Chaucer’s Books is thrilled to announce a series of events and a storytelling contest in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, Chaucer’s Books has been a cornerstone of the Santa Barbara community, offering a wide selection of books, author events, and a welcoming space for readers of all ages.

To mark this significant milestone, Chaucer’s Books is hosting a five-week-long celebration filled with activities designed to celebrate storytelling, books and Santa Barbara. The free anniversary events will take place at the bookstore from Sept. 25-Nov. 1 and include:

● Creative Workshops: A series of four workshops led by local authors, illustrators, poets, and zinesters invite Santa Barbarans to tell their stories in different creative formats.

● Captivating Storytelling: Engage in two community storytimes — one a storytime of exploration, make-believe, and community, and the other an after-hours creepy short stories event.

● Birthday Bash: Enjoy stories from the community, words from special guests (like Pico Iyer and T.C. Boyle), sweets, sales, singing from Quire of Voyces, surprises, and celebration!

In addition to the free community events, Chaucer’s Books is launching a “Tell Us Your Story” Contest, inviting folks to share their favorite memories and experiences related to the bookstore, as well as how reading and books have impacted their lives. Participants can submit their stories, poems, photos, or artwork that capture any of these elements. Many of the creative workshops can help community members bring their stories to life.

Contest Details:

● Submission Deadline: Wednesday, Oct. 23

● How to Enter: Submit entries in-store or online at https://forms.gle/imCttC8E96pgr3bYA 

● Prizes: Two winners, one youth entry (under 18 years old or in 12th grade or below) and one adult entry, will receive a $100 Chaucer’s Books gift certificate

● Winners Announcement: Monday, Oct. 28

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and love the store has received from our community over the past 50 years,” said Jen Lemberger, co-owner of Chaucer’s Books. “This celebration is our way of giving back and sharing our appreciation with those who have helped make our bookstore a special place.”

For more information about the anniversary events and contest, please visit https://www.chaucersbooks.com/50th-anniversary-events-chaucers-books or contact info@chaucersbooks.com.

About Chaucer’s Books:
Chaucer’s Books is a woman- and veteran-owned independent bookstore in the Loreto Plaza. Founded in 1974, Chaucer’s Books has been a cherished part of the Santa Barbara community, providing a wide range of books and hosting numerous events to engage readers. Over the years, it has become a gathering place for book enthusiasts and a promoter of literary culture.

50^th Anniversary Event Details:

● Creative Workshops

○ Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 5:45 p.m. = Poetry of Place: Poetry Workshop with Poet, Author, and SBCC Professor Joshua Escobar

○ Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 5:45 p.m. = Writing Our Lives: Short Story Workshop with Local Authors/Memoirists Patricia Fancher + Jenna Tico

○ Sunday, Oct. 6 at 2 p.m. = Draw Your Story! (All Ages): Comics Workshop with Illustrator + Author Emma Steinkellner

○ Sunday, Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. = Storytelling Thru Zines: Zine-Making Workshop with Librarian + Archivist Dez Alaniz

● Captivating Storytelling

○ Saturday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m. = Community Storytime with Miss Angel

○ Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 8 p.m. = Stories After Dark with Local Author Craig Clevenger and Santa Barbara Area Thespians

● Birthday Bash

○ Friday, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m.