Gallery Rentals

Artists using any of the gallery spaces are responsible for providing the necessary tools and equipment for installing and removing exhibit items, for providing any notice or publicity on the exhibit, and for insurance coverage.

Gallery walls are carpeted and ready for nails. Drilling is not allowed. 

Payment is due 1 month before rental of library spaces via check, credit card, or cash. Cash and credit card payments must be made in-person at the Santa Barbara Public Library. Checks may be mailed and should be made payable to:

Santa Barbara Public Library
Attn: Library Administration
PO Box 1019
Santa Barbara, CA 93102

Please note that all library exhibit areas also serve as community meeting spaces and may be scheduled for library events or for meetings, lectures, and presentations by other organizations.

For group exhibitions of artwork by members of a local non-profit art organization or association. Art groups must have a minimum of 20 members and have a jury or pre-selection process to be eligible.

Room size: 30’ x 50’ (1,500 sq. ft.)

$750

For one-person or small group shows by artists whose work has been selected through the annual jurying managed by the Santa Barbara Art Association on behalf of the library. 

Room Size: 11’ x 22’ (242 sq. ft.)

$250

A display case at the Central Library is available without charge to community non-profit groups that are current Library partners and who wish to provide the public with attractive displays designed to introduce new ideas, broaden interest, and develop appreciation and understanding of the various facets of our community.

The dimensions are:

Height: 4' 10"
Depth: 7"
Length: 10' 9"

The display case is assigned for a one-month period. Local non-profit groups are invited to submit requests to exhibit in the Display Case located in the Library’s lobby by filling out an online application.

Priority will be given to those organizations that have not had a display in the previous two years.

Display Case Policy

For questions about use of the library’s display case, please contact Library Administration.