It’s the Season to be Thankful

November 2019

It's the Season to be Thankful

Crafts, Culinary Creations, and Good Company Will be Around the Table
Crafts

Crafts, Culinary Creations, and Good Company Will be Around the Table

The Library can help make your November a memorable one  

Looking for the perfect recipe to wow your family this Thanksgiving? Find out how to get ready to welcome the crowd of family and friends into your home and hearth with the Library’s Thanksgiving in America recommendations. Page through the cookbooks on the list, create a menu for the best Thanksgiving dinner ever, or find books that detail the history and background of Thanksgiving.

Ours is a vast country, so it’s no surprise that Thanksgiving traditions are different on each coast and in all those miles in between. The New Thanksgiving Table by Diane Morgan offers recipes that showcase the variety of traditions in our country from New England to the Pacific Northwest. Salmon instead of turkey? Why not! Morgan offers do-ahead tips and recipes for everything from soup to dessert. She even offers some ideas for the leftovers.

Thanksgiving, the Holiday at the Heart of the American Experience by Melanie Kirkpatrick draws on newspaper accounts, private correspondence, historical documents, and cookbooks to illuminate how Thanksgiving has been celebrated through the years, and what it meant to those who observed the holiday then and now. Thanksgiving has sparked controversy from the beginning, and this book provides many historical insights around this holiday.

Explore the rest of the books in this list. There are lots of recipes to try, as well as fascinating stories to share and learn from. If you need help with the holiday decorations, check out our holiday crafts booklist, and take a look at Creativebug, our DIY database. Find 41 different Thanksgiving projects from table decorations to recipes to a welcoming fall wreath for the front door. We also have a list of eBooks on Crafting & Cooking, as well as a booklist with lots of fun new holiday fiction titles.

There is so much more to discover at the library. We’re here to help! Make www.sccl.org your first stop this November, and enjoy a wonderful celebration with your family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving!

 

02 a-secondharvest
Second Harvest

Help Everyone in Silicon Valley Have a Happy Thanksgiving

SCCLD’s Holiday Food Drive is back this month

The holidays are nearly upon us, a time for family, friends and giving thanks. What better way to give back to those in need than by participating in SCCLD’s Holiday Food Drive? Food donations go to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, whose mission is to provide meals to those in our communities who are food insecure. Last year, we collected 6,705 pounds of food items, enough to provide 5,588 nutritious meals.

Please bring non-perishable canned and boxed items you can spare to any one of our libraries, including the Bookmobile, between November 4 through January 10 to take part. A list of the most needed items is available at http://bit.ly/2JmWltH/.  All of our libraries are now open 7 days per week for your convenience. Together, we can make take a bite out of hunger.

 

Vet Lit: Books by and About Military Veterans
VetNow

Vet Lit: Books by and About Military Veterans

Find a new perspective within these works

November 11, 2019 is the 100th anniversary of when President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed Armistice Day, to mark the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In an address, he declared:

“The reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the council of nations…”

This holiday has evolved into a time to honor all veterans of U.S. military conflicts. On this Veterans Day, we not only honor veterans’ heroic actions, but also their words and stories. Our librarians have crafted lists of eBooks and books that feature works written by or about veterans.

The Library also offers online resources developed specifically for veterans. VetNow from Brainfuse is a free service that provides VA benefit support tools, college skills tools including free tutoring, and job-hunting help for veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life. We have also compiled a number of different resources that are available locally for our veterans.

 
Home for the Holidays Guide
Home for the Holidays

Home for the Holidays Guide

Suggestions for books, movies and more to make your family visits special

Trying to find the perfect movie to get everyone in your family into a festive spirit for the holiday season? The Library has a bounty of titles for you to choose from, including eBooks and novels about the season.

Make sure your kids have plenty of good books to read. We have Fall Fun with Read Alouds, Craft Crazy Fall Fun, and Holiday How-to Books for Kids lists to keep them happy and busy for days.

If you need a little relaxation time for yourself, we have the mindfulness app Headspace, which offers a variety of online meditation courses that you can take, in a variety of lengths and styles. We also offer several classes in yoga, meditation and other subjects that will help you relax and regain your focus.

Library District Wins Two Distinguished Awards
Awards

Library District Wins Two Distinguished Awards

Gilroy Library Rise Up program and use of new Headspace app recognized

SCCLD recently received two major honors for innovative programming and services. The first, from the Urban Libraries Council, is for its “Lending Mindfulness: A Mental Health App Pilot”, which was selected as the winner from over 250 entries in the Wellness, Safety and Sustainability category. SCCLD is the first public library in the nation to offer the mindfulness app, Headspace, to patrons for daily meditation. The award was presented Thursday, October 17 during ULC’s annual conference in Salt Lake City.

The second recognition is from the California State Association of Counties for Rise Up, a community based intervention and education program coordinated in partnership with the Gilroy Library. SCCLD was selected as the urban library winner for the Challenge Award in Administration of Justice & Public Safety. Rise Up is a partnership between the Gilroy Library and various County agencies, including the District Attorney’s office and the Department of Child and Family Services, and the South County Youth Task Force to provide education and support to improve the lives and outcomes for at-risk youth and their families. The award will be presented at the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 9.

Remembering Filipino American History
Filipino History

Remembering Filipino American History

Focusing on the contributions of Filipina Americans

Americans of Filipino heritage have a great deal to reflect on during November, with a long history of involvement in all sectors of the country’s social and public life. This year’s theme for 2019 Filipino American History Month, as determined by the Filipino American National Historical Society, is “Pinay Visionaries: Celebrating Filipina American Women,” in honor of the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote.

Examples of outstanding female leaders from the community are: Dr. Dorothy Laigo Cordova, founder and Executive Director of the Filipino American National Historical Society; first Asian American Olympic gold medalist Victoria Manalo Draves; Dr. Felicisima Serafica, the fist Filipina American professor of psychology to receive tenure in the U.S.; Thelma Buchholdt, the first Filipina American elected to a U.S. legislature; and Dr. Dawn Bohulano Mabalon, professor and historic preservationist, as well as author of Little Manila is in the Heart.

The library has a number of resources available about the Philippines, as well as many written works by Filipino/a American authors.

 

Honor National Family Literacy Day by Helping Others Read
Family Literacy

Honor National Family Literacy Day by Helping Others Read

The Library is looking for volunteers to help adults improve their literacy skills

Literacy is a key skill that opens a world of opportunities for children and adults to read & write for pleasure, education, or employment. In fact, according to the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), parents’ educational attainment and children’s educational outcomes are related. NCFL also reports that to improve children’s outcomes, parents also need opportunities to build their skills.

SCCLD is looking for volunteers to become tutors and help empower an adult learner to learn English to reach their full potential. Tutors must be at least 18 years old, have an understanding of basic English, and be able to communicate in a learner-centered environment. No teaching experience is required.

Register today for an orientation at our Service and Support Center in Campbell on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 or at Gilroy Library on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 by contacting The Reading Program at (408) 262-1349 or readingprogram@sccl.org. If you have the time, patience, and desire to help give the gift of literacy to an adult, we would greatly appreciate your assistance!

Calendar of November Events
Calendar of November Events

Calendar of November Events

Major happenings this month at each SCCLD location

November 1 is Authors Day as well as National Family Literacy Day. Daylight Savings ends this month (3rd), which means longer nights. Veterans Day is on the 11th. November is also the month that we celebrate National Native American Heritage and Filipino American History.  

November 2019 EVENTS (HIGHLIGHTS)

All Libraries will be Closed Monday, November 11 for Veterans Day and Thursday/Friday, November 28-29 for Thanksgiving

CAMPBELL (77 Harrison Avenue, Campbell 95008)

Family Movie Time: Aladdin
Saturday, November 2, 2 – 4 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Join us for a newly released family friendly film on the big screen.

NaNoWriMo Writing Workshop (for adults and teens 18+)
Sundays, November 3, 17, & 24, 2 – 3:30 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Explore the basics of creative writing, including constructing complex characters and generating conflict. Intended for novice writers, but all levels welcome. No registration necessary.

Sue’s Story: Dementia Awareness Film Screening and Discussion
Monday, November 4, 7 – 9 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Examines one of the greatest challenges of our time: the rise of dementia in a world unprepared for it. Tells the story of Lewy Body Dementia sufferer Sue Berghoff.

ESL Conversation Club
Tuesdays, November 5, 12, & 19, 1 – 2:30 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Improve your English listening and speaking skills in a friendly, supportive setting. For all levels. Chat topics include U.S. culture, life skills, and current events. No sign up needed.

Teen Advisory Board (ages 13-17 only)
Wednesday, November 6, 5 – 6 pm, Teen Zone – Upper Level
Help influence the future of the Campbell Library while earning community service hours and having your voice heard.

Harry Potter Trivia Night @ AFKxp (adults 21+)
Wednesday, November 6, 7 – 9 pm, AFKxp (above LVL UP Arcade & Gastropub - Campbell Ave.)
Join us for Harry Potter trivia, other themed fun and a chance to win prizes. Space is limited, teams of 3-5, first come, first served. Registration at 6 pm at AFKxp, trivia at 7 pm.

Learn About Medicare Options for 2020
Thursday, November 7, 1:30 – 3 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
State registered counselors can help you understand your options and answer your Medicare questions. Save time and create an account at mymedicare.gov to get a list of your Part D medications.

Let’s Play in Spanish Sing Along & Puppet Show
Thursday, November 14, 4 – 5 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Susy Dorn & LPIS Team will present an amazing afternoon of music and fun.

Family Puzzle Day
Saturday, November 16, 2 – 4 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Join us for our first ever puzzle day where you work with your family to put together puzzles, try crosswords, word searches and Sudoku.

Kids Craft: Mini Light Sabers (second graders and up)
Monday, November 18, 4 – 5 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
This month’s special craft is a mini light saber. Please register online.

Travel Program: Pelicans, Herons, and Egrets Oh My!
Tuesday, November 19, 7:15 – 8:30 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Wildlife photographer Joan Sparks will take you on a journey to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.

Kids STEAM Book Club (4-6th grade)
Wednesday, November 20, 4 – 5 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
This month’s book selection is Felix Yz by Lisa Bunker. We will discuss the book and do a fun activity. Register at the library. The first ten kids who sign up will get a free copy of the book.

Improv Art Adult Craft (adults 18+)
Wednesday, November 20, 6 – 8 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Let your creativity guide you and make your own original work of art. All supplies and instructions provided. 1 craft per person. Registration is required.

Book Wizards Book Club (2nd and 3rd grade)
Monday, November 25, 4 – 5 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
This month’s selection is Haggis and Tank Unleashed: All Paws on Deck. We will discuss the book and do a fun activity. Register at the library. The first ten kids who sign up get a free copy of the book.

Turkey Bingo
Monday, November 25, 6:30 – 8 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Make your Thanksgiving extra fun with family friendly Bingo. Play to win all the trimmings up to the grand prize of a turkey! No registration or fee required.

Climate Change Book Club
Tuesday, November 26, 6:30 – 8 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
This month’s pick is How to Change Minds About Our Changing Climate. Pick up a copy at the Campbell Library or ask a staff member for more details.

Monthly LEGO Party (Kids 2+)
Wednesday, November 27, 3:30 – 4:30 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Drop in and play with DUPLOs and LEGOs.

Family Movie Time
Saturday, November 30, 2 – 4 pm, Community Room – Lower Level
Join us as we present Toy Story 4.

 

CUPERTINO (10800 Torre Avenue, Cupertino 95014)

ESL Conversation Club
Fridays, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 10:30 am – 12 pm, Meeting Room
Practice your English in a friendly, informal group. Meets weekly. All language levels welcome.

Teen Python Coding Workshop
Saturday, November 2 & 16, 10 am – 1 pm, Story Room
Two-part workshop to learn Python coding. You must attend both workshops to register. Register online.

Reading Buddies (K-5th grade)
Thursday, November 7, 7 – 8 pm, Story Room
Read to a patient and quiet therapy animal to improve reading aloud skills, pronunciation and build self-confidence. Register in person at the Children’s Reference Desk.

Teen Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Workshop
Saturday, November 9, 2 – 4 pm, Story Room
Stress can hurt your wellbeing if you don’t keep it in check. Get a better understanding of stress and how to manage it at this workshop. Space is limited, register online.

Children’s Movie Time
Thursday, November 14, 4 – 5 pm, Story Room
School aged children are invited to watch a feature film. Film is TBA.

Bilingual Storytime (Mandarin/English)
Friday, November 15, 11 am – 12 pm, Parent’s Corner
Children’s Librarian Jean will read storybooks, lead children with songs, games and a craft project. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers are welcome.

Wellness + Mindfulness Meditation
Monday, November 18, 6:30 – 7:30 pm, Story Room
Designed to benefit regular practitioners as well as beginners.

LEGO Club (K-8th grade)
Thursday, November 21, 4 – 5 pm, Story Room
We’ll bring the LEGOs, you bring the imagination and creativity.

Adult Book Discussion Group
Thursday, November 21, 7 – 8:30 pm, Story Room
This month’s book selection is Beloved by Toni Morrison.

An Introduction to Herbalism
Saturday, November 24, 2 – 4 pm, Community Hall
Learn how common herbs can support your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.

GILROY (350 W. Sixth Street, Gilroy 95020)

Adult Book Discussion: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Friday, November 1, 10:15 – 11:15 am, Quiet Study Room B
Teens welcome. Copies available at the Information Desk upstairs.

Gilroy League of Writers (GLOW) for Pre-teens and Teens
Friday, November 1, 4 – 5 pm, Quiet Study Room B
Develop your writing skills, learn new techniques, and meet like-minded people.

ESL Conversation Club/Club de Conversación de ESL
Fridays, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 11 am – 12 pm, Meeting Room
Practice your English in a friendly, informal group. Meets weekly. All language levels welcome.
Practique su inglés dentro de un grupo amistoso que se reúne una vez a la semana por una hora. Todos los niveles de estudiantes del idioma son bienvenidos. 

Rhythm, Rattle and Rock Story Time
Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 11 – 11:30 am, Nest (Children’s Activity Room)
Join us for a lively round of singing, dancing and stories. Wave a scarf, ring a bell, have a blast.

Pajama Story Time / Cuentos en Pijama
Mondays, November 4, 18, 25, 7 – 8 pm, Nest (Children’s Activity Room)
Bring your favorite stuffed animal, pillow, or blanket and your PJs. For the whole family.

Hora de Cuentos en español / Spanish Storytime
Tuesdays, November 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4:30 – 5:30 pm, Nest (Children’s Activity Room)
Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes for families with children. Plus a simple craft, play time.
Acompáñenos a escuchar cuentos, canciones, y rimas para familias con niños. También habrá una manualidad simple y tiempo para jugar.

Preschool Story Time (ages 3-5)
Thursdays, November 7, 14 & 21, 10:30 – 11 am, Nest (Children’s Activity Room)
Storytimes include books, rhymes, songs, flannel boards, and fun!

Open Poetry Readings
Saturday, November 9, 3:30 – 4:30 pm, Meeting Room
Join the Garlicky Group of Poets to read poetry or listen to new poetry.

Adult and Teen Craft Club (ages 13+, register online)
Saturday, November 16, 2 – 3:30 pm, Community Room
Decorate a cornucopia with ribbon, flowers, pinecones, and more. All supplies provided.

LOS ALTOS (13 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos 94022)

English Conversation Club (no registration required)
Fridays, November 1, 8, 15, & 22, 1:30 – 3 pm, Orchard Room
Practice English in an informal setting, with a supportive group of adult learners.

It’s Friday Night, Let’s Write!
Friday, November 1, 5 – 7 pm, Orchard Room
Jumpstart NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) at the library! Come for the writing, stay for the snacks and meet other writers in your community.

Read Together, Play Together (presented in Mandarin Chinese)
Saturday, November 2, 2 – 3:30 pm, Orchard Room
Dr. Chou Wanhsiang, Children’s Literature, Penn State University, will present the last part of a three event series, “How to Read Picture Books.”

NaNoWriMo 101
Saturday, November 2, 4:30 – 6 pm, Orchard Room
Hear from a NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) expert, learn about NaNoWriMo and get tips about writing. No registration required.

Learn About Medicare Options for 2020
Monday, November 4, 10:30 am – 12 pm, Orchard Room
State registered counselors can help you understand your options and answer your Medicare questions. Save time and create an account at mymedicare.gov to get a list of your Part D medications.

NaNoWriMo Write-In
Wednesday, November 6, 13, 20, & 27, 7 – 9 pm, Orchard Room
Celebrate National Novel Writing Month by working on your book at the Library.

World Affairs Council: Brexit
Wednesday, November 6, 7 – 9 pm, Los Altos Youth Center
A Stanford archeologist and historian will look into Britain’s past to understand the implications of the future.

Mandarin-English Storytime
Thursdays, November 7, 14, & 21, 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.

DIY Kidz: Art Bots with LED Eyes (grades 3+)
Thursday, November 7, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
This project introduces basic circuitry using a hobby motor to create moving robots that draw. Register online.

Sue’s Story: Dementia Awareness Film Screening and Discussion
Wednesday, November 13, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Orchard Room
Examines one of the greatest challenges of our time: the rise of dementia in a world unprepared for it. Tells the story of Lewy Body Dementia sufferer Sue Berghoff.

Bay Area Games Day
Saturday, November 16, 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.

Green Your Holidays
Monday, November 18, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Orchard Room
Join GreenTown Los Altos, Fabmo and Rapt to learn fun and practical ways to reduce waste and green your holidays.

Book Bugs Club (2nd & 3rd grade)
Tuesday, November 19, 4 – 4:45 pm, Orchard Room
This month’s selection is Who Stole the Wizard Oz? Register online or in person, then pick up a copy at the Children’s Desk.

The Great Turkey Escape! (grades 4-8)
Tuesday, November 26, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
Kids are invited to work alone or as a team to escape our Escape Room by solving clues and puzzles. Register online or call the Children’s Desk at 650-948-7683 ext. 3525

Master Gardeners: Succulents
Wednesday, November 27, 7 – 8:30 pm, Orchard Room
These wide range, diverse, low water plants are a welcome addition to any garden.

MILPITAS (160 N. Main Street, Milpitas 95035)

Day of the Dead Celebration (ages 7+)
Friday, November 1, 2 – 4 pm, Auditorium
Decorate sugar skulls, create paper flower headbands, design your own Day of the Dead mask and learn about the holiday. No registration required but supplies are limited.

Dash Robot Coding
Tuesday, November 5, 3:30 – 5 pm, Children’s Activity Room (grades 4-6)
Tuesday, November 19, 3:30 – 5 pm, Children’s Activity Room (grades 1-3)
Join us to complete a maze challenge while learning coding basics. Registration is required and limited to one session. Register online or at the Children’s Desk. 

Paint by Stickers Night (ages 5-9)
Wednesday, November 6, 3:30 – 5 pm, Children’s Activity Room
Relax and paint. Registration is required online or in-person. 

Heartfulness Relaxation and Meditation
Thursdays, November 7, 14, & 21, 11 am – 12 pm, Auditorium
Paves the way for overall well-being by balancing one’s existence and improving relationships. 5-minute guided relaxation technique followed by a personal meditation.

Next Gen Tutoring (grades K-6)
Thursday, November 7, 14, & 21, 3:30 – 5:45 pm, Auditorium
Tutors working one-on-one or in groups to assist students in social studies, math and language arts.  

Investment & Financial Planning
Thursday, November 7, 7 – 8:30 pm, Auditorium
Learn about managing risk and portfolio diversification, tax aware investing, retirement planning and long-term care planning. Register online.  

ESL Conversation Club
Fridays, November 8, 15, & 22, 1 – 2 pm, Group Study Room A
Come and improve your English listening and speaking skills in a fun, respectful, and supportive environment. For all levels of learners. Topics will include U.S. culture, life skills, current events.

Book Discussion Group
Wednesday, November 13, 7:30 – 8:30 pm, Auditorium
This month’s pick is Exit West.  

Writing and Craft Night
Friday, November 15, 4:30 – 6 pm, Auditorium
Develop writing skills using a fun family photo and the theme “Thanks for my Family!” Register by email at soh@sccl.org or call 408-262-1349.   

#PracticeKindness
Saturday, November 16, 3 – 4:15 pm, Auditorium
Explore the science of kindness and compassion, practice a mindful-based kindness exercise, discuss how to integrate kindness into your life and pledge to bring more kindness to the world.   

ESL Book Club (4th Friday of each month)
Friday, November 22, 2 – 3 pm, Group Study Room A
Practice reading and speaking English while reading good books, having fun, and making new friends.  Ask the Adult Reference Desk librarian about this month’s book. Copies available.

Reading Buddies
Saturday, November 23, 2 – 3 pm, Children’s Activity Room
For children grades K-5. Buddy up with a furry friend and practice reading aloud to a patient therapy animal. 20-minute sessions. Drop-in program. 

Bilingual Storytime (Mandarin/English)
Friday, November 25, 11 am – 12 pm, Children’s Activity Room
Children’s Librarian Jean will read storybooks, lead children with songs, games and a craft project. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers are welcome.

MORGAN HILL (660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill 95037)

Bilingual Family Storytime
Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10:15 – 11 am, Program Room
Families- join us for book reading, songs, rhymes and plenty of fun. In English and Spanish.

Documentary Screening and Q&A Session: Inventing Tomorrow
Saturday, November 2, 3 – 5 pm, Program Room
See a prize-winning documentary about teens who fight local environmental threats, then present their research at a science fair, all while coping with adolescent issues. Discussion with teens to follow.

Dungeons & Dragons/Tabletop Gaming Club for Teens
Sundays, November 3, 10 & 17, 2 – 4 pm, Teen Area
Free, no registration needed.

Self Defense for Teens and Adults
Monday, November 4, 7 – 8:30 pm, Program Room
Two-part series that teaches people how to stay safe using simple yet effective techniques.

Snack Break for Children 18 and Under
Tuesdays & Thursdays, November 5 - 26, 3 – 4 pm, Program Room
Local YMCA provides free snacks and activities to youth.    

After Dinner Book Group
Tuesday, November 5, 7:30 – 9 pm, Program Room
Join us for a discussion of Clock Dance by Anne Tyler.    

Vaping Awareness
Wednesday, November 6, 4 – 5 pm, Program Room
BREATHE California is hosting an information presentation about vaping, e-cigarettes and JUULs.

Morgan Hill Round Table Discussion Group
Wednesday, November 6, 6:30 – 8 pm, Program Room
Tonight’s topic is considering health care for all.

ESL Conversation Club/Club de Conversación de ESL
Thursdays, November 7, 14, & 21, 4 – 5 pm, Program Room
Come and improve your English listening and speaking skills in a fun, respectful, and supportive environment. For all levels of learners. Topics will include U.S. culture, life skills, current events.

Coding for Kids
Friday, November 8, 4:30 – 5:30 pm, Program Room
Learn about Python programming, chat-bots and AI (artificial intelligence).

Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Tuesday, November 12, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Program Room
Please bring your own camera to take the picture. Sign up online to save a spot or drop-in to see if space is available. Signup for one time slot per family.

Beginning Art Instruction in Pastel and Charcoal (ages 13+)
Wednesday, November 13, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Program Room
Artists of various levels of experience are welcome. Register online.    

Author Visit: Elias Castillo
Saturday, November 23, 3 – 5 pm, Program Room
Hear from the Pulitzer Prize nominated journalist and author of A Cross of Thorns: The Enslavement of California’s Indians by the Spanish Missions

 

SARATOGA (13650 Saratoga Avenue, Saratoga 95070)

James Tissot: Fashion and Faith
Friday, November 1, 11 am – 12 pm, Community Room
A SF Museum docent will highlight the current exhibit at the SF Legion of Honor.    

Teen Coffeehouse (Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/performsa)
Friday, November 1, 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Community Room
Perform at the Coffeehouse, our open mic night just for teens. Performers 12 and up only.

Saturday Family Storytime
Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10:30 – 11 am, Orchard Room
Join us for fun stories, fingerplays, and songs for the whole family.

Intermediate Arduino (ages 10+)
Saturday, November 2, 3 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy to use hardware and software.

Saratoga Library Book Discussion Group
Monday, November 4, 7:30 – 8:30 pm, Community Room
This month’s book is Tangerine by Christine Mangan.

Blueberries in Abundance!
Tuesday, November 5, 7 – 8 pm, Community Room
Master Gardener Jeff Jenks will talk about growing an abundance of blueberries in the South Bay.

ESL Conversation Club
Thursdays, November 7, 14, & 21, 11 am – 12:15 pm, Community Room
Drop-in to improve your English listening and speaking skills and learn about other cultures, in a supportive environment. All levels and language backgrounds welcome.

Make Monster Origami
Thursday, November 7, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
Join us for a frightfully good time making monster origami. All ages are welcome, no registration is necessary.

Macbeth
Saturday, November 9, 2 – 3 pm, Community Room
Watch this free performance by San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s touring troupe. The event will conclude with a Q & A with the cast.     

The Science Behind Catapults (grades 3-7 only)
Saturday, November 9, 3 – 4 pm, Orchard Room
Build and test a sturdy catapult to learn the scientific concepts of tension, torque and gravity. Register online.

Optimizing Taxes
Tuesday, November 12, 7 – 8:15 pm, Community Room
Presenters from the Financial Planners of America – Silicon Valley Chapter will point out things to keep in mind for end-of-year tax planning.

Paws to Read (grades K-5)
Tuesday, November 12, 7 – 8 pm, Orchard Room
Tuesday, November 26, 4 – 5 pm, Orchard Room
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.  

Medicare Changes in 2020 and Annual Enrollment Period
Friday, November 15, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm, Community Room
Stop by to get help on Medicare changes in the coming year.

Recycling
Saturday, November 16, 2 – 3 pm, Community Room
Learn the 4 R’s of managing your waste: Reduce, reuse, recycle and rot.

Mandarin/English Storytime
Tuesday, November 26, 11:30 am – 12 pm, Orchard Room
Children’s Librarian Jean will read story books, lead children in songs, flannel board story, finger play, games and craft projects. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and parents/caretakers welcome.

WOODLAND (1975 Grant Avenue, Los Altos 94024)

Robot Invasion
Saturdays, November 2 & 9, 11 am – 5 pm
Check out Ozobots! Color-code base programming teaches basic coding concepts like cause/effect, critical thinking and debugging.     

Leaf Garland Craft
Sunday, November 3, 2 – 3 pm
Create a fall-themed garland. Note: We will be using sewing needles to hand lace the leaves.

Adult Book Club
Tuesday, November 12, 2 – 3:30 pm
See a librarian for a copy of the current book. Register online.