What’s Happening

La Arcada is hosting its annual holiday event. In the past, kids line up to see Santa, people stroll around the area and meet up with friends. Festive mood. Restaurants and stores add to the festivities by being open that evening and offering treats (popcorn, balloons, cookies), carolers, etc. Join the Library on the future Library Plaza for an evening of fun! Library on the Go Van will be present and active!

Our Public Library empowers people by providing them with access to information and helping them to fulfill needs related to health, government services, and community engagement. The Library Plaza will provide an urban green space that will sustainably grow with our community as they come together at the Public Library.

SBPL Delivers | COVID-19 Response Days into the State mandated shelter in place the Santa Barbara Public Library transformed its service model to provide the Santa Barbara community with critical resources. As a part of this shift, the Library launched SBPL Delivers a book mailing program that brings books to your doorstep. The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation has stepped up to provide the funding needed to cover supplies and postage for the program. SBPL Delivers has received thousands of requests and distributed thousands of more books. Community members have shared, “This service has been a lifesaver! My son loves the books you

Santa Barbara Reads 2019| October 15- November 15 Each year the Santa Barbara Public Library's Santa Barbara Reads program reaches thousands of local residents by giving away thousands of free copies of the same book. Many related programs encourage people to discuss the book’s themes with neighbors, co-workers, and community members. The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation will be underwriting the SB Reads program again this year. Publisher’s Weekly called this year’s title, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, a “tender, honest exploration of identity and sexuality, and a passionate reminder that love— whether romantic or familial—should be open,

Our public libraries are vital community centers in times of disaster. The Foundation supports the Library’s relief efforts with critical funding. During the Thomas Fire and debris flow, the Central Library provided 78 impromptu programs for children and youth.

Do you remember the name of your childhood librarian? What were your favorite books as a child? From T.C. Boyle to Lois Capps, everyone has a story about their first library experience.