A Message from Ryan Thomas, General Manager

Welcome to Borders Santa Barbara, nestled between the mountains and the ocean. Formerly a bank building, Borders boasts three levels, with a huge central staircase serving as just one architectural marvel. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, Borders contributes to the beat of this favorite tourist destination city by hosting many local and national musicians on weekends. You'll find bands performing on the huge front patio as you stroll along historic and lovely State Street. Nothing is better than listening to Borders' favorite band, Benise, on a warm summer day! Borders also serves as the meeting place for several local groups, such as the Santa Barbara Screenwriters Association and the players of Game Night. 

Our All Things Local section is loaded with travel and hiking books, photography books of local flora, fauna and other points of interest, and titles by our many local authors - including Sue Grafton. Our friendly, knowledgeable and longtime staffers are happy to help you find a wonderful book, that rare DVD, or best yet, ask for music seller Gil upstairs. He'll find help you find a special CD - he's truly the "best in the business!"