28 Jun Library Foundation Honors Library Champion with Inaugural Award
The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation launched the inaugural Jessica Cadiente Library Champion Award at a National Library Week kickoff event on Monday, April 24, 2023. This award was created to honor Library Director Jessica Cadiente’s visionary leadership and will be given each year to someone who goes above and beyond for our Santa Barbara Public Library.
Ms. Cadiente has worked in almost every role within a public library throughout her career and as Library Director she has set the gold standard for Santa Barbara’s libraries. She believes in the power of the Public Library to adapt to the ever-changing needs of their communities, continually expanding their collections, services, and partnerships to benefit us all. The Library Foundation is thrilled to create a new tradition and launch this award as a testament to Ms. Cadiente’s commitment to public service.
The event on Monday updated attendees on the Library’s progress on the new Michael Towbes Library Plaza and recognized the many donors, volunteers, Library staff, and City leaders who have made this renovation possible. On Tuesday, the Library Foundation and Library Board accepted a proclamation from the City of Santa Barbara declaring National Library Week as April 23-29, 2023. During this week, all residents were encouraged to visit their library to explore the wealth of resources available.
