March 2026
In March, we welcome the new season of Spring and celebrate Women's History Month.
During this time, we honor the significant contributions made by women to society.
Visit this link for programs and events taking place in celebration of Women's History Month.
These events recognize the challenges women face and celebrate the incredible achievements of women in our community and across the world. 
 
Director of Libraries Message

Director Christopher Platt's message for March. 

 
March Programs & Events Brochure
 
Our Calendar of events offers you the opportunity to create program brochures with custom filters! We've created a short video that demonstrates how to create a custom brochure. We invite you to watch the video and try it for yourself! 
 
Video on How to Create a Custom Brochure
Print copies are available in the branches.

 
Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry
New York Times Bestselling Author of Population: 485 and The Jesus Cow
Wednesday, March 4th 2026 at 11:00 AM PST
 
Book Portals and Journeys of Literary Magic with Kate Quinn
New York Times Bestselling Author of The Alice Network and The Rose Code
Thursday, March 12th 2026 at 4:00 PM PDT
 
To register for upcoming virtual talks, visit the SCPL Virtual Author Talks website at: https://libraryc.org/santacruzpl. 
Sign up for the monthly Virtual Author Talks newsletter to hear about the upcoming
free virtual author talks. https://libraryc.org/santacruzpl/subscribe
 
Virtual Author Talks  is made possible through the generous support of the
Friends of the Capitola Branch Library.

Our Community Reads
Dance Mash-up
 
Enjoy experiencing the colorful and expressive movements and costumes of traditional Latin dance as performed by the Senderos Dancers.  Then we’ll learn about dance history as we move forward to hip-hop and ultimately watch in awe of Luis Sanchez as he performs modern jaw-dropping moves.  And he’ll do the Robot, of course! Bring your dancing shoes! 
 
Register Here 
Sunday Assembly
 
Sunday Assembly is a welcoming, inclusive community gathering for people who want connection, reflection, and joy—without religion. Sunday Assembly brings people together to celebrate life, support one another, and explore ways to be our best selves.
Meets 1st Sunday of the month 11am to 1 pm.

Matter of Balance
 
This award-winning falls prevention training program, "Matter of Balance" offers an evidenced-based approach to reducing the fear of falling and increasing activity levels among older adults. The program begins on March 3rd and runs through April 28.
 
To register, please call The Volunteer Center: (831) 427-5070
Bridget's Gambit 
Local Author Talk

Craig Harwood’s spirited biography of an audacious, persistent woman brings to the forefront the largely unheralded contributions of women in the forming of California statehood—and restores a lost chapter to the history of the American West.
 
Register Here

The Riveted Readers
Book Discussion Group
 
Have you been hankering for an in-person book club? Join us on the first Saturday of the month from 10:30AM-12PM in our cozy Fireside Room at the Scotts Valley Branch Library for a friendly book discussion group.
Sewing for Kids
 
Join Sewing for Kids Downtown! A different hand sewing project is offered each month. March's project is a butterfly.
No sewing experience needed. 
 
Register Here

Chunky Yarn Bag Workshop
 
Create a chunky yarn bag using simple hand-crocheting techniques. This easy, hands-on craft is perfect for tweens and teens, with no experience needed. All materials will be provided.
 
Register Here
March Seasonal Crafts for Kids
 
Children ages 4 and up, their families and caregivers are invited to join us to make March Seasonal crafts.
We will be making:
  • Paper mosaic clovers
  • Beaded butterflies
  • Mini wooden gnomes
All materials will be provided.
You may get messy, so dress accordingly!

Healing From Food-Induced Inflammation 
 
Join licensed nutritionist Rebecca Hazelton in collaboration for an exciting event where we will uncover how inflammation is at the root of chronic disease and how much food-induced inflammation contributes to symptoms and disease!
 
Register Here
Pet Care 101 @ Branciforte
 
Calling all animal lovers!
Santa Cruz SPCA is teaming up with the Branciforte Branch Library for a fun-filled program that brings pet care to life.
Enjoy interactive storytelling and conversations that teach how to care for animals responsibly and kindly—perfect for curious minds and big hearts!

Let's Go Firewise, Let's Get Wildfire-Ready

The Firewise and Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) programs unite communities and individuals to reduce wildfire risks. Firewise focuses on community efforts, while HIZ offers education and assessments for homeowners. Together, they empower resilience against wildfires.
Companions of the Sun

Learn about the origins and practice of Iranian dance in this talk and performance by Dr. Farima Berenji. She will discuss Iranian rituals and beliefs in relation to dance, as well as how Iranian culture has impacted global music and dance traditions. There will be a short performance and audience participation dance as part of the program.
 
Register Here

Starting a Gourmet Garden from Seed
 
Join renowned local gardener Renee Shepherd for a presentation on growing herbs and vegetables from seed, just in time for the Spring season! Renee will also be providing free seed packets for attendees and will bring some of her cookbooks to sell.
 
Register Here
Swing Into Spring Cleaning
 
Join Feng Shui expert Ellie Lavender for an interactive workshop to master the art of cleaning, decluttering and organization techniques. Discover how to create a revitalized, vibrant home that nourishes and enhances your physical and emotional well-being.
 
Register Here

Homelessness Response Community Update
City staff will provide an update to the community on Thursday, March 19 at 6pm via Zoom. This online event will include a presentation and discussion about the City's Homelessness Response programs including shelter and safe parking programs, outreach efforts. In addition, City staff from our Housing and Economic Development Departments will provide an update on Affordable Housing and the Coral Street Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facility. A Q&A will follow the presentation. Registration is required. Register Here