Dear Alameda Free Library Community,
As spring approaches, the Alameda Free Library is working hard to bring new programs that cater to diverse interests and ages. Kicking off the month, we’re proud to host a Pet Food & Supply Drive throughout March in partnership with the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS), encouraging donations of new, unopened pet supplies to support animal welfare. Concurrently, we’re also offering a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, providing free tax help on Mondays and Saturdays from now through April 8.
The Seed Starting Workshop on March 9, promises an interactive gardening experience with expert advice from the Alameda Backyard Growers. Towards the latter half of the month we're hosting an estate planning session with Housing and Economic Rights Advocates (HERA) aimed at guiding community members through the essentials of managing and distributing their assets effectively and on March 23rd, we will feature local author Grace Loh Prasad, who will discuss her memoir, "The Translator's Daughter," exploring themes of memory, dislocation, and loss.
For the young adults, our Teen Book Club meets on March 6th, offering free copies of "Rez Ball" by Byron Graves to participants. For our younger patrons, join us on Friday, March 8th for a Local Children’s Author Visit for a reading of Tuxedo Baby by Victoria Smith. Play-Doh Playtime at the West End Library on March 23rd invites children to express their creativity.
We are looking forward to a month filled with learning, creativity, and community engagement. Thank you for your continued support and hope to see you at these events.
Best regards,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director
I hope this letter finds you well. As we step into the month of February, I wanted to share some important updates and exciting programs happening at our library.
In observance of Presidents' Day, all three branches of Alameda Free Library will be closed on Monday, February 19th. We will reopen as with normal hours on Tuesday, February 20th.
We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new program, the Radical Poets Society. This engaging initiative will take place on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM. Participants will gather to discuss thought-provoking books of poetry that are deemed radical in various respects. The selected books aim to highlight marginalized and historically underrepresented voices in the broader history of poetry in mainstream American society.
For the inaugural meeting in February, we will delve into "Things You May Find Hidden In My Ear: Poems from Gaza" by Mosab Abu Toha. We believe this literary journey will provide valuable insights and foster meaningful discussions. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the diverse world of poetry.
Calling all teens! If you're looking to contribute to your community and gain valuable experience, consider joining our Teen Advisory Board (TAB). TAB members play a crucial role in planning teen programs at the library, assisting with special events, and connecting with like-minded individuals.
TAB meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 4:30 PM. It's a fantastic way for teens to make a positive impact, develop leadership skills, and have fun while doing so. We welcome all interested teens to join us in shaping the library experience for our vibrant community.
On Tuesday, February 13th, we invite everyone to participate in an informative session on Cloud Computing. This event, starting at 6:00 PM, will cover methods to keep your documents together so that you can access them wherever there is an internet connection. To ensure your spot, please register by visiting our website and checking the calendar listing for this event.
We are committed to providing enriching and diverse experiences for our community, and we hope to see you at these upcoming events.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director
Happy New Year! We’re delighted to kick off 2024 with exciting news and updates that we can’t wait to share with you.
Our year begins with a fresh new program, Supper and Support, made possible by the generous support of the Friends of the Alameda Free Library, and in partnership with the City of Alameda Social Service Human Relations Broad. Join us on the third Sunday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00pm for an afternoon of community building, delicious meals, and connections with local resources. This January, our guest will be the Housing and Resource Center, offering insights and support to participants.
Hold on to your tool belts! We’re seeking your feedback for the Alameda Tool Lending Library! Your experiences and insights are crucial as we shape the Alameda Tool Lending Library. Join the conversation and help us tailor this initiative to meet our communities needs, fill out the survey here.
We’re thrilled to announce a new point of service at the Main Branch. The information desk will now be staffed regularly on weekday afternoons. This enhancement is designed to better serve you and to make the library even more accessible during your busy schedule. Whether you have questions, need assistance, or simply want to explore what’s new, our dedicated staff is here for you.
Please note that the library will be closed on Monday, January 1st, in observance of New Year’s Day, and on Monday, January 15th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We appreciate your flexibility and look forward to welcoming you back when we reopen.
Wishing you a joyful start to 2024!
Sincerely,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director
As the end of the year approaches we look forward to welcoming you to the library for some of the upcoming events and activities at the Alameda Free Library.
Join us on December 2, at 2:00PM in the Stafford Room at the Main Branch for an engaging session with author Susan Kiyo Ito, sharing her new book I Would Meet You Anywhere. Susan’s memoir is about her experience growing up with adoptive Nisei parents and her search for answers, history, and identity. It is available at the library for check out or through Link+.
This month the book club A Novel Idea will be reading the Chana Porter novel The Seep. Set in a utopian world shaped by alien invaders granting any desire, a 50-year-old trans woman, devastated by her marriage's end, unexpectedly confronts the aliens' staunchest supporters on a quest. Limited quantities of The Seep are available at the reference desk, courtesy of the Friends of the Alameda Free Library. A Novel Idea meets on Monday December 11 at 4:30PM in the Family Study Room at the Main Branch.
In observance of the Christmas holiday, the library will be closed from Sunday, December 24 through Monday, December 25. We hope you enjoy the holiday season with family and friends, and we look forward to welcoming you back when we reopen on Tuesday, December 26.
Thank you for being a valued part of the Alameda Free Library community. Wishing you a joyful and book-filled December!
Sincerely,
Marlon Romero
Acting Director, Alameda Free Library
In November, we are excited to introduce some highly anticipated books, including Barbra Streisand's long-awaited biography "My Name is Barbra," Michael Cunningham's "Day: A Novel" (his first in a decade), and "The New Naturals" by the award-winning author of "Everywhere You Don't Belong." Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, or the latest bestsellers, there's something to pique your interest. Our friendly librarians are ready to offer personalized reading suggestions, so feel free to ask for assistance.
This month, we have a lineup of informative and enjoyable community events. Alongside our regular storytimes and book clubs, we're hosting a family movie matinee in the Stafford Room on November 12, featuring a sensory-friendly screening of "Moana." On November 6, join us for a financial literacy program focused on "Financial Aid Basics" in collaboration with the College of Alameda, where adults and teens can gain valuable insights into grants, the FAFSA process, and COA's services and resources.
Please be aware that the library will be closed on Saturday, November 11, in observance of Veteran's Day, as well as on Thursday, November 23rd, and Friday, November 24th, for Thanksgiving. Additionally, during the week of November 19-26, there will be no storytimes or children's programs.
November is a time for gratitude, and we're thankful for the incredible support of our library community. We are dedicated to providing a welcoming space for learning, engagement, and a sense of belonging. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and look forward to welcoming you to the library this November.
Sincerely,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director
As we approach the month of September, I am thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating National Library Card Sign-up Month here at the Alameda Free Library. Since 1987, this annual event has held a special place in our hearts as we mark the beginning of the school year and extend an open invitation to individuals of all ages to discover the joys and benefits of library membership.
At the Alameda Free Library, we believe that a library card is a gateway to a world of knowledge, imagination, and exploration. Throughout September, we proudly unite with libraries across the nation, under the guidance of the American Library Association, to ensure that every person has the opportunity to obtain their very own library card. As an added motivator, we have two new library card designs to choose from. Featuring the artistry of the esteemed Caldecott-winning author and illustrator Jon Klassen and the “Let Freedom Read” design that draws attention to the harms of censorship.
Our library stands as a community hub, a place where everyone has the freedom to read, learn, and discover. The broad range of resources and programs we offer cater to the diverse interests of the community. With the power of technology, we bring the library to you, wherever you are. Through platforms like Hoopla and Libby, you can access ebooks and audiobooks, while Kanopy allows you to stream critically acclaimed movies, inspiring documentaries, award-winning foreign films, and more. And for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, our partnership with Creativebug presents a plethora of virtual Do-It-Yourself classes, all accessible with your library card.
Furthermore, I encourage you to stay up to date with our programs for all ages by checking out our online calendar. This month we are pleased to welcome former Alameda Poet Laureate Julia Park Tracey in discussion of her new book, The Bereaved on September 23rd at 2:00 PM in the Stafford Room at the Main Branch. Additionally, our Teen and Adult Library Bingo challenge offers a chance to win an exciting library-related swag bag. Lastly, we will be pushing 1,000 books before Kindergarten to promote reading to newborns, infants, and toddlers. For more details on these programs, please contact or visit us at any of our locations.
Thank you for being a part of the Alameda Free Library community. We look forward to serving you and helping you embark on your journey of exploration.
Warm regards,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director
I am very happy to address you as the new Acting Library Director, and am looking forward to embarking on a new journey of literacy, learning and curiosity with you all. As we begin this exciting new chapter together, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the warm welcome I have received from our dedicated library staff, community partners, and valued patrons. The library holds a special place in our community, fostering a love for learning, access to information, and providing a safe haven for curious minds of all ages.
As Acting Director, I am committed to upholding the library's tradition of excellence while embracing new opportunities for growth. I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to my predecessor, Jane Chisaki, for her exceptional contributions. I am humbled to follow in her footsteps and build upon the strong foundation she laid for us.
As we embrace this new era, my vision for the library is rooted in inclusivity, accessibility, and community involvement. The library has always been a space that welcomes people from all walks of life, and it will continue to be a place where everyone feels valued and heard. Our diverse collection of books, multimedia resources, and digital assets will be continuously curated to reflect the ever-changing interests and needs of our patrons.
Your passion for learning, reading, and exploration drives our commitment to excellence. I urge each of you to participate in our enriching programs and events for all ages. Thank you for your continued patronage, and I am excited about the future we will create together.
With warm regards,
Marlon Romero
Acting Library Director