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What We Fund

The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation supports the long-term health and sustainability of the Santa Barbara Public Library through public-private partnerships. We help fund Captital Projects like the Children’s Library and Library Plaza, innovative programs like SB Reads, and Advocacy!

The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation provides critical capital resources for our library. Join us in opening doors to literacy, technology, and lifelong learning at the cultural hub of Santa Barbara.

The Foundation’s funded projects include:

Library Plaza

The historic Library plaza at Santa Barbara’s Central Library is a community treasure and major pedestrian thoroughfare that officially opened in Fall of 2024!

SB Reads

The Library Foundation funds the Library's annual SB Reads program, uniting the community through conversation and discovery around a single book with activities for all ages.

Library on the Go

The Foundation helped support the funding to create the Library on the Go Van and collects additional support to ensure the Van's sustainability.

Library Advocacy

The Foundation is dedicated to raising community awareness of the invaluable services offered by the Santa Barbara Public Library. All community members can get involved to support and advocate for the Library, ensuring its sustainable growth and impact.

Children's Library Endowment

The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation funds the Children’s Library Endowment, which allows the library to run over 200 outreach programs each month.

Teen Center

The Teen Center at the Central Library will be a self-contained space, designed and programmed by teens for teens.

Outdoor Patio

Currently inaccessible, the Second Floor Patio is a hidden gem. Once restored, a rooftop garden will be available for library patrons and for special events.

To learn more, please contact us at 805.689.2448 or email.

Chyrss Yost, is Santa Barbara Poet Laureate from 2013–2015, is an award-winning poet, editor, and educator whose work has appeared in publications around the world. As co-editor and designer of Gunpowder Press and a longtime advocate for poetry education, Chryss brings a deep appreciation for literature, creativity, and lifelong learning to the Foundation.

Luke Swetland is President & CEO of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Previously, he served as Interim Head and Vice President of Planning & Special Projects at the Autry National Center (2008–2012), where he oversaw the relocation and stewardship of two research libraries alongside a collection of more than 500,000 artifacts, led major capital and renovation projects, and managed institutional strategy and public-sector partnerships.

Ally Meier, CFP®, CDFA®, CPFA, is a Financial Advisor with Arlington Financial Advisors who specializes in financial planning, retirement strategies, tax planning, and wealth management. A committed community volunteer and former Junior League of Santa Barbara board member, Ally is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive while making a positive impact in the community.