Santa Barbara Public Library in full swing since Reopening nearly six months ago
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Since the reopening of the Santa Barbara Public Library, families have returned to the children’s center, which is now packed daily after months of closure.
“It’s fabulous. There are so many things to do—great books and toys—and he just loves to come, spend time here, and explore the library,” said patron Lucinda Aragon.
"It's phenomenal to come in and see the layout and the wonderful work they did renovating the library," said patron Winona Baldenegro.
In addition to expanded open space and a new computer system, patrons are enjoying new activities, including free yoga and sewing classes for the community.
“We’ve seen a lot more patrons—our foot traffic is up. We’re excited to invite people into our spaces again. We’re fully operational seven days a week. We’ve added computers to our inventory and are seeing an increase in attendance throughout our programming, especially in our children’s and youth services,” said acting Director Brandon Beaudette.
Library Plaza Opens After Delays, Leadership Changes
The Michael Towbes Library Plaza officially opened in late October following several delays, including funding challenges and delivery hurdles.
Before the plaza opened, former Library Director Jessica Cadiente was placed on leave in March. City officials never disclosed a reason for her departure.
According to Noozhawk, Cadiente and Library Services Manager Molly Wetta were vocal about noise and dust exposure during construction. Wetta was also placed on leave in March.
A settlement agreement with the city states Cadiente will receive $500,000, which includes attorney’s fees.
The city also reached a settlement with former Public Works Director Cliff Maurer, who was in charge of public works at the time of the plaza's construction. Maurer’s last day with the city was Feb. 12, according to an email to staff obtained by Noozhawk.
Maurer’s settlement includes a lump-sum payment of one year’s total compensation, amounting to $281,498.46.
Both Cadiente and Maurer’s settlements include non-disparagement agreements.
Library Seeks to Expand Community Offerings
Library volunteers believe the facility has become a more active gathering place and even a cultural center for the community.
“It has really opened things up to make it more inviting … the library is working to do more and more to bring people in," Beaudette said.
The public library hopes its newly renovated plaza will help expand partnerships and resources to better serve the community.
“I’m excited that it’s open, and I think he is too. I look forward to him coming here and reading many books so he can learn to read," Aragon said.
Since the completion of construction, all public spaces have reopened, including the fireplace room, all three floors, the technology lab, and a new ADA-compliant elevator.
“My hope is that we continue to find community resources that can help people—resources they might not know about—to connect them with things not necessarily associated with books. Whether they need to learn how to sew, fix their computer, or repair their bike, we want the library to be a resource for them,” Beaudette said.
Since reopening nearly six months ago, the Santa Barbara Public Library has been in full swing with expanded partnerships and a steady return of patrons.
