The Goleta Valley Library recently launched its new service, Check-In with a Librarian. Library patrons who live alone, are feeling lonely, or just need someone new to talk to, can sign up to receive a phone call from one of the friendly Goleta Valley Library staff members. Suggested topics for discussion include book or movie recommendations, information on online library services, reference questions, or just a general check in to chat! To schedule your Check-In with a Librarian, complete this online form or call (805) 964-7878.
Library Director Allison Gray said, “The Goleta Valley Library wants the community to continue to explore, study, and read, while the library’s doors are closed. We know how important it is to stay connected during these isolating times, so we are doing as much as we can to continue serving our patrons’ needs and to stay close to our community members.”
The library has also recently launched a live tech tutoring program and free craft kits for kids. During this time, it is vital for people to be able to stay in touch using technology, so the Goleta Valley Library has transitioned its in-person tech tutoring to live video chat or over the phone tutoring. Library patrons can receive personalized one-on-one help with their laptop, tablet, cell phone, smart TV, etc… Assistance is available for general usage as well as how to access the library’s numerous downloadable options providing free e-books, audiobooks, movies, TV shows, graphic novels, and magazines to patrons. Anyone who could use a little help with their devices should take advantage of this program.
Live one-on-one Tech Tutoring is available with a trained library staff member Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. by appointment. Sessions are 30 or 60 minutes depending on the help needed. Fill out the Library’s Live Tech Tutoring Request Form and a staff member will confirm your date and time. You can also call (805) 964-7878 to schedule an appointment. Spanish language support is also available; complete the form in Spanish here.
If you don’t have a Goleta Valley or Santa Ynez Valley Library card, and live in those areas, you can still get one that allows you access to downloadable services by going to the Black Gold eCard Registration webpage.
For access to all of the library’s FREE electronic resources, programs, and activities please visit GoletaValleyLibrary.org. For more activities for children, stay in touch with the Goleta Valley Library on its Facebook page (@GoletaValleyLibrary). You will find recorded and live programs such as Wiggly Storytime, Family Storytime, craft programs and more. The Buellton and Solvang Libraries also have programming on Facebook as well: Buellton and Solvang.
The library has also put together a page on their website called “Ideas to Keep Busy at Home for all Ages.” The page is categorized to make it easy to find what you are looking for, and has numerous resources to keep everyone busy. Categories include nature and animal live streams, brain games, writer’s workshops, teen corner, children’s authors and stories, and many, many more.
For more information on programs and services available from the library, as well as digital resources you can access, go to www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.