About the Women's Literary Festival

In 2004 the WLF steering committee, made up of volunteers from throughout Santa Barbara County, came up with the idea of a literary festival to celebrate women authors and their diverse life experiences. The event is modeled after similar festivals in Southern California.

The committee believes firmly that the strength of language can stir the soul, can increase awareness and understanding of social injustices, strengthen our bonds as community members through mutual respect, and can offer solutions to the problems that often separate and divide us. Through the power of literature we often find the simple truths that help set us free from the notions of “us” and “them.” Each genre of literature contributes to this collective of the human spirits, this fabric that makes us more alike than different.

The voices of women have not always been heard. Through women’s narrative and writing, we can see things from new, different, and valuable perspectives. The Festival authors’ presentations offer an opportunity for building community, advancing women’s voices, promoting literacy, and celebrating those who write and read for the purpose of developing our personal lives and our sense of community.

Festival Committee / Click to see Committee Member Profiles...
Jennifer Adams
Ellen Broidy
Mary Ellen Brooks
Wynn Clevenger
Rachel Couch
Jane Faulkner
Sharon Hoshida
Joyce Howerton
Carol Keator
Penni Louise
Gail Marshall
Magdalena Torres
Nancy Warren