All SCCLD libraries will be closed and services unavailable on Monday, September 1 in observance of Labor Day.
One Library Card, Endless Possibilities!
Every September, as the new school year starts, the American Library Association and libraries nationwide celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month. We want to make sure every child, teen and adult has their very own library card. A library account is a free but at the same time, a priceless tool to access learning materials, productivity resources and a world of entertainment.
 
SCCLD libraries offer access to services and resources that would normally cost hundreds of dollars. This includes books, eBooks, audiobooks, programs & activities for all ages, homework help, movies, music, video games, digital magazines and newspapers, and more. Check out the value of your library card here!
 
Your library card can also get you into county and state parks free, as well as Bay Area museums and galleries.
 
A free SCCLD library card is valid at any of our eight locations, the Bookmobile, and the entire Online Library. Do you know someone who needs a library card? Find SCCLD library card applications here or stop by any of our libraries. Get a free gift when you sign up for a new card in September. 

KIDS AND FAMILIES


 
Storybook SCCLD Play Space is Coming to Los Altos
We want to let patrons know that we are about to start installation on our latest Storybook SCCLD interactive children’s space.
 
Orchard Outing, located in Los Altos Library, will be an inclusive and joyful environment where children will be motivated and excited about learning through play. This space fosters a passion for books and reading while providing valuable early literacy experiences that support grade level reading proficiency.
 
Children ages 0-10 will be introduced to letters, numbers, rhyming words and much more as they take an imaginary drive in the farm truck while babies and toddlers can explore the Apri-Tot area designed just for them. Our guides, SpriteBots, are full of fun and games for all to enjoy.
 
There will be partial closures while installation is underway. The children’s room will be closed starting Tuesday, September 2. Children's materials will be available right outside of the children's room. Librarians are available to assist patrons at the reference desk in the main part of the library. Work is scheduled to be completed in mid-November. Woodland Branch will not be affected. 
 
Keep track of the installation progress here. 
 
Back to School Reads
Improving a child's ability to read will help them be more successful in all of their school subject. Students may need to start working on those AR (accelerated reader) points in school. They can easily access eBooks and Audiobooks through our free resource, OverDrive and its app, Libby.
 
Take a look at the titles that are available now. Our librarians have also created a booklist that will get kids excited about school.
 
Of course we have thousands of physical books in our libraries. If your student needs help finding their next great read, just ask any of our helpful librarians for recommendations. 
Free Homework Help
Students are back at school and may need assistance completing their homework. We offer digital resources to help with schoolwork on our Learning & Homework Help page. There students will find Brainfuse’s online tutoring service, as well as LearningExpress for Grades 4-8, which helps prepare for tests and assignments and boosts skills in important topics.
 
In addition, students in elementary school needing help can come in for in-person homework help at the Cupertino or Milpitas Libraries starting in September. Other libraries will be adding homework help this fall. Check with your local library to find out their specific days and hours.
 

TEENS AND ADULTS

The Rise of Cryptocurrency:
The Basics
Cryptocurrency is transforming how people think about money, investing, and digital assets. But for many, this finance topic still feels confusing, intimidating, or out of reach.
 
Join us at Los Altos Library on Tuesday, September 2 at 7 p.m. for a special program about crypto. This clear and accessible session is designed for individuals with no prior experience or only limited knowledge of cryptocurrency. You’ll learn what crypto is, why it matters, and how it’s evolving without getting lost in technical jargon. Please register.
 
Check out this recent booklist that explores cryptocurrency, Bitcoin and the digital economy.
Fulfill Service Hours at the Library
Many of our libraries offer opportunities for teens ages 14-17 to earn community service hours.
 
Visit our Get Involved page to see the volunteering opportunities are available.
 
Please note: the library cannot accept volunteers under 14 years of age. Applications are accepted based on availability of space. 
 

UPCOMING EVENTS
Virtual Author Talk Schedule
We have three authors who will speak about their very different works coming up in September.
 
Bestselling author Hannah Nicole Maehrer joins us on Wednesday, September 3 at 4 p.m. She will discuss the latest book in Assistant to the Villain series, Accomplice to a Villain, a magical rom-com set in a fantasy land. Register here.
 
Communication expert Jefferson Fisher will offer advice on how to connect with others at work and at home on Wednesday, September 10 at 11 a.m. Author of The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More, Fisher shares practical insights on how to communicate with clarity, confidence and connection. Please register.
 
Finally, Gabe Henry will take listeners on a witty dive into the history of the English language on Wednesday, September 17 at 11 a.m. In his book Enough is Enuf, Henry tracks efforts across the centuries by reformers and rule breakers who have sought to simplify our language. Please register.
 
MORE FROM THE LIBRARY
 
Track the Impacts of Federal Budget Cuts
The County of Santa Clara has created a webpage to educate people about the impacts of the massive recent federal funding cuts for health care and food assistance and how this impacts us here in Santa Clara County.
 
Read more at this website: https://www.santaclaracounty.gov/
federalfunding
 
SCCLD has its own local funding source with the majority of our funding coming from property tax and a special library tax that extends through 2034. While county library services will not be directly impacted, these cuts will affect the communities and residents we represent.
National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month. Now is a great time to take stock of your readiness plans in case of an emergency or disaster.
 
The Santa Clara County Fire Department is holding several programs about emergency preparedness and being disaster ready. These programs are free, but you must register.
 
Gilroy Library is offering Emergency Preparedness for Kids programs in September. See the schedule here. 
 
Other steps you can do to prepare for an emergency: Sign up for AlertSCC, make a plan with your loved ones, build emergency supply kits, and make sure to help family, friends and neighbors. 
GET A LIBRARY CARD
OR RENEW YOUR CARD ONLINE
Join the Library with an Instant Free eCard
 
If you live in Santa Clara County and do not have a library card with the Santa Clara County Library District (SCCLD), or would like additional household members to have their own library accounts, the instant free eCard is for you. 
 
eCards are available to all residents who live within Santa Clara County Library District with a valid residential mailing address (P.O. Box not accepted). 
 
An eCard gives you full access to our Online Library
services, including eBooks, streaming movies, and more.
 
REGISTER HERE
 
You can also visit any of our libraries during open hours to convert your eCard, or apply for a full use card to check out any of our physical and digital materials and resources.
 
Renew your library card online!

If you have a library card and would like to keep it current, now you can renew your library card online! SCCLD makes it easy to keep your account current and active. No visit to the library needed if your account is in good standing and you live within the Greater Bay Area. For more information or to renew online, visit sccld.org/cardrenewal.
Visit us at sccld.org
We're here for you 
Staff is available to answer your questions Monday - Sunday (excluding holidays). 
 
You can also call your local library directly during open hours, connect with us via chat or email Monday-Friday to Ask a Librarian, or if you have an Account Question.
 
Or text us at (833) 209-6600.