A library is more than books and shelves. It’s a place where neighbors meet, children discover new worlds, and people of all ages find opportunities to learn and connect. Keeping a library thriving, however, takes more than librarians and a good collection. It takes a community that believes in what a library can be. For more […]
There’s a reason why the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation chose this week’s issue for their opportunity to be the focus on this Giving List column in the Montecito Journal weekly. National Library Week in 2026 takes place April 19-26, and is a seven-day country-wide celebration of libraries, library workers, and the many ways that […]
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After a hiatus of a few years, the Montecito Poetry Club returned to the Montecito Library last month. Kicking off in 2014, and led by poetry lover and devoted library volunteer, Carole Baral, the Montecito Poetry Club was a beloved program that met each month in the Montecito Community Hall. The concept was simple. Each […]
The I Love My Library campaign, initiated by Library Support Groups, invites the Santa Barbara and Montecito communities to visibly and collectively show support for its public libraries and library staff. From February 1-14, Valentine-themed collection boxes will be placed at participating local businesses and schools throughout Santa Barbara and Montecito. At each location, pre-printed […]
In January 2025, Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) launched a pilot crafting series for adults titled, Hot Off the Press (HOTP). The purpose of the program was to offer library-goers trendy, elevated crafting workshops that would give adults the supplies and cutting-edge machines from the Library’s Maker Space to let their creativity flourish. Past workshops […]
We’re thrilled to say – we’re back! The Library Column is returning, and we couldn’t be more excited to reconnect with you through stories that showcase the heart of our community: your Montecito Public Library. Each month, we’ll bring you a collection of inspiring stories, upcoming programs, and tips to help you get the most […]
Visit the Montecito Library (1469 E. Valley Rd. | 805-969-5063) for books, events, and more! All library branches will be closed on June 19, in honor of Juneteenth. Upcoming events and programs include: Stay & Play: Tuesdays, 9-10:30 am – Drop by to learn and play, sing and share stories with other young children. Enjoy […]
Visit the Montecito Library (1469 E. Valley Rd. | 805-969-5063) for books, events, and more! Upcoming events and programs include: Stay & Play: Tuesdays, 9-10:30am – Drop by to learn and play, sing and share stories with other young children. Enjoy the company of other caregivers. Best for children under 5. Knit ’n’ Needle: Thursdays, […]
Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) will be hosting local authors, particularly independent authors, to participate in this year’s Local Author Book Fair, taking place in the Faulkner Gallery at the Santa Barbara Central Library on Saturday, December 2 from 2-4 pm. The public is cordially invited to come, meet the authors, browse a selection of […]
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We invite all ages to join us for our Summer Reading Challenge, to get you reading up a storm and enjoying programs that bring our community together. For our youngest patrons, we will have early literacy classes all summer. School age kids are encouraged to keep up their reading habits by getting a free book, […]
Each month, Montecito Library holds our regular programs in the Community Hall, which end up creating some of the most enjoyable and deep connections between patrons. Here’s a quick update on what we are doing and we welcome you to join the fun! Stay & Play Tuesday Mornings Starting in March of 2022, we launched […]
Each year, Santa Barbara Public Library chooses a social topic of interest or challenge that the community is facing and develops a series of programs to explore potential solutions. Through selected readings, presentations, and community engagement, the library hopes to inspire action in the community to improve lives and invest in a more sustainable future. […]
Our Montecito public library serves a diverse population of patrons, emphasizing lifelong learning, and acting as a community center providing support and connection. Our new Brain Education Series is offered the fourth Wednesday of the month and teaches all of us how to be more caring and compassionate members of our community. Our presenter, Kathryn […]
Children between the ages of three and five (and their grownups) are invited to the Montecito Library for a weekly Preschool Storytime starting in February. We will be meeting every Thursday from 10-10:30 am. Come by to meet new friends, read stories, sing songs, and make crafts. This is a great opportunity to introduce little […]
