For December we have an offering of festive events and a lecture by award-winning science writer Gordy Slack. We look forward to seeing you!
Martin Harris Performs A Christmas Carol
Martin Harris lives by the motto, “Christmas Day is every day.” It comes from the mouth of Charles Dickens’s character Scrooge. Don’t miss this special library engagement, free and open to all. Refreshments will be served.
Tuesday, December 11 at 7:00 PM at the Foster City Library
Wednesday, December 12 at 7:00 PM at the Belmont Library
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Making Books and Gifts from Envelopes
The San Francisco Center for the Book demonstrates how to make creative, personal gifts. Gift making for those who’ve had enough of crowded malls and would like to put the spirit back into the holidays!
Saturday, December 1 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Belmont Library
Monday, December 3 from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM at the Woodside Library
Wednesday, December 5 from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM at the Foster City Library
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Gordy Slack Discusses The Battle Over the Meaning of Everything: Evolution, Intelligent Design, and a School Board in Dover, Pennsylvania
An eyewitness account of the recent courtroom drama in Dover, Pennsylvania that illuminates the unforgettable characters on both sides of the controversy.
Sunday, December 2 at 2:00 PM at the San Carlos Library
Tuesday, December 4 at 7:00 PM at the Millbrae Library
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A good book is always a welcome gift. Here are some our recommended titles for this year (and remember you can always read them yourself at your local library). Click on the hot links to access summaries and reviews available in our online catalog.
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Boomsday
by Christopher Buckley (Fiction) |
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| While Summer Reading Club is a longtime tradition at San Mateo County Libraries, some branches also offer more reading fun in the winter. Winter Reading Clubs offer library users an opportunity to read books, discuss what they have read, and earn prizes!
- The East Palo Alto Library's Winter Reading Club will begin January 7, 2008 and end on March 7, 2008. Children can sign up and get a reading log for books they read from a recommended list. Readers earn prizes by answering a book quiz. The program will be featured at the Library and also at several schools in East Palo Alto.
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- In the South County, the Woodside Library will offer a 1000 Pages Reading Club for individuals and families beginning in January. Finishers get their names on our giant bulletin board and receive great prizes. The Portola Valley Library will also offer a Winter Reading Club program in January.
- During February 2008, the Belmont Library will be offering “Get Fired for Books” Each child who reads a book can put the name of the book on a dragon scale. The more books the child reads, the bigger the dragon will get. An ice cream party will be held on March 1, 2008 to celebrate a successful month of reading and to hand out prizes to participants.
Of course, all branches have lots of books, DVDs, magazines and other items to entertain and enlighten during the winter holidays and school intersession. If you are looking for a good book, check out the Library’s catalog to see what we have. If you aren’t sure what you would like to read the Library offers several resources for finding good books to read such as NoveList and What do I Read Next?. |
At a Library Near You...
For more information about events at our all of our twelve libraries, see our web site!
EVENTS
- Chess for Fun
Wednesday, December 5 at 6:00 pm
These free one and a half hour sessions for children are presented by United States Chess Federation Expert Dennis Myers and are funded by the Atherton Police Activities League. Aimed at beginning level players in second grade or above, kids will learn new chess strategies and practical techniques to improve their skills and will have the opportunity to play other students. Knowledge of basic chess moves is required for enrollment. Classes meet one Wednesday each month.
- “Holiday Treats” Puppet Show
Monday, December 10 at 4:00 pm
Holiday Treats is an original thirty minute holiday show from Nick Barone Puppets. Filled with lovable and friendly monsters, this comical story is designed to delight families and children of all ages. Sponsored by the Ravi Family.
- Holiday Open House
Wednesday, December 12 from 2:00-5:00 pm
The Friends of the Atherton Library invite you to their annual Holiday Open House. Come enjoy holiday treats and beverages as you browse for the perfect book, CD, DVD, or magazine to check out.
STORYTIMES
- Toddler Storytime
Tuesdays, December 4, 11, and 18 at 10:30 am
For children ages 18 months to 36 months.
- Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays, December 4, 11, and 18 at 3:30 pm
For children ages 3-6.
FAMILIES
- Holiday Event with Martin Harris reading excerpts from "Christmas Carol"
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 at 7:00 pm in the Taube Room
Enjoy a lively reading with performer Martin Harris as Scrooge. Holiday refreshments will be provided.
ADULTS
- Belmont Library Mystery Book Discussion Group
December 13, 2007 from 2:00-3:30 in the Taube Room
Enjoy a lively discussion of Mary Higgins Clar's "The Christmas Thief", along with some light refreshments.
TEENS
- Making Books and Gifts from Envelopes (San Francisco Center for the Book)
December 1, 2007 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in the Taube Room, for Teens and Adults
- Teen Friday Film: Dogtown and Z Boys
Friday, December 7, 2007 at 4:00 pm
- Creative Writing Workshops
Wednesdays (grades 2-4) & Fridays (grades 5-8) from 7-8:30 pm in the Homework Center
Dates dependent on interest. Register now!
CHILDREN
- "Happy Birds!"
Saturday, December 8, 2007 at 2:00 pm, in the Taube Room, ages 3 and up.
Can birds ride bicycles? Do birds enjoy roller skating? Find out what the happy birds can do!
- Saturday Holiday Storytime
Saturday, December 15, 2007at 10:30 am in the Children's Area, ages 3 and up.
- Adventure Book Club (for 4th grade level readers and higher)
Friday, December 21, 2007 at 4:00 pm, in the Children's Area
Enjoy discussing "The Scarecrow and His Servant" by Philip Pullman
- Friday Flicks
- December 14, 2007 at 4:00 pm in the Taube Room
"Jingle All the Way"
- December 21, 2007at 4:00 pm in the Taube Room
"Olive the Other Reindeer"
- December 28, 2007 at 4:00 pm in the Taube Room
"Polar Express"
EVENTS
- Live at Mission Blue: Chorissima Ensemble San Francisco Girls Chorus
Saturday, December 8 at 8:00 pm
Mission Blue Center, 475 Mission Blue Dr., Brisbane
The Chorissima Ensemble of the San Francisco Girls Chorus presents a delightful holiday program featuring music from the Middle Ages, Purcell, Britten, Poulenc, and traditional songs of the season. Join us for a pre concert talk with Susan McMane, Director, at 7:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at or at the door.
- Wacky Winter with Grunch
Monday, December 10 at 7:00 pm
Brisbane Elementary School, 500 San Bruno Avenue
Randall Metz and the Puppet Company present a holiday puppet show for the entire family featuring wild, wacky, winter adventures.
STORYTIMES
- Toddler/Preschool Storytime
Mondays at 11:30 am for ages 2 and up.
Brisbane firefighters read stories and lead a trip to a fire truck on the third Monday of every month.
- Babies & Books Storytime
Wednesdays at 11:30 am
For babies and infants to 2 years old. No Storytimes on December 19 & 26.
EVENTS
- Wednesday, December 12 at 5:00 pm
Santa is coming to the library! Celebrate the holidays and get your picture taken with Santa Claus at the library.
- Thursday, December 20 at 6:30 pm
East Palo Alto Library will have a Las Posadas event with candy for children who attend.
STORYTIMES
- Bilingual English/Spanish Baby Toddler Storytime
Mondays at 11:15 am
- Family Pajama Storytime
Tuesdays at 7:00 pm
- Baby and Preschool Storytime
Wednesdays at 11:00 am
- Family Storytime in Spanish
Thursdays at 11:00 am
- Family Storytime
Saturdays at 10:30 am
EVENTS
- Presents Made From Recycled Envelopes
Wednesday, December 5 at 3:30 pm
In the Sail Room Must be at least 8 years old to attend.
- Martin Harris performs A Christmas Carol
Tuesday, December 11 at 7:00 pm
In New Book Room Children must be able to sit quietly in a chair for an hour. Light refreshment afterward
- "Book”ies Meeting
Wednesday, December 19 at 3:30 pm
In Starboard Room Members will pick up their Historical Fiction or Fantasy Novel. Students from sixth through twelfth grade welcome.
EVENTS
- Family Movie Night
December 14 at 7:00 pm
STORYTIMES
- Baby & Toddler Storytime
Mondays at 11:30 am
Stories and sings for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers. Ages birth – 3.
- Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays at 10:30 am
Stories and songs for children ages 3 – 5.
- Bilingual Storytime
Wednesdays at 7:00 pm
Stories in English and Spanish for the whole family.
- Libros y Bebes
Saturdays at 9:30 am
Stories and songs in Spanish and English. Ages birth – 3.
- Saturday Crafts
Saturdays at 10:30 am
Learn a new craft each Saturday.
EVENTS
- Big Book Sale!
Saturday, December 1 (9:00 am – 4:00 pm) & Sunday, December 2 (1:00-3:00 pm)
Come find some great things at our Once a Year BIG BOOK SALE! We'll have hardbacks, paperbacks, children's books, CD's, videos, and more.
- Free Computer Class : Beginning Catalog Search
Saturday, December 1 from 10:30-11:30 am
JC will give you tricks & tips on using our Library Catalog. Space is limited. Come early to reserve your seat!
- Book Discussion Group : Funny in Farsi by Firoozeh Dumas
Monday, December 3 at 1:00 pm
Read the book & come discuss with us!
- Author Talk with Science Writer Gordy Slack
Tuesday, December 4 at 7:00 pm
The Battle Over the Meaning of Everything: Evolution, Intelligent Design, and a School Board in Dover, Pennsylvania.
- Jingle Bell Bingo & Sing-A-Long
Friday, December 7 at 4:00 pm
Bingo, Bells and Prizes! That says it all. All Ages Welcome.
EVENTS
- Winter's Coming! Pajama Story Time
Monday, December 10 at 7:00 pm
Stories and Crafts for 4 and up
- Mad Science; Movie Special Effects
Tuesday, December 11 at 3:15 pm (Community Room) at Pacifica Sharp Park
Find out how some of the things you watch on tv are done!
- Thank You Open House
Saturday, December 15 from 1:00-5:00 pm
Thank you to our patrons for your support. Enjoy goodies, cider and music. Kay Stern, Concertmaster of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra will play from 2:00-4:00 pm.
- Art in the Library at Pacifica Sharp Park
December 1 - January 2
December at Sharp Park -- "Expressions by Maura" will include landscapes, still life, floral and abstracts in oil and watercolor by artist Maura Jones of Half Moon Bay.
EVENTS
- Winter's Coming! Pajama Story Time
Monday, December 10 at 7:00 pm at Sanchez Library
Stories and Crafts for 4 and up
- Mad Science; Movie Special Effects
Tuesday, December 11 at 3:15 pm (Community Room)
Find out how some of the things you watch on tv are done!
- Thank You Open House
Saturday, December 15 from 1:00-5:00 pm at Sanchez Library
Thank you to our patrons for your support. Enjoy goodies, cider and music. Kay Stern, Concertmaster of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra will play from 2:00-4:00 pm.
- Art in the Library
December 1 - January 2
December at Sharp Park -- "Expressions by Maura" will include landscapes, still life, floral and abstracts in oil and watercolor by artist Maura Jones of Half Moon Bay.
CHILDREN/FAMILY EVENTS
- Opera Piccola presents Hansel and Gretel
Thursday, December 13, 4:30 pm in the Historic Schoolhouse at Town Center, 765 Portola Rd.
Come see this famous folk tale from the Brothers Grimm, presented by Oakland's traveling theater. Audience participation encouraged! For ages 3 and up.
TEEN EVENTS
- Bookmaking Workshop for Teens
Wednesday, December 12, 2:15-3:15 pm, Corte Madera School Library
Make the perfect present for someone special at the Making Books and Gifts from Envelopes for Teens workshop led by staff from the San Francisco Center for the Book workshop. All Corte Madera students, regardless of age are welcome, as well as other teens. Registration is required (please call the library at 851-0560).
ADULT EVENTS
- Non-Fiction Book Group
Thursday, December 20, 1-2:30 pm, Portola Valley Library at 4575 Alpine Road
Please join us in the discussion of Krakatoa:The Day the World Exploded by Simon Winchester.
STORYTIMES HELD AT PORTOLA VALLEY LIBRARY
(Temporary Location at Corte Madera School, 4575 Alpine Rd.)
- Babies & Books Storytime
Monday mornings at 11 am
For children ages birth to 2 years. No storytime Dec. 24.
- Toddler Time Storytime
Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am
For children ages 18 months to 3 years. No storytime Dec. 25.
- Preschool Storytime
Wednesday afternoons at 1:30 pm
For children ages 3 - 6 years.
EVENTS
- Sunday, December 2 at 2:00 pm
Gordy Slack, author of The Battle Over the Meaning of Everything: Evolution, Intelligent Design, and a School Board in Dover, Pennsylvania
- Tuesday, December 4 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm
San Carlos Library Holiday Open House & Harry Potter Party Make an owl craft.
- Tuesday, December 11 at 7:00 pm
Dad & Me at the Library presents the Puppet Art Theater Co. Tommy's Pirate Adventure
- Wednesday, December 19 at 7:30 pm
Christmas/Navidad bilingual Spanish storytime
EVENTS
- Make a gift/book from Envelopes
Monday, December 3 at 3:30 pm
Join the San Francisco Center for the Book and make an original, personal gift or something for yourself! Using ordinary materials and envelopes you will have a chance to make a couple of different books. All materials provided. Please sign up by calling 650-851-0147. For teens and adults!
STORYTIMES
- Babies and Books Musical Storytime
Wednesdays at 10:00 am
For newborns to 2 years old. No Storytimes December 26, January 2 and January 9.
- Toddler Time Musical Storytime
Wednesdays at 11:00 am
For ages 18 months to 3 years old. No Storytimes December 26, January 2 and January 9.
Biblioteca de East Palo Alto
- El Centro de Aprendizaje QUEST
Un programa del Sistema de la Biblioteca de San Mateo, opera un programa de asistencia con la tarea en la Biblioteca de East Palo Alto. Para información, contacte a la Director del Programa al 650.321.7712 ext. 226.
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