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K-12 Newsletter November 2026
SCPL's monthly library newsletter for school-aged kids, parents, and educators
 There are so many educational programs, events, and resources available at your local library! In this month's newsletter:
 
Native American Heritage Month
Library Programs, Resources, and More!
 

 
November is Native American Heritage Month 
 
In November, we pay tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans.
 
Picture books booklist
Biography and history nonfiction booklist 
 
Resources for teachers: 
Library of Congress
 
Native Knowledge 360 Lessons and resources about Native histories and cultures from the National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian) 
Featured Programs
NEW! Advisory Council of Teens (ACT) @ Downtown
 
Calling all teens: ages 12-18!
 Help shape the Downtown Library's teen space and influence teen programming. Snacks provided!
 
1st Saturday of the month, 1:00-4:00 pm
Downtown Branch Library
 
ACT also meets at the Felton and Aptos Branch Libraries; see the calendar for more info.
 
More info 

Make & Explore @ Felton: Gnomevember!
 
Make your own peg doll gnome or Fairy. All supplies provided
 
Thursday, Nov. 5th, 3:00-5:00 pm
Felton Branch Library
 
Make & Explore programming is also available at Garfield Park, Live Oak, and Scotts Valley Branch Libraries; see the calendar for more info.
 
More info
November Seasonal Crafts for Kids
 
Join us in celebrating the season by making stuffed pumpkins, fabric owls, and fall leaf wreaths.
 
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 3:30-5:00 pm
Downtown Branch Library
 
More info


Play it Safe with the Santa Cruz SCPA
 
In this fun and engaging program, children will learn how to stay safe around dogs.
 
Friday, Nov. 13, 3:00-4:00 pm
Scotts Valley Branch Library
 
More info
Kids Crafternoon @ LSB
 
Get creative with a new craft each week!
 
Thursdays, 4:00-5:30 pm
La Selva Beach Branch Library
 
More info

Cinema and Snacks @ B40
 
Grab a seat, enjoy a snack, and settle in for a movie. This month, we are watching Toy Story 5 (rated G)
 
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 3:00-5:30 pm
Branciforte Branch Library
 
More info
Youth Chess Clubs
 
Open to players ages 6 to 18 with knowledge of the basic rules of chess.
 
Aptos: Tuesdays, 3:30-4:30 pm
Downtown: Saturdays (except for the first Saturday), 2:00-3:30 pm
 
More info
Educator Resources
 
SCPL offers class visits (at the library or in your classroom), library card drives, and special library cards just for educators. 
Contact us to learn more about these services.
 
Resource Spotlight
ParentTV
 
 Search and find videos on general parenting, play, behavior, child development, mental health, sleep, nutrition, technology and more. Most videos are under 10 minutes in length and can be accessed on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
 
You will need your library card and password to access this service.
Click here to access Parent TV
Local Websites of Interest
Check out these local organizations with programs and resources for families and educators:
  • Santa Cruz Parent - We connect families and family resources
  • Growing up in Santa Cruz - Online resources
  • KidPower - Interpersonal safety resources
  • First 5 Of Santa Cruz County - Triple P - Positive Parenting Program
  • O'Neill Sea Odyssey - OSO Goals and Curriculum
  • Museum of Art and History - Educational Resources
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium - Resources for Educators
  • Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History - For Educators

The K12 Newsletter is published monthly
To contact the K12 team, email us at k12@santacruzpl.org