Karpeles Manuscript Library

The Karpeles Manuscript Library is the world's largest repository of historic manuscripts and documents, holding over one million documents pertaining to art, history, religion, literature, and science. The Karpeles branch in Santa Barbara resides just a block southwest of the Santa Barbara Library.

The museum in Santa Barbara has been considered the "dean" of the Karpeles Institution since it opened in 1986. This location houses documents such as an original draft of the Declaration of the Independence, a replica of a globe used by Columbus, and various original musical compositions in its permanent collection. The temporary exhibits have drawn thousands of visitors for such displays as the Anne Frank, Mark Twain, and Spanish-American War Exhibits.

Guests can visit the Santa Barbara Karpeles Manuscript Library from noon to 4:00 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Visitors can enjoy a regular Sunday presentation in the museum's 100-seat auditorium or make reservations for "Coffee, Tea, & History," where the museum presents an in-depth look at special manuscripts.

Karpeles Manuscript Library is located is less than 100 miles northwest of LAX along the Pacific Coast. Visitors to the library may also enjoy nearby El Presidio De Santa Barbara State Historic Park, Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.