As Sidewalk Service continues to provide patrons with new library materials, staff at the Goleta, Buellton and Solvang libraries are finding ways to actively connect with members of the community through weekly virtual programs. Patrons can tune in for live storytimes, craft workshops, book clubs and more from the comfort of their homes as we follow guidance from the Public Health Department on staying safe during the pandemic. Virtual programs are offered on a regular basis for all ages, ranging from Baby & Toddler Storytime, to the Teen Graphic Novel Book Club, to the Bring Your Own Book Club for adults. All programs can be enjoyed through Facebook, YouTube, or GoToMeeting, with instructions provided in the Library Events Calendar listing for each program on how to attend.
Community members can also tune in for special programming each week, such as the library’s ongoing Special Guest Storytime project and Book to Action events. Special Guest Storytime is a new program that spotlights members of the community reading their favorite picture books online for children to enjoy. The program launched in May with a wonderful reading from Mayor Paula Perotte of the beloved story Silly Sally by Audrey Wood and has since continued with a wealth of support from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, UCSB Classics Department, and other local individuals and organizations. Book to Action is a community reading program in which members of the community read the same title collectively, participate in programs related to the themes of the book, and join their efforts to take action for a relevant cause through a culminating event at the end of the program. This year’s program focuses on the book Strays: A Lost Cat, a Homeless Man & Their Journey Across America by Britt Collins and will conclude with a Donation Drive for Local Animal Organizations held onsite at the Goleta, Solvang and Buellton libraries. Weekly Book to Action programming includes themed storytimes, crafts, book discussions and more! Additional information about these programs can be found on the library website on the Special Guest Storytime and 2020 Book to Action Program webpages.
Lastly, the library is offering personalized programs for patrons who would like to chat with a librarian or who are in need of technical assistance through the Check In with a Librarian and Tech Tutoring programs. These programs are designed to provide support to patrons during the closure to ensure that they are still feeling connected and that they can receive the help they need to access information in an increasingly virtual environment. Both programs are available by appointment on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. A form is available on the library’s website where patrons can submit a request and a library staff member will reach out to meet their needs.
The staff at the Goleta, Solvang and Buellton libraries miss the wonderful patrons who attend our programs and we look forward to the day when it is safe to hold events in-person once again. Until that time, we look forward to connecting with you virtually! The library staff is working hard to provide an important service during these difficult times. Please be respectful of them and take a moment to let them know you are thankful and appreciative.
Visit the Library Events Calendar for a full list of virtual programs at the Goleta, Solvang and Buellton libraries. For more information go to www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.
Pictured: Facebook Live videos available at www.facebook.com/GoletaValleyLibrary (above) and Mr. Marcos doing bilingual virtual storytime (top right)