April 2026
April is National Poetry Month, a time to honor the role that poets play in our culture and underline the importance of poetry. Poetry gives us a glimpse into other's thoughts and feelings, and increases empathy by enabling us to get a new perspective on the human experience. Visit this link to see our programs and events in celebration of National Poetry Month!

 
Lush Lyricism and Intimate Confessions with Miranda Cowley Heller
New York Times Bestselling Author of The Paper Palace and Reese’s Book Club Pick
Wednesday, April 22nd 2026 at 11:00 AM PDT
 
On Writing Beloved Characters and Powerful Portrayals of Resilience with Jason Reynolds
Award-Winning and New York Times Bestselling Author
Thursday, April 30th 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.
 

Navigating College Admissions
 
Do you know what it takes to get into your choice college? Are you taking the right classes?
Learn all about college admissions from Pacific Collegiate School's college counselor,
Maiya Marshall.
 
National Library Week Celebration 
 
Participants will receive a canvas book bag to decorate using fabric paints, markers, and stencils. Design your own unique bag to carry your library books, school supplies, or favorite reads. All supplies are provided, just bring your imagination!
 
Recommended for kids and teens
 

Saturday Shakespeare 
 
Join Saturday Shakespeare at Aptos Branch Library for five lively sessions with guest experts, group readings, and discussions, ending with a shared play viewing. Attend in person or on Zoom!
Sound Bath with Crystal Reyes
 
Come join us for a relaxing, calming, heart-opening sound bath with crystal alchemy bowls. Crystal will use a blend of larimar, rose quartz, ruby, gold and moldavite gemstone bowls to help you experience the calming effect of sound bowls.

The Librarians
Film Screening and Discussion

Celebrate National Library Week with us as we explore the current state of censorship in the U.S. happening in Libraries with two consecutive screenings of Indie Lens The Librarians. 
In the film, Librarians across the U.S. examine how book review policies are shaping their communities. 
 
Register for 4/22 Screening in Scotts Valley
Register for 4/23 Screening in Capitola
Our Wild Neighbors
@ Branciforte
 
Meet the amazing wild animals who share our community! Santa Cruz SPCA is partnering with the Branciforte Branch Library to present a fun and interactive program all about local wildlife.
 Through engaging presentations and playful puppets, participants will learn about the unique traits and needs of wild animals in our area—and how we can be good neighbors to them.
 

SIX is for 6enocide Powerful Poetry by Daniel Reyes
 
Join us as Daniel Reyes reads from his book SIX is for 6enocide, which is dedicated to the
Alaydi family in Gaza, Palestine. Although not Palestinian himself, Daniel's book gives voice to those whose stories have been erased. 
 
Register Here
Verona Film Screening
 
Join us after hours for a reimagining of one of his most enduring works in a belated birthday celebration for the Bard!
Local filmmakers Katelyn and Sierra Laird will be screening Verona, a Romeo and Juliet adaptation that takes place in the 1950s and was filmed entirely in Santa Cruz County.

Branciforte Friends Book Sale 
 
Come browse tables packed with hidden gems, beloved classics, and fresh finds for readers of all ages. Every purchase supports the Branciforte Library, so you can stock your shelves and support your community. Bring a bag, bring a friend, and get ready to fall in love with books all over again!
 
 
Teen Manga Book Club
 
The Teen Manga Book Club is a time to share a love of all things Manga, learn about culturally-relevant word games and crafts and eat delicious, Manga-inspired snacks. This club is for anyone looking to enjoy time with like-minded people, flex their creative muscles and learn new skills.
The club will be offered every Sunday in the Teen Room for those 12-18 years old.
 

Cyber-Seniors Digital Literacy Series
 
Join Dara Brady, a local instructor with the digital literacy organization Cyber-Seniors, for a weekly 4-part digital literacy course that introduces foundational digital literacy concepts and teaches useful digital skills. 
 
Tuesdays at Felton
Thursdays at Boulder Creek
 
Local Author Storytime:
Helen Taylor
 
Slow down and enjoy a sweet story time with local author Helen Taylor! Celebrate Sloth & Moth: A Better-Together Friendship with a read-aloud, a little learning about nature, and a hands-on sloth craft. Great for young kids and caregivers.
 
Wednesday, April 29 at Garfield Park Branch
Saturday, May 2 at La Selva Beach and Branciforte Branches