The Michael Towbes Library Plaza came alive recently as more than 200 guests gathered for the inaugural Library Night Live, a celebration of stories, creativity and community benefiting the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation.
With the library itself as the evening’s headliner, the sold-out event turned the plaza into a celebration space filled with music, storytelling, food, wine, art, and live performances.
Thanks to the generosity of guests and supporters, the event netted more than $160,000 in support of Santa Barbara Public Library literacy programs serving children, families and adults throughout the community, organizers said.
“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. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the evening possible.” Trujillo said.
Attendees enjoyed wines from Rideau Vineyards, Pali Wine Co., Au Bon Climat, Samasara, Piazza, and For the Land, alongside a menu by Duo Catering and literary-themed cocktails created by The Good Lion.
Interactive performances by Carpinteria Improv and Santa Barbara Improv animated the plaza, while twinkling light installations by Bella Vista, event design by Tent Merchant, and art installations created by librarians and San Marcos Theater students transformed the space into an immersive experience.
A highlight of the evening was the keynote address from award-winning author Matt de la Peña, whose remarks on storytelling, belonging, and the transformative power of libraries resonated with attendees.
Speaking about his own relationship with books and literacy, de la Peña discussed the importance of libraries as spaces where everyone can feel seen, welcomed and inspired.
The program also featured personal stories from Danny Arroyo, the library’s Adult Literacy Program lead, and a tutor and parent of a student.
Barbara Wagner and Jennifer Harris shared their thoughts on the impact of literacy, learning, and human connection through the library’s programs.
“Their stories grounded the evening in the real-life experiences at the heart of the library’s mission and highlighted the transformative role the library plays across generations in Santa Barbara,” organizers said.
A live auction led by Jim Nye offered experiences such as a private party on the plaza, and the opportunity to name a character in author Gail Kvistad’s next book.
The evening concluded with a book signing featuring de la Peña through Chaucer’s Books.
The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation supports the Santa Barbara Public Library through advocacy, fundraising, and community partnerships that strengthen literacy, learning, and access for all.
The foundation thanks 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.
Funds raised through Library Night Live will directly support literacy initiatives across Santa Barbara, including adult literacy services, early childhood reading programs, and outreach efforts designed to expand access to learning opportunities for readers of all ages.