One of the largest displays of dolls and teddy bears as well as the largest known research library of related books in the world

This is one of the largest displays of dolls and teddy bears in the United States. Only 3,000 of the collection's historical and contemporary dolls and teddy bears are on display in the museum’s three galleries. California’s rich heritage of doll and teddy bear artists and manufacturers is one of the major highlights of the collection. The various ethnic groups that have contributed so much to the rich cultural diversity of the State are reflected in the displays, and the influences of Santa Barbara artists and celebrities on the doll world are also recognized.

Examples of wonderful book characters fill one of the galleries, and the love of reading is a permeating theme of the collection. There are fairy tale characters, space toys, puppets, fairy dolls, a tribute to Teddy Roosevelt, and much, much more. Come and relive your childhood memories and share those memories with your children and grandchildren.