The coronavirus crisis has led to the shutdown of public libraries on the Central and South Coasts. All Ventura County Library branches are closed. Due dates for borrowed materials have been extended and no late fines are assessed. People can still return materials using outside book drops or wait until the Library reopens. There is no projected reopening at this time.
Santa Barbara Public Library has closed all of its branches. Library officials hope to reopen April 6th. Santa Barbara’s librarians are still available for reference and information services during business hours via phone or online chats.
And, Goleta has closed its library system. It includes branches in Goleta, and ones it manages in Buellton, Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. People who have library cards with the system can still access its e-library, the free movie streaming service Kanopy, and the New York Times online.