HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-17-2023 Library & Community Engagement Agenda PacketSaratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda | April 17, 2023
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SARATOGA
LIBRARY & COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION
April 17, 2023
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Saratoga City Hall, Linda Callon Conference Room · 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga CA 95 070
Participation Information
In accordance with Saratoga City Council’s Remote Public Participation Policy, the public
may participate in person at the location listed above on the agenda or via the Zoom
platform using the information below.
• Webinar URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85838201308
• Webinar ID: 858 3820 1308
• Call In: 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833
Written Communications
Comments can be submitted in writing at www.saratoga.ca.us/lc. Written communications
received prior the end of the comment period will be provided to the members of the
Commission and included in the agenda packet and/or supplemental meeting materials.
Public Comment
Members of the public may comment on any item for up to three (3) minutes. The amount
of time for public comment may be reduced by the Chair or by action of the Commission.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Any member of the public may address the Commission on matters not on the agenda. The
law generally prohibits the Commission from discussing or taking action on such items. The
Commission may choose to place the topic on a future agenda.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Saratoga Teen Advisory Board Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Saratoga Teen Advisory Board report.
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda | April 17, 2023
Page 2 of 3
2. Community Event Grant Program FY 2023/34 Funding Recommendation
Recommended Action:
Review the competitive Community Event Grant Program applications for Fiscal Year
2023/24 and provide a recommendation on funding allocations for City Council
consideration.
Memo
3. Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the minutes from the February 13, 2023 Regular Meeting.
Draft Minutes
4. Santa Clara County Library District Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Santa Clara County Library District report.
Santa Clara County Library District Report
5. Saratoga Community Library Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Saratoga Community Library report.
Saratoga Community Library Report
6. Friends of the Saratoga Libraries Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Friends of the Saratoga Libraries report.
7. Library & Community Engagement Commission Chair Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Library & Community Engagement Commission Chair report.
8. City of Saratoga Report
Recommended Action:
Receive City of Saratoga report.
City of Saratoga Report
9. Community News & Trends
Recommended Action:
Share news and trends within the community.
SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS
AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING
Agenda Planner
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda | April 17, 2023
Page 3 of 3
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF AGENDA PACKET, &
COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Crystal Bothelio, Consultant for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the
Library & Community Engagement Commission was posted and available for review on April 13, 2023 at the City
of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us
Signed this 13th day of April 2023 at Saratoga, California.
Crystal Bothelio
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the
Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of materials distributed to the Commission
concurrently with the posting of the agenda, and materials distributed to the Commission by staff after the
posting of the agenda are available on the City website at www.saratoga.ca.us and are available for review in the
office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Sara toga, California.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you need assistance
to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at bavrit@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as
soon as possible before the meeting. The City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to
provide as much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety.
[28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
Library & Community Engagement Commission
April 17, 2023
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio
Date: April 17, 2023
Subject: Recommended Allocation of Fiscal Year 2023/24 Community Event Grant
Program Funds
The Community Event Grant Program was started as part of the Fiscal Year 2013/14 City of
Saratoga Budget to provide local event organizers the opportunity to seek funding for their
community events. At the February 15, 2023 City Council Meeting, $8,000 was allocated for
the Fiscal Year 2023/24 competitive Community Event Grant Program.
Subsequently, the City received 4 applications. The individual applications and Community
Event Grant Policy are attached to assist the Commission in preparing a funding
recommendation for City Council consideration. A summary of the applications is also below.
The maximum funding allocation per event is limited to $2,000. City Council consideration of
the Commission’s funding recommendation is tentatively scheduled for the May 3, 2023 City
Council Meeting.
Each of the 4 applicants have been invited to the Library & Community Engagement
Commission’s April 17 meeting to spend up to 3 minutes presenting on their application.
3
Library & Community Engagement Commission
April 17, 2023
Summary of Applications
Event Request Date Attendance Location Description
Girl Scouts Table for
Blossom Festival
$500 2024, usually
in April
1000 Saratoga Heritage
Orchard
Annual event organized by the Saratoga Historical Foundation to
celebrate Saratoga's agricultural history.
Paint the City X2 $1,200 One weekend
in July 2023.
Note: June
2023 date on
application is
a typo.
1,000 Need designation and
site approval from
City.
To continue beautifying Saratoga and vitalizing our community through
art, Innovart Foundation would like to organize or co-host with the City,
Paint the City X2, an annual mural painting program. Location can be the
exterior wall of a public / private structure, i.e. in park, at senior center,
community site, non-profit organization building, preferably with high
pedestrian traffic and good visibility. Mural theme can be community
unity, nature, environmental preservation, or any other theme that
matches the function of a chosen location. For the first year (2023),
Innovart Foundation would propose to start by drawing one mural the
size of 15 feet in length, and 6-8 feet in height (can also be irregular
size).
Dragon Boat Festival $2,000 6/8/24 80 Saratoga
Downtown/Wildwood
Park
About our organization:
AABC is a non-profit organization based in the bay area. Our mission is
to promote community services, civic engagements and voter education.
Purpose of the event:
Chinese Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional holiday with rich culture,
history and legend behind it. It commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a
Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to
classical poetry. Qu served in high offices of Zhou dynasty but was
eventually banished for opposing the emperor and even accused of
treason.
During his exile and in despair, Qu committed suicide by drowning
himself in the river. It is said that the local people, who admired him,
raced out in their boats to save him or at least to retrieve his body. This
is believed to be the origin of dragon boat races.
It is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month, each year on Chinese
lunar calendar which falls on June 10th, 2024. The event was held last
year, 2022 as a pilot program from AABC. It was a huge success and lot
of patrons, young children, students, parents, and many neighborhoods.
Several participating restaurants from our Village ran out of food very
soon and had to refill their supplies quickly. It was a fun day that
brought us all together.
4
Library & Community Engagement Commission
April 17, 2023
public art contest of
'Saratoga, My Home'
$1,200 August 1 2023
to January 31,
2024
300 Saratoga Community
Center
We will organize a public art contest of 'Saratoga, my home', which is
open and free to all Saratoga residents to encourage them to use all
kinds of 2D art format to express their feelings, love, and bonding about
Saratoga and the community. We will organize a display of the excellent
artwork, which is open to all public.
Total $4,900
Available Funds $8,000
5
Applicant Name*
Amy Chu
Applicant Title
Treasurer
Organi zation Name (if applicable)
Girl Sc outs Servic e Unit 618 (Saratoga)
Is this a non-profit organization?*
Yes
Applica nt/Orga niza tion Addre ss*
Applica nt Phone *Applica nt Ema il*
Event Name*
Girl Sc outs Table for Saratoga Blossom Festival 2024
Grant Reques t *
500
Max imum $2,000
Es timated Total Event Cos t*
organized by Saratoga His torical Foundation, but Girl
Sc outs will s pend ~$500
Es timated Expens es & Funding S ources *
Estimated ex pens es c an be found here: https://doc s.google.com/spreads heets/d/1ZBhyDosYzXt-
M_6Ux k 99QODvs Z271g29R_RzV2iz3-8/edit?usp=s haring Other funding s ources : Donations from Girl Scout families and/or the
servic e unit ($50-$150)
Pleas e provide a list of estimated event ex pens es and antic ipated funding s ources for those ex pens es, including ex pens es
grant funding will be us ed for if awarded.
Event Date and Time*
TBD, usually in April
Event Location*
Saratoga Heritage Orc hard
Es timated Event Attendance*
1000
Event Des cription*
Annual event organized by the Saratoga Historic al Foundation to celebrate Saratoga's agric ultural history.
Is event open to the public?*
Yes
Is event free for attendees ?*
Yes
Is this a volunteer-l ed event?*
Yes
Wi ll $1 million liability coverage for the event be obtained if g rant
funding is provided?*
No
6
Des cribe how the event will concentrate on S aratog a's character, divers ity, or his tory.*
The Blos s om Fest ival honors our beaut iful c ity's agric ultural history. Since the Blos som Festival honors Saratoga's agric ultural
history, the Girl Scouts selec t a nature theme for the arts and crafts.
Des cribe how the event will celebrate the S aratog a community as a whol e.*
The arts and crafts tables give the c hildren visit ing the Blossom Festival hands -on ac tivities and s omething to t ake home. It
enc ourages c hildren t o learn and connec t with Saratoga's nat ure and his tory.
Has the event received funding from the City in the pas t?*
Yes
What advertis ing or mark eting do you plan to do for the event?*
Handled by Saratoga Historic al Foundation
Des cribe your experience, or the experience of your org anization, in coordinating community events .*
The Girl Scouts have work ed with the Saratoga Hist orical Foundation for the pas t several years t o run the arts and crafts t ables
for children. Previous grant amounts were $460 for 2018 Blos som Festival, $312 for 2019, $500 for 2020, $500 for 2023.
Ele ctronic Signa ture Agre e me nt*
Applic ant hereby agrees , on behalf of itself and its suc c essors and as signs, to indemnify, defend and hold the City of
Saratoga, it s offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards, commissions , and volunt eers free and and harmless from and
agains t any and all c laims, demands , caus es of ac tion, damages , liabilities, c ost of expenses (inc luding the cos t of
attorney 's fees for defending any action brought against the City or any of its offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards,
commis sions, and volunteers), aris ing out of or in any manner relating to any form of loss , injury, or damage s ustained by
the Applic ant or any person in c onnec tion with or in any way relat ing to the event described above. Applicant further agrees
that as a condition of receiving funding from the City applicant will have in effect in connection with the event liability
insurance c overage in the amount of at least $1 million. The coverage will name the City of Saratoga, its officers, officials ,
employees, agent s and volunteers as additional ins ured. Applicant mus t provide a "Certificate of Insuranc e" with "Additional
Insured Endorsement" to the Cit y prior to holding the event described above.
I agree.
Ele ctronic Signa ture *
Amy Chu
Email S ubs cri ption
No
Your email addres s will automatically be added to our distribution list for City of Sarat oga news lett ers and City Council meeting
agenda notific ations . If y ou do want to receive these emails from the City, please uns ubsc ribe now.
7
Applicant Name*
Maggie Ts ai
Applicant Title
Organi zation Name (if applicable)
Innovart Foundation
Is this a non-profit organization?*
Yes
Applica nt/Orga niza tion Addre ss*
Applica nt Phone *Applica nt Ema il*
Event Name*
Paint the City X2
Grant Reques t *
1200
Max imum $2,000
Es timated Total Event Cos t*
1500
Es timated Expens es & Funding S ources *
Estimated total ex pense: $1,500 Expense items include: 1) paint, painting tools , i.e. brus hes, rollers , extens ion poles , t ray s
and liners, pour spouts , sandpaper, s pack ling pas te/hole patch, putty knives, painter's tape, paint s pray er, cleaning rags,
sponges , paper t owels , gloves, buc ket, tras h bags, etc .; 2) bot tled water and s nacks for student volunteers ; and 3) event
insuranc e. Innovart Foundation would like to apply for $1,200 of event grant. Innovart Foundation will cover the rest of the
ex pens es.
Pleas e provide a list of estimated event ex pens es and antic ipated funding s ources for those ex pens es, including ex pens es
grant funding will be us ed for if awarded.
Event Date and Time*
One week end in June 2023.
Event Location*
Need des ignation and s ite approval
from City.
Es timated Event Attendance*
1,000
Event Des cription*
To c ontinue beautify ing Saratoga and vitalizing our c ommunity through art, Innovart Foundation would lik e to organize or c o-host
with the City, Paint the City X2, an annual mural painting program. Loc at ion can be the ex terior wall of a public / private
struct ure, i.e. in park, at s enior center, c ommunity sit e, non-profit organization building, preferably with high pedestrian traffic
and good visibility. Mural theme can be community unity, nature, environmental preservation, or any other theme that matches
the function of a c hos en loc at ion. For the first year (2023), Innovart Foundation would propose to start by drawing one mural t he
size of 15 feet in length, and 6-8 feet in height (c an als o be irregular size).
Is event open to the public?*
Yes
Is event free for attendees ?*
Yes
8
Is this a volunteer-l ed event?*
Yes
Wi ll $1 million liability coverage for the event be obtained if g rant
funding is provided?*
Yes
Des cribe how the event will concentrate on S aratog a's character, divers ity, or his tory.*
Mural theme and painting can cover Saratoga's charac ter, divers ity, and/or history.
Des cribe how the event will celebrate the S aratog a community as a whol e.*
Innovart Foundation will submit 3 des igns for City selection, and implement painting of the approved one. Innovart Foundat ion
will establis h a projec t team, c ons isting of an art director, a projec t direc tor and event managers . W hile t he projec t team will be
on top of quality c ontrol, painting slots will be open for sign-up by interested Saratoga res idents, who can c ome and input their
brush strokes on the days of the painting. As many as 100 s lots can be opened for s ign-up. City officials will also be invited to
input their brus h s trokes . This way, the mural will be a c ollec tive c ommunity piece. W e will als o invite residents to come and
watch t he drawing on the day.
Has the event received funding from the City in the pas t?*
No
What advertis ing or mark eting do you plan to do for the event?*
Innovart Foundation has a mature information diss emination channel, including s ocial media groups , and private/public s c hools
we cooperat e wit h. The way the project is designed will attract wide community at tention and int eres t, and will c reate word-of-
month. Saratoga city newsletter c an also help dis seminate informat ion if City lik es the projec t.
Des cribe your experience, or the experience of your org anization, in coordinating community events .*
Innovart Foundation, established in 2014, has been using a variety of art forms to beautify Bay Area cit ies . The Foundation
initiated the utility box painting in Cupertino in 2015, and co-hos t ed it that y ear together with a loc al art sc hool. In 2021 and
2022, we organized the making of two large-s ize mos aic art work , and donated to Saratoga High Sc hool and Chateau Cupertino
senior center. The mos aic for Saratoga High School, at the beginning, invited all s tudents to come in and put down their tile.
W e have been organizing arts and craft s programs, and music performances in communities . Innovart Foundat ion has
ac c umulat ed rich experienc e running public art programs, and has a vas t st udent base.
Ele ctronic Signa ture Agre e me nt*
Applic ant hereby agrees , on behalf of itself and its suc c essors and as signs, to indemnify, defend and hold the City of
Saratoga, it s offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards, commissions , and volunt eers free and and harmless from and
agains t any and all c laims, demands , caus es of ac tion, damages , liabilities, c ost of expenses (inc luding the cos t of
attorney 's fees for defending any action brought against the City or any of its offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards,
commis sions, and volunteers), aris ing out of or in any manner relating to any form of loss , injury, or damage s ustained by
the Applic ant or any person in c onnec tion with or in any way relat ing to the event described above. Applicant further agrees
that as a condition of receiving funding from the City applicant will have in effect in connection with the event liability
insurance c overage in the amount of at least $1 million. The coverage will name the City of Saratoga, its officers, officials ,
employees, agent s and volunteers as additional ins ured. Applicant mus t provide a "Certificate of Insuranc e" with "Additional
Insured Endorsement" to the Cit y prior to holding the event described above.
I agree.
Ele ctronic Signa ture *
Maggie Ts ai
9
Applicant Name*
Huelling Su
Applicant Title
Pres ident
Organi zation Name (if applicable)
AABC (As ian Americ an for Better Community)
Is this a non-profit organization?*
Yes
Applica nt/Orga niza tion Addre ss*
Applica nt Phone *Applica nt Ema il*
Event Name*
Dragon Boat Festival
Grant Reques t *
$2,000
Max imum $2,000
Es timated Total Event Cos t*
$6,000
Es timated Expens es & Funding S ources *
2024 Dragon Boat Budget - Ex pens es: Dragon Boat demons tration: $1,500 Booths : $1,500 Various Performers: $2,500
Cleaning: $500 Tot al expenses : $6,000 Income: Donations from different organiz ations: $1,000 AABC funds : $3,000 Grant
reques ted from c ity of Saratoga: $2,000
Pleas e provide a list of estimated event ex pens es and antic ipated funding s ources for those ex pens es, including ex pens es
grant funding will be us ed for if awarded.
Event Date and Time*
6/8/2024
Event Location*
Saratoga downtown/W ildwood Park
Es timated Event Attendance*
80
Event Des cription*
About our organization: AABC is a non-profit organization based in the bay area. Our mis sion is to promote community
servic es, civic engagements and voter educ at ion. Purpose of the event: Chines e Dragon Boat Fes tival is a traditional holiday
with ric h c ulture, history and legend behind it. It commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a Chines e poet and minister known for
his patriotis m and c ontributions to clas s ic al poetry. Qu served in high offic es of Zhou dynas ty but was eventually banis hed for
opposing t he emperor and even acc used of treason. During his ex ile and in despair, Qu committed suicide by drowning hims elf
in the river. It is said that the local people, who admired him, rac ed out in their boats to save him or at least to retrieve his body.
This is believed to be the origin of dragon boat rac es. It is c elebrated on the fifth day of the fift h month, each year on Chinese
lunar c alendar which falls on June 10th, 2024. The event was held las t y ear, 2022 as a pilot program from AABC. It was a huge
suc ces s and lot of patrons, y oung children, s tudents, parents, and many neighborhoods . Several participating res taurants from
our Village ran out of food very s oon and had to refill their supplies quic k ly. It was a fun day that brought us all together.
Is event open to the public?*
Yes
Is event free for attendees ?*
Yes
10
Is this a volunteer-l ed event?*
Yes
Wi ll $1 million liability coverage for the event be obtained if g rant
funding is provided?*
Yes
Des cribe how the event will concentrate on S aratog a's character, divers ity, or his tory.*
Since it was t ruly enjoyed by Saratoga c ommunity in 2022 and AABC has been granted community grant for 2023 from
Saratoga City Council, we wish t o bring bac k this fes tivity to Saratoga again in 2024 and many years to c ome.
Des cribe how the event will celebrate the S aratog a community as a whol e.*
W e believe that it not only would be a lot of fun for families, loc al bus inesses , but als o would c ontinue to embrace more
unders tanding and apprec iation of multi-cultural and ethnic diversit ies of the community.
Has the event received funding from the City in the pas t?*
Yes
What advertis ing or mark eting do you plan to do for the event?*
W e posted on the loc al news paper, FB, eventbrite, wechat, line groups , s chools , scouts and words of mout h.
Des cribe your experience, or the experience of your org anization, in coordinating community events .*
AABC (As ian Americ an for Better Community) is a non-profit organiz ation based in the bay area. Our mis sion is to promote
community services , c ivic engagements and voter education. In the past, we have hold a few voter education s essions ,
organiz e "Stop As ian Hate", hos t 2022 Dragon Boat Fes tival and will be hosting 2023 Dragon Boat Festival, we have donated t o
the loc al food banks, and is sue scholars hips to the low income families....., just to name a few.
Ele ctronic Signa ture Agre e me nt*
Applic ant hereby agrees , on behalf of itself and its suc c essors and as signs, to indemnify, defend and hold the City of
Saratoga, it s offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards, commissions , and volunt eers free and and harmless from and
agains t any and all c laims, demands , caus es of ac tion, damages , liabilities, c ost of expenses (inc luding the cos t of
attorney 's fees for defending any action brought against the City or any of its offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards,
commis sions, and volunteers), aris ing out of or in any manner relating to any form of loss , injury, or damage s ustained by
the Applic ant or any person in c onnec tion with or in any way relat ing to the event described above. Applicant further agrees
that as a condition of receiving funding from the City applicant will have in effect in connection with the event liability
insurance c overage in the amount of at least $1 million. The coverage will name the City of Saratoga, its officers, officials ,
employees, agent s and volunteers as additional ins ured. Applicant mus t provide a "Certificate of Insuranc e" with "Additional
Insured Endorsement" to the Cit y prior to holding the event described above.
I agree.
Ele ctronic Signa ture *
Huelling Su
11
Applicant Name*
Judy Shen
Applicant Title
direc tor
Organi zation Name (if applicable)
Omniware Networks
Is this a non-profit organization?*
Yes
Applica nt/Orga niza tion Addre ss*
Applica nt Phone *Applica nt Ema il*
Event Name*
public art contes t of 'Saratoga, My Home'
Grant Reques t *
1200
Max imum $2,000
Es timated Total Event Cos t*
1400
Es timated Expens es & Funding S ources *
Funded by community fund: -Event flyers / banners : $300 -Contes t supplies/materials/awards: $500 -Display winning work
(printing, hardware, venue): $400 Self fund/volunteers c ontribution - Adminis tration (communication/trans portation/logis tic
servic es): $200
Pleas e provide a list of estimated event ex pens es and antic ipated funding s ources for those ex pens es, including ex pens es
grant funding will be us ed for if awarded.
Event Date and Time*
August 1 2023 to January 31, 2024
Event Location*
Saratoga c ommunity center
Es timated Event Attendance*
300
Event Des cription*
W e will organiz e a public art contes t of 'Sarat oga, my home', whic h is open and free to all Saratoga residents to enc ourage
them to use all k inds of 2D art format to express their feelings, love, and bonding about Sarat oga and t he c ommunity. W e will
organiz e a display of the ex cellent artwork , whic h is open to all public.
Is event open to the public?*
Yes
Is event free for attendees ?*
Yes
Is this a volunteer-l ed event?*
Yes
Wi ll $1 million liability coverage for the event be obtained if g rant
funding is provided?*
Yes
12
Des cribe how the event will concentrate on S aratog a's character, divers ity, or his tory.*
This event will give all Saratoga residents an opportunity to use t heir preferred artistic format to paint, record, illus trate and
doc ument the beaut y, charac ters, his tory, c ulture and people of Saratoga. It'll enc ourage resident to expres s their feelings , love,
bonding, and s ens e of belonging wit h Saratoga and the community. The public dis play of the excellent artwork will further fos ter
the positive c ommunity well-being and Saratoga's value.
Des cribe how the event will celebrate the S aratog a community as a whol e.*
The art c ont est is open and free to all Saratoga residents who can ex pres s their feelings / underst anding and connec tions with
Saratoga from their own perspec tives . The contes t t heme is to fos ter the sense of belonging of the community. The dis play will
be open and free to all Saratoga res ident s .
Has the event received funding from the City in the pas t?*
No
What advertis ing or mark eting do you plan to do for the event?*
W e'll dis play and distribute event fly ers in library, community c enters , schools and other public venues . W e'll public ize it on
soc ial media as well as local newspaper.
Des cribe your experience, or the experience of your org anization, in coordinating community events .*
W e have a solid track record of organiz ing community art events . Last y ear, we have s uccessfully organiz ed a s eries of
community art c ontests and art exhibitions inc luding one held at the Saratoga Library. Our exhibitions were report ed by multiple
media and received many encouraging and positive c ommunity feedback.
Ele ctronic Signa ture Agre e me nt*
Applic ant hereby agrees , on behalf of itself and its suc c essors and as signs, to indemnify, defend and hold the City of
Saratoga, it s offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards, commissions , and volunt eers free and and harmless from and
agains t any and all c laims, demands , caus es of ac tion, damages , liabilities, c ost of expenses (inc luding the cos t of
attorney 's fees for defending any action brought against the City or any of its offic ers , officials, agents, employ ees, boards,
commis sions, and volunteers), aris ing out of or in any manner relating to any form of loss , injury, or damage s ustained by
the Applic ant or any person in c onnec tion with or in any way relat ing to the event described above. Applicant further agrees
that as a condition of receiving funding from the City applicant will have in effect in connection with the event liability
insurance c overage in the amount of at least $1 million. The coverage will name the City of Saratoga, its officers, officials ,
employees, agent s and volunteers as additional ins ured. Applicant mus t provide a "Certificate of Insuranc e" with "Additional
Insured Endorsement" to the Cit y prior to holding the event described above.
I agree.
Ele ctronic Signa ture *
Judy Shen
Email S ubs cri ption
Yes
Your email addres s will automatically be added to our distribution list for City of Sarat oga news lett ers and City Council meeting
agenda notific ations . If y ou do want to receive these emails from the City, please uns ubsc ribe now.
13
PROGRAM POLICY
PROGRAM POLICY TITLE: Community Event Grant Program Policy
CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL: July 1, 2020 via Resolution No. 20-047
I. PURPOSE
This policy outlines the criteria Council applies to determine secured and unsecured funding
allocations for the Community Event Grant Program. The objective is to provide guidelines
to administer a program that is in-line with Council direction and is helpful to event
organizers wishing to request community grant funding. This policy is effective with the
Community Event Grant process beginning in December 2019.
II. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The criteria for receiving Community Event Grant funding is listed below:
a. Event is a volunteer-led event held in Saratoga.
b. Event is free and open to everyone.
c. The event concentrates on Saratoga’s character, diversity or history.
d. The event celebrates the community as a whole and is not limited to a small group such
as reunions.
III. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
The Community Event Program requirements are listed below:
a. Community Event funding applications are to include an itemized list of expenses
identifying specific expenses desired for grant funding. The application must be
completed, signed, and submitted during the annual application process. Off-cycle
requests are not allowed.
b. Event organizers are to obtain a minimum of $1 million liability insurance coverage for
the event. Events organized by individuals or an informal group of individuals, that are
not a part of or related to any non-profit corporation or other legal business entity, may
request City Council approval for event insurance to be provided by the City’s insurance
program. Events approved to receive event insurance through the City’s insurance
program include: Saratoga’s Independence Day Celebration, Saratoga Village
Development Council events, and Bollywood in the Park.
c. Unsecured event funding requests are limited to a maximum of $2,000.
d. Events run by organizations receiving Secured Community Event Grant Funding are not
eligible to apply for discretionary funding.
IV. ANNUAL APPLICATION PROCESS
The application process begins in December for the following Fiscal Year. The timeline is
outlined below:
a. December - Council reviews and determines both secured and unsecured funding
amounts for the next fiscal year’s Community Grant allocations.
b. January - Applications for unsecured funding grants are available and event organizers
are invited to apply.
c. February - Completed applications are due. Applications are reviewed and compiled for
Council review.
14
PROGRAM POLICY
d. March - Council determines the unsecured funding distribution for events based on
funding availability and need.
15
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes | February 13, 2023
Page 1 of 5
MINUTES
SARATOGA LIBRARY &
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 13, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Victoria Zhang called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Victoria Zhang, Vice Chair Cristina Meiser, Commissioners Robert
Gulino, Eric Lewis, Valerie Nygaard
Absent: None
Also Present: Jennifer Weeks, Saralyn Otter, David Guidry, Manlin Zhang, James
Lindsay, Crystal Bothelio
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the minutes from the December 5, 2022 Regular Meeting.
GULINO/ZHANG MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE DECEMBER 5, 2022
REGULAR MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, NYGAARD,
ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
2. Saratoga Teen Advisory Board Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Saratoga Teen Advisory Board report.
Manlin Zhang, Teen Advisory Board Co-President, shared that the Board has seen
increasing attendance at events. Upcoming events include SED Talks, a collaboration with
the Youth Commission. The two groups are working on securing speakers for the event.
The intended audience is high school students and attendance is estimated at 50 people.
The Commission provided suggestions on speakers based on the theme of the event.
16
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes | February 13, 2023
Page 2 of 5
3. Santa Clara County Library District Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Santa Clara County Library District report.
Jennifer Weeks, Santa Clara County Librarian, provided an overview of the District’s
Friends and Commissioners forum held in February. She reminded the Commission that
Overdrive is being retired and patrons can now use the Libby app to enjoy electronic
books and audio books. The District is holding kinder readiness programs in multiple
languages. During the month of February, the District will be sharing more about the
strategic plan. Jennifer provided additional information about how this will be
implemented and how the larger community will be invited to participate in the strategic
planning effort.
4. Saratoga Community Library Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Saratoga Community Library report.
Saralyn Otter, Acting Community Librarian, noted that Saratoga Library is working on
developing 3 strategic goals, including circulating hotspots, patron feedback on
programming, and senior programs and partnership.
David Guidry, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries Presidents, shared insights from his
experience as a High School District Trustee in distributing hotspots.
Saralyn Otter, Acting Community Librarian, provided information on recent programs,
including participation levels, Silicon Valley Reads, Lunar New Year celebrations, in-
person homework help, Family Bingo, story time, art exhibits, and a history of Saratoga
blacksmiths exhibit. Upcoming programs include a story time hosted by Santa Clara
County Supervisor Joe Simitian, a display of gourd art by artist Christy Tsai, and the
addition of the Everbright interactive light wall in the Saratoga Library lobby.
The Commission discussed the tutors who support in-person homework help at the
library and options for online tutoring.
5. Friends of the Saratoga Libraries Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Friends of the Saratoga Libraries report.
David Guidry, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries President, thanked Jennifer Weeks for the
excellent Friend and Commissioners forum. Overall, the Friends are doing well financially
with fundraising efforts are going well, strong membership support, and successful
paperback sales. The Friends plan change to an electronic newsletter and will be
exploring ways to communicate information in a way that is less costly and labor
intensive. The Friends will be hosting a trivia night on March 2.
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Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes | February 13, 2023
Page 3 of 5
The Commission discussed corporate matching and other fundraising ideas.
6. Commission Committees Report
Recommended Action:
Receive report from Commission Committees that have updates to share on recent
efforts.
Chair Victoria Zhang provided an update on the Celebrating Diversity Subcommittee,
noting that the committee was unable to make significant progress since the last meeting
due to holidays and travel. The committee is working on prompts to be used to invite the
community to share their stories about what brought them to Saratoga.
The Commission discussed differences between an oral and written history project to
celebrate Saratoga’s diversity, as well as the inspiration for the committee’s
recommended approach.
Commissioner Valerie Nygaard provided an update from the Parent/Student
Collaboration Subcommittee, sharing that the committee recently discussed options for
an informal coding club for students to provide them with the chance to spend time with
other youth interested in coding.
Vice Chair Cristina Meiser added that the committee is also still exploring opportunities
to collaborate with West Valley College. She shared insights on the reading crisis and
inquired about literacy programing for youth.
7. Library & Community Engagement Commission Chair Report
Recommended Action:
Receive Library & Community Engagement Commission Chair report.
Chair Victoria Zhang commented on ChatGPT.
8. City of Saratoga Report
Recommended Action:
Receive City of Saratoga report.
Crystal Bothelio shared updates on the return of in-person Commission meetings,
provided an update on the Housing Element, noted Commission recruitments, and
shared information about both the Online Art Challenge Virtual Exhibit and Paint the City
program.
18
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes | February 13, 2023
Page 4 of 5
9. Community News & Trends
Recommended Action:
Share news and trends within the community.
None
10. Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Finalize the proposed 2023/24 Work Plan to be presented to the City Council for
consideration at the Commission Work Plan Study Session on Monday, March 27 from
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the City Hall, Linda Callon Conference Room.
Commissioner Bob Gulino requested a correction to the spelling of his name and asked
that the first sentence of the Community Event Grant item be revised to “for which other
event organizers can apply.”
The Commission discussed options for including metrics to evaluate the success of work
plan items. The Commission agreed to include language in work plan items 2, 3, and 4
that indicates that the Commission will measure and analyze participation and program
engagement.
GULINO/NYGAARD MOVED TO RECOMMEND CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF THE
PROPOSED 2023/24 WORK PLAN WITH THE EDITS TO BOB GULINO’S NAME,
DESCRIPTION OF THE COMMUNITY EVENT GRANT WORK PLAN ITEM DESCRIPTION,
AND ADDITION TO ITEMS 2, 3, AND 4 TO NOTE THAT THE COMMISSION WILL
MEASURE AND ANALYZE PARTICIPATION AND PROGRAM ENGAGEMENT. MOTION
PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, NYGAARD, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN:
NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
SUMMARIZE ACTION ITEMS
Commissioners Lewis and Gulino noted they may meet to discuss Good Neighbor Day.
Commissioner Lewis noted that he will likely be unable to attend the June meeting.
Commissioner Valerie Nygaard shared that the Parent/Student Collaboration Subcommittee
may reach out to Saralyn Otter.
Chair Victoria Zhang added that the Celebrating Diversity Subcommittee may also need to
meet with Saralyn Otter.
19
Saratoga Library & Community Engagement Commission Minutes | February 13, 2023
Page 5 of 5
AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING
The Commission asked staff to work with Chair Victoria Zhang to manage the amount of time
needed to complete the Community Event Grant item at the April meeting.
GULINO/NYGAARD MOVED TO RESCHEDULE THE APRIL 10 MEETING TO APRIL 17. MOTION
PASSED. AYES: GULINO, LEWIS, MEISER, NYGAARD, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
ABSENT: NONE.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Victoria Zhang adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio
20
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
March 2023
Library Stakeholder Report
Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian
Celebrating Women’s History Month
The National Women’s History Alliance has announced the theme for this year: “Celebrating Women
Who Tell Our Stories.” This includes women past and present who have been involved in print, radio,
TV, stage, screen, blogs and podcasts, and all other forms of media and storytelling. Here at the Library
District, we devote ourselves to sharing the best resources, including women of excellence.
Our librarians prepare annual booklists for Women’s History Month with new and classic titles by and
about women. Keep an eye out for blogs on our website as well.
SCCLD will be hosting several events in celebration of Women’s History Month (please register):
March 4 @ 3:30 pm - Milpitas Library
Binary Bracelets craft event. Make bracelets coded in binary in honor of Ada, Countess of Lovelace,
the woman who created the first computer program. For kids grades K-5.
March 7 @ 7 pm - Virtual Event
The Queer History of the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Wendy Rouse,
Associate Professor of History at San José State, will talk about the erasure of
the private lives of many members of the women's suffrage movement. She is
the author of Public Faces, Secret Lives and other works.
March 8 @ 9 am - Virtual Event
Women’s History Month with World Book Online. Learn more about this useful resource, for kids and
adults, which is the perfect source for school reports and research papers, as well as general inquiry.
Top: Toni Morrison,
Maxine Hong Kingston,
Jovita Idar, Maya Angelou
Middle: Gerda Lerner, Gloria
Steinem, Winona La Duke,
Lillian Hellman
Bottom: Betty Soskin, Willa
Cather, Gertrude Stein,
Marjory Stoneman Douglas
21
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
Spring Concert Series
Spring is around the corner (March 20)
and SCCLD is ready to sing its praises
with a Spring Family Concert series,
which kicks off in early April. Get ready
to clap, tap and sing along to the great
artists that we have lined up for you!
Sing/canta in English and Spanish with
Baila Baila. Practice your rhythm and
rhyme with Bingo Schmingo, and
move and shake with Golden Acorn.
Silicon Valley Reads Marches On
The second half of Silicon Valley Reads (SVR) starts off on
Thursday, March 2 with a virtual interview with companion book
Furia author Yamile Saied Méndez, followed by a Q&A. Other
authors’ events include life coach Chris Janssen sharing insights
from her book Living All In: How to Show Up for the Life You
Want (online on Monday, March 6), two talks and Q&As by Kai
Harris, featured author of What the Fireflies Knew (Wednesday,
March 15 at Los Altos Library and Wednesday, March 22 at
Milpitas Library), and a virtual talk on Thursday, March 23 by
Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson, authors of companion
book When Stars Are Scattered.
Other events taking place at SCCLD libraries include talks about photography and art, storytimes, movie
screenings, and craft events. Find the full list of Library District events on our Online Calendar.
Highlights are listed in the SCCLD Events Calendar that follows. Check out SVR’s Calendar of Events
for an up to date list of other events taking place across the County, including at libraries and schools.
If you have not already signed up, please register for our SVR 2023 Reading Challenge, which enters
participants who complete the requirements into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate for each age group
that participates. To be eligible to win, all you need to do is register online, read any 2023 SVR title and
attend at least one library program.
22
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
Get Ready for Kindergarten with SCCLD
Parents and caregivers of pre-Kinders are invited to
attend a series of South County Get Ready for
Kindergarten Workshops with early childhood
educator Dr. Gerardo Lopez, designed to support
families of little ones who will be starting Kindergarten
in Fall 2023. Learning materials will be provided.
Morgan Hill Library: 3 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 4, 11 and 18
Gilroy Library: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, 15 and 22 (register starting on Mar. 8)
Additional Kinder-Readiness programs in Milpitas and Los Altos can be found here.
Caregivers and parents can register their incoming Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten student
and pick up a free booklet at any of our libraries that includes readiness resources for caregivers and
skill-building activities that they can work on together with their youngsters. The skill-set activities follows
the six critical areas for preparing to be successful in Kindergarten laid out in SCCLD’s Kinder
Readiness program of Health and Well-being, Early Literacy, Social and Emotional Development,
Language and Communication Skills, Mathematical Thinking, and Science.
Tax Preparation Assistance at the Library
Cupertino Library is holding free tax preparation assistance sessions
on Saturday afternoons during March offered by the experts at the
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. People will be helped on
a first come, first served basis, so try to come early. Find full details,
including which documents to bring, here.
The Library also offers helpful information on tax preparation
including forms, tips, and a list of free tax preparation and filing assistance resources.
ESL Classes and Conversation Clubs
Those who wish to improve their English speaking and writing skills are invited to attend classes at
Gilroy and Milpitas libraries. Both courses are underway now, with the one at Gilroy Library ending on
May 17 and Milpitas Library’s on May 24. You can find more details about these classes at
https://sccld.org/esl/. Participants will need to take a short assessment to determine their language level,
which they can do after attending their first class.
SCCLD welcomes you to join the ESL classes and ESL conversation clubs at Campbell Express,
Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Milpitas and Saratoga Libraries.
23
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
April 2023
Library Stakeholder Report
Jennifer Weeks, County Librarian
Time for Rhyme: April is Poetry Month
The Library District will help promote a love of poetry in
all of its forms this month, with in-person and online
events featuring our County Poet Laureate Tshaka
Campbell.
Teen Poetry Workshop with Kaecey McCormick
7-8:30 p.m., April 5. Cupertino Library.
In-Person Poetry Workshop: Hosted by County Poet Laureate Tshaka Campbell
2-3 p.m., April 8. Gilroy Library.
Open Poetry Readings with the Garlicky Group of Poets
3:30-5 p.m., April 8. Gilroy Library.
Virtual Open Mic Night: Hosted by County Poet Laureate Tshaka Campbell
6:30-7:30 p.m., April 12. Online. Poets 13+ are invited to read/perform for up to 4 minutes.
SED Talks for Teens - Words for Impact
3-4:30 p.m., April 22. Saratoga Library.
Virtual Poetry Workshop: Hosted by County Poet Laureate Tshaka Campbell
6:30-7:30 p.m., April 26. Online.
The Peaceful Poets
5:30-8 p.m., April 27. Milpitas Library.
Look for our Teen Poetry Contest during April. Winners in Grades 6-8 and Grades 9-12 groups will
receive $50 and be invited to attend to a private workshop with the County Poet Laureate in June. Find
poetry-related content on our website, including an archive of past Teen Poetry Contest winners, blog
posts, Granger’s World of Poetry, and other poetry-related resources in our Literature section.
24
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
Spring Concert Series
Our Spring Family Concert series, kicks
off on April 5 at Campbell Library and lasts
throughout the month. Get ready to clap,
tap and sing along to the great artists that
we have lined up for you!
Sing/canta in English and Spanish with Baila Baila (at Gilroy, Los Altos, and Morgan Hill libraries).
Practice your rhythm and rhyme with Bingo Schmingo (Campbell, Cupertino, and Saratoga libraries),
and move and shake with Golden Acorn (Milpitas Library). Build and improve pre-reading skills in your
child ages 0 to 5: Talk Together; Sing Together; Read Together; Write Together; Play Together.
The Library District has a 1000 Books Before 6 website with tips for teaching young children early
literacy skills and families of young children can participate in SCCLD’s Kinder Readiness program.
Celebrating Earth Day at the Library
April 22 marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern
environmental movement in 1970. Observed across the globe,
Earth Day is a time to draw attention to issues that threaten the
health of the environment, like climate change.
Our libraries are holding a number of events throughout April that
celebrate our natural world. Some of our planned events are
listed below. Find details on our staff blog. You can also learn
about small steps you can take like switching to green cleaning.
Worm Composting Workshop: Saturday, April 1 at 10 a.m. at Milpitas Library
Celebrate Arbor Day with Our City Forest: Friday, April 7 at 1:30 p.m. at Saratoga Library
Our City Forest Presentation for Kids in Grades 3-5: Wednesday, April 12 at 11 a.m. at Milpitas Library
Gearing up for Pet Chickens: Saturday, April 15 at 2 p.m. at Gilroy Library
Gardening for Habitat: Tuesday, April 25 at 7 p.m. at Saratoga Library
El Día de los Libros/Book Day
April ends with El día de los niños/El día de los libros
(Children's Day/Book Day), commonly known as Día.
This American Library Association event stresses the
importance of literacy for children of all linguistic and
cultural backgrounds. We have many titles available for
every age group in multiple languages. Also, keep an
eye out on our social media and website for blog posts.
25
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
National Library Week
“There’s More to the Story” this
year during National Library
Week, a multi-day event that
draws public attention to
libraries and the work we do.
The Library District will be
sharing information about its
many services and workers all week on its social media channels. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram,
Twitter and YouTube. And keep an eye on our website for additional content. Thanks for your support.
Celebrate National Library Week
Monday, April 24: State of America's Libraries Report released, including Top Ten Frequently
Challenged Books of 2022. Report will be released on Monday, April 24.
Tuesday, April 25: National Library Workers Day, a day for library staff, users, administrators, and
Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.
Wednesday, April 26: National Library Outreach Day (formerly National Bookmobile Day), a day to
celebrate library outreach and the dedicated library professionals who are meeting their patrons where
they are.
Thursday, April 27: Take Action for Libraries Day, a day to rally advocates to support libraries.
Friday, April 28: Make sure that everyone in your family has an active library account. It’s free!
We are also celebrating National Library Week with our Bookmobile making special stops at all SCCLD
libraries. Explore the Bookmobile, meet our staff, and do a fun craft or activity!
•Saratoga Library: Saturday, April 8 at 11:30 a.m.
•Milpitas Library: Monday, April 10 at 11 a.m.
•Los Altos Library: Tuesday, April 11 at 11 a.m.
•Campbell Express Library: Wednesday, April 12 at 11 a.m.
•Cupertino Library: Thursday, April 27 at 11 a.m.
•Morgan Hill Library: Saturday, April 29 at 11 a.m.
•Gilroy Library: Saturday, April 29 at 1:30 p.m.
26
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
Financial Literacy, Protecting Yourself
and Your Loved Ones from Scammers
April, which includes Tax Day, is Financial
Literacy Month. The Library District has many
money-related events, including several around
Money Smart Week, from April 17 to 21.
Tuesdays, April 4, 11 and 18 at 4 p.m. (Online). Finance for Teens with KeyPoint Credit Union.
Tuesday, April 8 at 9 a.m. (Online). Introduction to Morningstar Investment Research Center.
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 7 p.m. (Online). Social Security and Personal Finances.
Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 3 p.m. (Online). Intergenerational Wealth Transfer.
Find more information about finance-related topics such as basic banking, buying a car, or protecting
against identity theft on our website’s Smart Investing Guide, developed for all ages and incomes.
Beware of Scammers
SCCLD is also hosting a pair of in-person events around the important topic of how to protect yourself
and your loved ones from different kinds of scam artists. This includes phishing, a tactic used by
criminals to trick individuals into revealing personal information such as passwords and credit card
numbers, which they can then use to steal a person’s identity. Phishing maneuvers, which also now
includes various cryptocurrency schemes, targets and has devastating effects on our senior population.
Protect Yourself from Scammers
Saratoga Library: Wednesday, April 19 at 11 a.m.
Santa Clara County Assistant District Attorney Erin West shares her perspective as someone on the
front lines against phishing and other scams, touching on what signs to look out for and which steps to
take if you are targeted. West serves as prosecutor for REACT, the County’s elite high tech investigative
force. She was recently featured in Forbes magazine for her work protecting local residents from fraud.
This talk is followed by a Q&A session moderated by County Supervisor Joe Simitian.
Cupertino Library: Saturday, April 29 at 3 p.m.
Research Scholar Riana Pfefferkorn of the Stanford Internet Observatory is an expert on common cyber
scams and how to avoid them. Her talk touches on phishing, business email compromise, fake computer
support and romance scams, plus other confidence schemes. Learn computer security tips for keeping
your information safe online.
This talk is followed by a Q&A session moderated by County Supervisor Joe Simitian.
27
Serving the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and the cities of Campbell | Cupertino |
Gilroy | Los Altos | Los Altos Hills | Milpitas | Monte Sereno | Morgan Hill | Saratoga
Say Goodbye to OverDrive, Hello to Libby
As a reminder, the OverDrive app is being phased out on May 1. Going forward, patrons who wish to
access the latest and classic titles from OverDrive in digital Audiobooks, eBooks, eMagazines and
videos should utilize the Libby App.
Happy Easter!
As a reminder, all SCCLD locations will be closed and in-person services unavailable on Sunday, April 9
in recognition of Easter. Our online library is open and available 24/7.
Joint Powers Authority Board Meeting
The next Library JPA meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 27 at 12 p.m. This will be held in person
at the Services & Support Center located at 1370 Dell Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008.
28
SANTA CLARA COUNTY LIBRARY
DISTRICT APRIL 2023 EVENTS
* All libraries will be closed and services unavailable on Sunday, April 9 for Easter *
CAMPBELL EXPRESS LIBRARY – 1 West Campbell Avenue, Room 46
Poetry Writing Contest for Adults
Through April 30
Submit two original poems to the Campbell Express Library. Top three finishers will win a gift
card. All participants will receive a prize.
ESL Conversation Club
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Room M-50
Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic
English. Please register online.
Spring Literacy Concert
Wednesday, April 5, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Bingo Schmingo. This can help promote
literacy skills in children 0-5.
Natural Medicine
Tuesday, April 11, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard City Banquet Hall
Dr. Julia Lee will lead a discussion on the foundations of natural healthy living. She will share
strategies for improving self-care, self-healing, as well as tips for finding fulfillment in our daily
lives. Register online.
Indoor Storytime for Kids 0-5
Wednesdays, April 12, 19, & 26, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard City Banquet Hall (April 26th storytime
will be held in Room Q84)
Join us for stories, songs, and more! Please bring a blanket or towel to sit on. No registration
required.
29
CUPERTINO -- 10800 Torre Avenue
Family Storytime
Saturdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101
Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19, & 26, 7 – 7:30 p.m., Room 101
This storytime is suitable for all ages and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and dances that
encourage the development of early literacy skills. Storytime is limited to the first 100 families.
Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit on.
Author Talk with Sara Fashandi
Sunday, April 2, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
Author Sara Fashandi will discuss her book, Message in a Matchbox.
Storytime for Babies (ages 0-1)
Mondays, April 3, 10, 17, & 24, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101A
This storytime features stories and songs that encourage the development of early literacy
skills. Storytime is limited to the first 25 babies with a maximum of two adults per family.
Homework Help for K-9th Grade
Monday-Thursday through May 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Academic coaches from the Bay Area Tutoring Association can provide help in English, history,
math and science. No registration required. Walk-ins welcome as space allows.
Toddler Storytime at Cupertino Library
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101
This storytime is suitable for kids ages 1-2 years old, and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and
dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Limited to the first 100 families.
ESL Conversation Club
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic
English. Please register online.
Teen Poetry Workshop with Kaecey McCormick
Wednesday, April 5, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
Former Cupertino Poet Laureate Kaecey McCormick will lead a workshop using song lyrics and
other texts to create original poetry. Then, participants will learn how to write a cover letter
and format poetry for submission to contests or literary journals. Register online.
Preschool Storytime
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Room 101
This storytime is suitable for kids ages 3-5 years old, and will feature stories, songs, rhymes and
dances that encourage the development of early literacy skills. Limited to the first 100 families.
30
Knit-Alongs at Cupertino Library
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Room 201B, Second Floor
All knitters and crocheters are welcome to drop in. Meet new friends, start new projects, or
finish old ones. Participants need to bring their own needles and/or crochet hooks and yarn. No
personal instruction will be provided.
Magnetic Poetry Craft
Thursday, April 13, 4 – 5 p.m.
Celebrate National Poetry Month and make your own magnetic poetry! This program is
intended for students in grades K-8.
Sensory Friendly Family Film
Friday, April 14, 6:30 – 8:15 p.m.
We will be watching “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile.” Children with special needs accompanied by
caregivers are welcome, as are children of all ages and abilities with a parent or caregiver.
Create CU: Etagami
Friday, April 14, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Room 201A
Etagami is a Japanese form of mail art that combines simple hand-painted images with words.
Online registration necessary. This program is for adults 18+.
Adult Non-Fiction Book Discussion
Sunday, April 16, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
We will be discussing The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson.
The Dave Rocha Jazz Group
Sunday, April 16, 2 – 3 p.m., Room 101 and Courtyard
Stop by for an eclectic mix of jazz standards, pop tunes, and original compositions of jazz music.
My Father, Artist Xu Beihong
Sunday, April 16, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
Xu Beihong is known as the father of modern Chinese painting who is famous for his ink brush
paintings of galloping horses. Hear from his daughter, Xu Fangfang, who will discuss her
memoir, Galloping Horses: Artist Xu Beihong and His Family in Mao’s China.
Crochet Club for Kids
Tuesday-Thursday, April 18-20, 2 – 3 p.m.
Kids in Grades 4-8 are invited to a three-day club to learn how to crochet. You will learn basic
crochet stitches and have the option to start your own easy project. Yarn and hooks will be
provided. Register at the Children’s Reference Desk.
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Spring Literacy Concert
Wednesday, April 19, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Bingo Schmingo. This can help promote
literacy skills in children 0-5.
LEGO Club
Thursday, April 20, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Join us for on the third Thursday of the month for creative play. We have the bricks, you bring
the imagination! This event is for Kindergarten-Grade 8 patrons. Please leave your LEGOs at
home.
Adult Book Discussion
Thursday, April 20, 7 – 8:15 p.m., Room 201A, Second Floor
We will be discussing Miracle Creek by Angie Kim.
Children’s Film Screening
Friday, April 21, 2 – 3:45 p.m.
Join us for a showing of the film, “Soul.” Children only, please.
Bookmobile Visit
Thursday, April 27, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Parking Lot
Celebrate National Library Outreach Day with the Bookmobile Staff. Stop by and get your
picture taken, make a Bookmobile, and participate in a scavenger hunt.
Multilingual Poetry & Prose Reading
Sunday, April 30, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Room 201
Enjoy featured readers presenting in Hindi, Spanish, Hebrew and more. This will be hosted by
Cupertino Poet Laureate Keiko O’Leary.
GILROY -- 350 W. Sixth Street
Family Film Screening
Saturday, April 1, 2 – 3:45 p.m., Community Room
Join us for a screening of “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”
Storytime at Gilroy Library
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Ground Floor Children’s Activity Room
Join us for stories, songs and more. Space is limited.
Knitting and Crochet Weekly Meetup
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 1 – 4 p.m., Upstairs Quiet Study B
Join us for an informal weekly drop-in knitting and crochet circle. Bring your projects, ask
questions, get help, share ideas and meet new people!
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Book Discussion
Friday, April 7, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Upstairs Quiet Study B
We will discuss Dreamland by Nancy Bilyeau. Please register.
Baby Storytime
Friday, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Nest Room
Adults and babies (ages 0-12 months) will laugh and learn together in this program designed to
encourage the development of early literacy skills.
Safe Space Meeting for LGBTQ+ Youth
Fridays, April 7 & 21, 4 – 6 p.m., First Floor Meeting Room
This in-person support group is for youth and young adults (ages 13-25). Play games, participate
in group activities and discussions and build community. No registration necessary.
Get Ready for Kindergarten Workshop
Saturdays, April 8, 15 & 22, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Dr. Gerardo Lopez will lead three workshops that focus on certain skillsets that children need to
develop before they start kindergarten. Register online.
In-Person Poetry Workshop
Saturday, April 8, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room
Santa Clara County Poet Laureate Tshaka Campbell will lead an in-person poetry workshop.
Please register.
Open Poetry Readings with Garlicky Group of Poets
Saturday, April 8, 3:30 – 5 p.m., Downstairs Meeting Room
Read whatever poetry you want to read and join in related discussions. No registration
necessary.
Snack Break for Kids
Mondays-Fridays through May, 3 – 4 p.m., Pick up near Accounts Desk
Kids ages 18 and under are welcomed to pick up an afterschool snack, while supplies last.
No registration necessary. Snacks not offered on holidays or during school breaks.
The Neutral Zone
Tuesdays, April 11, 18, & 25, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Upstairs Quiet Study Room B
The Neutral Zone is a space for children ages 8-12 who have been impacted by divorce or
separation. Join us to participate in games, activities and discussions. There are eight meetings.
We encourage participants to attend all of them. Register online.
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The MEHKO Ordinance
Wednesday, April 12, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Community Room
Learn about the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations program that authorizes residents
to prepare, cook, and sell food from their private home kitchen. Register online. Walk-ins
welcome as space allows.
Gearing Up for Pet Chickens
Saturday, April 15, 2 – 4 p.m., Community Room
Learn what is involved in keeping chickens in your backyard. This includes basic requirements
such as housing, food, and maintenance. Please register. Walk-ins welcome as space allows.
Introduction to Pickleball
Saturday, April 22, 12 – 1 p.m., Upstairs Quiet Study B
This workshop will cover the fundamentals of the game, including the court, equipment, rules,
and terms. Find out about pickleball locations, etiquette, and its benefits.
The Dave Rocha Jazz Group
Saturday, April 22, 3 – 4 p.m., Community Room or Courtyard (weather dependent)
Stop by for an eclectic mix of jazz standards, pop tunes, and original compositions of jazz music.
Family Loteria Night
Monday, April 24, 6 – 7 p.m.
Join us for a family-friendly game of Loteria in celebration of Children’s Day/Book Day. Play to
win books or small incentives. Acompáñenos para jugar Lotería con familias en celebración del
Día de los niños/El día de los libros. Juega y gana libros o pequeños premios.
Preparing for Wildfire
Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Community Room
Learn about defensible space and what you can do at your home or business to improve your
resilience to wildfire. Register online. Walk-ins welcome as space allows.
Spring Literacy Concert
Saturday, April 29, 1 – 2 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Baila Baila. This can help promote literacy
skills in children 0-5.
LOS ALTOS -- 13 S. San Antonio Road
Baby Sign Time
Saturday, April 1, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room
Babies under a year old and their grownups are welcome to sing songs and learn signs to share
with your baby. Please bring a blanket for your baby.
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Stay and Play
Saturday, April 1, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room
Non-walking babies and their grownups are invited to play with age-appropriate toys. Bring a
blanket and come enjoy this socialization for babies.
Homework Help for K-9th Grade
Monday-Thursday through May 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Academic coaches from the Bay Area Tutoring Association can provide help in English, history,
math and science. No registration required. Walk-ins welcome, as space allows.
Bobbin Wranglers Sewing Club
Monday, April 3, 7 – 9 p.m.
Every month we will learn new skills and create a simple project from start to finish. Please
bring your own supplies. Each month we will discuss what will be needed for the next project.
Family Storytime
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, & 18, 10:30 – 11 a.m. and 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room
This interactive 20-minute storytime features songs, stories, fingerplays and more. Due to
limited seating, we will begin handing out free tickets starting at 10 a.m. If you can’t make the
10:30 storytime, we will have a second at 11 a.m.
The Whodunit? Mystery Book Club
Wednesday, April 5, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Teen Room
We will be discussing The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware.
World Affairs: The Origin of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Why it Matters
Wednesday, April 5, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Teen Room
Dr. David Relman will discuss the possible origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, why the question
is important, and how we can be better positioned to address this issue for the next pandemic.
ESL Conversation Club
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20 & 27, 1:30 – 3 p.m., Orchard Room
Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic
English.
Teen Dungeons and Dragons Social Club
Thursday, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 4 – 6 p.m.
Teens are invited to drop in and watch the game. Occasional openings for new players.
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Holistic Yoga Class
Thursday, April 6, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard Room
Practicing yoga promotes health, develops immunity and improves circulation and digestion.
Check in with the instructor if you have any health issues or conditions.
Bilingual Spanish Storytime
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room
Join us for stories, songs, and movement in Spanish and English. ¡Únase a nosotros para
escuchar cuentos, canciones y movimiento en español e inglés!
Get Ready for Kindergarten: Laugh and Learn Series
Saturday, April 8, 11 – 11:45 a.m.
Sunday, April 23, 1 – 1:45 p.m.
Through stories, movement and joyful play, children will develop valuable school readiness
skills.
Bookmobile Visit
Tuesday, April 11, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Parking Lot
Celebrate National Library Outreach Day with the Bookmobile Staff. Stop by and explore the
Bookmobile, meet the staff, and do a fun activity.
Bay Area Games Day
Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Orchard Room
Stop by and learn how to play a new board game or bring an old favorite.
Sunday Crafternoon
Sunday, April 16, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room
This is an all-age craft that lets your creativity shine.
Book Bugs Club for 2nd and 3rd Graders
Tuesday, April 18, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room
We will discuss Say What, by Margaret Peterson Haddix, and then make a fun craft. Register in
person.
Family Storytime with Mayor Sally Meadows
Wednesday, April 19, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Orchard Room
This interactive 20-minute storytime features songs, stories, fingerplays and more. Due to
limited seating, we will begin handing out free tickets starting at 10 a.m.
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Page Turners Book Club for Grades 4-6
Thursday, April 20, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room
We are discussing When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead. After we will play a modified version
of the game show $20,000 Pyramid. Please register, then stop by the Children’s Reference Desk
to check out a copy of the book.
Furry Friends Reading Buddies
Saturday, April 22, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., Orchard Room
Come practice reading skills and read aloud to a friendly dog or cat. Please register.
Spring Early Literacy Series Musical Performance
Tuesday, April 25, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Orchard Room
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Andy Z. This can help promote literacy
skills in children 0-5.
Book Talk for Kids
Wednesday, April 26, 4 – 5 p.m.
Kids in grades 4-8 are invited to bring a favorite book and share the title with others. Get
recommendations about some new reads also. Please register online.
Wednesday Travel Nights: Hunters of the Savanna
Wednesday, April 26, 7 – 8 p.m., Orchard Room
Wildlife photographer Joan Sparks will share images of several species of wildlife that call the
African Savanna home.
Library Bingo/Library Lotería
Thursday, April 27, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room
Join us for a family friendly game of Loteria in celebration of Children's Day/Book Day. Play to
win books or small incentives. Acompáñenos para jugar Lotería con familias en celebración del
Día de los niños/El día de los libros. Juega y gana libros o pequeños premios.
Spring Early Literacy Series Musical Performance
Sunday, April 30, 2 – 3 p.m., Orchard Room
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Baila Baila. This can help promote literacy
skills in children 0-5.
MILPITAS -- 160 N. Main Street
Worm Composting Workshop
Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Auditorium
Learn how to build compost, how to apply the results in their landscapes and gardens, and take
home your own mini-composting kit to get started. Register online.
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Family Storytime
Saturdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Activity Room
Early literacy focus is on picture books, flannel board stories, fingerplays and an early
introduction to group dynamics and socialization.
STEM Building with LEGO
Mondays, April 3, 10, 17, & 24, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Activity Room
Kids in grades K-8 are invited to drop by and have fun building with LEGOs. No registration
needed.
Homework Help for K-9th Grade
Monday-Thursday through May 25, 3:45 – 5 p.m.
Academic coaches from the Bay Area Tutoring Association can provide help in English, history,
math, and science. No registration required. Walk-ins welcome as space allows.
Baby Bouncers Lapsit
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 11:30 – 11:45 a.m., Activity Room
This program has an early literacy focus on traditional nursery rhymes, lap bounces, body
rhymes, songs, very short and simple picture books.
Fun with Art Presented by First5 Santa Clara County
Wednesday, April 5, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Activity Room
This program is geared toward children ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Come make some art with
us and learn about available resources at the resource center.
Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes
Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2 – 4 p.m., Auditorium
Relieve stress and anxiety, increase energy and vitality and improve physical health during
these exercise sessions.
ESL Conversation Club
Wednesdays, April 5, 12, 19, & 26, 3 – 4 p.m., Group Study Room A
Practice your English conversation skills with friends. This program is for adults who speak basic
English.
Toddler Storytime
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:30 – 11 a.m., Activity Room
This storytime is geared to 1-2 year olds, and features lots of movement, singing and action.
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Library Bingo/Library Lotería
Thursday, April 6, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., Activity Room
Join us for an early celebration of Day of the Child/Day of the Book (El día de los niños/El día de
los libros). Families are invited to play some Bingo, learn some Spanish, and win a prize.
Knit & Crochet Circle
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 2 – 4 p.m., Conference Room
Meet other yarn lovers while working on your latest project. Get help when you’re stuck and
share ideas. Instruction available in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Gujarati. No registration
required. Materials not provided.
Bookmobile Visit
Tuesday, April 11, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Parking Lot
Celebrate National Library Outreach Day with the Bookmobile Staff. Stop by and explore the
Bookmobile, meet the staff and do a fun activity.
Our City Forest
Wednesday, April 12, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Activity Room
Kids in Grades 3-5 will learn the importance of urban forestry and how to become an
environmental steward during a special presentation by Our City Forest.
Spring Early Literacy Series Musical Performance
Saturday, April 22, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Golden Acorn. This can help promote
literacy skills in children 0-5.
Reading Buddies for Grades K-5
Saturday, April 22, 2 –3 p.m., Activity Room
Children can buddy up with a furry friend and read one-on-one from a favorite book.
Milpitas Library Book Discussion Group
Wednesday, April 26, 7:30 –8:30 p.m., Auditorium
We will be discussing The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa.
The Peaceful Poets
Thursday, April 27, 5:30 –8 p.m., Conference Room
Join this group of writers and appreciators of poetry.
Zentangle Workshop
Saturday, April 29, 2 –3:30 p.m., Auditorium
Zentangle is a meditative form of art. Understand and learn the art form, and take home
samples prepared. Register online.
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MORGAN HILL -- 660 W. Main Avenue
Bilingual Storytime
Saturdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 10:15 – 10:45 a.m., Children’s Activity Room
Join us for stories, music, movement and more in English and Spanish!
Snack Break
Mondays-Thursdays, 3 – 4 p.m.
Free afterschool snacks available for kids ages 0-18, while supplies last. No registration
necessary. Snacks not available during school breaks and holidays.
Homework Help for K-9 Grade
Mondays and Wednesdays, through May 24, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Get help in English, history, math and science. No registration required. Walk-ins welcome
as space allows.
UC Master Gardeners: Attracting Pollinators
Monday, April 3, 7 – 8 p.m., Program Room
We will discuss many of the best pollinator plants while offering advice for growing them.
LEGO Club
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 3 – 4 p.m.
Use LEGOs to build whatever you want, or based on our weekly theme. Creations will be
displayed until our next meeting. LEGOs available for ages 2+. No registration required.
First Tuesday Knit-In
Tuesday, April 4, 6:45 – 8:45 p.m., Community Room
New knitters can get advice and assistance, while advanced knitters can provide assistance and
meet new friends in the community.
Family Storytime
Thursdays, April 6, 13, 20, & 27, 10:15 – 10:45 a.m., Children’s Activity Room
Join us for stories, music, movement and more!
Tiny Tot Jamboree
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 11 – 11:45 a.m.
Toddlers (1-2 years old) and caregivers are invited to join us for short fun stories, rhymes,
fingerplays and songs.
Itty Bitty Jamboree
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join us for stories, music, movement and more!
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Dungeons & Dragons 101
Saturday, April 8, 2:30 – 5:30 p.m., Program Room
Teens ages 13-19 are invited to build characters and a world to complete a campaign. Register
online.
Teen Zine Party
Wednesday, April 12, 3 – 5 p.m., Program Room
Learn to make zines (mini magazines or comics) using a variety of art tools, styles, and
techniques. All supplies provided and no registration necessary. For ages 12-18.
Safe Space Meeting for LGBTQ+ Youth
Fridays, April 14 & 28, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
This in-person support group is for youth and young adults (ages 13-25). Play games, participate
in group activities and discussions and build community. No registration necessary.
Library Bingo/Library Lotería
Saturday, April 15, 3 – 4 p.m.
Join us for a family friendly game of Loteria in celebration of Children's Day/Book Day. Play to
win books or small incentives. Acompáñenos para jugar Lotería con familias en celebración del
Día de los niños/El día de los libros. Juega y gana libros o pequeños premios.
Zumba
Mondays, April 17 & 24, 6 – 7 p.m.
Join us for a free dance and rhythm-based workout. This Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow, fitness
party exhilarates your senses and works all major muscle groups in a high-energy cardio blast.
Library Ukulele Society
Tuesday, April 18, 5 – 7 p.m.
Bring your uke and music stand or come to listen and sing along! No registration required.
Great Decisions
Tuesday, April 18, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Program Room
Join the Morgan Hill Library and the Great Decisions group to discuss, develop awareness,
understanding and informed options of U.S. foreign policy and global issues.
Growing Warm Season Vegetables in Your Garden
Wednesday, April 19, 7 – 8 p.m., Program Room
Plan your summer garden now! Learn the basic requirements of these crops including irrigation,
nutrients, pest control, harvesting tips and space saving techniques.
The Dave Rocha Jazz Group
Saturday, April 22, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m., Program Room
Stop by for an eclectic mix of jazz standards, pop tunes, and original compositions of jazz music.
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The MEHKO Ordinance
Wednesday, April 26, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Program Room
Learn about the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations program that authorizes residents
to prepare, cook, and sell food from their private home kitchen. Register online. Walk-ins
welcome, as space allows.
Spring Early Literacy Series Musical Performance
Saturday, April 29, 10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Baila Baila. This can help promote literacy
skills in children 0-5.
Bookmobile Visit & Day of the Child/Day of the Book (El día de los niños/El día de los libros)
Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Celebrate National Library Outreach Day and Day of the Book (El día de los niños/El día de los
libros) with the Bookmobile Staff. Stop by and explore the Bookmobile, meet the staff and do a
fun activity.
SARATOGA -- 13650 Saratoga Avenue
Free Bike Repair Day
Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Get free tune-ups and repairs including adjust brakes and gears, replace worn out parts like
chains, seats and tires. This is a first come, first served event.
Family Storytime
Saturday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room
Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, & 25, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room
Join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs.
The Dave Rocha Jazz Group
Saturday, April 1, 12 – 1 p.m.
Stop by for an eclectic mix of jazz standards, pop tunes, and original compositions of jazz music.
My Father, Artist Xu Beihong
Sunday, April 2, 2 – 3 p.m., Community Room
Xu Beihong is known as the father of modern Chinese painting who is famous for his ink brush
paintings of galloping horses. Hear from his daughter, Xu Fangfang, who will discuss her
memoir, Galloping Horses: Artist Xu Beihong and His Family in Mao’s China.
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Homework Help for K-9th Grade
Monday-Thursday through May 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Academic coaches from the Bay Area Tutoring Association can provide help in English, history,
math and science. No registration required. Walk-ins welcome, as space allows.
Family Bingo
Tuesday, April 4, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Community Room
Join us. There are fun prizes to be won and good times to be had!
Knit & Crochet Circle
Wednesday, April 5, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Community Room
Join us for our first ever, monthly event. Bring your own projects, ask questions, receive or give
help, share ideas, and meet new people.
Mandarin/English Storytime
Thursday, April 6, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room
Introduce your child to Mandarin by joining us for fun Mandarin/English stories, rhymes,
fingerplays and songs. No registration required.
Baby Storytime (12 months or younger)
Fridays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Orchard Room
Join us for stories, rhymes, fingerplays and songs. Please get an entry ticket at the Children’s
Reference Desk.
Celebrate Arbor Day with Our City Forest
Friday, April 7, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Community Room
Stop by for a sprouted acorn, soil, and a container to grow a sapling in, and talk about how to
care for an oak tree.
Spring Early Literacy Series Musical Performance
Saturday, April 8, 11 – 11:30 a.m., Community Room
Join us for a fun-filled educational performance with Bingo Schmingo. This can help promote
literacy skills in children 0-5.
Bookmobile Visit
Saturday, April 8, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Parking Lot
Celebrate National Library Outreach Day with the Bookmobile Staff. Stop by and explore the
Bookmobile, meet the staff and do a fun activity.
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Chinese Book Club/中文書友會
Wednesday, April 12, 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The meetings for 2023 are scheduled for April 12, June 14, August 9, October 11, and December
13. The discussion is primarily in Mandarin. You can pick up a copy of the featured book at the
Saratoga Adult Reference Desk. 網上中文書友會每隔一個月開會一次：4月12日，6月14日，8月9
日, 10月11日 和 12月13日參與者可選讀中文或英文版，討論則將以中文為主.
Wind Tunnel Challenge
Tuesday, April 18, 4 – 5 p.m., Community Room
Invent something that will levitate and fly within a wind tunnel. A secret prize will be awarded
to the fastest levitating invention.
LEGO Fun for Grades K-7
Wednesday, April 19, 4 – 5 p.m., Orchard Room
Apply your engineering skills and imagination to build with LEGOs. No registration required.
First come, first served.
Teatime Book Chatter
Thursday, April 20, 1 – 2 p.m., Community Room
We will be reading Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Please register
and pick up a copy of the book at the Adult Reference Desk.
SED Talks for Teens
Saturday, April 22, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Community Room
Our theme is “Words for Impact.” Whether it be writing a college essay or advocating for
environmental bills, learning to harness writing as a tool to affect others is an invaluable skill.
Please register for this event.
Parenting Talks
Monday, April 24, 7 – 8 p.m., Community Room
Join this talk to gain life-changing tools to improve yourself and strengthen your family. Register
online.
Gardening for Habitat
Tuesday, April 25, 7 – 8 p.m.
Learn the basics of habitat gardening and which native plants in our area are particularly suited
for attracting birds and butterflies. Register to attend.
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SERVICES AND SUPPORT CENTER – 1370 Dell Avenue, Campbell
Become a Literacy Tutor for Adults
Wednesday, April 19, 1 – 2 p.m. and 5 – 6 p.m.
The Reading Program is looking for tutors to work one-on-one with adult learners who wish to
improve their reading, writing, and speaking skills. Email the Reading Program to register.
WOODLAND – 1975 Grant Road
Family Storytime
Sunday, April 16, 11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Backyard
Join us in the backyard of the library or inside (depending on the weather) for stories, songs,
and fingerplays about outer space.
ONLINE EVENTS (Please register online)
Beanstack Challenge: National Library Week 2023
Saturday, April 1 – Sunday, April 30
Participate in our online challenge celebrating libraries.
Finance for Teens
Tuesday, April 4, 4 – 5 p.m.
KeyPoint Credit Union is hosting a three-part financial literacy workshop. This program will be
about the Basics of Money Management.
Online English Conversation Club
Thursdays, April 6, 20, & 27, 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Meet new friends and practice English together.
Finance for Teens
Tuesday, April 11, 4 – 5 p.m.
KeyPoint Credit Union is hosting a three-part financial literacy workshop. This program will be
about Understanding Credit.
Bookshare: What Are YOU Reading?
Tuesday, April 11, 7 – 8 p.m.
Come and share what titles you have been enjoying. No limit on genre.
Get Started with Libby
Wednesday, April 12, 8 – 9 a.m.
Join us for a one-hour presentation to help you get started with OverDrive’s app, Libby, and get
access to eBooks and Audiobooks.
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Virtual Open Mic Night
Wednesday, April 12, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Teens who sing, play an instrument, dance, tell jokes, act or write are invited to participate in
our Open Mic Night.
Introduction to Morning Investment Research Center
Tuesday, April 18, 8 – 9 a.m.
Morningstar provides analysis of stocks, mutual funds, and other financial investment products.
You can build and analyze your investment portfolio. Join us for training session to learn more.
Ancestry: Your Family History Search Simplified
Tuesday, April 18, 12 – 1 p.m.
Learn how to use AncestryLibrary to search genealogical records and discover more about your
family history.
Finance for Teens
Tuesday, April 18, 4 – 5 p.m.
KeyPoint Credit Union is hosting a three-part financial literacy workshop. This program will be
about Making Good Money Decisions.
Social Security and Personal Finances
Tuesday, April 18, 7 – 8 p.m.
Understand the nuances of Social Security benefits and how they might impact your personal
finances.
Intergenerational Wealth Transfer
Saturday, April 22, 3 – 4 p.m.
This program will help families plan a financial legacy unique to their personal circumstances.
This requires an understanding of family dynamics and information about current estate and
tax laws.
Virtual Poetry Workshop
Wednesday, April 26, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Santa Clara County Poet Laureate Tshaka Campbell will lead a virtual poetry workshop.
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Month # of
Borrowers
# of Check-Ins # of Checkouts Gate Count # of programs Program Attendance
February 8, 107 47, 176 111, 974 24, 424 118 1, 833
March 8, 931 50, 871 94, 593* 30, 739 154 2, 865
March 2022 8, 285 49, 812 120, 382 21, 206 3 305
*Does not include E-materials
February & March Highlights
Staff News: We hired 3 new coded pages: Kit, Lucy and Laxmi. Interviews are complete for 2 open Library
Circulation Aide positions.
Silicon Valley Reads Events at Saratoga Library:
Executive Order 9066 Film and Panel Discussion
Santa Clara County residents Curt Fukuda, Reiko Iwanaga and Beverly Harada presented a film about E.O. 9066
and its impact on their families. Ninety-five patrons attended, calling it “superb” and a high school board
member proposed that the video be incorporated into the school curriculum.
Silicon Valley Reads Family Storytime
We had a special Silicon Valley Reads guest storyteller, Supervisor Joe Simitian, read" Coqui in the City" at a
family storytime, with 62 attendees.
Black History Month
Book displays and an African-American history trivia contests were featured in
February, along with an outstanding presentation filled with poetry, song and dance
by Tabia African American Theatre.
Women’s History Month
Book displays were featured, along with a virtual author presentation by Wendy
Rouse, author of Public Faces, Secret Lives: the Queer History of the Women's Suffrage Movement, and an
in-person program with local artist and resident Christy Tsai whose gourd art was featured in the library the
past few months.
Kinder Readiness
In a series of kinder readiness programs presented by our Children’s Services team, families
learned about early learning skills their children can practice at home to get them ready to
learn and ready for kindergarten. They were also treated to a special Early Literacy Concert
with Bingo Schmingo. Families could also sign up for a self-paced Kinder Readiness packet
available system-wide.
Saratoga Library Report
April 2023
Saralyn Otter, Acting Community Librarian
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Children’s Services
The Children’s team has been keeping busy this Spring with:
• Family Storytimes-over 100 attendees!
• Bilingual storytimes (Spanish & Mandarin)
• Baby Storytime
• Kinder Readiness Workshops
• Early Literacy Concert
• Family Bingo
• Pokemon Party-80 attendees
• NorCal Bats
• STEM: Air Rockets
• Craftapalooza
• Paint Your Own Birdhouse Craft
• National Library Outreach Day Celebration with the Bookmobile
Adult and Teen Services
Adult & Teen Services had a full line up of programs:
• Learn to grow your business safely online
• Lunar New Year Calligraphy Class
• Teen Board Game Day
• Bikemobile-fixed 40 bikes!
• Multi-Level ESL Class
• English Conversation Club
• Beginning Ukelele Classes
• Bridge Drop-in Sessions
• Book Clubs
• Dave Rocha Jazz Group
• Arbor Day Celebration
• Indian Classical Concert-Jugalbandhi-220 attendees!
• Travel Program: A Tour of Death Valley
• Adult Craft Club
• Fall Colors, Hot Springs, and Foodie Tour of Japan
• Python Programming and Machine Learning Bootcamp
• Photography Program: How to Photograph People
• Beginning Birding with the Audubon Society
• My Father: Artist Xu Beihong—82 attendees
Art Exhibits
Featured lobby artwork February-March
was from photographer Jim Katzman.
Everbright, the interactive light wall is still
available in the Saratoga Library lobby
through April!
Dave Rocha Jazz Group
Jugalbandhi Concert
Bikemobile
Birdhouse Craft
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Upcoming Programs
Children’s Programs:
Kids STEM Wind Tunnel Challenge
Tuesday, April 18 4:00-5:00 PM
Challenge: Invent something that will levitate and fly within a
Wind Tunnel.
Lego Fun for Grades K-7th
Wednesday, April 19 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Kindergarteners - 7th graders, apply your engineering skills and
imaginations to build with LEGOs! No registration required.
Dowel-O-Rama
Saturday, April 29 3:00-4:00PM
What can you do with a thinly rolled newspaper? Create anything you’d like! Join us on Saturday, April 29, and
allow your creativity to go wild. All ages welcome.
Kids Mother’s Day craft
Tuesday, May 9 4:00-5:00PM
Join us for a special Mother’s Day themed craft. All supplies provided as long as they last.
Family BINGO
Friday, May 12 4:00-5:00PM
Please join us for our monthly Family Bingo program! Fun prizes to be won, and good times to be had! Bring
the whole family, all ages are welcome. Admission to the program is first come, first served.
Kids Sock Puppet Craft
Saturday, May 13 2:00-3:00PM
Join us for a family friendly craft. All supplies provided as long as they last.
Teen and Adult Programs:
SED Talks for Teens - Words for Impact
Saturday, April 22 3:00– 4:30PM
Words for Impact is the latest addition to SED Talks, a speaker series that touches upon universal issues and
wonders, organized by the Saratoga Youth Commission and the Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board.
Whether it be writing a poem or advocating for environmental bills, to harness writing as a tool to affect
others is an invaluable skill.
Parenting Talks with Jill Avery: Getting Real, Real Quick
Monday, April 24 7:00– 8:00 PM
Getting Real, Real Quick: Parents, it starts with you! It's not easy taking an honest look at ourselves to assess
what we are contributing or contaminating to our family's ecosystem. If you want your children to change, it
starts with you.
Gardening for Habitat
Tuesday, April 25 7:00– 8:00 PM
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Join speaker Arvind Kumar to learn the basics of habitat gardening and which native plants in our area are
particularly suited for attracting birds and butterflies. A plant list will be available. Please register to attend.
Travel Program: Italy: Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
Tuesday, April 18 7:15– 8:30PM
Join Eric Thomson as he shares his trip to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast in Italy.
Protect Yourself From Scammers
Wednesday, April 19 11:00– 12:00PM
Join us as Deputy District Attorney West presents on different types of scams and how you can protect
yourself and your loved ones from falling victim. Q&A will be available at the end of the talk, moderated by
County Supervisor Joe Simitian.
Parenting Talks with Jill Avery: Trust is a Must
Saturday, May 20 12:00- 1:00 PM
In Family We Trust: Trust is a must. Become your children’s biggest influence. Gain skills for how to effectively
manage challenges and avoid unnecessary nosedives.
AAPI Heritage Month: Japanese Martial Arts Demo
Sunday, May 21 11:00AM– 12:00PM
Several local Japanese martial arts practitioners will demonstrate the style they practice, how they practice,
and some basic self defense applications of that style.
The MEHKO (Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations) Ordinance
Tuesday, May 9 7:00– 8:30PM
Are you thinking of creating a small business or side hustle selling home-cooked food?
Join local sustainable food advocate Peter Ruddock as he presents information about the Microenterprise
Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO) ordinance. Followed by Q & A.
Taichi by the Orchard
Saturday, May 13 10:00– 11:00AM
Martial Artist Yang Li will teach the basic postures, breathing techniques and forms of taichi in a series of two
classes. Registration for each session is required.
Ikebana
Sunday, May 21 3:30– 4:30PM
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging. Ikebana art teacher Gloria Lee will give an introduction
and demonstrate the basic principles and beauty of this classic Japanese art.
AAPI Heritage Month: Hula Performance
Sunday, May 21, 2023 2:00– 3:00PM
Join us for a hula show featuring live music and dance from local group Hula
Halau `O Pi'ilani. Hula Halau `O Pi'ilani prides itself on bringing Aloha and the
Hawaiian cultural experience to all walks of life across the globe.
AAPIHM Guzheng Performance
Saturday, May 27 2:00– 3:00PM
Enjoy a stirring classical guzheng performance by musician Hong Tai. The guzheng is a plucked zither with 15
to 25 strings.
Hula Halau `O Pi'ilani
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Library & Community Engagement Commission
April 17, 2023
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Library & Community Engagement Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio
Date: April 17, 2023
Subject: Commission Report
Wildwood Park Update
The fallen trees, along with others at risk of falling, have been removed the stage area at
Wildwood Park. The park is now open, but the stage area will remain closed until repairs can
be made. Please enjoy the park while staying safely away from the stage!
Arbor Day – April 26
This year marks Saratoga’s 16th anniversary as a Tree City USA! Join the City in celebrating
Arbor Day on April 26 at 4:00 p.m. at Beauchamps Park.
Blossom Festival
Mark your calendar for the annual Blossom Festival on Saturday, April 29 from 10:00 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. at the Heritage Orchard and Saratoga Civic Center, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue. Enjoy
antique cars, live music, art, crafts, gourmet food trucks, children's activities, a petting zoo,
historical characters, local organizations, and more! The event is free to attend and is
produced by the Saratoga Historical Foundation.
Paint the City Voting
Saratoga residents can vote for their favorite Paint the City artwork through May 7 at
www.saratoga.ca.us/paintthecityvote. Saratoga artists were invited to submit conceptual
artwork for 3 different utility box locations throughout the City. A subcommittee of the Public
Art Commission carefully reviewed the outstanding submissions and narrowed choices to 3
options for each of the locations The artwork that receives the most votes at each location
will be presented to the Public Art Commission and then City Council for final approval.
Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey
Community members are strongly encouraged to participate in this survey for the Multi-
Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. Santa Clara County's Plan will include a specific
annex for hazards in the City of Saratoga, and it will address long-term strategies and actions
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Library & Community Engagement Commission
April 17, 2023
to reduce the risk and impact of a wide range of disasters in the future. Take the survey today
at www.PrepareSCC.org/MJHMPSurvey
Free Tree Removal Permits
Permits to remove blue gum eucalyptus trees are free for all property owners in Saratoga
through June 30, 2023 and may be submitted to the City Arborist by email. Learn more on
the City website: www.saratoga.ca.us/trees This temporary waiver of fees was adopted by
the City Council after community concerns were expressed during the late winter and early
spring storms. Property owners in the Wildland Urban Interface can submit a free permit to
remove Monterey pine or blue gym eucalyptus trees any time.
City Council/Neighborhood Watch Joint Session - May 17
Mark your calendar for the annual City Council and Saratoga Neighborhood Watch Joint
Session on Wednesday, May 17 at 6:00 p.m. in the Saratoga Senior Center at 19655 Allendale
Avenue. The annual meeting will include the opportunity to meet with the City Council, Santa
Clara County Sheriff’s Office, and fellow Neighborhood Watch leaders. Dinner will be
provided.
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City of Saratoga
Library & Community
Engagement Commission
MEMBERSHIP
NAME TERM END
Cristina Meiser, Vice Chair 9/30/2025
Victoria Zhang, Chair 9/30/2023
Eric Lewis 9/30/2024
Robert Gulino 9/30/2025
Valerie Nygaard 9/30/2026
Others:
Jennifer Weeks, Santa Clara County Librarian | 408.293.2326 x3001 | jweeks@sccl.org
Saralyn Otter, Acting Saratoga Library | 408.867.6126 x3800 | sotter@sccl.org
David Guidry, Friends of the Saratoga Libraries
Crystal Bothelio, City of Saratoga | 408.868.1269 | cbothelio@saratoga.ca.us
AGENDA PLANNER
The Commission holds regular meetings on the 2nd Monday of even-numbered months at
7:00 p.m. Regular meetings may be rescheduled or canceled. Additionally, special meetings
may be scheduled as needed.
MEETING AGENDA ITEMS REPORTS
February 13, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Committees
• Commission Chair
• City
March 27, 2023 Commission Work Plan Study Session
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saratoga City Hall, Linda Callon Conference Room
April 17, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Community Event Grant
Application Review & Funding
Recommendation (Work Plan
Item)
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Chair
• City
June 12, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 2
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Committees
• Commission Chair
• City
August 14, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Committees
• Commission Chair
• City
October 10, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Committees
• Commission Chair
• City
December 11, 2023 • Minutes
• Community News & Trends
• Summarize Action Items
• Library District
• Saratoga Library
• Friends of the Saratoga
Libraries
• Teen Advisory Board
• Commission Committees
• Commission Chair
• City
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 3
LIBRARY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMISSION WORK PLAN S
Fiscal Year 2022/23, Approved March 28, 2022
1. Community Event Grant Program
For many years, the City has funded a Community Event Grant Program. This program
includes a fixed allocation of funds to support traditional community events, such as the
Blossom Festival and July 4 Celebration, as well as competitive funds that other event
organizers can apply for. Per the direction of the Council, the Commission will review
qualified applications for competitive funding and make funding recommendations to
the City Council.
2. Celebrate Saratoga’s Diversity
Review current efforts in Saratoga to celebrate diversity to identify opportunities and
then work with Saratoga Library or other community organizations to develop diverse
and inclusive programs or activities.
Subcommittee Members: Cristina Meiser, Victoria Zhang
3. Parent/Student Collaboration
Identify opportunities for parent and/or student collaboration, such as support for
Project Cornerstone, engagement with West Valley College, or partnering with Saratoga
Youth Commission and Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board to develop a program
geared towards students and parents.
Subcommittee Members: Cristina Meiser, Valerie Nygaard
4. Good Neighbor Day
Plan a Good Neighbor Day community building effort, such as an outreach campaign to
be shared through the City’s social media accounts, to be conducted in coordination with
recognition of Good Neighbor Day in September 2022.
Subcommittee Members: Eric Lewis, Bob Guino
5. Saratoga Library and Library District Surveys (Ongoing)
The Saratoga Library and Santa Clara County Library District periodically conduct patron
surveys. The Commission would provide input on questions, where appropriate, and
review the results of library patron surveys to provide recommendations on
opportunities to enhance services and programs.
6. Serve as Saratoga Library Ambassador (Ongoing)
Attend and volunteer for Saratoga Library events, share information about programs and
resources with friends and family in the community, encourage friends and family to
obtain a library card, provide Saratoga Library staff with insights that can help shape
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 4
Library services or programs, and attend the Santa Clara County Library District’s Ann ual
Library Forum as well as Library District Joint Powers Authority meetings, when
appropriate.
7. Serve as City of Saratoga Ambassador (Ongoing)
Attend and volunteer for City of Saratoga events, share information about City efforts
and activities with friends and family in the community, encourage friends and family to
engage with the City, encourage fellow residents to serve on a City Commission, and
provide City staff with insights about community concerns or interests to help shape City
outreach and engagement efforts.
Fiscal Year 2023/24, Approved March 27, 2023
1. Community Event Grant Program
For many years, the City has funded a Community Event Grant Program. This program
includes a fixed allocation of funds to support traditional community events, s uch as the
Blossom Festival and July 4 Celebration, as well as competitive funds for which other
event organizers can apply. Per the direction of the Council, the Commission will review
qualified applications for competitive funding and make funding recommendations to
the City Council.
2. Celebrate Saratoga’s Diversity
Review current efforts in Saratoga to celebrate diversity to identify opportunities and
then work with Saratoga Library or other community organizations to develop diverse
and inclusive programs or activities. Measure and analyze public participation and
engagement to evaluate success and opportunities for improvement.
Subcommittee Members: Cristina Meiser, Victoria Zhang
3. Parent/Student Collaboration
Identify opportunities for parent and/or student collaboration, such as support for
Project Cornerstone, engagement with West Valley College, or partnering with Saratoga
Youth Commission and Saratoga Library Teen Advisory Board to develop a program
geared towards students and parents. Measure and analyze public participation and
engagement to evaluate success and opportunities for improvement.
Subcommittee Members: Cristina Meiser, Valerie Nygaard
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 5
4. Good Neighbor Day
Plan a Good Neighbor Day community building effort, such as an outreach campaign to
be shared through the City’s social media accounts, to be conducted in coordination with
recognition of Good Neighbor Day in September 2023. Measure and analyze public
participation and engagement to evaluate success and opportunities for improvement.
Subcommittee Members: Eric Lewis, Bob Gulino
5. Saratoga Library and Library District Surveys (O ngoing)
The Saratoga Library and Santa Clara County Library District periodically conduct patron
surveys. The Commission would provide input on questions, where appropriate, and
review the results of library patron surveys to provide recommendations on
opportunities to enhance services and programs.
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 6
RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES, & RELATIONSHIPS
Adopted via Resolution 20-055
Responsibilities
The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall serve as an advisory and liaison
body. Its basic responsibilities shall include the following:
1. Provide counsel and recommendations on Library policies, budgets, plans and
procedures to the Saratoga City Council and the Santa Clara County Library. Identify
and bring to the attention of the City Council, the City staff, and the Santa Clara County
Library staff (as appropriate) current and prospective issues and questions relating to
Library policies and activities.
2. Provide counsel and recommendations to the Saratoga City Council on increasing
public engagement in City government, supporting cultural and artistic programs in
the community, and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.
3. As directed by the City Council, evaluate and assess community concerns, support
City engagement programs, and perform such other activities as may be directed by
the Saratoga City Council.
Duties
In carrying out its basic responsibilities, the Library & Community Engagement Commission
shall perform the following duties:
1. Hold formal meetings as required (see preceding Section on "Administration”).
2. Maintain communications with the City Council, City staff, Santa Clara County Library
staff, and the Saratoga Community Librarian.
3. Serve in an advisory capacity on major engagement initiatives or policies to help
create a more inclusive and engaged community, including providing support in
identifying and connecting with different groups in the community (such as other
governmental, educational, and non-profit organizations).
4. Maintain within the Commission a continuity of knowledge of Library operations and
City community engagement policies and strategies.
5. Keep generally informed on technical developments that could have a bearing on the
Library's policies or strategies.
6. Provide support and/or advice on events related to the Library and City.
7. Work with and engage "Friends of the Saratoga Libraries", the Saratoga Teen Advisory
Board, and other support groups as may be desirable concerning the Library.
Relationships
1. The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall report to and be
responsible to the Saratoga City Council. The City Manager is authorized to appoint a
City staff member to serve as a liaison representative between the Council, staff and
the Library & Community Engagement Commission on administrative matters.
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Library & Community Engagement Commission Agenda Planner – April 2023
Page 7
2. The Library & Community Engagement Commission shall have no administrative
authority over Library or City operations, activities, or staff.
3. The Library Commission & Community Engagement shall have authority to call
meetings, conduct hearings, perform analysis, and make contacts with various
interested parties in carrying out its basic responsibilities.
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