The original building was designed by local architect Francis Wilson , based on sketches by Henry Hornbostel of Pittsburgh , and opened on August 27 , 1917 . Carleton Winslow directed the 1925 reconstruction ( following the 1925 Santa Barbara earthquake ) and designed the tympanum over the main entry . The Faulkner Memorial Art Gallery was designed by Myron Hunt and opened on October 15 , 1930 . In 1979-1980 the library was remodeled and expanded under the direction of Jerry Zimmer
1925 Santa Barbara earthquake
1925 Santa Barbara earthquake
Santa Barbara Library