The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation has announced its Board of Directors for Fiscal Year 2026-27, featuring a new slate of officers and the addition of three community leaders.

The board officers are: Anna Alldredge and Raissa Smorol, co-presidents;  Anne Howard, vice president; Peter Ginsberg, secretary; and Brooke McDermott, treasurer.
           
New board members are:

Pat Caird: A longtime Santa Barbara resident, Caird brings a passion for local history, philanthropy, and community engagement.

After a career in her family’s wholesale nursery business, she has dedicated herself to preserving her family’s local legacy while supporting numerous nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Barbara, the foundation said.
           
Ally Meier: A financial advisor with Arlington Financial Advisors, Meier specializes in financial planning, retirement strategies, tax planning, and wealth management.

A former Junior League of Santa Barbara board member and active community volunteer, she is ardent about helping individuals and families thrive while making a positive impact in the community, the foundation said.
           
Chryss Yost: Santa Barbara Poet Laureate from 2013-15, Yost is an award-winning poet, editor, educator, and co-editor/designer of Gunpowder Press.

A longtime advocate for poetry education, she brings an appreciation for literature, creativity, and lifelong learning to the foundation.

Continuing their service on the board are Paloma Arnold, Belma Johnson, David McFadden, and Luke Swetland.
 
“We are honored to serve as co-presidents of the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation during this exciting time,” said Alldredge and Smorol.

“Together with our fellow board members, we look forward to strengthening community support for our public library and ensuring it continues to inspire lifelong learning, connection, and opportunity for everyone,” they said.

The Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation’s mission is to support the long-term health and sustainability of the Santa Barbara Public Library through public-private partnerships.

To learn more or to support the foundation’s work, visit www.sblibraryfoundation.org.