Monday, June 28, 2021

Santa Barbara Library


**This post was written pre-COVID and has been updated as much as possible. 

The Santa Barbara Library was one of my favorite places as a kid (remember the mural with Corduroy?). It has changed a lot but it is still a favorite for my kids.  

NON-COVID: In summer, enjoy the summer reading program and during the school year, events are planned for the weekend and after school. Before COVID, younger kids love the whole lower level blocks, legos, puzzles, window nooks and older kids love the games on the computers.

COVID: The Santa Barbara is open for sidewalk service and express service Tuesday through Saturday from T 10am-2pm, W10am-4pm, Th 12pm-6pm, F/S 10am-4pm and it will be open for up to 94 patrons inside for browsing for books, self-checkout as well as computer use or books for sale. Patrons can browse for up to 30 minutes. Carpinteria, Eastside and Montecito hours here. (A couple friends have visited and say it is actually more relaxed than this sounds.) 

The Santa Barbara Summer Reading Program is also tracked online, using the WandooReader site to keep track of the books for school aged children, teens and adults (younger children are encouraged to participate in the 1000 Books before Kindergarten). There will be events online and outdoors found on the library website. Kids can participate in a fun community based scavenger hunt and earn a free book. 

Why it is a favorite: The toys and play area were favorites with toddlers and early elementary kids.

Location: 40 E Anapamu St Santa Barbara 

Directions: Take 101 to the Mission St. off ramp. Turn toward the mountains and continue to Anacapa St. Turn right and continue to the entrance to the parking structure (Library Ave.) across from the Courthouse.

Time Spent: 20 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on events and kids

Cost: Free

Hours: See above

Parking: The lot next to the library generally has plenty of parking and is free for 75 minutes. 

Nearby: Courthouse and Kid's World

More info: https://www.cityofgoleta.org/city-hall/goleta-valley-library

Special Events: There are many kid friendly monthly events listed on their website or Facebook page.

Kid Quotes: "I liked the time we took apart owl poop." 10 year old

Note: Pictures taken pre-COVID

Window Nooks

Work Areas

Puzzles

Play Area

Island Room

Play Area

Computers

Blocks

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