Services

:: Outreach

Staff of the Santa Barbara Public Library continuously strive to provide high quality Library services to people of all ages, all interests, and all backgrounds in our local communities, and to promote use of library services in a variety of ways, including performances, lectures, literacy development, Bookmobile services, and visits to schools, housing complexes and health facilities.
 

Bookmobile

The Santa Barbara Public Library System Bookmobile brings books, video and audiotapes, magazines and Internet access to schools, community centers, youth clubs and housing complexes in the City of Santa Barbara and the Goleta area. Though collections are small, staff will take requests for materials and bring these items the following week. Click here for the current schedule of Bookmobile stops.
 

Adult Literacy Program

Local adult residents who want to improve reading, writing or spelling skills may enroll in the free tutoring program available through the Santa Barbara Public Library System. Others who may wish to volunteer to help another adult learn to read can receive tutor training and go on to make a difference in the life of an adult learner. If you or someone you know would like to know more about the Adult Literacy Prorgam, click here.
 

Multi Cultural Arts Events

With funding provided by the Santa Barbara County Arts Commission, programs representing a variety of ethnic traditions are presented at the Eastside Branch Library and other Library locations each month. Professional performers and artists bring storytelling, crafts, music, performance art, and dance from world cultures to young people in local communities. See the Library Monthly Calendar of Events for dates and times of show.
 

Reading Is Fundamental Program

Coordinated by the Youth Services unit, the Santa Barbara Public Library System brings booktalks and other programs to seven local elementary schools. Working with over 1200 second and third graders, Library staff promotes literacy and reading comprehension to these early learners. The second and third graders from seven elementary schools are visited by staff or visit the Library three times per year, and the students are given free books to keep. Often, these books are treasured gifts and help spark a love of reading.
 

“Reach Out and Read”

In a partnership with the American Association of University Women service organization, the Library trains Spanish speaking volunteers to read to children at local community clinics with their parents, and assists in choosing appropriate picture books for young children. Library staff also helps select books purchased with AAUW funds, which are then given to the children, and has built a collection of materials for the volunteer readers.
 

Deposit Collections at Homeless Centers

Small deposit collections of paperback materials for teen readers are established and periodically replenished at homeless centers such as “Noah’s Ark” and Transition House.