Santa Barbara Library is the Public Library System with one central library and its branches. The Central Library has been an oasis of peacefulness for many years. It’s not too big, but it still offers a lot. The library itself is very comfortable and calming, inviting you to relax, browse, and spend some time there. The Public Library System in Santa Barbara offers much more than just books. The most important goal of the SB Public Library System is to provide reading materials, educational resources and information services to people of all ages from the Santa Ynez Valley to Carpinteria.
1. Computers in the Library
The Central Library and most branch libraries provide computers for free public use. They offer a variety of software and educational programs. From the Library computers people can access the Black Gold Cooperative Library System Online Catalog. Some designated terminals offer Internet access. The Library staff is there to assist everybody in using the computers for information search and to look for materials offered in the online catalogs. Printing is also available at the Library.
2. Computer Coaching
Santa Barbara Public Library offers not only books, but also other programs and events. One of them is computer coaching at Central Library where people can improve their computer skills with experienced volunteers. They can reserve a session and learn how to surf the Internet, write and send emails, apply for jobs, and many other skills. They bring specific questions and problems to their coaches who help resolve them.
3. Kid-Friendly Features
SB Public Library has done everything to make your children visit it. There are various services and events that children like to attend. Bilingual Storytime is a perfect way for little ones to get exposed to two languages. You can take your children for a fun afternoon of songs and stories both in Spanish and English. If the schoolchildren have problems with reading, math, or more, the library offers some free help with the children’s homework.
4. Read With a Dog Program
Almost all branches of the SB Public Library System offer children a unique opportunity – having fun reading with a trained therapy dog. Studies show that Tail Wagging Tutors build reading confidence and motivate reluctant readers. Reading with a therapy animal makes reading more fun. And the children who attend these sessions wish to read more often than before they entered the program.
5. Makerspace Open Lab
Every Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. the Central Library hosts Makerspace Open Lab. The Lab is intended to be an open learning environment for different kinds of projects. It is suitable for all ages and the participants can work together or individually. The Library provides laptops and a 3D printer. In partnership with Santa Barbara, the Library hosts MakerFest showcasing invention and creativity.
6. Adult Literacy
Those who want to become better readers can call the SB Public Library and join the Adult Literacy Program. With the help of well-trained tutors they can learn how to read, write, and spell better. The tutor provides confidential one-on-one tutoring in all three skills. Adults who are 16 and older and who are able to make a conversation in English and also able to work with a tutor two or three hours a week are eligible for this program.
7. Books & Magazines for Sale
Donations of books and magazines are reviewed by professional staff, and those which are not added to the Library collection are offered for sale. There is a stall at the library, where such books and magazines are sold and payment is on the honor system. Volunteers price and sell them and the money they get for those items is used to support various services and collections in the Library.
Information
- Name: Santa Barbara Public Library
- Address: 40 E Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
- Opening hour: 10.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m.
- Library Administration: (805) 564-5608
The library has always provided good service. There are plentiful piles of books tempting you to go into the library and browse them. Choose the one you like, sit on one of the comfortable chairs and enjoy the peaceful time.
Have a good trip and travel!
