Author: Holland

The UCSB Arts & Lectures program often holds a large number of events at these venues, ranging from comedy shows and films to theater and dance performances, concerts, and lectures by groundbreaking writers. Just a few past performers speakers include former Vice President of the United States Joe Biden, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, graphic novelist Neil Gaiman, author and historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, poet Mary Oliver, and many others.

If you are currently a full-time UCSB student, you are eligible to purchase discounted, student rate tickets, so definitely take advantage of being a student to see your favorite shows while you are here!

Coal Oil Point – Isla Vista, CA

Yes – we said there is more to SB County than local Isla Vista beaches, but Sands beach at Coal Oil Point is simply too beautiful to not mention. This was taken on a winter day, which is the best part about living in SB County – warm sepia toned sunsets are not exclusive to the summer and spring days.

The allure of the well-trodden path is undeniable, but for those who yearn for something more authentic, something beyond the tourist throngs, finding the “off the beaten track” treasures becomes the holy grail of travel. As seasoned adventurers often say, the most transformative experiences lie hidden in the unfamiliar corners of the world.

But venturing off the beaten path goes beyond simply choosing less-visited destinations. It’s a mindset, an approach to travel that embraces spontaneity, curiosity and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.

Embracing the Art of Slow Travel:
Forget frantic itineraries packed with must-see attractions. Slow travel is about immersing yourself in a place, letting its rhythm guide you. Spend more time in fewer locations, allowing for deeper connections with local people and cultures. This approach unveils hidden gems that often go unnoticed by hurried travelers. A charming café tucked down a winding alleyway, a local festival celebrating an age-old tradition, or a breathtaking vista revealed on a leisurely hike – these are the treasures unearthed by the art of slow travel.

Beyond the Guidebook: Harnessing Local Wisdom:
Guidebooks have their place, but to truly discover hidden gems, tap into the collective wisdom of locals. Chat with shop owners, taxi drivers, and fellow travelers, asking for recommendations beyond the usual tourist traps. Websites like Couchsurfing or platforms like Airbnb Experiences offer opportunities to interact with local hosts who can provide insider knowledge on secret spots, cultural events, and authentic culinary experiences.

The Power of Serendipity: Embracing Spontaneity:
Sometimes, the best adventures are unplanned. Allow space for serendipity by leaving room in your schedule for unexpected discoveries. Take a detour down a road less traveled, follow a local’s suggestion for a hidden café, or simply wander aimlessly through a charming neighborhood. You might stumble upon a vibrant street market, a picturesque park, or a unique artisan shop that you would have otherwise missed.

Connecting with Nature: Experiencing the Untamed:

Seek out destinations where nature reigns supreme. National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and remote hiking trails offer a chance to connect with the raw beauty of the planet. Hike through ancient forests, kayak across pristine lakes, or camp under a blanket of stars far from city lights. These experiences not only provide stunning scenery but also foster a sense of peace and wonder that’s hard to find in bustling tourist centres.

Learning the Local Lingo: A Bridge to Authenticity:

Even a few basic phrases in the local language can open doors to authentic interactions. Locals appreciate the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with genuine smiles, helpful tips, and access to experiences unavailable to non-speakers.

This journey of discovery is far from over. As you delve deeper into the world of off-the-beaten-path travel, you’ll uncover countless more strategies and invaluable lessons. What other methods have you found effective in your own travels? Perhaps sharing stories about your own “off the beaten track” experiences will inspire others to follow suit.

The beauty of venturing off the beaten path lies not just in discovering hidden gems but also in encountering diverse perspectives and challenging preconceived notions. It’s about stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing cultural differences, and fostering a deeper understanding of our world.

Challenge Conventional Thinking:

Don’t be afraid to question assumptions and challenge conventional travel wisdom. A “must-see” attraction might not resonate with you personally. Perhaps a small village market, a local craft workshop, or a conversation with an elder holds more allure. Trust your instincts and curate your own unique adventure.

Embrace the Unexpected:

Things won’t always go according to plan, and that’s okay! Travel mishaps can often lead to unexpected encounters and serendipitous discoveries. A cancelled flight, a missed bus, or a wrong turn can all become opportunities for adventure if you approach them with an open mind.

Sustainable and Responsible Exploration:

As responsible travelers, we have a duty to minimize our impact on the environment and local communities. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and respect cultural norms. Leave places better than you found them, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy their hidden wonders.

The world is teeming with undiscovered treasures waiting to be explored. The key lies in embracing a mindset of curiosity, flexibility, and respect. So pack your bags, step off the well-worn path, and embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of authenticity.

What are some sustainable travel practices you incorporate into your off-the-beaten-path adventures? Share your stories and inspire others to travel responsibly!

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling off the beaten path, along with concise answers based on the text:

1. What exactly does “off the beaten path” mean in travel?

It’s about going beyond popular tourist destinations and embracing unique, less-explored places. It’s a mindset of seeking authentic experiences and deeper connections with local cultures.

2. How can I find hidden gems when traveling off the beaten path?

Embrace slow travel, connect with locals for recommendations, be open to spontaneity, and research areas beyond typical tourist guides.

3. What are some benefits of traveling off the beaten path?

You’ll encounter more authentic cultural experiences, avoid crowds, discover unique locations, and often save money, as these destinations tend to be less expensive.

4. Is it difficult to plan a trip off the beaten path?

It requires more research and flexibility than sticking to well-trodden routes, but using local resources and embracing spontaneity can enrich your adventure.

5. How do I stay safe when traveling off the beaten path?

Research your destination thoroughly, inform someone of your itinerary, be aware of your surroundings, respect local customs, and consider learning basic phrases in the local language.

6. Is it possible to travel off the beaten path on a budget?

Absolutely! Often, less touristy areas offer more affordable accommodations, food, and activities. It also encourages slower travel styles which can be more economical overall.

7. What role does sustainability play in off-the-beaten-path travel?

It’s crucial! Supporting local businesses, minimizing environmental impact (like reducing waste), respecting cultural norms, and leaving destinations untouched are key to responsible exploration.

Thanks to concerts thrown specifically for UCSB students throughout the school year, Gauchos do not even need to leave campus to experience live music. Performances featuring well-known artists and large crowds occur during Welcome Week, Halloween, and the first weekend of Spring quarter. Toward the end of May, an all-day festival called Extravaganza allows students to take a much-needed break from finals preparations. In addition to these large concerts, an small on-campus venue called The Hub hosts lesser known artists many times throughout the year for a more intimate experience. Most of the musical acts are hip-hop or EDM, but other genres are featured occasionally as well.

Student concerts are a great opportunity to see highly desirable performers without worrying about transportation or excessive ticket costs. The shows cost no more than $15 and are often free to attend. However, they are available for UCSB students only–a policy that is enforced by requiring an access card upon entry–so do not invite friends from out of town.

By Rebecca Bogdanovic and Sicily Barry

The bustling of the arbor, the quiet chatter ringing throughout the crowded library, the morning bells echoing from Storke Tower; the chaos of the beginnings of your college career at UCSB can feel overwhelming. As you sit on your top bunk looking out through the window to students studying in the grass, it is not uncommon to feel a tad lost in the commotion of campus. While you may find yourself feeling alone and isolated, it is never truly the case. From mentorship programs to tutoring to mental health, the resources offered at UCSB will always have a helping hand to offer you. It is simply a matter of finding them and utilizing their help.

While not exhaustive, this guide will provide a breakdown of the campus resources that every first-year student should know about to help strengthen their UCSB experience.

Mind and body: Staying healthy

Your health is always of the utmost importance. Moving out of your childhood home can bring about new challenges and unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes the most difficult challenge is to ask for help. When life has you down and you want someone to speak to, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) will always open their door for you. To calm your nerves before your first midterm, Health and Wellness will walk you through deep breathing and meditation. And lastly, if you need a quick snack or supplies for a homemade dinner, the Associated Students Food Bank is just a swipe away.

• Counseling and Psychological Services:

Known by the student body as CAPS, Counseling and Psychological Services offers a wide range of resources to keep your mind healthy and your worries at ease. They offer a wide range of services regarding student and faculty mental health. The most effective way to learn how they can best serve you is to an Initial Brief Assessment. You will begin by filling out a ten-minute questionnaire regarding your concerns and emotional health. Following the questionnaire, you will talk privately with a mental health clinician and will work together to develop a plan that will best fit your needs.

Your individualized mental health plan could entail brief therapy at CAPS, long-term therapy off-campus, group therapy, peer counseling, teletherapy, or even workshops. CAPS services are primarily covered by your university registration fee; therefore you will be provided care with no additional fees at the time of service. In addition, CAPS takes confidentiality very seriously and, with a few exceptions, anything you share with your clinician will remain between the two of you.

CAPS is a wonderful resource to air your mental health worries and find a solution for your concerns. You can find the CAPS building across the main bike path from Storke Tower. Rest assured that you are entering a judgment-free space full of people who care deeply for your mental health.

You can find more information here: https://caps.sa.ucsb.edu

Expert tip: CAPS also has free massage chairs to release tension and alpha wave “egg’ chairs to encourage relaxation.

• Health and Wellness:

Health and Wellness works to support the overall well-being of students by hosting events and offering services catered to forming healthy habits. Two of their most popular events are pet therapy week and meditation classes. Each quarter before finals week, Health and Wellness brings licensed therapy dogs onto campus to reduce stress and anxiety among the student body. Each week throughout the quarter, Health and Wellness also offers free drop-in meditation sessions to improve sleep, concentration, focus, and self-compassion.

In addition to these popular events, Health and Wellness also puts on a sleep challenge, a happiness challenge, and games that work to inform the student body on healthy habits. If you attend Health and Wellness events and want to dive deeper, they offer certification workshops for Mental Health Basics and Safer Sex Peers. Health and Wellness is a great place to work towards the healthiest version of yourself, while also becoming more ingrained in the UCSB community.

You can find more information here: http://wellness.sa.ucsb.edu/

Expert tip: Health and Wellness also offers beginner cooking classes so you can chef up some healthy meals without your parents’ help.

• Associated Students Food Bank

Students can use their access card to “swipe” into the food bank up to once a day. The organization services over 3,000 students at the university and provides fresh produce, toiletries, and canned goods. Additionally, the program provides meal tickets and gift cards to the IV Co-op. The Food Bank is a strong resource for students who need a quick snack in between classes and those looking for some locally sourced produce and non-perishable goods.

Located in the University Center and a short walk from Ortega Dining Commons, the Food Bank is handy for first-year students looking to supplement their meal plan, and especially for those who have just begun cooking for themselves- whether it be in the residence halls or off-campus.

Expert tip: The Food Bank has a microwave and small hang-out area, so this can be a great place to grab a snack, heat up food, or simply take a breather before class!

You can find more information here: https://foodbank.as.ucsb.edu

A little help from your friends: Mentoring and advising

UCSB offers a community like no other. When in need of some guidance, whether it be academic or social, there are a variety of resources to provide you with the answers that you are seeking out. The Undergraduate Mentorship Program, ONDAS Center, EOP, and CLAS all offer peer mentorship services so that you can learn from those who have gone through a similar transition as you and who have similar interests. In addition, Pre–Professional Advising offers career-specified advising for those who plan on attending law school or medical school.

• Undergraduate Mentorship Program

The Undergraduate Mentorship Program for the College of Letters & Sciences works to provide first-year students with a peer-to-peer mentorship relationship. Together, the mentors and mentees focus on developing academic skills, increasing their self-awareness, enhancing their sense of belonging and self-esteem, and creating value-based goals.

First-year students who receive an invite or who want to become involved can apply to become mentees following their first quarter at UCSB. Throughout winter and spring, the experienced undergraduate mentors meet weekly with their mentees to work on activities such as mindfulness practices, goal setting, learning styles, and study sessions. This is a fantastic program to enable first-year students with increased support from advisors and increased awareness of campus resources

You can find more information here: https://duels.ucsb.edu/academics/academic-success/mentor

Expert tip: After participating as a mentee you may have the opportunity to become a mentor and help first-year students like your mentor helped you!

• Opening New Doors to Accelerating Success Student Center

Known on the UCSB campus as the ONDAS Center, Opening New Doors to Accelerating Success Student Center creates a space for first-generation and underrepresented students to connect with one another and faculty members. Through weekly programs, such as Office Hours with OSC Peers, Real Talk, STEM Power Hour, Grad School Guidance, Academic Advising, and Professional Staff Office Hours, the ONDAS Center fosters an inclusive and helpful community.

In addition to their weekly programs, the ONDAS Center holds a Speaker Series with academic professionals for students and faculty to learn more about inclusivity and student success. Upon entering this space, you will be greeted with welcoming faces ready to provide you with additional support.

You can find more information here: https://ondas.ucsb.edu

Expert tip: You can sign up on their website to receive the ONDAS Newsletter in order to stay informed about upcoming events.

• Pre-Professional Advising: Pre-law and Pre-Health

In addition to college and department advising, UCSB offers advising tailored to those interested in law and health professions. Pre-Professional Advising is designed to help students plan and navigate the process of continuing their education after their undergraduate experience. While you may be unsure of your career aspirations upon entering your first year, Pre-Professional Advising can inform you of some possible paths to take.

Offering both drop-in hours and scheduled appointments, Pre-Professional Advising guarantees help for answering your questions. Both Pre-Health and Pre-Law advising can offer you academic guidance and guidance regarding experiences outside of the classroom.

You can find more information here: https://duels.ucsb.edu/professional

Expert tip: Visit the Pre-Professional Advising website for a breakdown of the law school and medical school application process.

• Educational Opportunity Program

EOP provides a variety of networking, social opportunities, advising, and academic support sessions for first-generation and income-eligible college students. Mentorship opportunities are available for students looking to serve a leadership role. EOP is essentially a great place to meet other like-minded students, and get to know staff members who share similar college experiences.

Pro tip: Visiting EOP in the early days of freshman year can be a great way to start off your academic journey at UCSB, as well as an opportunity to form relationships with professional staff members.

You can find more information here: http://eop.sa.ucsb.edu//

• Campus Learning Assistance Services

CLAS is a campus department that provides free tutoring opportunities for all UCSB registered students. Their purpose is to help with everything from Economics, to Writing, to language-related courses, and study skills. Appointments are free and can be booked using your netID and password- you don’t even need to create your own account! Aside from getting help in challenging classes, this is a great way to meet other like-minded students in your major/ begin to form a community!

CLAS is also a wonderful employment opportunity for third year and above students. Applications open in the spring of the previous academic year, and interviews are conducted throughout the quarter. The friendly directors and camaraderie from other student staff members make this a great place to work!

Pro tip: CLAS tutoring courses open up the first day of the given academic quarter so in order to secure a spot, it is important to be proactive, plan ahead, and set an alarm!

You can find more information here: http://clas.sa.ucsb.edu/

Even more opportunities: Accommodations and research

• Undergraduate Research Center

Individuals who need funding for their research projects can visit this department in order to do so, as well as network with other students engaging in similar research topics. Even though engaging in research may seem like a daunting task, visiting the URC can help you connect with topics that interest you and learn the grant-application process. Visiting the URC even as early as Freshman year can help students feel more comfortable with the research process.

You can find more information here: https://undergrad.research.ucsb.edu

• Disabled Students Program

DSP is a place for students to learn about the many accommodations and support that they can receive in their classes. For students who do not receive accommodations, these individuals can make a few extra dollars by signing up to be a notetaker for a class they are enrolled in or serve as a proctor during finals. The

Pro tip: For students interested in becoming a notetaker, the portal opens the first day of the quarter and functions on a first-come-first serve basis. Students can make $25/ unit for simply submitting their meticulous notes throughout the quarter!

You can find more information here: http://dsp.sa.ucsb.edu//

Sicily:

1. Undergraduate mentorship program: 1st year mentees, 3rd and 4th year mentors
2. https://duels.ucsb.edu/academics/academic-success/mentor
3. To provide first-year students with a peer-to-peer mentorship relationship to develop their academic skills, increase their self-awareness, enhance their sense of belonging and self-esteem, and create value-based goals.
4. ONDAS Center
5. https://ondas.ucsb.edu
6. Creates an inclusive space for students to connect with one another, university staff, and faculty. Provides peer mentoring and programs to foster community in hopes to promote the success and retention of first-generation and underrepresented students at UCSB.
7. Pre-Professional Advising: Pre-law and Pre-health
8. https://duels.ucsb.edu/professional
9. Provides pre-law and pre-health advising in order to guide students through the complex path of continuing their career-focused education following graduation.
10. CAPS
11. Health and wellness
12. http://wellness.sa.ucsb.edu/
13. Works to support the overall well-being of students at UCSB through hosting events and offering services catered to forming healthy habits. Some of their most popular events are dog therapy days, meditation drop-ins, and cooking workshops.

Rebecca:

1. EOP
2. http://eop.sa.ucsb.edu//
3. Purpose: To provide community for first-generation college students and a sense of support from staff members who were also first-gen. EOP offers a variety of networking and social opportunities, as well as advising and academic support sessions.
4. Undergraduate Research center
5. https://undergrad.research.ucsb.edu
6. Purpose: Individuals who need funding for their research projects can visit this department in order to do so, as well as network with other students engaging in similar research topics.
7. AS Food Bank
8. https://foodbank.as.ucsb.edu
9. Purpose: Students can use their access card to “swipe” into the food bank up to once a day. The organization services over 3,000 students at the university and provides fresh produce, toiletries, and canned goods. Additionally, the program provides meal tickets and gift cards to the IV Co-op.
10. Disabled Student Program
11. http://dsp.sa.ucsb.edu//
12. Purpose: A place for students to learn about the many accommodations and support that they can receive in their classes. For students who do not receive accommodations, these individuals can make a few extra dollars by signing up to be a notetaker for a class they are enrolled in.
13. CLAS
14. http://clas.sa.ucsb.edu/
15. Purpose: To help students with everything from Economics, to Writing, to language-related courses, and study skills. Appointments are free and can be booked using your netID and password- you don’t even need to create your own account! Aside from getting help in challenging classes, this is a great way to meet other like-minded students in your major/ begin to form a community!

Free Tuesday Films

As a student at UC Santa Barbara, you actually have access to a lot of free resources and events. These films are put on by the A.S. Program Board every quarter. Not just old hits, a lot of newly released films are shown.

With only a UCSB Access Card required, movies are free. Be sure to stock up on snacks from the nearby 7-11 or even a slice from Pizza My Heart because you are more than welcome to bring ‘em in.

Showings are at IV Theater. Find the film schedule on Facebook here!

Magic Lantern Films

While not free, the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center also shows new films for just $4. There are two show times (7PM and 10PM) at IV Theater. View their scheduled showings online!

IV Live Presents Improvability

Seeking a more interactive experience? Need a laugh after spending hours in the library? For just $3, you can find UCSB’s premier improvisational comedy troupe performing every Friday evening at 8 pm in Embarcadero Hall in Isla Vista.

Delighting audiences with themed shows, a dynamic cast, and the funniest skits anywhere, IMPROVABILITY is the way to get your weekend started! Voted “Best Late Night Entertainment” at UCSB! Learn more about them on their page!

Student Organization Events

On the lookout for something a bit more meaningful? Join an organization on campus! Or, just support them! The most recent event put on was the 21st Vietnamese Culture Night In Full Bloom on May 18, 2019. The spectacle is produced and put on by the campus’s Vietnamese Student Association. “In Full Bloom” explored the story of Han Le, a twenty-one-year-old community college dropout who has forgone a college education to help out at her mother’s restaurant. As the protagonist comes of age, she struggles to come to terms with the overwhelming sense of debt that she feels towards her single mother. When someone new comes into her life, however, Han is forced to confront the implications of her indebtedness on her queer identity and dreams for the future. The show incorporates a dazzling diversity of entertainment: acting, singing, spoken word, and dancing (contemporary, traditional, hip-hop, and pop). All of the acts were coordinated by UCSB students themselves. 2018’s full show is available on Youtube here. Vietnamese Student Association also hosts an extremely amusing and fun time at their Pho King competition (male pageant contest) in winter quarter. If you would like to see what Vietnamese Student Association has to offer, you can find the most updated information on their Facebook page. Kapatirang Pilipino had showcased their student-organized Pilipino Culture Night earlier this winter quarter as well! There are, however, several other cultural oriented groups on campus. If you aren’t looking for a cultural organization in particular, there are countless other events put on my organizations, such as: Alpha Kappa Psi’s Refugee Benefit Show (talent), Isla Vista Improvability (comedy). SS805 dance showcases, Naked Voices concerts, etc. Stay in the loop by getting involved on-campus.

IV Open Market

Here’s an opportunity to walk around and admire the beauty that is Isla Vista, as well as support the community. This is an event where Isla Vistans can take part in something something wholesome while enjoying the weather. It all goes down at Little Acorn Park, which is right across the street from 7-Eleven. Whether it be secondhand clothing, vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, sustainably made clothing, you might find it there. It is also an opportunity to Marie Kondo your life and sell whatever no longer sparks joy. If you’re moving out of dorms or into a new place, get rid of what you have been hoarding. Support small businesses and be sustainable. There are usually 30+ vendors participating. You will definitely be able to find something for yourself. But, if you’re trying to save up, you can pay $10 to be a vendor yourself! To see what is being offered and when, these events are can be easily located in your Facebook search engine.

UCSB Student Events

Gauchos are blessed by the A.S. Program Board and all their efforts to bring the best acts to our campus. Previous artists that have performed in the Hub have included Mura Masa, Khalid, Robotaki. Not only are there countless concerts and Battle of the Bands/DJs planned by the AS Board in the Hub but there is the most anticipated event of spring quarter—Extravaganza. The 2018-2019 school year was gifted the following line-up.

Basically UCSB’s very own festival, you are free to come dance out the post-Coachella blues or exam-induced stress at Extravaganza. For UCSB students only, the day concert only requires an Access card and a bit of a trek to Harder Stadium. However, if you’re not feeling music, there are a plethora of other events made available. From Free Bagel days to Free Goat Yoga and events with distinguished people (ex: In Conversation with Nathan Fielder), you would be hard-pressed to not find something to do here in Isla Vista. For more information on all A.S. related events, you may find it on their Facebook or site! So, go out there and have fun!

The Santa Barbara Public Library provides information services, reading materials, and educational resources to residents of all ages from the Santa Ynez Valley to Carpinteria. It is located in Downtown Santa Barbara on the corner of Anacapa and Anapamu street, conveniently in the heart of the Cultural Arts District of Santa Barbara. If you are a UCSB student and lack personal transportation, taking the SB MTD 11 bus route can take you to the Library downtown.

I have been a student at UCSB for the past four years and I never visited the Santa Barbara Public Library until I started interning for the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation. As my supervisor took me on my first tour of the Library, I immediately was in awe of the open space and welcoming charisma of the Library staff. The first floor includes the three Faulkner Galleries where local art is displayed and rotated every month. You can also rent out these spaces on the library’s website. The open windows on the Anacapa side of the library provides a beautiful street view of the courthouse and natural light for those who want a quiet, bright place to study. I was also taken downstairs to the Children’s Library where they offer Early Literacy Skills programs and resources for both English and non-English speaking children.

With the help of the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation, the Library will be renovating the outside plaza this fall. The new Michael Towbes Library Plaza will be an accessible outdoor space for the Library’s programming, creating a unifying space where the community can regather and learn in the vibrant Cultural Arts District downtown.

Whether you’re a student, child, adult, or senior citizen, the Library is a source of civic engagement and a hub for mutual aid available to people of all backgrounds. Below is a list of available resources that the library provides as well as notable programs that are available to everyone with a library card.

Resources Provided:

• Meeting rooms available to local organizations by prior arrangement by calling 805-962-7653
• Faulkner Gallery (seating capacity 190)
• Faulkner Gallery East (seating capacity 15)
• Faulkner Gallery West (seating capacity 15)
• Art exhibits and displays
• Typewriter
• Public Printing (B&W and Color), Public Wifi, Document Scanning, Mobile Printing, and Copy Machines
• Tech Lab: 3D Printer on-site and mobile availability
• Microfilm reader and printer
• Book Discussion Groups
• Homework Help Center
• Book Sales: The Central Library has an ongoing book sale in the library

Programs:

Adult Literacy Services

The Library offers free one-on-one tutoring to promote adult literacy in the community. Free These services are available to adults who want help in:

• Improving reading, writing, and spelling skills in English or Spanish
• Improving their ability to speak and understand English
• Working towards a General Education Diploma
• Studying to become a U.S. citizen

This program is meant to be personalized to everyone’s learning needs and educational goals. They also offer Spanish tutors for those who are Spanish speakers and want to improve in reading and writing. You qualify for these services if you are 16 or older, available for 2-3 hours a week for tutoring and will be staying in the Santa Barbara area for at least 6 months. To schedule an interview or for any questions, call 805-564-5619 (English) or 805-962-7653 (press #3 for Spanish).

SB Reads

Santa Barbara Reads is the Santa Barbara Public Library’s annual month-long community reading program. Every year, the Santa Barbara Public Library selects a specific book and encourages everyone in the community to read together. The Library then hosts several events to allow further exploration of the chosen book’s themes.

The Library on The Go Mobile Van

This van is equipped with trained staff, resources, and materials to mobily bring the library to any location. This van provides: Materials, check out, Free public Wi-Fi, Laptop computer use at select stops, Document printing at select stops, Library card registration, Hold pick up at select stops, Library programs for various ages at select stops, Assistance with Library accounts, use of the library catalog, and placing requests. The Library also hosts a “Library On The Go” cocktail happy hour throughout the year to engage with the community.