Friends continues a rich tradition of active and vocal support to ensure excellent library services for the community. Going forward, we will continue to work with City leaders and Library administration to ensure a first-class public library for the Santa Barbara community. See below to learn more about how you can get involved.

WHAT IS LIBRARY ADVOCACY?

Although private funding can enhance the public library, the majority of library funding should come from public sources. The Friends advocacy efforts are intended to ensure adequate public funding exists to support a premier library system.

DOES ADVOCACY MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

YES! In 2004, in order to cut costs, it was proposed that the hours at Central and the Eastside branch be reduced. It was through advocacy that the drastic cuts were avoided, particularly at the Eastside Branch.

ISN'T THE LIBRARY USED LESS TODAY THAN BEFORE?

No! In fact, the use of the library has been near an all time high for the last several years. Although the library is available to all area residents and visitors, only 37.22% of city residents are registered borrowers. As you can see there was a dramatic jump in usage from 1990 to 2000. It was during this time that the library updated its systems to make the library process more user friendly. An automated telephone system was purchased to renew books. A web site was developed to browse the library catalog, reserve and renew books, use interlibrary loan, ask reference questions. Computer stations were added to the library so anyone could have access to the internet and that information highway.

Advocacy is the avenue of insuring the library has the funds to continue to serve our growing community by being able to keep up with all the technological advances. Please register to be part of the Advocacy Network.

WHO CONTROLS SBPL'S OPERATING BUDGET?

The Santa Barbara Public Library's Operating Budget is determined by various levels of government: 72% comes from the general city fund and 28% comes from the County Library Fund. The Library also receives grants from the California Public Library Foundation.

The Mayor, City Council and the County Board of Supervisors determine the amount allocated from the General Fund Subsidy during its budget hearing. The budget is currently set through June 2007.

You, as a voter, help elect people to each of these offices.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

During any election year, help us make sure candidates for all city offices - the Mayor, City Council, and Library Board - are talking about library funding. Pay particular attention to the Council members who are on the Finance Committee. Too often, library issues have been left to Library Board candidates alone, who are not empowered to independently increase library resources. When you see candidates, ask them if they consider improved library funding a city priority and, if so, what their plan is to help our library system.

How to contact the Mayor and City Council:

Board of Supervisors

Mayor and Council

Mailing
Post Office Box 1990
Santa Barbara, CA 93102-1990

City Hall
735 Anacapa Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Fax: (805) 564-5475
Voice: (805) 564-5318

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