Santa Barbara is extremely lucky to play host to several well-established libraries; each of them rich in academic resources and community service programs. In addition to housing hundreds of thousands of novels and texts, these libraries provide the public with computers and internet access, research databases, outreach services, audiobooks, DVD and CD rentals and so much more.
The Santa Barbara Public Library System features a diverse selection of materials in several convenient locations throughout Santa Barbara County. Whether you live in Carpinteria, Goleta, Montecito, Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, the Eastside or Solvang you can find a library near you. And of course there is always the Bookmobile, which conveniently delivers thousands of books and other materials to residents all over the county who are unable to make it into one of the library locations.
The jewel of the Santa Barbara library system, its Central Location, is conveniently located downtown on East Anapamu St. It is a wonderful building in an aesthetically pleasing area, surrounded by shady trees and other historic, architecturally pleasant structures. The main library is also near a myriad of restaurants and shopping venues.
Contrary to popular belief, the library is much more than just a place to check out books. (Although that certainly is a good enough reason to visit in itself.) Library members can check out DVDs and CDs for free. Members can also take advantage of computers and internet access. The library also has several meeting rooms that can be reserved for book clubs and other events.
Your library card also gives you access to numerous helpful research databases. This means members can easily access articles and texts about everything from biology to automobiles to health and even old newspaper and magazine articles in just a few clicks.
In terms of community enrichment, the library offers valuable services including adult literacy programs, homework help and free online tutoring. In addition to these ongoing services the library also puts on special events, publicized on their website. These can be anything from grant-writing workshops to art exhibits, storytimes, informational forums, community conversations and even scrabble fundraisers!
The Santa Barbara County library website http://www.sbplibrary.org/ will have information on all their branches’ programs and upcoming events. It is also a great source for the latest local and international news events.
Even if you are just looking for advice on your next great read, the Santa Barbara Library is there to help. They have extensive summaries, reviews and recommendations so everyone can find a new book to get excited about.
If you haven’t been taking advantage of all the great services and programs offered by the library, I suggest you start!