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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPresentations and Reports Library Commission Meeting December 3, 2025 Presentations Item #3 Monthly Update Reports December 2025 Cupertino Library Report Numbers 2025 June July August September October November Check Outs 108,467 104,032 111,461 91,140 92,319 106,298 Borrowers 16,681 16,587 17,893 15,536 15,883 16,502 Average Requests 13,281 13,502 14,374 14,686 15,012 14,375 Borrowers Online 93,964 99,158 101,736 95,702 98,822 94,142 Gate Count 64,323 64,335 72,320 63,747 68,506 69,710 Room bookings 696 715 608 513 559 679 Programs Offered 112 118 55 60 87 67 Program Attendance 4,195 5,095 2328 1970 5010 2,204 Community Room Rentals 8 9 14 11 6 10 Photos Adult Programs Poetry in the Dark Friday, December 5, 6:30pm, Room 201A CreateCU: Etegami. Friday December 12, 7pm. **This event is full.** Fire Wise Cupertino: From Fire Maps to Community Action Saturday, December 13, 11:30am, Room 201. Non-Fiction Book Discussion: The Fear of Too Much Justice by Stephen B. Bright and James Kwak Sunday, December 14, 11am, Room 201B Sunday Line Dancing. Sunday, December 14, 2-3:30pm, Room 201 Letter Locking Program . Tuesday, December 16, 4:30pm. Room 201 **This event is full** Movie Night: Pride and Prejudice (2005) Tuesday, December 16, 6:30pm Room 201 Adult Book Discussion: Persuasion by Jane Austen I: Wednesday, December 17, 11am II Thursday, December 18, 7pm Room 201B Teen Programs Holiday Tote Bag Decorating Craft Program. 3-5pm, Room 201 18 participants first come, first served. Ongoing Programs ESL Conversation Club. Tuesdays 10:30 am—12:00pm Room 201 Register Online: Tinyurl.com/CUESLConversation2025 Mindfulness and Meditation Wednesday afternoons, 4:30pm Room 201A. Knit Alongs: Fridays, 2:30-4pm Room 201A Bestselling author Steven Rowley writes LGBTQ+ fiction that explores modern relationships and life, weaving together emotional depth that is poignant but at times humorous. His most recent book,The Dogs of Venice, was released in October. Poet and performer Devorah Major explores themes of being, family, community and the Black Experience. A former San Francisco Poet Laureate, Major shares her knowledge and teaches poetry craft, short story writing and composition. Major’s latest work is word time. Tech executive, attorney and activist Bärí A. Williams has worked on initiatives geared towards diversity in the workplace. Her recent book Seen Yet Unseen: A Black Woman Crashes the Tech Fraternity is her story about a Black woman from Oakland working in Silicon Valley for companies like Facebook (now Meta). Register To Attend:https://sccl.bibliocommons.com /events Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. Cupertino Community Hall10350 Torre Avenue, Cupertino SCCLD Newsletter Want to keep up to date on all the great things happening at all SCCLD locations? Get the bimonthly highlight by signing up for our email newsletter! You can also see past newsletters here: https://sccld.org/news/ Library Closed Date Day Hours Holiday December 24, 2025 Wednesday 10am – 5pm Christmas Eve December 25, 2025 Thursday Closed Christmas Day December 31, 2025 Wednesday 10am - 5pm New Year's Eve January 1, 2026 Thursday Closed New Year's Day 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 2025 Library Report Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian A Trio of California Writers Following the success of our Distinguished Authors talk with Mitch Albom, which was attended by over 500 people, SCCLD has one more big event in store this year, a visit by three very unique California based authors. On Saturday, December 6 Steven Rowley, Devorah Major and Bärí A. Williams will share about their works and approaches to writing. Rowley, a New York Times bestselling author will talk about his most recent work The Dogs of Venice, a heartwarming story about love, loss, and finding oneself in one of the most unlikely places. Major is a poet and performer who explores themes of being, family, community and the Black experience. A former San Francisco Poet Laureate, she teaches poetry craft, short story writing and composition. Major’s latest work is word time. Williams is an attorney and activist as well as a former tech executive. She writes about her experience as a Black woman working in Silicon Valley for large tech firms in Seen Yet Unseen: A Black Woman Crashes the Tech Fraternity. Celebrate the Holiday Season Visit the library to get in the holiday spirit. Children will love our Jack and the Beanstalk Holiday Puppet Shows, taking place at the Cupertino Library on Sat., Dec. 13, Milpitas Library on Tue., Dec. 23, and Morgan Hill Library on Sat., Dec 27. Get ready for the holidays with seasonal arts and craft events. Enjoy a concert, make an ormament or DIY item. We also offer resources like Creativebug, with over 1,000 video classes on painting, knitting, crafting, sewing and more. Need a good recipe? Check out New York Times: Cooking or a booklist all about gingerbread houses. Keep an eye on our website for other holiday blogs and best of 2025 lists. Wishing you happy holidays! 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 Silicon Valley Reads 2026 Theme and Companion Books Announced The county’s premiere reading event, Silicon Valley Reads, returns in early 2026 with a theme of Bridges to Belonging, a timely topic in this era where too often we feel disconnected from each other. It all kicks off on Thursday, January 15 at De Anza College in Cupertino, where Sal Pizarro of the Mercury News will lead a panel featuring the authors of the three featured books. Throughout February and March, SCCLD will host dozens of events including author talks, engaging classes and workshops, kids crafts, and other programs for all ages. The Silicon Valley Reads official website will have all event information in the new year. Featured Titles: • The Power of Bridging, John A. Powell. Provides a crucial framework for moving beyond the fear and separating of “othering” to the radical, transformative work of “bridging.” • Mainline Mama, Keeonna Harris. A moving and unflinching memoir of resilience and hope. Harris shares her powerful story of navigating motherhood with an incarcerated partner. • Unlikely Animals, Annie Hartnett. A tender and humorous novel with a touch of magic. Emma returns to her New Hampshire hometown to care for her dying father and sees ghosts. Children’s Companion Books: • Thank You, Neighbor, Ruth Chan (PreK – New Readers) • Together, A Forest, Roz MacLean (Elementary) • Front Desk, Kelly Yang (Middle Grades) • Give Me a Sign, Anna Sortino (High School/Young Adult) FYI- All SCCLD libraries will close at 5 PM on Wed., Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) and Dec. 31 (New Year’s Eve). They will be closed Thu., Dec. 25 (Christmas Day) and Jan. 1, 2026 (New Years Day). Find us 24/7 at our Online Library. 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 New Resource: ConnectWell to Better Health ConnectWell is a comprehensive consumer health information portal featuring content from leading health information providers available now in our 24/7 Online Library. It replaces the MedLine Health resource. Find articles and videos on common diseases and conditions, surgeries and procedures, drugs and supplements, nutrition, fitness, parenting, safety, and workplace issues. ConnectWell can help you to adopt healthy lifestyle practices, including ideas for healthy recipes using organic ingredients. December Virtual Author Talks We have just one online discussion planned for this month. On Tue., Dec. 2 Sue Hincenbergs will discuss her debut crime novel, The Retirement Plan, where murder is the name of the game when it comes to husbands, wives and a struggle for financial safety. Please register. SANTA CLARA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT DECEMBER 2025 EVENTS SCCLD libraries will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, December 24 and 31 and be closed on Thursday, December 25. Our digital library is always available at sccld.org/Online-Library CUPERTINO -- 10800 Torre Avenue ESL Parent and Caregiver Conversation Club Mondays, December 1 & 15, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Room 101 Join us for an engaging series designed to support families and spark meaningful conversations about children and parenting. Learn practical tips and insights from special guest speakers. Connect with other parents and caregivers in the community. ESL Conversation Club Tuesdays, December 2, 9, 16, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Room 201A Improve your English listening and speaking skills in a supportive environment. This program is for adults who speak basic English. Register online. Toddler Storytime (ages 1-2) Tuesdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101 This storytime will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. LEGO Club (Grades K-8) Tuesday, December 2, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Children’s Meeting Room We provide LEGOs, children build creations! Please leave your LEGOs at home. Wednesday Afternoon Meditation and Mindfulness Wednesdays, December 3, 10, & 17, 4:30 – 5 p.m., Room 201A Practice meditation for 20 minutes, then have 10 minutes to ask the instructor questions. Bedtime Storytime Wednesdays, December 3, 10, & 17, 7 – 7:30 p.m., Program Room This storytime is suitable for all ages and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that encourage early literacy skills. Seating is limited to the first 100 families. Bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on. Storytime for Babies (ages 0-1) Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11:30 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 2 adults per family. Reading Buddies (completed Grades K-5) Thursday, December 4, 7 – 8 p.m., Room 101 Children can buddy up with a furry friend and read one-on-one from a favorite book. Children must register themselves in-person at the Children’s Reference Desk. Knit-Alongs at Cupertino Library Fridays, December 5, 12, & 19, 2:30 – 4 p.m., Room 201A All knitters and crocheters are welcome to drop in and socialize while starting new projects or finishing 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 5, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201 We will turn off the lights and speak poems to each other. This is an intimate conversation, not a performance. Please bring inside you a poem you know by heart. Mandarin/English Family Storytime/ 中/英文雙語說故事時間 Friday, December 5, 7 – 8 p.m., Room 101 Wednesday, December 17, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Room 101 Join us for stories, songs, flannel board story, fingerplay and a craft project in Mandarin and English. 兒童圖書館員將為小朋友讀圖畫故事書;唱兒歌;用絨布板講故事;手指謠和做美。 歡迎幼兒們 和家長,褓母一同前來參加。 Celebrating California Authors Panel Saturday, December 6, 10 – 11 a.m., Cupertino Community Hall The Santa Clara County Library District brings together acclaimed writers from different backgrounds whose compelling works engage audiences and spark thoughtful conversations. We will hear from Steven Rowley, Devorah Major and Bärí A. Williams. Family Storytime Saturdays, December 6, 13, & 20, 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. Bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on. Babywearing Dance Sundays, December 7 & 14, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join us for babywearing dancing. Baby Sign and Sing Sunday, December 7, 11 – 11:30 a.m., First Floor Program Room Babies aged 0-12 months and adult caregivers will learn basic signs to communicate. Adult Literacy Roundtable for Volunteers Tuesday, December 9, 5:30 – 7 p.m., Room 201 Reading Program tutors are incited to share tutoring tips, resources, and experiences. Children’s Literature for Adults Book Club Tuesday, December 9, 7 – 8 p.m. Adults will discuss, reminisce, or discover a beloved children's classic. Please register at the Children’s Reference Desk. This program is for adults only. Police Read Along Wednesday, December 10, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101 A Sheriff's Deputy will read books and share safety tips. Flex Prep: Common Application, Common Mistakes Wednesday, December 10, 7 – 8 p.m., Room 201 The Common App is an undergraduate college application that students may use to apply to more than 840 different colleges and universities. Learn how your student can rise to the top of the applicant pool by avoiding common mistakes. Art Therapy for Tweens (ages 10+ and caregiver) Friday, December 12, 4 – 5 p.m., Room 101 We will explore different techniques and art materials each month. Materials will be provided while supplies last. Jack and the Beanstalk Holiday Puppet Show Saturday, December 13, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. This holiday season, climb into a world of wonder with Jack and the Beanstalk. Join us for a heartwarming adventure filled with festive magic, laughter, and timeless lessons. Fire Wise Cupertino Saturday, December 13, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Room 201 Learn how fire maps are made and what they mean for your safety. Discover actionable steps to prepare before wildfires start, and how to respond when they do. Nonfiction Book Discussion Sunday, December 14, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Room 201B We will discuss The Fear of Too Much Justice by Stephen B. Bright and James Kwak. Sunday Line Dance Sunday, December 14, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Room 201 Learn and master shuffles, sweeps, and turns while improving your balance, coordination, stamina, footwork, and arm styling. Wear comfortable shoes. Movie Screening: Pride and Prejudice Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201 In honor of Jane Austen’s 250th birth anniversary, join us for a showing of Pride and Prejudice (2005). Book Discussion for Adults Wednesday, December 17, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., and Thursday, December 18, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201B In honor of Jane Austen’s 250th birth anniversary, we will discuss Persuasion. The Science of Fun (ages 6+) Friday, December 19, 4 – 5 p.m., Room 101 Learn why having fun is important in life and then stay as we have some of it! Freedom Readers (Grades 5-8) Monday, December 29, 2 – 3 p.m., Room 101 We will be reading Borders by Thomas King. Get a copy at the children’s desk. Voyagers Book Club (Grades 3-4) Tuesday, December 30, 2 – 3 p.m., Room 101 We will discuss Legendarios: The Beginning of All Things by Karla Arenas Valenti. Register in-person at the Children’s Desk to pick up the book. GILROY -- 350 W. Sixth Street 1-on-1 Tech Help/Ayuda con la Tecnología Mondays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 1 – 5 p.m., Computer Area Upstairs Drop by to get help with opening an email account, connect to Wi-Fi/hotspots, use laptops/Chromebooks, and use Microsoft Office. Ellos pueden ayudarte a abrir una cuenta de correo electrónico, conéctarse a Wi-Fi/puntos de acceso, utilizar computadoras portátiles/Chromebooks y utilizar Microsoft Office. Snack Break-Free Snacks for Kids!/¡Meriendas Gratis Para Niños! Mondays-Fridays, 3 – 4 p.m. (except during holidays), Lobby Area Children ages 0-18 can stop by for snack, while supplies last. No registration required. ¡Pasa por la biblioteca y recoge una merienda gratis después de la escuela! No es necesario registrarse. Create N Play/Crear Y Jugar (Kids 12 and under) Mondays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Children’s Area Join us for a crafty exploration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. No registration needed. Acompáñenos para explorar todo lo relacionado con Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería, Arte y Matemáticas. ¡Inscripción no es necesaria! Pajama Storytime/Hora de Cuentas en Pijama Mondays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 6:30 – 7 p.m., the Nest Join us for stories, sing songs, and wear your pajamas! Lee cuentos, canta canciones y ponte el pijama para una hora de cuentos para niños de todas las edades. Homework Help/Ayuda con la Tarea Tuesdays-Thursdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m., the Nest/Nido Kids in grades K-6 can come in and receive homework help. ¿Eres un estudiante de 1.º a 6.º grado y necesitas ayuda con la tarea? Tenemos tutores disponibles para ayudarte con tus tareas. Zumba at the Library/Clase de Zumba Fitness Tuesdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 5:45 – 6:45 p.m., Community Room Drop in for an easy-to-follow dance that works all major muscle groups in a high-energy cardio blast. Únase a nosotros para un entrenamiento gratuito basado en baile y ritmo. Reading Buddies/Compañeros de Lectura (PreK-Grade 6) Tuesday, December 2, 6 – 7 p.m., the Nest/Nido Practice your reading skills and read aloud one on one with a furry friend! Sign-ups are first come, first serve until all slots are filled. ¡Ven a practicar tus habilidades de lectura y lee en voz alta uno a uno con un amigo peludo! Las inscripciones serán por orden de llegada hasta que se llenen todos los espacios. Reading Program Orientation Wednesday, December 3, 1 – 2 p.m. and 6 – 7 p.m., Reading Program Room Give back to your community by becoming an adult literacy tutor and supporting an adult learner improve their English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to achieve their goals. Learn more about the Reading Program during this orientation. Teen Unity Through Arts & Crafts/Jóvenes unidos creando arte y manualidades Wednesdays, December 3 & 17, 4 – 6 p.m., Ground floor Meeting Room Join us to work on art projects together. All supplies will be provided. Earn community service hours for school. Enjoy snacks and make new friends. No registration needed. Ven a crear regalos hechos a mano, gana horas de servicio comunitario y pásala con amigos disfrutando snacks! Books and Boogie Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Children’s Area Children and their caregivers are invited to enjoy engaging stories, playful rhymes, lively fingerplays, and music and movement activities that nurture early literacy skills. Compartiremos historias divertidas, rimas, canciones y baile con la bibliotecaria Rosa. Knitting and Crochet Weekly Meetup/Tejido Semanal Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 1 – 4 p.m., Upstairs Quiet Study B Bring your projects, ask questions, get help, share ideas and meet new people. ¡Trae tus proyectos, haz preguntas, recibe ayuda, comparte ideas y conoce gente nueva! Book Discussion for Adults Friday, December 5, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Quiet Study B We will be discussing The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin. Baby Bounce Storytime (12 months and younger) Fridays, December 5, 12, & 19, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Baby bounce shares short stories, nursery rhymes, fingerplays and songs that reinforce early literacy skills. Baby Bounce comparte cuentos cortos, canciones infantiles, y canciones que refuerzan habilidades de lectura. Safe Space Meet-Up for LGBTQ+ Youth (ages 13-25) / Encuentro de espacio seguro para personas LGBTQ+ (de 13 a 25 años) Fridays, December 5 & 19, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Quiet Study B Our staff-led meetings offer a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and ally (LGBTQ+) youth to play games, participate in group activities and discussions, and build community. No registration necessary. Nuestras reuniones, dirigidas por nuestro personal, ofrecen un espacio seguro para que los jóvenes jueguen, participen en actividades y debates grupales, y forjen una comunidad. No es necesario registrarse; ¡pásate y saluda! Gingerbread Housing Making/Haz Una Casita de Jengibre Friday, December 5, 4 – 5 p.m., Community Room Saturday, December 13, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room Families can create and decorate their very own gingerbread (1) house to take home. This one-hour workshop includes all materials. Las familias podrán crear y decorar su propia casita de jengibre para llevar a casa. Este taller de una hora incluye todos los materiales. Family Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Saturdays, December 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., the Nest Join us for fun stories, rhymes, fingerplays, and songs to nurture early literacy skills. Compartiremos historias divertidas, rimas, y canciones. Repair Cafe Saturday, December 6, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Community Room Repair Cafe will bring tools, materials, and volunteer experts to help you make any repairs you need on clothes, furniture, small appliances, bicycles, crockery, electronics, lamps, toys, and more. Teen and Adult Watercolor Workshop (Ages 13+) Sunday, December 7, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Celebrate the season with a cozy watercolor session featuring charming winter animals in snowy landscapes. Registration is not required. Seating is limited to the first 30 attendees and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. LEGO Club Friday, December 12, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Community Room We provide LEGOs, children build creations! Follow prompts or use your imagination. ¡Nosotros proporcionamos los legos, los niños construyen creaciones divertidas! Pueden seguir nuestras indicaciones o construir algo basado en su imaginación. Christmas Music Celebration Saturday, December 13, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Enjoy a performance featuring a vibrant mix of holiday songs by KC & the Dukes of Ukes. Reading Program Tutor Training Saturday, December 13, 12:30 – 5:30 p.m., Reading Program Room Tutors who have completed the orientation are invited to this training session. Open Poetry Readings Saturday, December 13, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Downstairs Meeting Room Read whatever poetry you want to read and join in related discussions. Playdoh Playtime/Hora de juego con plastilina (ages 2-7) Wednesday, December 17, 3 – 4 p.m., Community Room Children can shape, roll, and squish playdoh using cutters in the shape of igloos. Los niños podrán amasar, moldear y aplastar plastilina usando divertidos cortadores en forma de iglús. Crafts and a Movie (Teens and Adults) Wednesday, December 17, 6 – 8 p.m., Community Room Learn some simple techniques to create ornaments and decorations to make your home look extra special this year. No registration is needed. Craft is available while supplies last. Sensory-Friendly Library Playtime/Tiempo de Juego Sensorial Amigable Tuesday, December 23, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Children’s Play Area We keep the lights low and use natural lighting, computers are turned off, and the doors are closed to reduce outside noise and keep everyone safe. Mantenemos las luces bajas y utilizamos la luz natural; las computadoras están apagadas y las puertas cerradas para reducir el ruido exterior. Family Board Games Friday, December 26, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Community Room We have games for all ages and skill levels. Tenemos juegos para todas las edades y niveles de habilidad. LOS ALTOS -- 13 S. San Antonio Road Art Brings Us Together Exhibit Monday, December – Tuesday, December 30, Art Wall The pieces for this exhibit are from Drawn2Art’s 20th Anniversary Art Show and are all original artwork from students. Monday Morning Meditation and Mindfulness Mondays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Teen Room Practice meditation for 20 minutes, then have 10 minutes to speak with the instructor. Poetry Open Mic Monday, December 1, 7 – 8 p.m., Pod D Share poetry, hear poetry. You do not have to be a poet to attend. ESL Class Placement Test Wednesday, December 3 – Friday, December 19, Conference Room Our next ESL Class series is January 6 – March 10. If you want to learn and improve your English listening and speaking skills, take an ESL placement test. The Whodunit? Mystery Book Club Wednesday, December 3, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Teen Room We will discuss The Judge’s List by John Grisham. ESL Conversation Club Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 1:30 – 3 p.m., Teen Room Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for those who speak basic English. No registration required. Teen Dungeons and Dragons Social Club Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Conference Room Teens are welcome to drop in and watch the game. Right now, the game is full, but we will occasionally have openings for new players. Please check in at the Adult Reference Desk. Ishika’s Backyard: Pollinators Saturday, December 6, 2 – 3 p.m. Through her business, Ishika's Backyard Honey, Ishika blends her love for bees with community education and sustainability. Learn fun facts about pollinators, why they matter, and simple ways to help protect them. Story Explorers: TK-1st Grade Book Club Wednesday, December 10, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room We'll enjoy stories and activities featuring characters from The Bad Seed series by Jory John. We'll do a short discussion of each book, move to music, and end with a fun craft! Adult Watercolor Workshop Friday, December 12, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1 – 2:30 p.m. Celebrate the season with a cozy watercolor session featuring charming winter animals in snowy landscapes. Registration is not required. Seating is limited to the first 20 attendees and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Board Game Sunday Sunday, December 14, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room We have board games for adults, teens, and children -- plus LEGOs and DUPLOS. Book Bugs Club (Grades 2-3) Tuesday, December 16, 4 – 5 p.m., Los Altos Community Center’s Apricot Room We will discuss The Lost Stone by Jordan Quinn, then make a craft. Please pick up a copy of the book at the Children’s Desk at Los Altos or Woodland Library. Page Turners Book Club (Grades 4-5) Wednesday, December 17, 4 – 5 p.m., Conference Room We will discuss From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg. Please pick up a copy of the book at the Children’s Desk at Los Altos or Woodland Library. Scandinavian Fabric Star Workshop Wednesday, December 17, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Teen Room Learn a new skill and create an elegant handmade ornament — just in time for the holidays. This program is designed for adults and teens, and all materials will be provided. No registration necessary. Sunday CrafterNoon Sunday, December 21, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room Adults, teens, and kids -- join us for an afternoon of relaxed crafting. Supplies are provided. Children must come with their responsible adult crafting-buddy. To Be Read Book Club (Grades 6-8) Tuesday, December 23, 4 – 5 p.m., Conference Room We will discuss The Giver by Lois Lowry. Please pick up a copy of the book at the Children’s Desk at Los Altos or Woodland Library. Now Read This Book Club Monday, December 29, 12 – 1:30 p.m., Orchard Room We will discuss both fiction and non-fiction books that help us make sense of today’s world. MILPITAS -- 160 N. Main Street Homework Help for Grades K-6 Mondays -- Thursdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Program Room Students can get free homework help. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. Parents are asked to stay nearby. Homework Help will not be offered December 22 – January 5. Fun with Art with First5 Santa Clara County (ages 3-5) Wednesday, December 3, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Activity Room Join us for a story and craft activity, then learn about resources provided by the Guerrero Family Resource Center. ESL Conversation Club Wednesdays, December 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 2:45 – 3:45 p.m., Program Room Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic English. No registration required. Milpitas Children’s Chess Club (Grades 1-8) Wednesdays, December 3, 10, & 17, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Activity Room Play chess and make new friends in a fun and relaxed environment! Registration is not required but space is limited. Attendees are expected to know the rules of chess and must be able to play independently. Knit & Crochet Circle Fridays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2 – 4 p.m., Conference Room Meet other yarn lovers, get help or share ideas. Limited instruction available in Hindi, Punjabi and Gujarati, but note this is not a class. No registration required. Materials not provided. Mend with Friends Saturday, December 6, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Conference Room Bring your own items to mend. Limited mending supplies and casual instruction are available, but bringing your own favorite tools, extra buttons, fabric scraps, or experience to share is always appreciated. Teen Rubik’s Cube Club Saturday, December 6, 4 – 5 p.m., Conference Room Kids 12+ are invited to meet other cubers, learn new techniques and have fun. LEGO Club for Grades K-8 Monday, December 8, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Activity Room Children will use their creativity and engineering skills to build anything they can imagine. Science Fiction and Fantasy Book Club Monday, December 8, 7 – 8 p.m., Auditorium Sign up and pick up a copy of Red Sister by Mark Lawrence. Little Learners STEAM (Ages 3-5) Tuesday, December 9, 3:30 – 4:15 p.m., Activity Room Each month we will nurture curiosity and discover new things through engaging and fun activities. Registration is required. Winter Paper Crafts for Teens and Adults Tuesday, December 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Program Room We will make DIY holiday cards, gift bags, gift tags, and wrapping supplies! Tiny Toots Concert Wednesday, December 10, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Auditorium Toddlers and preschools will enjoy a performance with Bingo Schmingo. Get ready to dance and sing along to favorite children's songs. Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes Fridays, December 12, 19, & 26, 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. Board Game Day Saturday, December 13, 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Auditorium Learn different board games or play your favorite one. This program is open to ages 18+. Online registration is encouraged but not required. Gentle Flow Yoga (ages 13+) Sundays, December 14 & 21, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Auditorium This practice combines mindful movement, simple breathing techniques, and a calming guided meditation to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and restore balance. Bring a mat. Jane Austen Movie Double Feature Sunday, December 14, 1 – 6 p.m., Auditorium In celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birth anniversary, we are showing two film adaptations of Austen’s novels: Persuasion and Sense and Sensibility. Teen Study Space Tuesday - Thursday, December 16 – 18, 4 – 8:30 p.m., Auditorium High school students can come in and focus on studying with snacks and drinks to keep them fueled up. Tiny Toots Concert Wednesday, December 17, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Auditorium Soul4Kidz is a musical trio bursting with energy and music that will have kids and families grooving and singing to a mix of fresh beats and timeless tunes. Special Performance: Fratello Marionettes Wednesday, December 17, 7 – 8 p.m., Auditorium Fratello Marionettes presents their classic, The North Pole Review. Holiday Hullabaloo Saturday, December 20, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Auditorium Celebrate the holidays with fun crafts, holiday music, and Santa. Wear your favorite holiday sweater and get ready to have some family fun! Adult and Teen Paint Workshop (Ages 13+) Saturday, December 20, 2 – 4 p.m., Program Room Paul Loughridge will be leading and instructing you on how to paint that perfect holiday- themed masterpiece. No registration but arrive early to ensure a seat! Jack and the Beanstalk Holiday Puppet Show Tuesday, December 23, 7 – 7:45 p.m. This holiday season, climb into a world of wonder with Jack and the Beanstalk. Join us for a heartwarming adventure filled with festive magic, laughter, and timeless lessons. MORGAN HILL -- 660 W. Main Avenue Snack Break-Free Snacks for Kids!/¡Meriendas Gratis Para Niños! Mondays-Fridays, 3 – 4 p.m. (except during holidays) Children ages 0-18 can stop by for snack, while supplies last. No registration required. ¡Pasa por la biblioteca y recoge una merienda gratis después de la escuela! No es necesario registrarse. Homework Help for Grades K-6 Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Students can get free homework help. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. Help will not be available December 22 – January 1. Evening Itty Bitty Jamboree Tuesdays, December 2 & 16, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Parents and babies can join us for short fun stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Our Itty Bitty Jamboree is 30 minutes followed by Stay & Play time. Kids LEGO Club Wednesdays, December 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 1 – 2:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Children will use their creativity and engineering skills to build anything they can imagine. LEGOs are available for ages 2+. No registration required. Toddler Storytime Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11 a.m. Join us for a fun-filled storytime featuring stories, songs, rhymes, and lots of interactive movement aimed at 2–3-year-olds and their caregivers. Preschool Storytime Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Join us for a fun-filled storytime featuring stories, songs, rhymes, and lots of interactive movement aimed at 3–4-year-olds and their caregivers. Tiny Tot Jamboree Fridays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Toddlers (1-2 years old) and caregivers are invited to join us for short stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Itty Bitty Jamboree Fridays, December 5, 12, 19, & 26, 12 – 12:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Babies (12 months and younger) and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, music, movement and more! Kids Keva Club (Ages 5+) Friday, December 5, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Create structures, sculptures, and ball-runs out of wooden planks. Practice your artistic and architectural skills without tools, glue, nails, or tape - just planks! Bilingual Family Storytime for All Ages Saturdays, December 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Children’s Activity Room Stories, music, movement, and more! Storytimes are bilingual (Spanish/English). ¡Cuentos, música, movimiento y más! Las horas de cuentos son bilingües (español/inglés). Festive Favorites with Simon Santiago Saturday, December 6, 2 – 3 p.m. Simon will be performing a variety of holiday music and popular hits. Zumba Monday, December 8, 6 – 7 p.m., Program Room This Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow, fitness dance party exhilarates your senses and works all major muscle groups in a high-energy cardio blast. Family Fun Night Tuesday, December 9, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Families with school-aged children will create art, crafts, or participate in STEM activities. This month we will be making holiday cards. Teen and Adult Watercolor Workshop (Ages 13+) Wednesday, December 10, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Create your own winter watercolor scene, capturing the beauty of snowy trees, seasonal accents, and frosted landscapes beneath glass. Registration is not required. Seating is limited to the first 35 attendees and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Teens and Young Adults (ages 13-25) Friday, December 12, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Community Room Our staff-led meetings offer a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and ally (LGBTQ+) youth. Join us to make your own ornaments, enjoy hot cocoa and winter treats, while watching your favorite holiday movies with friends! An Afternoon of Jazz Sunday, December 14, 3 – 4 p.m. Enjoy Jazz with Nate Pruitt & Rick Vandivier, featuring Miles Pruitt on drums. Library Ukulele Society Tuesday, December 16, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Program Room Bring your uke and music stand or come to listen and sing along! No registration required. Kids Art Club (Ages 5+) Wednesday, December 17, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Join us for an afternoon of creativity with the Kids Art Club. We will make holiday cards. Sensory Playtime (ages 4-10 with a parent/caregiver) Friday, December 26, 4 – 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room Sensory playtime is a hands-on, interactive experience designed to engage children through a variety of activities. Designed for kids with sensory processing differences, autism, or who have other special needs. Please register. Jack and the Beanstalk Holiday Puppet Show Saturday, December 27, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. This holiday season, climb into a world of wonder with Jack and the Beanstalk. Join us for a heartwarming adventure filled with festive magic, laughter, and timeless lessons. SARATOGA -- 13650 Saratoga Avenue Sun and Sea Art Exhibit Through December 30, Library Lobby Anil Sawe's exhibit consists of oil paintings depicting sunsets and the power of the ocean. Art Beyond the Obvious Exhibit Through December 30, Group Study Room This exhibit is from the art group - Art Beyond the Obvious. Crochet Exhibit: An Autumn Picnic Through December 31, Library Lobby Feast your eyes on delicious-looking delights including fruit, cookies, sandwiches, sushi and fast food! Homework Help for Grades K-6 Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Orchard Room Students can drop-in for free homework help. No registration is required. Basic school supplies will be provided. Caregivers of children under 10 years old must stay with their child. Homework Help will not be offered December 22 – January 8. Mystery Book Club Monday, December 1, 7 – 8 p.m. We will discuss The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie. Stop by the Adult Reference Desk to sign up and get a copy of the book. Band Jam: Guitar and Ukulele Tuesdays, December 2, 9, & 16, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Meet people who are also working on their music journey, learn new chords/strums, and get encouragement to practice towards mastering your instrument. Bring your own guitar or ukulele, all other materials will be provided. Family Storytime Tuesdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Maple Room Saturdays, December 6, 13, 20, & 27, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room Join us for stories, rhymes, and songs. Sci-Fi & Fantasy Book Club Tuesday, December 2, 7 – 8 p.m., Maple Room We will discuss Fevered Star by Rebecca Roanhorse. Register and pick up a copy of the book at the adult reference desk. Knit & Crochet Circle Wednesday, December 3, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Maple Room Bring your own projects and yarn, ask questions, receive help, give help, share ideas and meet new people. Baby Storytime (12 months or younger) Wednesdays, December 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 11 – 11:15 a.m., Community Room Join us for fun, interactive nursery rhymes, fingerplays, action rhymes, and songs! Drop-in Tech Help Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Oak Room Get help using your laptop, tablet or cell phone. Help is first-come, first-served. STEM Electrical Circuits (Grades 3-7) Saturday, December 6, 1 – 2 p.m., Community Room Drop in to learn about electrical circuits and create your own electrical circuit! No registration required, first come, first served. Teen Study Hall Sundays, December 7 & 14, 10 a.m. – 5:45 p.m., Community Room Teens preparing for finals can study together in a friendly atmosphere. Kids Sock Snowman Tuesday, December 9, 4 – 5 p.m., Community Room Create your own sock snow person. All materials will be provided, while supplies last. Aquaponics: Growing Fish and Food in Harmony Tuesday, December 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Community Room Master Gardeners present a fascinating way to grow vegetables and fish together. Learn how this sustainable method recycles water, produces nutrient-rich food, and brings the science of ecosystems to life. Chinese Book Club - 中文書友會 Thursday, December 11, 10:15 – 11:45 a.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. Furry Reading Buddies (completed Grades K-5) Friday, December 12, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room Children can buddy up with a furry friend and read one-on-one from a favorite book. Children must register themselves in-person at the Children’s Reference Desk. STEM Slime and Volcano (Grades 2-7) Saturday, December 13, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room Stop by and make slime, a volcano and more. All materials will be provided while supplies last. No registration required. Board Game Night for Adults Monday, December 15, 6 – 8 p.m., Maple Room Drop in and play a variety of board games. Children’s Ornament Decorating Tuesday, December 16, 4 – 5 p.m., Community Room Decorate premade apple cinnamon ornaments and take them home. We will provide the ornaments and decorating supplies while supplies last. LEGOs Wednesday, December 17, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room Kids 5+ can stop by to build LEGOs. For kiddos under 5, we have Duplos. Teatime Book Chatter Thursday, December 18, 1 – 2 p.m. Stop by the Adult Reference Desk to register and get a copy of the selected book. WOODLAND – 1975 Grant Road Monday Meditation and Mindfulness Mondays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 7 – 7:30 p.m. Practice meditation for 20 minutes, then have 10 minutes to talk to the instructor. Winter Wonderland Words Sunday, December 14, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Backyard Patio (dress for weather!) This special storytime is full of stories, wiggles, music, and fingerplays. ONLINE EVENTS (Please register online) Virtual Author Talk: Sue Hincenbergs Tuesday, December 2, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join us for an online chat with debut author Sue Hincenbergs as she discusses The Retirement Plan, a darkly humorous novel where murder becomes the path to paradise. Online English Conversation Club Thursdays, December 4 & 11, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Meet new friends and practice English together. Asian Art Museum Talk Tuesday, December 9, 7 – 8 p.m. Ten countries, diverse cultures, thousands of years. Explore the varied and intriguing art of Southeast Asian as reflected in the religious and secular art of this fascinating region.