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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-09-2015 Library Commission Meeting Packet JO( City of Saratoga library Commission AGENDA DATE: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 TIME: 4:00 p.m. LOCATION: Saratoga Library/Community Room 13650 Saratoga Avenue Saratoga, CA 95070 Call to Order Roll Call Report on Posting of the Agenda: Pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2,the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on December 2, 2015. Oral &Written Communications:Any member of the public may address the Commission about any matter not on the agenda for this meeting for up to three minutes. Commissioners may not comment on the matter, but may choose to place the topic on a future agenda. Approval of Minutes: Draft minutes for the October 28 meeting. Old Business 1. Saratoga Heritage Inventory List Issue: Saratoga Library to be added to the City's HPC's "Saratoga's Heritage Inventory List." Action: City Staff contacted HPC Staff Liaison and Associate Planner Michael Fossati and he has informed staff that the Inventory List is still in process and is not ready to be discussed. 2. Library Trivia Night Issue: Library Commission, with assistance from Library staff, will be planning a trivia night for adults Action: Begin planning the logistics and marketing strategy for the event, which is expected to take place in March. 3. Library Card for Every Resident Issue: Assist Library staff efforts to promote obtaining a library card. Action: Feedback from tabling at annual Tree Lighting event in the Downtown Village. Reports 1. Nancy Howe, Santa Clara County Librarian 2. Allison Lew, Saratoga Community Librarian 1 3. Lisa Finley, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries 4. Lauren Marty, Library Commission Chair 5. Adam Henig, City of Saratoga Liaison Agenda Items for the Next Meeting, February 24,2016 Adjournment In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 408.868.1269 or ctclerk@saratoga.ca.us. Requests must be made as early as possible and at least one full business day before the start of the meeting. Library Commission Agenda Note: In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the Library Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda are available at the office of the City Manager at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California 95070. Any materials distributed by staff after the posting of the agenda are made available for public review at the office of the City Manager at the time they are distributed to the Library Commission. Certificate of Posting of Agenda: I, Adam Henig, Recreation Supervisor,for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the Library Commission of the City of Saratoga was posted on December 2, 2015 at the office of the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and was available for public review at that location.The agenda is also available on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us. 2 y 0j SARI City of Saratoga C�� Ory Library Commission 1956 MINUTES C'9CIF01?R1 DATE: Wdnesday cto I28, 015 TIME: 4:00 p.m. LOCATION: Saratoga Librar /Community m 13650 Saratoga Avenue Saratoga, CA 95070 Call to Order 4:01 pm Roll Call- Marty, Gulino, Campodonico Report on Posting of the Agenda: Pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2,the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on October 21, 2015. Oral &Written Communications: None Approval of Minutes: Chair Marty moved to approve the draft minutes for the June 24 meeting and the cancelled meetings.Vice-chair Gulino seconded the motion. Motion passed 3-0. New Business 4. Per the chair,the date for the next Library Commission meeting has been changed to December 9,2015. It was rescheduled because the original date would have occurred during the holidays. Old Business 5. Saratoga Heritage Inventory List Issue: Saratoga Library to be considered for the City's HPC's "Saratoga's Heritage Inventory List." Action:The HPC is currently working on creating a new process of adding properties to the inventory. Once that process has been settled and approved by the HPC, City will devise a plan on verifying how and if Saratoga Library can be added to the inventory as either a resource or a landmark property. The process should be finalized before the end of the calendar year. No action can be taken. Chair Marty met with Community Librarian Donald to find out what would be involved if the Saratoga Library was added onto the Inventory List. Vice-chair Gulino moved to table the issue. Chair Marty seconded. Motion passed 3-0 to table the issue. 6. Battle of the Books(adult version) Update Issue: Event was cancelled. Action: No action taken. 3 Community Librarian Howe recommends library staff and commissioners research what area libraries have done similarly in the past and compile ideas for a future "Library Trivia Night." In order to save on costs,Vice Chair Gulino volunteered to be the host for the event.To develop questions, er staff and commissioners could do it or pay an outside vendor to;trivia questions houl a related to books and the library. Event is expected to take place in March. Teams w' I be comprise four to eight individuals. The target audience is adults, but library won't t rn away eens how nt to participate. 7. Library Card for Eve Resident Issue: Up ate about re ingpu7esabout munity and increase the number of library cards is ed t�arasident . Action: Discuss ideas to implemenp-upcoming s of year. Over the summer, Library staff mailed noti acq iring a library card to students attending Saratoga public schools.They received a stro g response, with even teachers requesting a library card for themselves. Library Commission plans to table at the Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 27 at Blaney Plaza to promote using the library. Staff advisor Henig will contact city to make arrangements for tabling space. Reports 6. Nancy Howe, Santa Clara County Librarian a. The JPA board has a meeting on October 29 and will discuss the year-end financial reports.There has been an uptick in usage at certain libraries since July 1. b. On Saturday,January 16, 2016,the annual forum for commissioners and members of the library community will take place in Campbell. c. The County-wide program, "1000 books before 6,"which is geared to children, has been a success amongst patrons. d. The books for the annual Silicon Valley Reads series has been selected.The kick-off lecture will be held on January 26 at Campbell Heritage Theater. 7. Annapurna Dandu, Interim Saratoga Community Librarian a. The series about cultures from around the world has been a big hit. So far,the library has focused on two countries: Italy and China. b. In April, the Library is planning to bring in financial planners to assist patrons with their taxes and related questions. c. Library will participate in the Witchy Walk event in downtown Saratoga. d. Program and circulation attendance has slightly increased in comparison to last year. It is largely due the addition of nonresidents using library more. 8. Lisa Finley Teffie CFeam^" Friends of the Saratoga Libraries a. Friends added another satellite bookstore at the JPCC b. This past week was "National Friends of the Library Week." c. The most recent paperback sale had the biggest sales numbers ever. Friends are also receiving more donations than they can handle.They are looking for new ways to move more books. d. Membership campaign is underway and a revision to the monthly brochure is in the works. 9. Lauren Marty, Library Commission Chair 10. Adam Henig, City of Saratoga Liaison 4 a. Quarry Park Grand Opening b. Library Commission application available for two vacant seats Agenda Items for the Next Meeting, December 9, 2015 None Adjournment Chair Marty motions to adjourn meeting at 5:06 p.m. Vice Chair Gulino seconds. 3-0 in favor of adjourning meeting at 5:06 p. '+ 5 santa clary county i b ra rydistrict November 2015 Commission Report Nancy Howe,County Librarian Supporting the community h. w In cooperation with Second Harvest, food donation barrels will be in all library locations on November 2, 2015,through the end of the year. JPA Meeting,October 29,2015 The Joint Powers Authority(JPA) board met on Thursday October 29th. Actions included: • Approval of a process to review the Funding Formula • 2016 JPA Election of officers: Burton Craig(Monte Sereno) as Chair and Mike Wasserman (County Board of Supervisors) as Vice-Chair • Approval to form the Santa Clara County Library District Foundation Fiscal year 2014-15 Services Report We are pleased to share with commissioners the Library's end of year services report. It is attached for your review and will be covered in my oral report at the meeting. Usage Effect form Elimination of$80 Card Fee A report was presented to the JPA on the first quarter experience and is attached for your review. Smithsonian Institution's Travelling Exhibit: What Does It Mean to Be Human? November 25 — December 22, 2015 The Smithsonian Institution is coming to the Milpitas Library this November. Selected as one of only 19 libraries nationwide chosen to showcase the exhibit and the only library in California,the Milpitas Library will host "Exploring Human Origins: What Does It Mean to Be Human?" a national traveling exhibition exploring the complex field of human evolution research.The 1,200 square foot exhibit will be accompanied by a series of free events, including presentations by Smithsonian scientists. The events are free and open to the public. No reservations required. 6 SAVE THE DATE: Friends, Commissioners, Foundation and Endowment Board Members Forum 13TH ANNUAL FRIENDS,FOUNDATION, ENDOWMENTS & COMMISSIONERS FORUM Santa clara rourity SATURDAY,JANUARY 30,201 b librarycii5trift RISINGTOTHE r- PUBLIC V ` LIBRARIES 7 Santa Clara county I i b ra ry district December 2015 Commission Report Nancy Howe, County Librarian Welcome Brochure Our welcome brochure is now also available in Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese. You can find copies in the community libraries. Please help us distribute brochures in your communities so that everyone knows about the library services. Holiday Hours Holiday hours at all locations: Closing at 5 pm on December 24th and December 31St. Closed on December 25th and January 1St Thanks to our extraordinary children's librarians for sharing their favorite book titles for this San Jose Mercury News article. 35 classic books for kids By Martha Ross f � p a u Librarian Lisa Hughes reads to kids during story hour for pre-schoolers at Campbell Library in Campbell on Nov.12,2015.(Patrick Tehan/Bay Area News Group) 8 Inspiring children's love of reading may be one of the most important things a parent can do to prepare them to do well in school and make their way in the world. A surefire way to bring that inspiration? Read to them --or encourage them to read -- a classic picture book or novel. Classics are classics for a reason:They tell great stories, present beautiful illustrations, and bring to life characters and themes that are beloved and timeless. We present a list of just 35 of these great books. For this list, we relied on the expertise of Bay Area librarians and children's booksellers. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE This list is by no means exhaustive. If some of your favorites are still not included, share with us why you love them by going to x ,a ar our Facebook page: Facebook.com/mercurynews PRESCHOOL/PICTURE BOOKS "Where the Wild Things Are," Maurice Sendak: Sendak's 1963 STORY AND PICTURES BY MAURICE SENCA!!4 enduring work frequently tops lists of best picture books. "Max in his wolf suit was sent to bed without his supper, and the rest is history," says Armin Arethna, children's librarian at the Berkeley Public Library. "My Father's Dragon," Ruth Stiles Gannett: With its beautiful pen-and-ink illustrations, Gannett's book follows a boy who runs away to rescue a baby dragon on a faraway island, using only things in his knapsack. "Who knew a toothbrush was the way to a rhino's heart?" says Shoshana Smith, buyer and manager at The Reading Bug bookstore in San Carlos. "This is a book that deserves to be in every library," adds Eleanor Arculus, assistant manager at Linden Tree Books in Los Altos. � ► ��" (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform) "Harold and the Purple Crayon," Crockett Johnson: Harold goes on a moonlit walk, Y- 1• armed only with a purple crayon. He quickly"draws his way into an imaginary world of wonder and excitement, inspiring artists young and young-at-heart,"Arethna says. "The Snowy Day," Ezra Jack Keats: Inspired by a Life magazine photo, Keats broke ground in 1962 by featuring the first African-American protagonist in a full-color picture book. "This universal book 9 captures the curiosity and delight of a young boy in the city who awakes to a winter wonderland of snow,"Arethna says. "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," Eric Carle: "One of the most fascinating life cycles is the transformation of a caterpillar to butterfly,"Arethna says. Author and illustrator Carle colorfully dramatizes that cycle with lessons on counting and the days of the week. (Beginner Books/Random House) i "Bark, George," Jules Feiffer: What's a mama dog to do when her puppy won't (]( "arf' and instead meows and quacks?She takes him to the vet, of course. "Kids will find this book hilarious and giggle every time George is asked to bark," Arethna says. FOR BEGINNING READERS "Frog and Toad" series, Arnold Lobel: Starting with "Frog and Toad Are Friends" in 1970,this award- winning series is perfect for new readers, says Foster City Youth Services Librarian Amy Selmi. Adds Arethna: "These warm and funny stories are a great reminder that people (and amphibians) can be friends, despite their differences!" "Green Eggs and Ham," Dr. Seuss: At one point the fourth best-selling English language children's book of all time, Dr. Seuss' classic comes with "wacky rhymes and whimsical illustrations," Arethna says. "Just a Minute!: A Trickster Tale and Counting Book," Yuyi Morales: New readers are introduced to counting in both English and Spanish as Grandma Beetle finds clever ways to delay Senor Calavera from spiriting her away to the next life,Arethna says. "Hi! Fly Guy,"Tedd Arnold:Jennifer Weeks, supervising librarian at the Campbell Library, says this book offers simple text for early readers but is also "jam-packed with a creative story about a boy and his unusual pet." 108�j] q (HarperCollins) "Waiting is Not Easy!" Mo Willems: Actually, everyone interviewed said "anything by Willems" is worth checking out because his stories "are full of humor and F heart," Arculus says.Arethna recommends "Waiting," which is part of Willems' "Elephant and Piggie" series. 10 "The Wind in the Willows," Kenneth Grahame: Arculus calls Mole, Badger, Rat and Toad of Toad Hall "some of the most interesting characters to ever teach us about country life--and the dangers of motor cars." "Mercy Watson to the Rescue," Kate DiCamillo: Mercy the pig loves snuggling in bed with her human owners. "No one can resist the funny stories of a pig that loves toast and solves mysteries," Weeks says, adding that the book is also great to read aloud. MORE EXPERIENCED READERS "Little House in the Big Woods," Laura Ingalls Wilder: Smith calls Wilder's literary alter-ego "the utmost in relatable characters: her moments of kindness, of temper, of selfishness, of family love."This book is the first in Wilder's classic series,which also includes "Little House on the Prairie." "Pippi Longstocking,"Astrid Lindgren: The spunky protagonist,with her famous braids, lives in a Swedish village with her horse and monkey. Smith calls it a great "bridge" chapter book for early readers ready to take on longer, more complex stories. "Pippi is a perfect choice to encourage children that reading is the most fun ever." "The BFG," Roald Dahl: Late one night, Sophie is "kidsnatched" from her orphanage by a BFG (Big Friendly Giant). What can Sophie do to save the world?Arethna calls Sophie's solution "dramatic, hilarious and with whimsical names!" "The Adventures of Captain Underpants," Dav Pilkey: "Children love the crazy antics of George and Harold, their potty humor and their wild pranks," Arethna says. She adds that the 12 books in the series have been translated into more than 20 languages. "Ivy and Bean," Annie Barrows: Over 10 books, the Berkeley author brings together quiet, intellectual Ivy and rambunctious Bean, Arethna says. Weeks adds that the books show how "opposites attract for all kinds of girls." "Because of Winn-Dixie," Kate DiCamillo:Ten-year-old Opal learns about her long-gone mother, makes friends in a new hometown and finds her place in the world --all because of a dog named Winn-Dixie. "This is a truly sweet story of a girl and her dog filled with hope and humor that's suitable for all readers," Weeks says. "Grandfather's Journey," Allen Say:A Japanese-American man recounts his grandfather's journey to America and "the conflicting emotions brought about by a love for two different countries," Arethna says. 11 "Ramona the Pest," Beverly Cleary:The protagonist starts kindergarten in the first of the Ramona books. "Classics like the Ramona books never go out of style," Weeks says. "Nate the Great," Marjorie Weinman Sharmat: "Nate has been around for decades, but kids still love solving a mystery with this young sleuth," Weeks says. "Mr. Popper's Penguins," Richard and Florence Atwater: Hilarity ensues when a poor house painter and his family welcome into their home a penguin named Captain Cook and his growing family. "Here's a true classic that begs to be read aloud to share the laughter when penguins invade a family," Weeks says. "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing,"Judy Blume: This is the first in a series that follows the Hatcher brothers, 9-year-old Peter and 2-year-old Farley, aka Fudge. "This iconic series appeals to those who have brothers or simply enjoy stories of sibling shenanigans," Weeks says. "A Single Shard," Linda Sue Park: Set in 12th-century Korea,this book features a 13-year-old orphan who wants to become a master potter but learns much more as he overcomes obstacles in his path to becoming a true artist. "Courage and perseverance are the themes in this well-written story about a young man on a quest," Weeks says. "Charlotte's Web," E.B. White: In many ways, White's great novel about the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte needs no introduction. "Great story for both boys and girls about the power of friendship," Weeks says. "Walk Two Moons," Sharon Creech:Thirteen-year-old Salamanca Tree Hiddle, proud of the "Indian-ness in her blood," travels from Ohio to Idaho with her grandparents and entertains them with stories about two special friends. "Preteens will enjoy this story of young people seeking answers but uncovering so much more along the surprising and twisting journey," Weeks says. "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," Lewis Carroll: While even toddlers sometimes love "Alice," most kids deal best with the twists and turns of the book when they're a bit older, Arculus says. OLDER GRADES AND YOUNG ADULT "The Graveyard Book," Neil Gaiman: In this fantasy, a boy grows up in a graveyard. "Though Gaiman is probably better known for his adult fiction, his books for younger readers are fantastic," Arculus says. "A Wrinkle in Time," Madeleine L'Engle:This science fiction fantasy presents a 13-year-old girl who must enlist help from friends to search for her government scientist father who has gone missing while 12 working on a mysterious project. Weeks says that"many parents will remember it from their own middle school years." "The Giver," Lois Lowry: A haunting story about 12-year-old Jonas,who begins to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile dystopian society. "Anne of Green Gables," Lucy Maud Montgomery:The first in a series,this 1908 novel follows Anne Shirley, an 11-year-old orphan who is sent to live with a brother and sister on their farm on Prince Edward Island. "The Invention of Hugo Cabret," Brian Selznick: Partly inspired by the life of French pioneer filmmaker George Melitis,this book focuses on a 12-year-old orphan who lives as a clock keeper and thief in the walls of a Paris train station.Arculus describes Selznick's works as combination picture books and novels, but those distinctions "fail to convey the sheer wonder you feel" going through them. "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone,"J.K. Rowling: In the first of Rowling's blockbuster fantasy books, orphaned Harry Potter learns about his true powers and heads off to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. "This classic fantasy will live on for many years to come.The book is better than the movie," Weeks says. "Jane Eyre," Charlotte Bronte:This literary classic from 1847 follows its title character as she grows into adulthood, becomes a governess and falls in love with her Byronic boss. "I love giving'Jane Eyre'to older, passionate readers and not only because it's my favorite book in the whole world," Smith says. "The story is so beautifully written, rich with detail and real depth of feeling. Not to mention early feminist themes--scandalous for its time!" Recommended by: Armin Arethna, children's librarian, and colleagues at the Berkeley Public LibraryJennifer Weeks, children's supervising librarian, Campbell Library, and colleagues in the Santa Clara County Library District Thom Ball, library manager, Millbrae Library Amy Selmi, youth services librarian, Foster City Library Jenna Varden, community services librarian, Pacifica Sanchez Library Shoshana Smith, buyer-manager,The Reading Bug, San Carlos Eleanor Arculus, assistant manager, Linden Tree Books, Los Altos New York Public Library's 100 great children's books,www.nypl.org/childrens100 Parent&Child magazine's 100 greatest books for kids, www.scholastic.com/100books 13 National Education Association's top 100 books for children, www.nea.org/grants/teachers-top-100- books-for-children.html 14 Saratoga Library Report: December 2015 Allison Lew, Community Librarian Report prepared on: 11/30/2015 Statistics Sept. 2014 Sept. 2015 Oct. 2014 Oct. 2015 Total Circulation 89,893 97,776 87,435 86,889 Adult/Teen Circulation 45,455 52,507 45,231 46,364 Children's Circulation 44,438 45,269 42,204 40,525 Total Number of Programs 51 81 70 87 Programs Total Attendance 1,040 2,207 4,627 2,371 New Library Cards Issued 187 671 169 343 Gate Count 33,752 36,575 35,428 35,434 Outreach Events 2 1 2 5 Outreach Total Attendance 190 111 448 603 Volunteer Hours 1,361 1479 1,435 1,614 In October 2015, librarians answered 3,543 reference questions for patrons of all ages. Programs Programs for Adults November 2 at 7:30 p.m.-Saratoga Library Book Discussion Group Eleven persons attended a discussion of Everything 1 Never Told You by Celeste Ng. This mystery novel features 15 a mixed-race family living in Ohio during the 1970's. (Attendance: 11) November 4 at 10:00 a.m.- Friends'Author Series Author Anne Cross discussed her book, Familiar Stranger. November 6 at 11:00 a.m.-Royal Hawaiian Feather-Work: Na Hulu Ali'i Vibrantly colored feather-work on capes, cloaks, and royal staffs were symbols of the power and status of Hawaii's monarchy in the 18th and 19th centuries. SF Fine Arts Museums docent Alfred Escoffier will lecture on the stunning examples on display at the de Young Museum through February 28, 2016.The exhibit is a partnership with the Pauahi Bishop Museum in Honolulu. (Attendance: 20) November 10 at 6:30 p.m.-Author Andy Weir View author Andy Weir in an online video conference about his bestselling book The Martian. He will discuss the book,the movie adaptation starring Matt Damon, and all things Mars! This program is a Library Talk. Library Talks bring your favorite authors to your library via live video conferencing. Hear them talk and read in real time, and ask them your questions. (Attendance: 25) November 17 at 7:00 p.m.- Master Gardeners: Cover Crops Pat Day, UCCE Master Gardener, will provide a Basics of Growing CoverCrops Basics of Cover Crop in the Home Garden ,.Cover . presentation. Topics discussed will include: the definition of cover crops,their benefits, when and . . � how to grow and harvest, and how to plant vegetables or ornamentals after a cover crop is finished. If your soil is clay, left bare during anytime of the year, or your plants are not doing well in your garden, come learn about how cover crops can improve these situations. (Attendance: 22) November 30 at 7:30 p.m. -Saratoga Library Book Discussion Group Patrons are invited to an enjoyable discussion of Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Jay Fowler November 5, 12, and 19 at 11:00 a.m.- English Conversation Club The English Conversation Club is offered every Thursday morning in the Community Room at 11:00 a.m. The Club is open to all levels of English language learners. Meetings are fun social events that help participants improve their English listening and speaking skills. Participants practice speaking English, make friends, and 16 learn about other cultures in a supportive environment. Participation is on a drop-in basis. Native English- speakers are welcome to help facilitate conversations. (Attendance: 108) December 1 at 7:00 p.m.-Wreath Making Workshop Learn how easy it is to create a wreath— a lovely holiday decoration. December 8 at 6:30 p.m.- Friends of the Saratoga Libraries' Holiday Open House- For All Ages Learn about the Friends of the Saratoga Libraries and enjoy delightful musical and desserts! "Desserts and hot coffee will be served along with a delightful performance of songs by the With a Twist quartet! Bay Area Showcase Chorus is a vibrant, award-winning ensemble of women singers committed to creating musical magic in every performance.They embrace healthy competition and enjoy finding creative ways to share their passion for 4-part harmony in the barbershop style.They are dedicated to continuous improvement in a joyful environment of mutual respect,friendship, and fun.They are a chapter of Sweet Adelines International and have been entertaining the Bay Area with a cappella music since 1956.They are made up of large chorus groups and several quartets. With a twist is one of those quartets who choose their own music and practice on their own time, away from chorus rehearsal." (http://www.fslonline.org )This event will take place in the Quiet Study Room. December 10 at 10:15 a.m. - Bimonthly Chinese Book Club-Group Study Room This month's book discussion, in Mandarin, will be on The Age of Ambition: Chasing Fortune, Truth and Faith in the New China : t±!-RFP P*ft t�, ATHW—A- LP). December 15 at 6:30 p.m.- Upcycling Your Gift Giving Go green this festival season! Learn fun ways to use recycled and used materials to wrap your gifts. Use magazines, posters, brown bags, and other items to wrap gifts. Bring your own supplies or use the supplies provided. December 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 11:00 a.m. - English Conversation Club The English Conversation Club is offered every Thursday morning in the Community Room at 11:00 a.m. The Club is open to all levels of English language learners. Meetings are fun social events that help participants improve their English listening and speaking skills. Participants practice speaking English, make friends, and learn about other cultures in a supportive environment. Participation is on a drop-in basis. Native English- speakers are welcome to help facilitate conversations. January 7 at 7:30 p.m. -Saratoga Library Book Discussion Group Patrons are invited to an enjoyable discussion of On the Road, by Jack Kerouac. The book discusses two friends whose four cross-country road trips are quests for meaning and true experience. 17 January 11 at 7:00 p.m.- Parklands of Utah Patrons will join presenter David Couzens in a journey through the national and state parks of Utah, including Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Dead Horse Point. This photo-filled presentation will be accompanied by original Native American music. January 16 at 3:00 p.m.-Why Cursive Handwriting is Important Patrons are invited to learn how cursive handwriting can help the brain's plasticity and how persons that have had strokes can benefit from learning cursive. Presenter Linda I. Larson is a certified graphologist and member of two national organizations: American Handwriting Analysis Foundation and American Association of Handwriting Analysis. She is the vice president of the National American Handwriting Analysis Foundation's local chapter. She will discuss what handwriting discloses about a person, from a psychological perspective. January 23 at 3:00 p.m.-The Well-Balanced Student Parents and guardians are invited to a program presenting research-based strategies for creating healthier home and school environments. The presentation discusses how students today are coping, and not coping, with the academic pressures they face. Attendees will learn strategies for reducing academic stress without sacrificing achievement or engagement in school. They will learn strategies for increasing resilience, creativity, and well-being for their kids. Presenter Emeri S. Handler is the Parent Education Manager for Challenge Success at Stanford University. Her expertise includes managing kids' busy lives that include sleep, homework, media, and extracurricular activities. January 26 at 7 p.m. -The California Native Plant Society Presents: Biodiversity and the Native Plant Gardener The presenter explains why there are many reasons to plant California native plants in gardens:to create a sense of place, due to their beauty and adaptability, and due to their drought tolerant qualities. However, one of the most important reasons is to help maintain biodiversity and to save native ecosystems including the bird and insect species that depend on them.The speaker will discuss how to turn suburban gardens into a refuge for wildlife species including: songbirds, butterflies, bees,toads,frogs, and other creatures that have lost habitat due to human development. January 7, 14, 21,&28 at 11:00 a.m.- English Conversation Club The English Conversation Club is offered every Thursday morning in the Community Room at 11:00 a.m. The Club is open to all levels of English language learners. Meetings are fun social events that help participants improve their English listening and speaking skills. Participants practice speaking English, make friends, and learn about other cultures in a supportive environment. Participation is on a drop-in basis. Native English- speakers are welcome to help facilitate conversations. 18 Teen Programs October 30 at 6:30 p.m.-Teen Coffee House Calling all teen performers to showcase your talent at open mic night: sing, dance,tell jokes, play music, recite poetry, showcase your art, and more! Join us for a fun and relaxing evening! Teen performers only, and adoring audiences welcome! (Attendance: 51 teens) �!�sil��9i"ilfs y November 7 at 2:00 p.m.-Study Skills&Time Management Workshop This seminar provides key strategies for high school students to achieve optimal results through effective note taking, study skills, and time management strategies. (Attendance: 25) December 5, 6, 12, & 13- 1 p.m.to 4:45 p.m.-High School Student Study Hall The Saratoga Library invites all high school students to come to the library and study for finals. The Community Room will be reserved as a quiet study area for teens. December 18 at 2 p.m. -Teen Craft Program Teens are invited to make holiday-themed crafts. They can create gifts to either give to their friends or to donate to good causes. Teens aged 12-18 are invited to attend. January 9 at 2 p.m. -Saturday Screenings: The Book Thief Is the book always better than the movie? Read the book and then come watch The Book Thief at this Sunday Screening to decide for yourself. (Reading the book is not required.) After the movie, enjoy a trivia game that includes prizes! This program is for teens (ages 12-18). 19 January 15, 22, &29 at 4:00 p.m. - Introduction to Programming:Java In this three-week workshop series, students will learn the basics of Java programming. They will develop, compile, and run simple programs. This workshop will be taught by DeAnza College Professor, Lalitha Krishnamurthy. Children's Programs • Family Storytime-Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. • Toddler Storytime-Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. • Baby Storytime-Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. • Pre-School Storytime-Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. November 3 at 7:30 p.m.-Special Family Storytime Diwali themed stories, flannel board story, movie and a craft will educate and entertain the families of our regular Family Storytime program. (Attendance: 30 children and 15 adults) w a a November 4 at 3:45 p.m. - Evolution: Make Your Own Geological Strata ti Children, grades K—4, will learn about evolution and make mini geological strata in jars. This program supports the traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution, Exploring Human Origins: What Does It Mean to Be Human, that will be at the Milpitas Library in late November. (Attendance: 12 children and 8 adults) November 5 at 4:00 p.m. -Science in the Library(Grades 4-6) This week's Science in the Library series topic is physics. Students will participate in fun experiments involving static electricity. (Attendance: 12 children) i November 12 at 4:00 p.m.-Science in the Library(Grades 4-6) 1 This week's Science in the Library series topic is chemistry. Students are invited to a fun program about density. November 13 at 10:30 a.m. -Sacred Heart Elementary School 1st Grade-Ms. Biss First graders will enjoy stories about thankfulness and turkey stories. They will also enjoy fun jokes, a movie, and checking out books. November 13 at 10:45 a.m. -Sacred Heart Elementary School 2nd Grade-Ms. Martin Second graders will enjoy stories about thankfulness and turkey stories. They will also enjoy fun jokes, a movie, and checking out books. November 15 at 12:00 noon - Battle of the Books-A Special Annual Event for Sixth Graders 21 Fourteen teams of sixth graders, which included an average of four persons per team, all read the same seven books. During the event,the teams competed in a challenging and very fun trivia contest based on those books. The winning team received a $100 grand prize. Team members and audience members enjoyed pizza during the event. (Attendance: 120) November 17 at 3:45 p.m.-Catch a Dream! - Native American Dreamcatchers Children (grades K-5) will learn about the Native American culture as they make a _ dreamcatcher. November 19 at 9:30 a.m.-Sacred Heart Elementary School-Pre-K-Ms. Soto Children will enjoy Thanksgiving and i friendship stories along with songs, rhymes, and a movie. ~1 i J PVP 1 Iz . ( 22 November 19 at 4:00 p.m.-Science in the Library(Grades 4-6) This week's Science in the Library series topic is chemistry. Students are invited to a fun program involving experiments with candy. December 2 at 3:45 p.m.-Half Magic Book Club Fourth and fifth graders are invited to participate in a book discussion on Half Magic by Edward Eager. This event will include discussion, activities, and a craft. Pre-registration at the Children's Information Desk is required. December 3 at 4:00 p.m. -Cards and Tags in Calligraphy Tweens (Grades 5, 6, and 7) will learn the basics of calligraphy. They will make cards and tags for the holidays or for other celebratory occasions. Registration is required, online or at the Children's Information Desk. December 4 at 10:30 a.m. -Sacred Heart Elementary School - 1st Grade- Ms. Biss First graders will enjoy holiday-themed stories,jokes, and a movie. They will also check out books. December 10 at 9:30 a.m. -Sacred Heart Elementary School -Pre-K- Ms. Soto Children will enjoy holiday-themed stories, rhymes, songs, non-fiction books, and a movie. December 11 at 4:00 p.m.-The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company presents: A Christmas Carol Kids are invited to enjoy this humorous rendition of the classic novel,A Christmas Carol. December 12 at 10:00 a.m. - Holly Jolly Christmas Craft Children of all ages are invited to drop in anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 12 noon to make crafts: a decorative bag and two different types of Christmas ornaments. December 22 at 3:00 p.m.-Charlie Brown and Snoopy Holiday Party Children of all ages are invited to enjoy playing games, watching a Snoopy winter movie, and making a craft or two at this holiday event. Refreshments will be served. December 23 at 3:00 p.m.- Family Holiday Movie Families are invited to enjoy a holiday movie and refreshments. Movie title to be announced soon. 23 December 29 at 3:00 p.m. -To Be Announced An event for kids (grades K-5) will be offered at this time, during school vacation week. Program to be announced soon. December 30 at 3:00 p.m. - Family Movie Families are invited to enjoy a movie during school vacation week and eat some popcorn! On-Going Activity: Take-home Hanukkah craft projects will be offered during the first two weeks of December. They will be available as part of a special Hanukkah book exhibit in the Children's Room. January 7 at 4:00 p.m. -Make a Book Diorama! School-age children are invited to a fun program during which they will make dioramas featuring favorite books they choose. January 8 at 10:30 a.m.-Sacred Heart Elementary School - 1st Grade-Ms. Biss First graders will enjoy stories, be introduced to great non-fiction, watch a short movie, and check out books during their monthly visit to the library. January 12 at 3:45 p.m.- Book Club:EI Deafo by Cece Bell Children in grades 5-6 are invited to a fun discussion of this popular graphic novel. In addition to the book discussion, kids will enjoy additional activities including a craft project. Week of January 11-17: Letter Writing Week Children of all ages are invited to write letters to their favorite book characters and mail them in pretend mailboxes around the library. Letters will be displayed in the library. January 22 at 10:45 a.m. -Sacred Heart Elementary School -2nd Grade- Ms. Martin Second graders will enjoy stories, be introduced to great non-fiction, watch a short movie, and check out books during their monthly visit to the library. January 29 at 11:00 a.m. -Early Discoveries- Kindergarten- Ms. Beck Kindergarteners will enjoy stories, be introduced to great non-fiction, watch a short movie, and check out books. Outreach November 8 at 2:00 p.m.-NCL Philanthropy Faire 24 Children's Librarians provided a cute corn craft and a fall leaf craft for teens to make at the Faire. The finished crafts are now decorating the Children's Room. (Attendance: 100.) November 27 at 5 p.m.-Saratoga Tree Lighting and Wine Stroll Library Commission Chair, Lauren Marty, provided community members with library information at this popular community event. December 1-Database Presentation for Saratoga High School Students Teen Services Librarian, Birgit Spring, will present online resources to Saratoga High School students. Virtual Library - Database Spotlight: StayWell Knowledgebase http://www.sccl.org/Research/Categories StayWell Knowledgebase is a comprehensive consumer health information portal containing content by leading health information providers. This online resource contains articles on diseases, conditions, surgeries, and procedures. The resource also provides a drug reference as well as herb, supplement, and vitamins sections. The Wellness Information section offers articles on diseases, conditions,fitness, nutrition, safety, workplace issues, parenting, and more. Supervising Librarian Peggy Baker's Commendation of Children's Librarian Holly Okamura During the months of October and November 2015, Holly planned, organized and presented three highly successful children's activities. One was an eight week science series for grades 4-6, called "Science in the Library" - it was eagerly attended by a core group of 15 - 20 children. They loved her experiments and enthusiastically participated each week. Holly has teaching abilities and presented a weekly science concept. Also, during the month of October, Holly was the creative force behind "Book a Pumpkin". It was a contest to decorate pumpkins as a children's book character. The pumpkins, decorated by the children, were displayed during the month of October in the Children's Room. Children and their parents highly enjoyed this activity and hope that it will be a yearly event. Throughout the two above activities, Holly put a large amount of work into planning the annual "Battle of the Books" for sixth graders which took place on Sunday, November 15. Over 120 persons attended - 25 13 teams of 6th graders participated. Holly used her leadership abilities to coordinate staff,teen and adult volunteers and the youth to make this an outstanding event to promote books and community participation. It was truly exceptional to see Holly's creativity, organization and calm focus as she made all of these events happen so very smoothly. I also commend Holly for: • Ability to prioritize and accomplish a wide variety of tasks at one time and on time. • Uses her sense of humor to connect with both staff and library patrons. • Natural creative ability in planning interesting and new programs for children and youth. • Is always on the alert for trainings, workshops and conferences to expand her knowledge. • Has a strong knowledge of technology. • Loves children's books and is good at matching the right book to the right child. • Willingness to go the "extra mile" whether in completing her own assignments or in helping her co-workers. -Peggy Baker, Supervising Librarian Saratoga Library: Art on Display in December Coordinated by Librarian Betsy White and Volunteer Bonnie Stone. Artwork is on display in the library lobby for community members to enjoy. • Amanda Krauss:Avian Artist Collage and acrylics. Amanda Krauss is a life-long birder. Through her work, Krauss hopes to raise curiosity about the preservation of birds. • Charlotte Wang and Deanna Yang: Chinese Calligraphy Art Former college professor Wang has been trained in traditional calligraphy methods for those who appeared at the Emperor's Court. Lawyer Deanna Yang hopes her calligraphy creates a bridge between Chinese and Western art. Newsletter Subscribe to the Library Newsletter: http://www.sccl.org/About/Library- News/Newsletter Friends of the Saratoga Library by Lisa Finley - We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the City of Saratoga for the new flooring for the Book-Go-Round. This will be a tremendous improvement to the store, and we are thrilled. 26 - We are actively recruiting for more adult volunteers, specifically to support our Book-Go- Round operations which requires over 160 people. Volunteers are needed to sort, price, and move books as well as to work shifts at the store. Please spread the word and have interested volunteers contact me. - We had a very successful paperback book sale at the library in October. - We just adopted a new email communication system for our members - MailChimp. - A local artist painted a beautiful painting of the Book-Go-Round and donated it to the Saratoga Historical Museum for their silent auction. We've had it framed and it's hanging in the Book-Go- Round. - We are looking further into selling books online and are now posting books on Amazon as well as eBay. - On Tuesday, December 8th we are sponsoring a Holiday Party featuring Bay Area Showcase Chorus. The event will be held at 6:30 pm in the Reading Room. All are invited. 27