We are thrilled to announce that the Children's Library endowment has reached $1.5 million in funds! Created in August of 2016, the endowment's interest supports the Children's Library at the Santa Barbara Public Library. The endowment has allowed for community education to be expanded and enrich the lives of over 30,000 children in our community each year with literacy and STEAM learning at the library, and throughout Santa Barbara schools.
According to Library Director, Jessica Cadiente: "
The children's library endowment is a statement about the importance of our community's children and the lasting impact of libraries. In a community where achievement gaps between poor and middle class students are a reality, children's library programs and classes help prepare our children for a lifetime of learning. An endowed children's library helps Santa Barbara Public Library connect with a broader world and bring excellence to services loved and needed by the community."
Some of the most recent Outreach Programs include:
* Reading Ambassadors
* 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Program
* Full STEAM Ahead
* Preschool through High School Class Visits
* Informal Childcare Provider Outreach and Education
* Low-Income Housing Site Visits
The foundation's goal is to increase the endowment to $2 million, to fully fund these community education programs. Please consider making a donation today to sustain the community outreach programs at the Children's Library - now and in the future.
Please contact Ellen Pasternack, at directorsbplf@gmail.com,
or 805.689.2448, with questions or for more information.
