Services You Should Take Advantage of in Santa Maria: Local Library

Santa Maria Public Library

In an age of consumerism and technology, many community services—often free and government-funded—go overlooked. These resources can help residents save money, gain new skills, and access important tools for personal and professional development.

If you’re looking to cut back on expenses, start by evaluating your regular purchases. For instance, books now often cost more than $15. While Kindle subscriptions may lower costs, the most budget-friendly option is a free library card—available to any city resident.

But Santa Maria Public Library offers far more than books. Cardholders can borrow DVDs and Blu-rays, use public computers, and reserve study rooms. These spaces are ideal for remote workers or group meetings but are available on a first-come, first-served basis and typically have time limits.

While most services are free, overdue items may incur fines. DVDs and Blu-rays carry a late fee of 25 cents per day (for each day the library is open). Most other materials have the same fee, except for Book Club in a Bag kits, which have a $1 daily late fee.

More Than Books

The library offers additional services to cardholders, including:

• Research assistance: Trained reference staff are available to help with projects and research papers. Cardholders can also access online tools such as:

  
  

  • AtoZdatabases – Career planning, resume building, cover letter templates, and interview tips.

  • MasterFILE Premier – Full-text access to magazines, academic journals, and reference books covering topics like business, health, science, and multicultural issues.

• Online learning platforms:

  
  

  • Duolingo – Language learning.

  • Coursera – Hundreds of college-level courses and certificate programs from universities and top companies, available for free with your library card.

Free Park Access

Cardholders can also check out California State Park passes, which waive entrance fees for over 200 participating parks across the state. Each pass covers one vehicle with up to nine people and is valid for up to seven days.

Planning a hike or camping trip? Borrow a Nature Explorer Backpack, which includes:

• California state map

• Backpack checklist

• Crank radio

• Binoculars

• Garmin handheld GPS

• First aid kit

• Park pass

• Nine nature-themed books

These kits offer a convenient way to explore the outdoors while learning about California’s environment.

A Valuable Community Resource

The Santa Maria Public Library provides essential tools and programs for free, helping residents learn, explore and save. This fall, consider applying for a library card and making full use of everything your local library has to offer.

For more information or to apply for a library card, visit cityofsantamaria.org/library.