
Briana is a fourth-year student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, majoring in Communication with a minor in Professional Writing on the Civic Engagement track. She hopes to apply her communication and writing skills to a career in marketing or public relations after graduation.
