Summer Reading is Here!
2019 Summer Preview
Put reading center stage and get a chance to win prizes
Coming soon to YOUR library, our 2019 Summer Reading and Learning Program! SCCLD is challenging participants to read at least five books this summer to reach a community goal of 200,000 books. Register early on Beanstack online and make reading the blockbuster event of the summer.
Reading keeps kids learning over vacation, improves your memory and besides, it’s fun. Whether you like the classics, fictional dramas, action-packed comics, romantic novels, or thrillers, the Summer Reading program can introduce you to an all-star lineup of literary characters!
We also want to shine the spotlight on other events happening – From a musical ensemble group that brings Mexican storytelling to life to a Battle of the Bands for teenage musicians.
Thanks to our generous partners, reading is your way to success. Read five books and complete one activity to be eligible to win theater tickets, museum passes and the Grand Prize – a San Francisco 49ers Pre-Season Game Day Experience.
Mental Health Resource Fair at Gilroy Library
Finding Ways to Balance your Life and your Mind
The Gilroy Library is hosting a Mental Health Resource Fair coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month. This daylong event will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 10 am to 4 pm. The fair, which is free and open to all, is made possible in part thanks to a grant provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
This year’s theme is “Balanced Life, Balanced Mind,” and the fair will offer ways to achieve that. Different resources and community organizations will be there, introducing patrons to the valuable services they offer. Workshops will be held throughout the day, discussing topics such as the psychology of stress, coping with grief and techniques to undo stress. There will also be programming dedicated to children. Find the full calendar of events here.
One in five Americans faces a mental health condition, including anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, and eating disorders. While traditionally such personal health issues have rarely been publicly discussed, society has been moving toward greater understanding and openness in talking about them. The Library has many resources around mental health in its 24/7 Online Library, including films on Kanopy.
Teens’ Top 10 Books Nominees 2019
Vote for your favorite selections from a list compiled by teens
Each year, SCCLD’s teen librarians lead an effort to rank the best YA books of the past year, using a list compiled by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).
The goal is to identify which books local teens most enjoyed, selecting from nominees released by YALSA during last month’s National Library Week. The selections were chosen by teen book groups from across the country.
Vote for your favorite today!
Imagination Blocks and Lego Building Events
The Library is bringing a whole new level of fun for kids
Imagination Blocks are the latest innovative item coming to a library near you. This colorful new experience allows kids to create their own play spaces in which the only limitation is their imagination. The giant blue blocks come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The block sets will be coming to every SCCLD community library, plus special Bookmobile events, starting this month. Saratoga, Morgan Hill and Los Altos libraries will be the first libraries to host the Imagination Blocks, with the sets rotating every month to the other libraries.
Are your kids wild about Legos? All of our libraries have upcoming Lego-themed events, including clubs, parties, and building events. We also have a special Preschool STEM Camp scheduled to take place in June at Campbell Library. Come by and make some connections.
The 2018 Lego Play Well Report looked at responses from nearly 13,000 parents and children ages 12 months to 12 years to survey about their use of the product. Researchers found that playing with toy blocks helps improve coordination for very young users, as well as creativity and imagination. As kids age, finding ways to combine fun with learning is important. Careers in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) field rely on individuals who can innovate and problem solve.
Hundreds of Library users have tried the Headspace relaxation app
Spots remain available for those looking for a little more tranquility in their lives
In March, SCCLD became the first public library system to partner with health and fitness mobile and desktop app Headspace. Over 400 patrons have already started using the app for free, taking advantage of more than 1,000 hours of engaging virtual meditation classes. Topics range from pain management, dealing with anxieties, coping with cravings, mindfulness and general relaxation.
There are about 80 spots left for library users to take advantage of this service so don’t delay! Sign up today!
Mother’s Day is Coming / Crafting Events
Get ready with a little help from the Library
From career to cooking to carpooling and counseling, moms and mother figures are multi-taskers who juggle it all in the name of love. This Mother’s Day, give Mom some downtime to read and share this book list – It’s the motherlode of mom tales! You can also show her how precious she is to you by making her something priceless because it’s made with love. Our libraries are offering a crafting events in the coming weeks.
SARATOGA- Ceramics 4th – 8th Grades
Saturday, May 4, 2 – 3:30 pm, Orchard Room
Come join us and get your hands dirty in the name of art.
LOS ALTOS- Let’s make a gift and a card for Mother’s Day
Thursday, May 9, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
For kids in grades 3 and up. All materials provided.
Maker Faire is Coming to Gilroy Library
Calling all DIY fanatics, it’s almost time to get your craft on
Get ready for the greatest show (and tell) on Earth, as Maker Faire comes to South County. The Gilroy Mini Maker Faire will take place at the Gilroy Library on July 13th, from 11 am – 3 pm. Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, inventive people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do.
From engineers to artists, scientists, and crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for "makers" to show hobbies, experiments and projects. It’s a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. Join us for a celebration with hands-on activities and demonstrations featuring rockets and robots, digital fabrication, DIY science and technology, unique handmade crafts, and educational workshops.
We’re looking for local makers who want to share what they do and showcase their work. Exhibits that are interactive or highlight the process of making things are especially desired. The more hands-on and interactive your project, the better! The call for makers, performers and crafters is open, and the application is available through our website at www.gilroy.makerfaire.com
Gilroy Mini Maker Faire is independently organized and operated under license from Maker Media, Inc.
Calendar of May Events
Major happenings this month at each SCCLD location
May is a busy month, with Cinco de Mayo (5), the start of Ramadan (6), Mother’s Day (12) and Memorial Day (27). This is also the month we appreciate Older Americans, as well as Jewish American, and Asian Pacific American heritage. We also mark Bike to Work Week (13-19).
MAY 2019 EVENTS (HIGHLIGHTS)
CAMPBELL (77 Harrison Avenue, Campbell 95008)
Introduction to Tai Chi
Thursday, May 2, 11 am – 12 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Instructor Yang Li, award winning martial arts master and instructor with Chinese Performing Arts of America, will provide an introduction to this traditional Chinese exercise.
Family Movies: Mary Poppins Returns
Saturday, May 4, 2 – 4 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
For children and their caregivers.
House Sharing Program
Monday, May 6, 7 – 8:30 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Catholic Charities presents an informative presentation- Santa Clara County’s Housing Solution.
Master Gardeners
Tuesday, May 14, 7 – 8 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Master Gardener Laura Monczynski teaches the basics of container gardening.
Let’s Celebrate Pete the Cat
Saturday, May 18, 2 – 4 pm (Storytime 2-2:30 pm), Community Room – Lower Level
Come join us for storytime, some crafts, and meet and take pictures with Pete (from 3-4 pm).
Exploring Peru
Tuesday, May 21, 7:15 – 8 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Jimmy Wong shares his travels to Lima, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu and the Amazon jungle.
CUPERTINO (10800 Torre Avenue, Cupertino 95014)
Master Gardeners: Monarch Butterflies- What is happening and how to help
Wednesday, May 1, 7 – 8:30 pm, Community Hall
Learn about the life cycle, habitat, and migration patterns of monarch butterflies, as well as why they are in danger today, and what you can do to help in the conservation effort, such as things to plant.
Mandarin Movie Series: The King of Masks
Monday, May 6, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Story Room
Winner of over 25 top honors at film festivals, director Wu Tianming’s tells the tale of a lonely old magician and a luckless child bound together by fate and suffering who love redeems.
Children’s Garden
Tuesdays, May 7, 14, 21, & 28, 3:30 – 4:30 pm, Courtyard
It’s springtime again! Explore the garden with different do it yourself activities each month.
Library e-Resource Classes: Discover and Go
Tuesday, May 7, 4 – 5 pm, ThinkTank
Your library account opens the door to over 50 local museums and cultural attractions. Find out how to take advantage of this budget-friendly way to visit the Bay’s best cultural institutions.
Summer Courtyard Concert with Flutes
Saturday, May 11, 12 – 1 pm, Courtyard
Enjoy an hour of solos and duets, played on both the western classical and Indian flute.
Bilingual Storytime: Mandarin Chinese/English
Friday, May 17, 11 am – 12 pm, Parents’ Corner
Children’s Librarian Jean will read story books, lead children with songs, flannel board story, finger play, games and craft project. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their parents and caretakers are welcome! 兒童圗書館員朱菊影將為小朋友唸圗畵繪本， 唱童謠，講 絨布板故事，唸 手指謠，玩逰戲和做美勞。歡迎幼兒們和家長, 褓母一起來學
Teen Study Days
Saturdays, May 25 & June 1, 12 – 5 pm, Community Hall
A great place to study or find table space to finish a school project. Tables, chairs and snacks provided. You bring your books, notes and friends to help you get ready to ace those exams.
Wellness: Mindfulness Meditation- Theory and Practice
Sunday, May 26, 2 – 3:30 pm, Community Hall
Come learn about the practice of mindfulness, the concepts behind the practice, and the many benefits meditation can provide you. Learn how to live a healthier, stress-free life.
GILROY (350 W. Sixth Street, Gilroy 95020)
Healthy Living: Rethink your drink and label reading
Wednesday, May 1, 6 – 7:30 pm, Quiet Study B
Learn how healthy beverages fit into MyPlate dietary recommendations, plus the link between sugary drinks, obesity and type 2 diabetes. How to read and understand a nutrition facts label.
Gilroy League of Writers (GLOW) for Pre-Teens and Teens
Thursday, May 2, 4:30 – 5:30 pm, Quiet Study B
Are you interested in developing your writing skills? Join us the first Thursday of the month.
Balanced Mind, Balanced Life Resource Fair
Saturday, May 4, 10 am – 4 pm, Librarywide
Join us for this all-day community resource fair. There will be crafts for all ages, prizes and giveaways, workshops, adult coloring, drawing class, yoga, and information resource tables.
Immigration Consultations with Catholic Charities / Consultas de inmigración con Catholic Charities
Monday, May 6, 4 – 6 pm, Quiet Study B
Free information and referrals to low cost immigration services.
Información gratuita y referencias a recursos de inmigración de bajo costo.
Spanish Storytime/Hora de cuentos en español
Tuesdays, May 7, 14 & 21, 4 – 4:45 pm, Nest (Children’s Activity Room)
Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes for families with children. There will be a simple craft and time to play. Speakers of all languages are welcome to attend.
Acompáñenos a escuchar cuentos, canciones, y rimas para familias con niños. También habrá una manualidad simple y tiempo para jugar.
Introduction to Ayurveda
Saturday, May 11, 10 – 11 am, Community Room
Learn about Ayurveda, traditional medicine system related to Yoga. Presenter will discuss fundamental concepts and how to cultivate wellness and balance in your life.
LOS ALTOS (13 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos 94022)
World Affairs Council: The Rise of Populism Around the World
Wednesday, May 1, 7 – 9 pm, Los Altos Youth Center
Barry Eichengreen, Professor of Political Science at UC Berkeley, will discuss the global resurgence of populism today. He will also share his proposals on ways to control its impacts.
Author Event with Les Kaye
Thursday, May 2, 7 – 8:30 pm, Orchard Room
Local author and Zen monk Kaye will discuss his most recent book, A Sense of Something Greater. Explores how we can create meaningful bonds with people and the environment.
Let’s make a Gift and a Card for Mother’s Day
Thursday, May 9, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
For kids in grades 3 and up. All materials provided.
Rambling the English Countryside and Exploring Rare Bits of Wales
Monday, May 13, 7 – 8:30 pm, Orchard Room
Join photographer David Couzens in an eclectic cherry-picked solo trip across the pond.
Rock Painting
Wednesday, May 15, 6 – 8 pm, Orchard Room
Come let your imagination “rock” while you learn to use new art supplies and techniques.
Bay Area Games Day
Saturday, May 18, 10 am – 11 pm, Orchard Room
A full day of convention-style open gaming now in its 21th year. Recent hobbyist and classic strategy games. All levels.
Mandarin-English Storytime
Thursday, May 30, 11 – 11:30 am, Orchard Room
Join us for a bilingual storytime featuring books, songs, finger plays, and activities in Mandarin and English. Speakers of all languages welcome.
MILPITAS (160 N. Main Street, Milpitas 95035)
Star Wars Day
Saturday, May 4, 10 am – 6:30 pm (Crafts 3-3:45 pm), Auditorium
We’ll be showing the original trilogy and making lightsaber earrings and keychains.
Read Write Discover
Saturdays, May 11 & 18, 10 am to 1 pm, Auditorium
Local teen volunteers help children in elementary-middle school promote literacy through lesson plans and small group tutoring during the summer. Interested students can register.
Family Craft Hour: Kindness Rocks
Wednesday, May 15, 3 – 5 pm, Auditorium
An all-age craft program in celebration of International Day of Families. We will be decorating Kindness Rocks with positive messages and imagery. Free and all materials will be provided.
Culinary Herbs
Wednesday, May 15, 7 – 8:30 pm, Auditorium
Talk will acquaint the home gardener with an introduction to basic herbs- when to harvest and how to preserve them. Free seeds will be available at the end of the presentation.
Increase Your Financial IQ
Thursday, May 16, 7 – 8:30 pm, Auditorium
Confused and uncertain about planning for a sound financial future? Speaker Arvind Ven will help you better understand important financial topics that can impact you and your family.
ESL Book Club (every 4th Friday of the month)
Friday, May 24, 3 – 4 pm, Group Study Room A
Practice reading and speaking English while reading good books and making new friends. Ask the Adult Reference desk about this month’s selection (chosen by ESL students) to get a copy.
MORGAN HILL (660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill 95037)
Snack Breaks (with Cubelets on 5/2)
Tuesdays & Thursday in May, 3 – 4:30 pm, Program Room
Snacks from 3-4 pm (kids under 18), tutoring from 3:30-4:30 pm for K-8 grades.
Grupo Folklórico
Saturday, May 4, 3 – 4 pm, Program Room
Enjoy a performance by this San Martin Gwinn Elementary School group and make tissue paper flowers to celebrate El día de los niños, El día de los libros.
Creating a Children’s Garden
Monday, May 6, 7 – 8:30 pm, Program Room
Join us as we explore how to plan a summer garden for your kids. Tips on plant selection and making your garden easy to manage. Presented by UC Master Gardener Robin Bastianelli.
Make it Monday (for adults and kids with supervision)
Monday, May 13, 7 – 8 pm, Program Room
This month’s craft is Faux Succulent Wealth. All supplies are provided for free. Must register.
Healthy Living: Rethink your Drink and Label Reading
Tuesday, May 14, 6:30 – 8 pm, Program Room
Learn how healthy beverages fit into MyPlate dietary recommendations. Also, the link between sugary drinks, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, and how to read and understand nutrition labels.
Minding your Stress
Saturday, May 18, 3 to 4 pm, Program Room
Learn to understand the impacts of stress and how to deal with it. Presented by Dr. Julie Forbes, educator, consultant and facilitator offering stress reduction and mindfulness classes.
Beginning Art Instruction Drawing in Pastel and Charcoal
Wednesday, May 22, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Program Room
For ages 13 and up. Instructor David Hofstad is a self-taught artist with 25 years of experience.
SARATOGA (13650 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga 95070)
Ceramics 4th – 8th Grades
Saturday, May 4, 2 – 3:30 pm, Orchard Room
Want to give your mom something special and unique for Mother’s Day? Come join us and get your hands dirty in the name of art.
A Personal Perspective of U.S.-China Relations
Tuesday, May 7, 7 – 8:15 pm, Community Room
Dr. George Koo (Founder International Strategic Alliances) will share his insights on the topic.
Crochet Coral Reef Project
Tuesday, May 21, 6 – 8 pm, Community Room
This art project is a celebration of the intersection of higher geometry and handicraft. No experience needed. Instructions and materials provided. Partnership with West Valley College.
Minding your Stress
Friday, May 24, 10:30 – 11:30 am, Community Room
Learn to understand the impacts of stress and how to deal with it. Presented by Dr. Julie Forbes, educator, consultant and facilitator offering stress reduction and mindfulness classes.
Paws to Read
Tuesday, May 28, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
For grades K-5. Kids can work on their pronunciation skills while gaining self-confidence. Read to a patient and quiet therapy animal from Growing Guides. First-come, first-served basis.
Native Plants and Pollinator Gardens
Tuesday, May 28, 7– 8:30 pm, Community Room
Landscape architect Juanita Salisbury will explain how to create a landscape plan, what plants to use and why. Learn how to maintain the habitat as it grows and evolves over the years.
