Happy Birthday, Children’s Library!

Happy Birthday, Children's Library!

This September marks 10 years since the Santa Barbara Public Library opened its Children's Library, and we're throwing a party to celebrate! Since its opening in 2015, the Children's Library has grown from serving 3,700 children a year to over 39,000. It has become a vibrant, welcoming space for young minds to explore and discover a love of reading.

Join us for a birthday bash full of fun, learning, and celebration!

When: Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 10a-12p
Where: Children's Library, Santa Barbara Central Library
40 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Free and open to all families!

What's Happening

• Special guests and face painting!
• Crafts, games, and party favors!
• Birthday treats and fun surprises!
• A special Children's Library Commemorative Library Card!

About the Children's Library

The Children's Library opened on September 13, 2015 as the centerpiece of Building a Love of Reading - a public-private campaign led by the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation, with the support of the City of Santa Barbara and a host of generous community donors.

The project transformed a cramped 1,500-square-foot space into a bright, welcoming, 6,000-square-foot haven designed around five core literacy practices: talking, reading, singing, writing, and playing.

Today, the Children's Library Serves thousands of kids each year, offering free programs like story times, OG Readers tutoring, STEM activities, bilingual programs, and access to thousands of books.

"This anniversary is a celebration not just of a space, but of the community that made it possible," said Brandon Beaudette, Acting Santa Barbara Public Library Director. "The Children's Library has become a cornerstone for local families-a place where curiosity is encouraged, stories come alive, and every child feels welcome."

Special thanks go to the original donors who brought the Children's Library to life, and to the next generation helping refresh the space with new furniture to keep it vibrant for the future.