Book Lovers Happy About Restored Santa Barbara Library Hours

The main Santa Barbara Library is open again on Mondays. For the last two years, the library did not have adequate operating money. Now, with an improving economy there’s just enough to reopen the main library on Mondays and fill out the seven day a week schedule.”People are not used to the library being closed,” said Santa Barbara Librarian Irene Macias. “I would see families come up to the door, (when it was locked) mothers and kids and students with back packs.”But now the times are better. “Last Monday I had about seven calls congratulating me. It’s very heartening.”Seven year old Trevor Schuster had an arm load full of books about animals. He is in the summer reading program. Schuster is collecting points and prizes for the number of books he reads. “They can sign up and keep a log of their reading,” said Macias. “Ten days into the program we already had more sign ups than we had the entire season last year. We have performers that come once a week. We had 220 people for the first program.”W.W. Terry, a former radio host, says he comes to the library to “check out books and use the computer.” He adjusted his schedule when the library was closed but he’s glad it’s open again on Monday..The library staff says they also have volunteer computer coaches to teach those interested in computers a half hour lesson each time they sign up.The library is paid for through the city’s general fund budget but there is no charge to its users for a library card or many services and programs. “It’s free. I think that’s really important. Parents can bring their kids here and do something for free,” said Macias.”We love the books. The opportunity to have a place to come and get free books, it’s great,” said Debbie Schuster.KEY News Senior Reporter John Palminteri has our report.