K-12 Newsletter February 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:
 
Black History Month
ALA Youth Media Awards
State and National Youth Poet Laureate
Library Programs, Resources, and More!
 
February is Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.
 
Books for kids in the SCPL collection
 
Library of Congress Resources for Teachers
 
 
Youth Media Awards 2026
 
John Newbery Medal
“All the Blues in the Sky,” written by Renée Watson
 
Randolph Caldecott Medal
“Fireworks,” illustrated by Cátia Chien, written by Matthew Burgess
 
Coretta Scott King Medal(s)
“Will’s Race for Home,” written by Jewell Parker Rhodes
  
Pura Belpré Award
“Popo the Xolo,” illustrated by Abraham Matias, written by Paloma Angelina Lopez
 
Michael L. Printz Award
“Legendary Frybread Drive-In: Intertribal Stories,” edited by Cynthia Leitich Smith
 
For a full list of all winners and honorable mentions, visit the
American Library Association Website.

 
State and National Youth Poet Laureate
 
Submissions are open February 1st to 28th. All youth ages 13-19 are eligible to apply.

Visit youthlaureate.org to learn more.
Love in the Library
 
Join us for a family-friendly Valentine's party featuring crafts, games, refreshments, and fun.
A Valentine’s Day theme story time will be presented at 3 pm.
 
February 14, 2:00-4:00 pm
Boulder Creek Branch Library
 
More info
Featured Programs
Afterschool STEAM @Aptos
LEGO Not-So Simple Machines
 
Learn how to create Lego devices using simple machines.
 8 week series: Ages 10 to 18
No registration required
 
Fridays: February 6 - March 27
3:00-4:30 pm
Aptos Branch Library
 
More info
 
Mr. Boom Boom's
African Drum Circle
 
In honor of Black History Month, step into the circle and feel the beat in Mister Boom Boom's African Drum Circle!
 
February 26
Downtown: 10:30-11:30 am
La Selva Beach: 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Boulder Creek: 4:00 - 5:00 pm
 
More info
Workshop: Creating Your Youth Poet Laureate Application
 
 Find out which poems to add to your portfolio, get advice on writing your resume or brag sheet, and learn how to submit your application (due 3/1/26)
 
Capitola: February 21, 12:00-1:00 pm
Felton: February 24, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
Downtown: February 25, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
 
Click here for more info.
 
Sewing for Kids
 
Join Sewing for Kids Downtown! A different hand sewing project is offered each month. February's project is a cookie heart. No sewing experience needed. Registration is required
 
February 7, 10:30-11:30 am
Downtown Branch Library
 
More info
 
 Hearts and Crafts: Valentine's Day Card Making
 
Get creative for Valentine's Day! Make your own cards for a loved one using markers, paint, stickers, washi tape, stencils and more. Fun for all ages and skill levels!
 
February 7, 2:00-4:00 pm
La Selva Beach Branch Library
 
More info
 Crafting the Lunar New Year: Chinese Papercutting and Calligraphy
 
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with traditional Chinese Papercutting and Calligraphy.
 
February 8, 1:00-4:00 pm
Capitola Branch Library
 
More info
Valentine's Day Crafts for Kids
 
We will be making glass magnets, watercolor hanging heart doilies, woven heart cards and circuit valentines.
All materials will be provided.
 
February 10, 3:30-5:00 pm
Downtown Branch Library
 
More info
Pet Care 101 - Santa Cruz SCPA
 
Build awareness of animal needs and responsible animal care through discussions and storytelling.
 
February 20, 3:00-3:30 pm
Scotts Valley Branch Library
 
More info 
 
Community Resource Spotlight
Fentanyl High Movie Screening
 
Join Santa Cruz City Schools for a documentary screening of Fentanyl High: A documentary built on the testimonials and insights of families affected by Fentanyl use and its impacts. 
 
These screenings serve as a starting point for the conversation about the dangers and prevalence of Fentanyl.
 
February 23, 5:30-7:30 pm
Santa Cruz High School
 
More info
 
Educator Resources
Brainfuse 
 
 Offering free academic help at all levels, online tutoring available for grades kindergarten through high school.
 
Brainfuse HelpNow tutors are now available 24/7!
 
Access Brainfuse here
 
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