The Books Miss You!

In the absence of open hours and programs, our branch activity has come to a standstill. The Montecito Library has been closed to the public since March 13.

That said, you can still access important library services including help with job search, applying for unemployment, answers to your reference questions, book delivery, digital services, and resources for youth. You can find this information at the end of the column.

Connection and Introspection

As precaution and concern intensified with Governor Newsom’s Stay At Home Order, we had to immediately suspend all in-person contact with the public. If you have spent any time at our library, you know how much camaraderie exists between the staff and our patrons.

What has surprised me during this physical distancing is how much the apartness is affecting my mood. Frankly, I spend a lot of time enjoying the escape of working at the library where I feel a kinship with folks who walk through the door. Similarly, I miss the everyday social networks like dropping my kids off at school or the distractions of appointments on the calendar.

We’re missing that sense of connection and closeness right now, but I hope that you have some good reading to get you through.

The Book Woman Recommends…

While we won’t meet for Book Club, I have a sentimental pick for you. The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson is the unusual story of a blue-skinned WPA packhorse librarian in 1930s Kentucky named Cussy Mary. As you might have guessed, the librarian is the hero in this novel. Her delivery route is her life’s passion, bringing culture, education and news to her remote and isolated patrons. 

The book is available to you through Hoopla, delivered through the magic of the internet.

Our Commitment to Each Other

As you might know, City employees can be assigned different duties during disasters. Currently, I am helping out the County Public Health Department in epidemiology. There are a lot of hardworking, talented professionals working on this locally. I have hope and confidence that we will continue to flatten the curve, protecting ourselves and each other. We will get through this and value our Montecito community even more when we can be together again.  

See you soon – safe, healthy and reunited at the library!

Public Library Services Available Remotely

Need something to read?

We have a new pilot program called SBPL Delivers which will send you books in the mail. Shipping is being sponsored by the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation. (805) 962-7653

Our SBPL Works! staff can offer free help with Employment Development Department (EDD) resources, computer training and job search assistance. (805) 564-5633

Any requests or account questions can be directed to the Central Library. Their current hours for virtual services are Monday through Thursday 10 am-6 pm and Friday 10 am-5:30 pm. (805) 962-7653

Our Youth Services Department has put together a list of Learning at Home resources that are accessible on our website.

SBPLibrary.org