Grand Opening Planned for Michael Towbes Library Plaza in November

The community’s prolonged wait is over as the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation announces the grand celebration for the opening of the much-anticipated Michael Towbes Library Plaza. The festivities are all set for November 3rd, inviting the locals to revel in the joy and community spirit from 12 to 4 PM.

The “Plaza Palooza” will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a new chapter in the plaza’s storied evolution. As soon as the Santa Barbara Public Library finalizes the preparations, the fences will be removed, unveiling the plaza as a dynamic hub for the community.

Boasting a lineup that spans multiple forms of artistic expression, the event will feature performances from notable groups such as the Santa Barbara Symphony, State Street Ballet, Flamenco! Santa Barbara, Franklin Academy of Folklorico, and more.

In alignment with the community-centric vision, the entire stretch of Anapamu Street will be pedestrianized, accommodating booths of over 40 nonprofits providing activities that cater to all ages. The day is set to be an outreach opportunity for these organizations, showcasing the diverse initiatives and charitable causes within Santa Barbara.

Beyond the cultural showcases, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of food truck offerings, ensuring an array of flavors complement the day’s festivities. Add to that Library tours, a book sale hosted by Friends of the Library, and specially curated film screenings in the Faulkner Gallery for a rich tapestry of interactive experiences.

The below promotional video illustrates the plaza’s journey and the Santa Barbara Public Library’s story, highlighting the endless potential the space holds for the community.

In inviting the entire Santa Barbara community to join the festivities, the organizers promise not just an opening ceremony but an invitation to become a part of the library’s evolving narrative.