Libraries

The Central Library in Santa Barbara was the first place I went to the day after I arrived here. And I've never regretted that. In fact, one of the main reasons why I've become attached to this place is this library.

Over the months, I've seen new books come on the shelves, old ones being sold off at discount prices. I've seen innumerable events being organized in the three art galleries, and children's reading sessions, non-profit meetings, art competitions being held. I've been a participant and onlooker in many. And the experiences have been wide ranging.

The notice boards at the library are spots where one could gather information about the goings-on in the city, and the public magazine racks are the places where one could pick up something or the other that interests one.

The VCD and DVD/CD section is quite large, but the magazine and periodicals section is even better. I can get my favourite Artists Magazine from here, as I can get Saturday Evening Post, or anything I prefer.

And the reading rooms are welcoming. There are enough chairs to sit on, and tables if one required a flat surface to make notes.

The computer section is most of the time booked beforehand, and one has to wait to get one's slot. But that is ok. The service is commendable. And all this comes for free.

With so many books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, audio books, etc around, I think how different it is from countries that are less prosperous, that cannot provide such an extensive system and facilities to its citizens. I wish things were more equal in the world.