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Presentations and Reports Library Commission Meeting December 6, 2023 Presentations Item 4 Monthly Update Reports Cupertino Library December 2023 Report Numbers JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER Check Outs 115,432 115,407 117,863 97,907 97,888 92,156 Check -Ins 115,891 111,091 112,033 96,420 97,124 97,745 Borrowers 16,538 16,522 16,873 16,330 15,931 14,129 Average Requests 12,602 12,314 11,989 13,262 12,737 n/a Borrowers Online 18,555 18,776 19,464 19,369 19,144 19,305 Gate Count 57,927 58,985 64,032 60,841 61,047 52,098 Room bookings 544 509 615 569 613 516 Programs Offered 58 73 48 59 68 72 Program Attendance 2,409 4,496 2,686 2,809 3,719 4,099 Photos from November Sugar Skulls NASA for Kids Photos from November Bingo Game Day RangoliNative American Beading GGB at the Annual Tree Lighting Creative Bug •Enjoy unlimited access to over 1,000 online art and craft classes. Topics include art & design, sewing, quilting, paper, knitting, crochet, food & home, jewelry, holiday & party, and classes for kids. •Watch videos anytime, anywhere and at your own pace. Holiday Closures December 24th –Closed at 5pm December 25th –Closed December 31st –Closed at 5pm January 1 –Closed Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga December 2023 Library Stakeholder Report Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian Holidays are Here, Celebrate with Us December is a special time, with family gatherings, community events and cultural celebrations. This is also a moment to look back on the year that was. This video showcases many of 2023’s highlights. We are very appreciative of your continued support of the library. Thinking about finding gifts for friends and loved ones? Whether you prefer to purchase or make them yourself, the library has many great resources that can help meet your goals. Creativebug offers unlimited access to over 1,000 online art and craft video classes and tutorials. Topics include art & design, sewing, quilting, paper, knitting, crochet, food & home, jewelry, holiday & party, and classes for kids. Get ready for the holidays with homemade decorations and presents! This blog post goes over Creativebug’s Winter collection, which includes instructions on how to create a hand stitched deer, woven paper star ornaments, and watercolor cards. Find more ideas in our Craft and Learn section, which includes new winter holiday-themed content from our eBooks, Audiobooks, eVideos, and eMagazines collections. Also try our staff lists, which feature suggested book titles around Arts & Crafts, Food & Beverages, and many more subject areas, including the new Library of Things at Milpitas Library, which offers many items for creating that you can borrow. For those of you considering large purchases for the holidays, make sure to check out the latest issue of Consumer Reports for product reviews and ratings, available for free with your library account. This and other helpful resources like the Bay Area Consumers' Checkbook can be found in the Consumer & Automotive section of our 24/7 Online Library where you can also find current issues of Consumer Reports Buying Guide and AARP: The Magazine, accessible through our free eResource, Flipster. Helping to Connect All Residents to the Internet The California State Library is partnering with Connected California to offer a free service to help state residents bridge the digital divide. Digital Navigators are available by phone (800-790-5319), email (help@connectedca.libanswers.com), text (626-873-8396), or online form (www.connectedca.org) and will respond to requests for assistance within 48 hours on weekdays. Navigators can assist individuals in English or Spanish to find low-cost internet service, plus devices for their homes. For more information: sccld.org/digital-navigators/. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Beginning a New Chapter in Campbell Library’s History The future of Campbell Library was the focus on Friday, November 10 as County Librarian Jennifer Weeks joined the leadership of the City of Campbell to officially kick off the renovation of the library. Work has now commenced and the project is set to be completed in time for the celebration of the building’s 50th anniversary in 2025. The fully renovated Campbell Library is designed as a welcoming and flexible space for everyone in the community to enjoy. From popular collections of materials for all ages and interests, to family programs, free WiFi, collaborative meeting rooms, a fully equipped Community Room, imaginative children’s play areas, and dedicated spaces for children, teens and adults, the new library will have something for everyone. You can follow the progress on the Campbell Library renovation project, as well as the city’s new Campbell Police facility, at campbellca.gov/MeasureO/. Virtual Author Visits Wrap up 2023 A duo of bestselling authors will bring the Virtual Author Talks series to a close for 2023. Join us on Tuesday, December 5 at 4 p.m. as the instant #1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard chats with us about YA fantasy fiction, world-building, and her incredible body of work. This includes Red Queen and the Realm Breaker series. This program is virtual. Please register to attend. The bestselling author of Maid, Stephanie Land, is back with a new memoir. In Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education, Land takes us with her as she finishes college and pursues writing facing barriers at every turn, including not having enough money for food and navigating the judgements of professors and other students who didn’t understand the demands of living under the poverty line. This program will be on Tuesday, December 11 at 11 a.m. Register here. FYI- SCCLD Libraries will close at 5 pm on December 24 and December 31 for Christmas and New Year’s eves. Libraries will be closed on Christmas Day, December 25, and New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024. Our Online Library is available 24/7 at sccld.org/. Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino | Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga Updates to Popular Online Resources Kanopy/Kanopy Kids/Great Courses Kanopy, which offers a large variety of streamed movies and TV shows from across the globe, has changed their credits system to a ticketing system. Instead of receiving play credits, patrons now receive 45 tickets each month. Every title will be labeled with a ticket value and viewing window, so patrons will know how many tickets a title will use prior to viewing it. The viewing periods for each show or film vary depending on its running time. Kanopy Kids content will continue to be its own resource and will not be included in the ticket system. Our staff has also produced a blog post with more helpful information. If you have further questions about navigating this change, Kanopy Help and their on-demand training videos are also helpful. Great Courses content will be included in the ticket system and will follow the same pricing structure as standard episodic content. Most content will cost five tickets per course, with a viewing period of up to 21 days. Patrons can watch as many The Great Courses titles as their monthly ticket limit allows. SimplyE The New York Public Library, the developers behind eBook and Audiobook content service SimplyE, will be sunsetting it on June 30, 2024. After that date, they will no longer provide support for the app. SCCLD has been informing our patrons to ensure that as many users are informed as possible. Our 24/7 Online Library team suggests the following alternative services for users of SimplyE: • Libby: Our largest online collection. Download or stream eBooks and audiobooks including fiction, non-fiction, bestsellers, and more. The Libby Help website has a variety of resources to help staff and patrons navigate creating a Libby account. • The Palace Project: This app was created to be the California version of SimplyE and has very similar content. With the Palace app, you have access to Palace Project digital collections from the California State Library and SCCLD. Enjoy thousands of free books from the Palace Bookshelf – available exclusively in the app. You can download for Android or Apple iOS. • CloudLibrary: Download eBooks including fiction, non-fiction, bestsellers, and many genres. More information about this change can be found on this staff blog. SANTA CLARA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT DECEMBER 2023 EVENTS *All SCCLD libraries are closed and services unavailable on Monday, December 25 for Christmas and January 1, 2024 for New Year’s Day. Libraries will close at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 24 and 31.* CAMPBELL EXPRESS LIBRARY – 1 West Campbell Avenue, Room 46 Family Storytime Wednesdays, December 6, 13, & 20, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard City Banquet Hall Kids ages 0-5 are invited to join us for stories, songs, and more. Please bring a blanket or towel to sit on for the hard floors. Beethoven to Broadway: Music for Horn and Piano Monday, December 18, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard City Banquet Hall The Bay Chamber Music Society will play selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Strauss, Burt Bacharach, and more. CUPERTINO -- 10800 Torre Avenue Knit-Alongs at Cupertino Library Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, & 22, 2:30 – 4 p.m., Room 201A All knitters and crocheters are welcome to drop in. Meet new friends, start new projects, or finish old ones. Participants need to bring their own needles and/or crochet hooks and yarn. No personal instruction will be provided. Poetry in the Dark Friday, December 1, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201 Cupertino Poet Laureate Keiko O’Leary presents Poetry in the Dark, a chance to turn off the lights and speak poems to each other. Please a poem that you know by heart. Please register. Family Storytime for All Ages Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16, & 23, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Program Room This storytime is suitable for all ages and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Storytime is limited to the first 100 families. Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on. Family Storytime for 3s-5s Mondays, December 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Program Room This storytime is suitable for children ages 3-5 and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Storytime is limited to the first 100 families. Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on. Homework Help Monday & Wednesday, December 4 & 6, 4 – 5:30 p.m. Students in grades K-5 who need homework help are encouraged to stop by for free tutoring. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. Toddler Storytime (ages 1-2) Tuesdays, December 5, 12, & 19, 10:30 – 11 a.m. This storytime will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. ESL Conversation Club Tuesdays, December 5, 12 & 19, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Room 201A Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic English. Please register online. Baby Wearing Dance Program Wednesdays, December 6, 13, & 20, 10:30 – 11 a.m. Babies must be held or worn in a carrier while the caregiver learns dance moves to popular songs. Bedtime Storytime Wednesdays, December 6, 13, & 20, 7 – 7:30 p.m., Program Room This storytime is suitable for all ages and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Storytime is limited to the first 100 families. Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on. Storytime for Babies (ages 0-1) Thursdays, December 7, 14, & 21, 10:30 – 11 a.m., First Floor Program Room This storytime features stories and songs that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Storytime is limited to the first 30 babies with a maximum of two adults per family. Winter Tote Bag Craft for Teens Saturday, December 9, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Room 201A Teens ages 12-18 are welcome to join us and decorate a holiday tote bag that you can take home or give to a friend. Register online. LEGO Club Tuesday, December 12, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Children’s Meeting Room Children in grades K-8 are invited to build and create using LEGOs. Beethoven to Broadway: Music for Horn and Piano Saturday, December 16, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Room 101 The Bay Chamber Music Society will play selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Strauss, Burt Bacharach, and more. Winter Origami Thursday, December 21, 2 – 3 p.m., Room 101B Make two different kinds of origami penguins and a masu box to hold your items. Origami paper will be provided. This craft is for school-aged children. Adult Book Discussion Thursday, December 21, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201B We will discuss Now is Not the Time to Panic: A Novel (2022) by Kevin Wilson. GILROY -- 350 W. Sixth Street Book Discussion Friday, December 1, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Quiet Study B We will be discussing Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. Snack Break – Free Snacks for Kids/Pausa de Merienda – Merienda Gratis Para Niños Mondays-Fridays, 3 – 4 p.m./lunes a viernes, 3 – 4 p.m. (except during school breaks) Stop by the library and pick up a free after-school snack. For kids 18 years old and under, while supplies last. ¡Pasa por la biblioteca y recoge una merienda gratis después de la escuela! Para niños de 18 años y menores, mientras duren las reservas. Safe Space Meeting for LGBTQ+ Youth Fridays, December 1 & 15, 4 – 5:30 p.m., First Floor Meeting Room This in-person support group is for youth and young adults (ages 13-25). Play games, participate in group activities and discussions and build community. No registration necessary. DIY Decorations with Pom Poms Saturday, December 2, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room Decorate your home with a gnome, teddy bear or reindeer. All supplies will be provided. This program is limited to adults and teens 13+. Please register. Film Screening Sunday, December 3, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Community Room Join us to watch Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning. Pajama Storytime Mondays, December 4, 11, & 18, 7 – 7:30 p.m., the Nest Join us for stories, sing songs, and wear your pajamas! Bilingual Spanish Storytime/Bilingüe Cuenta Cuentos Tuesdays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 4 – 5 p.m., the Nest Join us for stories, songs, and movement in Spanish and English. Acompáñenos en el cuarto de actividades de niños para escuchar cuentos, canciones y movimiento en español e inglés. Zumba Tuesdays, December 5, 12, & 19, 5:45 – 6:45 p.m., Community Room Join us for a free dance and rhythm-based workout. This Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow, fitness party exhilarates your senses and works all major muscle groups in a high-energy cardio blast. Dress comfortably and bring some water and a towel. No registration required. Honoring our Strength: Community Resiliency & Recovery Forum Wednesday, December 6, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Community Room Connect with city and county emergency managers and understand the local emergency response system and what role the community can play. Register online. Family Storytime at Gilroy Library Thursdays, December 7, 14, 21, & 28, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Community Room Join us for stories, songs and more. Knitting and Crochet Weekly Meetup Thursdays, December 7, 14, 21, & 28, 1 – 4 p.m., Upstairs Quiet Study B Join us for an informal weekly drop-in knitting and crochet circle. Bring your projects, ask questions, get help, share ideas and meet new people! Open Poetry Readings with Garlicky Group of Poets Saturday, December 9, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Downstairs Meeting Room Read whatever poetry you want to read and join in related discussions. Holiday Choral Concert Sunday, December 10, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room The South Bay Singers will perform holiday songs and traditional carols. Improve Your Public Speaking with Gilroy Toastmasters Monday, December 11, 6 – 7 p.m., Quiet Room B The typical meetings consist of one or two prepared speeches lasting 4-10 minutes. A round robin of “off the cuff” questions follow the prepared speeches. Please register. Beethoven to Broadway: Music for Horn and Piano Sunday, December 17, 1 – 2 p.m., Community Room The Bay Chamber Music Society will play selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Strauss, Burt Bacharach, and more. LOS ALTOS -- 13 S. San Antonio Road Mixed Media Exhibit Through the month of December, Art Wall Artist Beverly Jauch will exhibit new mixed media paintings including abstract, realistic, watercolor, and oil paintings. Bilingual Spanish Storytime Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room Join us for stories, songs, and movement in Spanish and English. ¡Únase a nosotros para escuchar cuentos, canciones y movimiento en español e inglés! Baby Sign Time Saturday, December 2, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room Babies under a year old and their grownups are welcome to sing songs and learn signs to share with your baby. Please bring a blanket for your baby. Stay and Play Saturday, December 2, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room Non-walking babies and their grownups are invited to play with age-appropriate toys. Bring a blanket and enjoy this socialization for babies. Science Saturday: Spread of Infectious Disease Saturday, December 2, 2 – 3 p.m., Orchard Room This lesson introduces grade school students to the exponential spread of infectious diseases. This program is for grade school students. Please register online. Sunday Crafternoon Sunday, December 3, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room These crafts are for all ages. It’s a time to relax with the community and let your creativity shine. Monday Morning Meditation and Mindfulness Mondays, December 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room Practice meditation for 20 minutes then ask questions for 10 minutes with instructor Manisha. Family Storytime Tuesdays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 10:30 – 11 a.m. and 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room Join us for a fun, interactive 20-minute family storytime with sing songs, read stories, practice fingerplays and more. There will be a second storytime to accommodate those who weren’t able to attend the 10:30 storytime. Free tickets will be given out 30 minutes before storytime. Tax Advantages of Charitable Giving and Estate Planning Tuesday, December 5, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Orchard Room Speaker Arvind Ven will tell you about the tax advantages of charitable giving and estate planning. Please register. The Whodunit? Mystery Book Club Wednesday, December 6, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Teen Room We will be discussing The Marlow Murder Club by Robert Thorogood. Homework Help Wednesday & Thursday, December 6 & 7, 3 – 5:30 p.m. Students in grades K-5 who need homework help are encouraged to stop by for free tutoring. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. World Affairs Wednesday, December 6, 7 – 8:30 p.m. World Affairs will discuss a different global issue each month. This month’s topic is: How History Caught up with the West in Afghanistan. ESL Conversation Club Thursdays, December 7, 14, 21, & 28, 1:30 – 3 p.m., Orchard Room Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for those who speak basic English. No registration required. Crafts and Conversation Saturday, December 9, 12:30 – 2 p.m., Orchard Room Hosted by the Reading Program, join this fun family event where you can make holiday decorations while meeting others in the community. Please register. Fratello Marionettes Present The Frog Prince Sunday, December 10, 2 – 2:45 p.m. and 3 – 3:45 p.m., Orchard Room Join us for this classic fairytale of a princess and a frog. Space is limited. Tickets will be available 30 minutes before the program begins. Bilingual Mandarin & English Storytime Mondays, December 11 & 18, and Thursday, December 21, 11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room This fun bilingual Mandarin and English storytime is full of movement, music and stories. Bay Area Games Day Saturday, December 16, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Orchard Room Come learn how to play a new board game or bring an old favorite. We welcome newcomers to hobby gaming and families with kids. Now Read This! Book Club Monday, December 18, 12 – 1 p.m., Orchard Room We will be discussing The Privatization of Everything: How the Plunder of Public Goods Transformed American and How We Can Fight Back by Donald Cohen. Book Bugs Club for 2nd & 3rd Graders Tuesday, December 19, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room We will be discussing The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn, then do a craft. Register online. Beethoven to Broadway: Music for Horn and Piano Tuesday, December 19, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Orchard Room The Bay Chamber Music Society will play selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Strauss, Burt Bacharach, and more. Page Turners Book Club for 4th & 5th Graders Thursday, December 21, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room We will be discussing The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, then we will do a fun activity related to the book. Please register. Furry Friends Reading Buddies Saturday, December 23, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room Children in grades K-8 can practice their reading skills and read aloud to a friendly dog or cat. Please register for this program. MILPITAS -- 160 N. Main Street Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 1 – 3 p.m., Auditorium Relieve stress and anxiety, increase energy and vitality and improve physical health during these exercise sessions. Giảm căng thẳng và lo lắng, tăng năng lượng và sức sống, Cải thiện sức khỏe thể chất. Knit & Crochet Circle Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 2 – 4 p.m., Conference Room Meet other yarn lovers while working on your latest project, get help when you’re stuck and share ideas. Instruction available in Hindi, Punjabi and Gujarati. No registration required. Materials not provided. Homework Help Mondays & Wednesdays, December 4, 6, 11, 13 & 18, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Conference Room Students in grades K-6 who need homework help are encouraged to stop by for free tutoring. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. ESL Conversation Club Wednesdays, December 6, 13, 20, & 27, 3 – 4 p.m., Conference Room Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic English. Walk-ins welcome. Tiny Toots Concert Thursday, December 7, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Auditorium Performer Bingo Schmingo will have children dancing and singing along to favorite children’s songs. This program is designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Crafts Around the World Thursday, December 7, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room We will make Dot Art inspired by the Australian Aboriginal people. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. Holiday Cardmaking & Gift Tags for Adults Sunday, December 10, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Auditorium Bring your creativity and we will provide all of the supplies. This program is drop-in while supplies last, and for adults aged 18+. Tiny Toots Concert Thursday, December 14, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Auditorium Performer Laura Weinbach from Little Folkies will have children dancing and singing along to favorite children’s folk songs. This program is designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Winter Concert with Smokehouse Thursday, December 14, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Auditorium Enjoy a special and free holiday concert featuring Smokehouse. Teen Study Space Friday, December 15, 3:30 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 16, 1:30 – 7 p.m., Auditorium Discover tranquility in our designated quiet space, engage with like-minded peers, and enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks as you delve into your studies. Music Memories for Adults Sunday, December 17, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Auditorium Let’s discuss our favorite songs that take us back in time. Please come prepared with the titles of 1-2 songs that you’d like to discuss. This program is for adults ages 18+. ICAN Read Presented by International Children Assistance Network Wednesday, December 20, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Activity Room Join us for children's stories in English and Vietnamese that nurture imagination and inspire a love for learning. After each reading, dive into arts and crafts activities, fostering self-expression and a passion for art. Hãy cùng chúng tôi thưởng thức những câu chuyện thiếu nhi nuôi dưỡng trí tưởng tượng và khơi dậy niềm yêu thích học tập thực hành. Sau mỗi lần đọc, Tham gia các hoạt động nghệ thuật và thủ công và thúc đẩy sự thể hiện bản thân! Special Performance: Fratello Marionettes Wednesday, December 20, 7 – 8 p.m., Auditorium The Fratello Marionettes presents The North Pole Review, a magical show with ice skater Crystal Chandelier, the high-kicking antics of Russian Trepak Dancers, and a trio of dazzling acrobatic penguins. Tickets are not required but space is limited. Tiny Toots Concert Thursday, December 21, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Auditorium Sean’s Music Factory will have your toddlers and preschoolers dancing, jumping, rocking and rolling with his signature high-energy performance. Bilingual Mandarin/English Storytime Tuesday, December 26, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Children's Librarian Emilie will read storybooks and lead children with songs and fingerplays. 兒童圖書館員 Emilie 將為小朋友讀圖畫故事書, 唱兒歌, 手指謠, 玩遊戲。歡迎兒童們與家長褓母一同前 來參加 MORGAN HILL -- 660 W. Main Avenue Tiny Tot Jamboree Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 11 – 11:45 a.m. Toddlers (1-2 years old) and caregivers are invited to join us for short fun stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Itty Bitty Jamboree Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Babies (12 months and younger) and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, music, movement and more! Coping with Grief During the Holidays for Teens Friday, December 1, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., Program Room This workshop will provide teens the space to identify and understand the feelings they are experiencing related to loss and learn tools to help them process grief this holiday season. We will cover coping strategies, support systems, and other tools. Bilingual Storytime Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 10:15 – 11 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Join us for stories, music, movement and more in English and Spanish! ESL Conversation Club Saturdays, December 2, 9, & 16, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Adult Program Room Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic English. Please register online. / ¡Únase a nosotros para tener conversaciones divertidas y practicar el inglés! Este programa es para adultos de 18 años y mayores que hablan inglés básico. El espacio es limitado y se requiere que se registre en línea. DIY Ugly Sweaters for Adults & Teens Saturday, December 2, 2 – 4:30 p.m., Program Room Let’s make an ugly holiday sweater while watching the film, Elf. This is for ages 12+. Bring your own sweater or shirt. Please register online. Chanukah Workshop Sunday, December 3, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Program Room Join the South County Chabad for a Chanukah workshop that includes Menorah building, donut decorating and candle making. Register online. Snack Break – Free Snacks for Kids/Pausa de Merienda – Merienda Gratis Para Niños Mondays-Thursdays, 3 – 4 p.m./lunes a jueves, 3 – 4 p.m. Stop by the library and pick up a free after-school snack. For kids 18 years old and under, while supplies last. ¡Pasa por la biblioteca y recoge una merienda gratis después de la escuela! Para niños de 18 años y menores, mientras duren las reservas. LEGO Club Tuesdays, December 5, 12, & 19, 3 – 4 p.m. Use LEGOs to build based on our weekly theme or build whatever you want. First Tuesday Knit-In Tuesday, December 5, 6:30 – 8:45 p.m., Large Side of Community Room Knitters are welcome to come and work together. New knitters can get advice and assistance while advanced knitters can meet new friends. Kids STEM Club Wednesday, December 6, 3:30 – 5 p.m. School-aged children will explore different STEM topics with hands-on activities. This month’s program will include Dash & Dot Robots. College, Career & Life Skills Series: Attending Community Colleges Wednesday, December 6, 6 – 8 p.m., Program Room Community colleges often has something to offer students of all ages, and many are free. Learn what services and opportunities are available. Toddler Storytime Thursdays, December 7, 14, & 21, 10:15 – 11 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Toddlers (2-3 years old) and caregivers are invited to join us for stories, music, movement and more. Preschool Storytime Thursdays, December 7, 14, & 21, 11 – 11:45 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Children ages 4-5 and caregivers are invited to join us for stories, music, movement and more. Safe Space Meeting for LGBTQ+ Youth (ages 13-25) Fridays, December 8 & 22, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Small Program Room LGBTQ+ youth are invited to play games, participate in group activities and discussions, and build community. No registration necessary. Ragtime to Swing Friday, December 8, 4 – 5 p.m., Program Room Experience the vibrant legacy of American music with pianist Mark Gaetano. Movie Event for Teens: Dungeons and Dragons (PG-13) Saturday, December 9, 2:30 – 5 p.m., Program Room Join us for a matinee movie! Please register for an email reminder. Coping with Grief During the Holidays Sunday, December 10, 2 – 3 p.m., Adult Program Room This workshop will provide participants the space to identify and understand the feelings they are experiencing related to loss and learn tools to help them process grief this holiday season. We will cover coping strategies, support systems, and other tools. Zumba Mondays, December 11 & 18, 6 – 7 p.m. Join us for a free dance and rhythm-based workout. This Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow, fitness party exhilarates your senses and works all major muscle groups in a high-energy cardio blast. Family Fun Night: STEM Tuesday, December 12, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Families with school-aged children will create art or participate in hands-on STEM activities. This month we are playing with Dot and Dash robots. DIY Holiday Ornaments for Adults Wednesday, December 13, 6 – 8:30 p.m., Program Room We will make holiday ornaments while watching Home Alone. This program is for adults ages 18+. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. Holiday Choral Concert Saturday, December 16, 2 – 3 p.m., Adult Program Room The South Bay Singers will perform holiday songs and traditional carols. Library Ukulele Society Tuesday, December 19, 5 – 7 p.m., Community Room Bring your uke and music stand or come to listen and sing along! No registration required. Kids Art Club Wednesday, December 20, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room School-aged children will explore different techniques, styles, and art materials each month. This drop in program is for children ages 5+ and their adults. Winter Magic Show Saturday, December 23, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Thursday, December 28, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Magician Mike Della Penna brings a performance inspired by the most magical time of year, a time of shorter days, colder nights and annual celebrations. SARATOGA -- 13650 Saratoga Avenue Baby Storytime (12 months or younger) Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Family Storytime Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Tuesdays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room Join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Indian Instrumental Duet Concert Saturday, December 2, 2 – 4:30 p.m., Community Room Enjoy a concert with Bay Area musicians from the Indian community. All are welcome. Teen Study Hall Sunday, December 3, 10 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. and Saturday, December 9, 12 – 5:45 p.m., Community Room The library is offering a place for students to study alone or in a group. Snacks will be provided. A Plant for All Reasons: the Diversity of Succulents Tuesday, December 5, 7 – 9 p.m. Learn about succulent care, propagation, growth habits, and design. Sci-Fi & Fantasy Book Club Tuesday, December 5, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard Room We will be discussing Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik. Visit the Adult Reference Desk to register and pick up a copy of the book. Knit & Crochet Circle Wednesday, December 6, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room Bring your own projects, ask questions, receive or give help, share ideas, and meet new people. Mandarin/English Storytime Thursday, December 7, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room Children up to age 5 are invited to enjoy fun stories, fingerplays, action rhymes and songs in Mandarin and English. Bridge Drop-In Session Fridays, December 8 & 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Come play bridge in a drop-in session. This is not an instructional class, rather a way to practice in a friendly environment. Mystery Book Club Monday, December 11, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard Room We will be discussing One By One by Ruth Ware. Stop by the Adult Reference Desk to sign up for the meeting and pick up a copy of the book. Chinese Book Club Thursday, December 14, 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Orchard Room The discussion is primarily in Mandarin. 參與者可選讀中文或英文版，討論則將以中文為主. Teatime Book Chatter Thursday, December 14, 1 – 2 p.m. We will be discussing The Little Liar by Mitch Albom. Visit the Adult Reference Desk to register and pick up a copy of the book. Kids Winter Magic Show Saturday, December 16, 2 – 2:45 p.m., Community Room Join us for a kid’s magic show inspired by the most magical season of the year, a time of shorter days, colder nights and annual celebrations. No registration required; first-come, first-served. Family Bingo Sunday, December 17, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Community Room Good times to be had with fun winter-themed Bingo and prizes. All ages welcome. Beethoven to Broadway: Music for Horn and Piano Sunday, December 17, 4 – 5 p.m. The Bay Chamber Music Society will play selections by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Strauss, Burt Bacharach, and more. LEGO Club Wednesday, December 20, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room Children in grades K-7 are invited to build and create using LEGOs. No registration required. Space is limited. Spanish/English Storytime Thursday, December 28, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room Kids up to age 5 are invited to enjoy fun stories, fingerplays, action rhymes and songs in Spanish and English. WOODLAND – 1975 Grant Road Magic-Themed Family Storytime Sunday, December 3, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Backyard Patio (weather permitting) Join us in the backyard of the library for stories, songs, fingerplays as we enjoy a magic themed storytime. Monday Morning Meditation and Mindfulness Mondays, December 4, 11, & 18, 7 – 7:30 p.m., Back patio (weather permitting) Practice meditation for 20 minutes then ask questions for 10 minutes with the instructor. Canine Companions Reading Buddies Fridays, December 8 & 22, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Children’s Area Practice your reading skills with a friendly dog. This program is perfect for emergent readers in grades K-8. Please register. Holiday-Themed Family Storytime Sunday, December 17, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Backyard Patio (weather permitting) Join us in the backyard of the library for stories, songs, fingerplays as we enjoy a holiday themed storytime. ONLINE EVENTS (Please register online) Online ESL Book Club Friday, December 1, 4 – 5 p.m. We will read and discuss Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Virtual Author Talk: Victoria Aveyard Tuesday, December 5, 4 – 5 p.m. The bestselling author of Red Queen and Realm Breaker series will discuss YA fantasy fiction, world-building and her incredible body of work. Get Started with Libby Wednesday, December 6, 8 – 9 a.m. Join us for a one-hour presentation to help you get started with OverDrive’s app, Libby, and get access to eBooks and Audiobooks. Let’s Talk About FAFSA Wednesday, December 6, 5 – 6 p.m. FAFSA is changing this year. A Federal Student Aid representative brings the best information on what to expect and how to prepare this winter. The World of Jane Austen: Art, Fashion & Eligible Gentlemen Wednesday, December 6, 7 – 8 p.m. Presented by the Legion of Honor museum in San Francisco, you will see paintings that Austen herself would’ve seen, including portraits, estates and gardens. Gain a fresh perspective of Austen’s life and times, and a deeper understanding of her novels. Online English Conversation Club Thursdays, December 7 & 14, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Meet new friends and practice English together. Virtual Author Talk: Stephanie Land Tuesday, December 12, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bestselling author Stephanie Land will discuss her new memoir, Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger and Higher Education.