September is library card registration month and the Contra Costa County Library System invites you to participate.
Whether you want to borrow books, e-books, and museum passes, get homework help, learn new skills, or attend story time, a library card gives everyone access to something. Plus, it’s the most important school resource your kids can have when they return to campus.
Encourage friends and family to sign up so they too can discover all the unique—and free—benefits. Whether you want to discover a new hobby, find valuable information, or connect with other avid readers, a library card opens up a world of possibilities.
Register online at ccclib.org or visit your local branch today to apply for a full-service library card.
Library closure: Due to ongoing issues with the cooling tower at the Ygnacio Valley Library, the branch has been closed for part of each day since July 23. Despite recent cooler weather and large fans, temperatures in the building remain high.
To protect the health and safety of library staff and patrons, and with the support of Ken Carlson, Contra Costa County’s Fourth District District Manager, the Ygnacio Valley Library is closed until September 8. Repair work on the cooling tower is expected to begin soon.
Holds currently on the shelf will remain there until the library reopens. Holds received during the closure will be sent to the Walnut Creek Library downtown. You can change your hold pickup location to another library by contacting Walnut Creek Library staff and requesting a change to your holds.
The book return box is closed, so please do not leave books outside. You can return your books when the library reopens or at any other library branch in Contra Costa County.
Heritage Month: During Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 through October 15, the library system celebrates the many achievements and milestones accomplished by the Latinx and Hispanic communities in shaping the cultural, social and artistic fabric of the United States.
From vibrant visual art and compelling literature to tireless activism, we should recognize and celebrate the diversity and depth of Latino and Hispanic experiences. Beginning September 15, visit the library’s website to find carefully curated book lists and other resources to embark on a journey of learning, connection, and discovery.
The libraries will also host a series of programs to celebrate, including arts and crafts, music, games and Lucha Libre Storytime with a real Luchador (a masked Mexican professional wrestler).
Mango languages: Start learning a new language with Mango, now available through the library system with a choice of over 70 world languages. Enjoy audio from native speakers and cultural context that fully immerses you in each language.
Mango includes Little Pim lessons for young children, American Sign Language, and English as a Second Language for non-English speakers. Visit the digital resources webpage at ccclib.org/resources to get started.
Visit ccclib.org to apply for a library card and access books and resources. For questions about Contra Costa Library services and programs or account information, contact the library system via online chat, email [email protected], or text your questions to 925-290-7627.
Brooke Converse is the Contra Costa County Library System’s spokesperson and can be reached at [email protected].
Library calendar
Kittens in love: September 5th, 5:00 p.m. at the Orinda Library. Come meet adoptable kitties in the Contra Costa Animal Services mobile van. The van will be parked on the street in front of Cafe Teatro. The library will have crafts and coloring pages.
Winning College Scholarships: 6 p.m. on September 9, 16, and 23 at the Walnut Creek Library. This is a three-part series for high school students and their parents. Session 1 introduces the scholarship network and application process. Session 2 shows how to find scholarships that are a good fit for the individual. Session 3 focuses on writing unique essays.
Roadmap to the 2024 election: 4:00 p.m., Sept. 19, via Zoom. This webinar will provide voters with important information on how to prepare for the Nov. 5 election. Topics include polling safety measures, how to stay informed about candidates and issues, and the responsibility of elected officials. Registration is required.
Details on the California 2024 proposals: Sept. 26, 4 p.m., via Zoom. The League of Women Voters will present pros and cons of the state’s Nov. 5 ballot proposals based on research, as well as information about the major funding sources that support them. Registration is required.
