Enjoy Free, All-Ages Programming at Your Local Library

Community members of all ages are invited to attend engaging programs at the Goleta & Santa Ynez Valley Libraries this December. Classic favorites and innovative pilot programs are held each week at the Goleta Valley Library, Buellton Library, and Solvang Library locations.

Like borrowing library materials, attending a program is completely free, which helps create affordable, seasonal fun all month long.

Read below for details on what’s happening the rest of this month at your local library, and check out the full calendar at www.goletavalleylibrary.org/calendar to stay in the know on all our events year-round.

Goleta Valley Library Express
6500 Hollister Avenue, Suite 105, Goleta, CA 93117
805-964-7878

Goleta Valley Library staff are piloting exciting new adult programs this winter. Without dedicated space onsite to gather for programs at the library’s temporary GVL Express location, staff are hosting attendees at the Goleta Community Center, located at 5679 Hollister Avenue. In addition to the ever-popular Senior Happy Hour, Goodland Yarn Works, Mystery Book Club, and Writers’ Workshop, staff have designed programs to engage the community in new ways, such as learning mending, discussing literature, or sharing the joy of cinema.

• Film Club: Do you enjoy watching movies? Library Assistant Homer Morro is curating film screenings for group viewing and discussion. Join us to share thoughts, feedback, and humor on various film genres. All are welcome. Film club meets monthly and the next movie will be The Bishop’s Wife shown on Thursday, December 18, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
  
  
• Clara in the Land of Sweets: Join us for a seasonal dance performance from Inspire Dance Santa Barbara in celebration of their 10th year of performances with Goleta Valley Library! On Saturday, December 20 at 11:00 a.m., patrons of all ages are invited to the Goleta Community Center, where you will surely catch the holiday spirit as you enjoy favorite songs inspired by the Nutcracker and applaud the talents of local youth dancers ages 5-13. For more information, email info@inspiredancesb.com.

• Horror Book Club: Every other month, Library Technician Craig Clevenger takes you on a deep dive into the current renaissance of the horror genre. Aficionados and novices are all invited to discuss contemporary horror fiction from a diverse range of writers. December’s pick is The Eyes Are the Best Part by Monica Kim, meeting on Saturday, December 20, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
  
  
• Poetry Club: Whether you want to read a favorite poem or simply enjoy the voices of others, join us to discover new poets, explore different styles, and deepen your appreciation for the beauty and power of poetry. Library Technician Tara Patrick welcomes you to come together and hear favorite poems in a group setting on Sunday, December 21, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
  

Buellton Library
202 Dairyland Road, Buellton, CA 93427
805-688-3115

This is the perfect time to stop by Buellton Library, which is celebrating its first December at its new location after opening in February 2025. When you’re not attending a program, come sit by the fireplace with a cozy mystery and enjoy stunning views from this special neighborhood library.

• Letters to Santa: Did you know Buellton Library is helping deliver Santa’s letters this year? Use the paper provided at the library to write your letter or wish list and drop it in the North Pole Post mailbox in the children’s area by December 23. Come back after Christmas to pick up Santa’s response!
  
  
• Buellton Bookworms: Library Technician Zack DiPego invites you to join the Buellton Bookworms book club on Friday, December 19 at 1:00 p.m. for a lively discussion of this month’s bring-your-own-book theme. The December theme is “Family” – feel free to come to the front desk if you need any help finding something to read. For adults and teens.
  
  
• December Craft Day: Patrons of all ages can drop in any time between 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20 to make festive ornaments and cards with Library Technician Dana Iles. All supplies provided.
  
  
• Storytime: Join us for storytime every Monday at 10:30 a.m. for a few stories, songs and activities with Miss Dana. After storytime, feel free to stay and play with others! Best for ages five and under.

Solvang Library
1745 Mission Drive, Solvang, CA 93463
805-688-4214

Enjoy the brilliant seasonal lights on Mission Drive as you head to Solvang Library for lots of wintery fun, including crafts, guest speakers, and weekly doses of storytime magic. Plus, check out books on local history and browse bestsellers to find your next favorite read from our well-maintained stacks.

• Storytime: Gather on our bright storytime rug for books and songs with Library Technician Stephanie Quintero. Connect with others and build literacy skills every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Best for ages five and under.
  
  
• Fiber Arts Club: Are you looking for a place to work on your fiber art projects with a fun and supportive group of people? Our Fiber Arts Club is just the place for you! Branch Supervisor Erin Herzog facilitates this meeting every third Thursday of the month from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m., and December’s meeting will take place on December 18. Please bring your own supplies and materials. For adults and teens.

Library staff at the Goleta & Santa Ynez Valley Libraries look forward to welcoming you to our programs this month!