15 Oct Happy 10th Birthday, Children’s Library!
On Saturday, September 20, 2025, families from across Santa Barbara gathered at the Central Library to celebrate a very special milestone—the 10th birthday of the Children’s Library! Since opening its doors in 2015, the Children’s Library has blossomed into a vibrant hub for young readers, growing from serving just 3,700 children annually to welcoming more than 39,000 each year. The birthday bash was a joyful reminder of just how far this space has come in fostering a love of reading and learning. The morning was filled with face painting, crafts, games, birthday treats, and fun surprises. Families received special commemorative Children’s Library cards and connected with the community while celebrating this important space.
“This anniversary is a celebration not just of a space, but of the community that made it possible,” shared Brandon Beaudette, Santa Barbara Public Library Director. “The Children’s Library has become a cornerstone for local families—a place where curiosity is encouraged, stories come alive, and every child feels welcome.”
The Children’s Library was originally created through the Building a Love of Reading campaign, a public-private partnership led by the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation, supported by the City of Santa Barbara and many generous donors. What was once a 1,500-square-foot space has grown into a 6,000-square-foot haven designed around the five core literacy practices: talking, reading, singing, writing, and playing.
Special thanks go to the donors who brought this dream to life—and to the next generation of supporters helping refresh the space with new furniture and resources to ensure it remains a welcoming environment for decades to come.
Bull Henry W Foundation
COX Communications
Junior League of Santa Barbara, Inc.
Betsy Ingalls
Michael Erickson
Nikki and Larame Greene
Kyle Brace
Isaac Aptaker
Analise Maggio and Ben Sprague
Mark Funk and Jim Owens
John and Sarah McFadden
Matthew DeVorzon
Eric Jones and Osbelia Castillo
Kerrilee and Martin Gore
Debby Peterson
Michael Hurst
Bret Stone
Devon Nevius
Santa Barbara Public Library is proud to see how the Children’s Library has grown into a beloved space where children can find comfort, be inspired, explore new ideas, and create lasting memories. Here’s to the next 10 years of learning, laughter, and community!
