Library Night Live raises more than $160,000 for Santa Barbara Public Library literacy programs

The Michael Towbes Library Plaza buzzed with music, storytelling, and community spirit last Thursday as more than 200 guests attended the inaugural Library Night Live, a sold-out benefit for the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation that netted over $160,000 for local literacy programs.

Designed to spotlight the Library as the evening’s headliner, the plaza transformed into an immersive venue with wines from Rideau Vineyards, Pali Wine Co., Au Bon Climat, Samasara, Piazza, and For the Land; a menu by Duo Catering; and literary-themed cocktails by The Good Lion. Carpinteria Improv and Santa Barbara Improv performed throughout the night, while light installations by Bella Vista, event design by Tent Merchant, and art created by librarians and San Marcos Theater students set the scene.

Award-winning author Matt de la Peña delivered a keynote on storytelling, belonging, and the power of libraries that drew multiple standing ovations. The program also featured personal reflections from Danny Arroyo, the Library’s Adult Literacy Program Lead, along with tutor Barbara Wagner and parent Jennifer Harris, underscoring the impact of literacy services across generations.

“The vision for Library Night Live was to create an experience where the Library itself became the center of community life,” said Lauren Trujillo, executive director of the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation. “Seeing the Michael Towbes Library Plaza filled with so much energy, generosity, and joy was incredibly meaningful.”

A live auction led by Jim Nye offered experiences including a private Party on the Plaza and the chance to name a character in author Gail Kvistad’s next book. The night concluded with a book signing by de la Peña in partnership with Chaucer’s Books.

Funds raised will directly support adult literacy services, early childhood reading programs, and outreach efforts that expand access to learning for readers of all ages. The Foundation thanked the Library Night Live Host Committee—Jennifer Zacharias, Willie Simpson, Rosalyn D’Incelli, Boyd Bailey, Co-Chair David McFadden, and Co-Chair Robyn O’Hearn—for their leadership and support.

The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation advances the Library’s mission through advocacy, fundraising, and community partnerships that strengthen literacy, learning, and access for all.