Veterans Day: Honoring All Who Served

Veterans Day is on Tuesday, November 11. It is a day to honor and thank those who have served our country. The roots of Veterans Day can be traced back to the end of World War I. Originally named Armistice Day, it was created to honor those who served and lost their lives in “The Great War.”  

  • Armistice Day (1918): On November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m., the armistice agreement that ended World War I was signed. This marked the end of hostilities between the Allied Powers and Germany. 
  • Armistice Day (1919): The first Armistice Day was observed on November 11, 1919, as a day of remembrance for those who served and died in World War I. 
  • Veterans Day (1954): In 1954, Congress passed a law that changed Armistice Day to Veterans Day, a day to honor all veterans, not just those who served in World War I. 

We want to recognize and thank service members who have served in the United States Armed Forces not just on November 11 but every day. We have a webpage dedicated to veterans and their families. Here you can find local and state resources, as well as resources to help transition from military to civilian life. Here is how the library can help veterans:

  • Access to information: Our Library offers a wealth of resources on topics such as military benefits, healthcare, education, and job training. 
  • Research assistance: Our librarians can help you research topics related to your military service, such as historical events, unit histories, or specific battles. Try the Fold3 Library Edition to search a growing collection of U.S. military records.
  • Computer access: We offer free computer access and Wi-Fi, which can be helpful for job searching, applying for benefits, or staying connected with loved ones.   
  • Smart Investing for Veterans: We offer information on financial resources, employment, and more.
  • VetNow: VetNow provides personalized assistance to veterans and their families. This program can help you connect with VA benefits, healthcare, and other services. Get help with live job coaching, identifying skills, resume building, and translating military experiences into civilian occupations. 

The County of Santa Clara's Office of Veterans Services is hosting a 3-day Stand Down event designed to provide services to support all veterans, with a focus on those who are unhoused, at risk of becoming unhoused or food insecure. Several County departments, community organizations and other veteran service agencies will provide services such as employment assistance, medical and dental screenings, mental health resources, legal aid, groceries and more. Lunch will be provided each day. It runs November 6 -- November 8 at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds at the Pavilion and Fiesta Hall. Please register.  

All SCCLD libraries will be closed on Tuesday, November 11 in observance of the holiday. Our Online Library is always available for research, eBooks, Audiobooks, streaming movies and music, and more!

Veterans and active military service members, we thank you for your service and sacrifice!