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43 MILLION REASONS TO SIGN UP FOR A SAN DIEGO COUNTY LIBRARY CARD
September is Library Card Sign Up Month and San Diego County Library is celebrating at all 33 of their branch libraries. Customers can sign up for free and gain the perks of membership, and are encouraged to send pictures taken with their library card to libcommunity@sdcounty.ca.gov that will be featured on the Virtual Branch at www.sdcl.org. David Drielsma, Mira Costa College history professor and volunteer at the Encinitas Community Library says, "I have been a library consumer for 53 years; I love my card and it's a privilege to give back by volunteering."
The 640,000 current library cardholders not only have free access to 43.7 million books, movies, and music, but to free Internet and computer time, money-saving tools such as Consumer Reports, and homework and job services that help members better their lives through self-directed learning and professional assistance. Eleven libraries are open seven days a week, even on Sundays, and cardholders can access services online at home 24/7. Library Director José Aponte is devoted to providing these essential services because, "When the economy is bad, when people lose work and money is short, the library's value is incalculable to people. We like to think of us as the most valuable card in your wallet."
Sign up online at www.sdcl.org and see how 640,000 members can't be wrong. Send a picture of you enjoying your new library card to libcommunity@sdcounty.ca.gov and see it featured on www.sdcl.org! It's all free and accessible at San Diego County Library. For more information, log on or contact your local library.
Posted September 1, 2010
ENCINITAS LIBRARY HOSTS AUTHOR GREGORY HARRIS
On Sunday, September 12, at 2 p.m., Gregory Harris, author of Italy on Two Cappuccinos: A Year Traveling in Italy, France, and Switzerland will be speaking at the Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Dr.
Published in March 2010, Italy on Two Cappuccinos follows Harris' yearlong journey in Europe. Harris will speak about his experiences and share a slide presentation of the places he visited. Described as a witty, illustrated travelogue, Harris' creation was inspired by Mark Twain's Innocents Abroad and Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence.
For more information on this author event, contact branch staff at (760) 753-7376 or visit www.sdcl.org.
Posted August 30, 2010
FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT AT IMPERIAL BEACH LIBRARY
On Wednesday, September 15, at 6 p.m., the Imperial Beach library is hosting local musician Joe Rathburn for a free acoustic concert. All ages are invited to the library, located at 810 Imperial Beach Blvd, for this event.
Rathburn is a local musician whose music has been likened to that of Cat Stevens, James Taylor, and Paul Simon. With his music being described as uplifting and fun, Rathburn has opened for a variety of musicians, including Ray Charles and Kiss. This concert is part of San Diego County Library's Acoustic Showcase Series and is supported by the Friends of the Imperial Beach Library.
Stop by the Imperial Beach library on September 15 and support local music. For more information on the series and to hear music demos, stop by http://sdcls.homestead.com today or contact your . It's free, quality entertainment at San Diego County Library; check out www.sdcl.org to see what else is happening at your local branch.
Posted August 30, 2010
SAN DIEGO COUNTY LIBRARY BOOK FESTIVAL FEATURES AUTHORS AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
On October 9 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., the Encinitas library is hosting the San Diego County Library Book Festival. The all-ages event will host popular authors, discussion panels, free entertainment and activities, as well as local food vendors.
The Book Festival will feature: a keynote address by Richard Dreyfuss, who will speak on civics and www.thedreyfussinitiative.org, Pulitzer Prize winning poet Rae Armantrout, and Justin Halpern, author of Sh*t My Dad Says, which will soon become a television series. For teens, author of the popular Pendragon series, D.J. MacHale, will be there, along with world-class skateboarder Lynn Kramer who will be hosting a Deck Out Your Deck skateboard art program. Children can enjoy meeting Gretchen Wendel, author of Becka and the Big Bubble, and Edith Hope Fine, California Young Reader Medal winner, while also taking part in face painting, airbrush tattoos, and a Hullabaloo children's concert. Library Director José Aponte is "excited to offer the San Diego community this fun all-ages event which also embodies our library's vision to create and support informed, literate, and engaged communities."
The San Diego County Library Book Festival is a free, fun-filled day of literacy and entertainment. For more information, contact the Encinitas library at (760) 753-7376 or visit www.sdcl.org/bookfestival.
Posted August 23, 2010
CASA DE ORO LIBRARY HOSTS CITIZENSHIP WORKSHOP
On August 31 at 6 p.m., the Casa de Oro library, located at 9805 Campo Rd #180, will be hosting a citizenship workshop in coalition with the Housing Opportunities Collaborative (HOC). This workshop is free and will cover a variety of topics relating to becoming a citizen of the United States as well as informing people of their rights during the citizenship process.
Some of the topics that will be addressed include: the process of becoming a citizen, how to avoid common citizenship mistakes, and understanding your rights as an immigrant. The HOC is providing a professional speaker on the subject who will assist customers in any way possible, as well as a bilingual English/Spanish translator. This workshop is in line with the San Diego County Library's mission to inform, educate, inspire, and entertain. "This workshop will address a need that the Casa de Oro community has," County Library Director José Aponte says, "and it is our partnership with the HOC that offers the library the opportunity to provide our community with these vital tools and resources."
This workshop is part of a six-month long series of legal and financial workshops being offered at various county libraries. For more information, contact your local library.
Posted August 19, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARIES HOST SOLO GUITAR CONCERTS WITH PETER SPRAGUE
This fall, three San Diego County Library locations are hosting free concerts featuring Peter Sprague, award-winning local musician and composer. Sprague will be playing solo guitar in the jazz, Brazilian, and Americana traditions. The event dates include:
September 11, 2 p.m., El Cajon Branch, 201 E Douglas Ave
September 13, 6:30 p.m., Encinitas Community Library, 540 Cornish Dr
October 5, 6:30 p.m., Rancho San Diego Branch, 11555 Via Rancho San Diego
Sprague has over thirty years of experience as a professional musician and has produced or played on over 190 recordings. In 2008, he toured with four time Grammy winner and jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves. Sprague is known for his jazz guitar, as well as his renditions of the Beatles and Bob Marley.
For more information on this series, contact your local library.
Posted August 19, 2010
MEET THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR AT ENCINITAS OPEN HOUSE
On August 27, the Encinitas Community Library, located at 540 Cornish Drive, is hosting a Customer Appreciation Open House that includes an opportunity to meet San Diego County Library Director, José Aponte.
The Open House also features an Around the World Snack Buffet and events sponsored by The Friends of the Encinitas Library. Scheduled events include:
- Baby Storytime at 10:30 a.m.
- Interviewing Skills with Job Coach Robert Farrell at 11 a.m.
- Around the World Snack Buffet beginning at 12 p.m.
- Yoga at 12 p.m.
- Meet County Library Director Aponte at 1 p.m.
- Rediscovering Folk Music with Ross Moore at 1:30 p.m.
For the library, the Customer Appreciation Open House is seen as "an opportunity to get to know the community that we serve," Director Aponte says. "The public is the driving force behind everything we do, and one of the best parts of my job is getting out and thanking the community for making our libraries great." Customers will get the chance to ask Aponte questions, provide feedback on what they love about their library, and offer insight on what the library could do to better serve the population.
For more information about the Encinitas Open House, contact branch staff at (760) 753-7376 or visit www.sdcl.org.
More about the Encinitas Library »
Posted August 17, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARIES OFFER FREE ENVIRONMENTAL SEMINARS
San Diego County Library is teaming up with MiraCosta College to offer a series of environmental seminars at libraries this summer. The topics include:
"Coastal Lagoons and Estuaries." August 28 at 3 p.m. at the Solana Beach Library, 157 Stevens Ave
"Climate Change." September 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Del Mar Library, 1309 Camino Del Mar
"We've Come a Long Way, Baby! Astronomy in the 21st Century." September 14 at 6 p.m. at the Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Dr
"A New Apollo-Style Space Age Within Five Years?" September 18 at 11 a.m. at the Rancho Santa Fe Library, 17040 Avenida de Acacias
These informative lectures are free to the community and open to all ages. For more information on the MiraCosta College Night at the Library series, visit www.sdcl.org or contact your local library.
Posted August 9, 2010
RAMONA LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION REACHES HALFWAY POINT
As the roof goes up on the new Ramona Branch of San Diego County Library, the local community can finally see a dream becoming reality. The new library is now halfway finished, with an estimated completion date of early 2011. Boasting 21,000 square feet, the new library will be four times the size of the previous facility and provide the community with greater access to library services.
The Ramona design has already resulted in an Honor Award by the Society for American Registered Architects. Manuel Oncina, President of Manuel Oncina Architects, and the Design Architect for this project said, "From the circular themed children's area, to quiet living room and study areas, and dynamic teen space, the Ramona Library has space for everyone." The state-of-the-art library will also include flexible space, energy saving technology including solar panels, a clock tower, and community meeting room suitable for large scale events. Library Director José Aponte sees the facility as "a sterling example of the potential of the Library of the Future model. We live in extraordinary times. We look forward to bringing expanded services to the people of Ramona with a library where everyone can continue to realize dreams for learning and living."
For more information on the new Ramona library, contact branch staff at (760) 738-2434 or visit the current branch at 1406 Montecito Rd.
Posted August 2, 2010
LEMON GROVE LIBRARY HOSTS BUSINESS BASICS BOOT CAMP
The Lemon Grove Branch of San Diego County Library is teaming up with Southwestern College Small Business Development Center and Center for International Trade Development to present a two-night Business Basics Boot Camp seminar. Taking place August 3 and 4 from 6-8 p.m. at the Lemon Grove Library, 8073 Broadway, these free informational courses are designed for existing business owners or those interested in self-employment. Registration is required, contact library staff at (619) 463-9819 to sign up.
The first night covers business planning and financial options, providing attendees an opportunity to learn how to turn business ideas into solid plans for financial and long-term success. The second night is a discussion about strategic marketing and market research, prompting business owners to discover industry trends, evaluate competition, and learn low cost, effective marketing.
For more information or to register for Business Basics Boot Camp, contact the Lemon Grove Library at (619) 463-9819.
Posted July 21, 2010
WIN BIG WITH THE LIBRARY FRIENDS OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY ESSAY CONTEST
From July 1 through September 15, authors of all ages can sign up to win big through writing about San Diego County Library branches. This annual essay contest is sponsored by Library Friends of San Diego County (LFSDC) and gives monetary prizes to the top three essays written in each age group: children, teens, and adults. This year's topic is, "The Best Thing About My Library Is...," giving customers the opportunity to share their opinion on library services while entering to win a prize.
Entries must be 500 words or less, typed and printed, preferably double-spaced and single-sided. Customers can pick up an application at any county library branch or online. One entry per person will be accepted. Essays must be submitted at any County Library branch by September 12; or mailed to: Dick Wayman, LFSDC Essay Contest, Ramona Branch Library, 1406 Montecito Rd, Ramona CA 92065. Prizes include: $100 for first place, $50 for second place, and $25 in third place, within each age division. Winners will be announced on October 15. This contest is one way customers can celebrate the unique services that libraries offer. "Libraries used to be repositories for books, places of silent contemplation, but not these days," says LFSDC president Dick Wayman, "In addition to quiet reading, libraries feature story times, adult literacy tutoring, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, musical performances, help for people suffering through the economic crisis, craft classes, lively book discussion groups, and a variety of teen programs. We want to hear what the public likes about libraries today."
For more information on the essay contest, send an email to LFSDCessay@yahoo.com, visit www.sdcl.org, or contact your local library.
Download essay contest application (PDF) »
Posted July 19, 2010
SERVICE LEARNERS CHANGING LIVES AT SAN DIEGO COUNTY LIBRARY
County teens are changing lives and earning course credit by volunteering at the San Diego County Library. The Service Learner program teaches teens the value of libraries while giving behind-the-scenes experience and the opportunity to take part in life changing programs. Benny Garcia, a recent Service Learner at the San Marcos Branch, reflects on his volunteer experience saying, "It felt like a real job. I felt like part of the staff, not just a helper."
This summer, teens are helping run the Summer Reading Club, an annual program that offers customers incentives for reading throughout the summer. At El Cajon, Service Learners started a Homework Help program that pairs Service Learners with students who need assistance. During the school year, upwards of thirty students come in for this free tutoring. And at the San Marcos Branch, Service Learners are the driving force behind projects like Pennies for Peace, a program that collects donations to help build schools in the Middle East. San Diego County Library offers teens ages twelve and up the opportunity to take part in their Service Learner program at participating library branches. To sign up, teens pick up an application, have it signed by a parent and an optional school sponsor, and meet with branch staff to assure that the program is a good fit.
Library Director José Aponte sees the program as "an investment in youth. We are giving teens valuable work experience and the opportunity to be a part of something great. In return, our libraries benefit from their unlimited energy and potential." Becoming a Service Learner at San Diego County Library is a great way for teens to get work experience, earn volunteer and school credit, and experience the library from an insider's perspective. For more information, visit www.sdcl.org or contact your local branch.
Posted July 19, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARIES HOST FREE EBAY WORKSHOPS
Five San Diego County Library branches are hosting free eBay workshops in July, providing customers with the tools and knowledge needed to successfully sell items online. These workshops are taught by Shari Smith, a Certified Education Specialist trained by eBay and Gold Level Powerseller. These five hour workshops are being held at the following locations:
Vista Branch, 700 Eucalyptus Ave, Vista, CA 92084: Monday, July 19, 10-3:30 p.m.
San Marcos Branch, 2 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069: Tuesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 29, 5-7:30 p.m.
Valley Center Branch, 29200 Cole Grade Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082: Wednesday, July 21 and Thursday, July 22, 5-7:30 p.m.
Lemon Grove Branch, 8073 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945: Friday, July 23, 10-3:30 p.m.
Poway Branch, 13137 Poway Rd, Poway, CA 92064: Saturday, July 31, 10-3:30 p.m.
The class will include information on how to research and create listings to attract buyers, enhance listings and monitor sales, set pricing to maximize profits, open and use a Paypal account, avoid costly mistakes, and start or expand an eBay business. Optional manuals will be available for $20 cash purchase but are not required for class participation.
For more information on these free educational workshops, visit www.sdcl.org or contact your local library.
Posted July 1, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARY CHECKS OUT TEN MILLION ITEMS
On June 10 San Diego County Library reached a national library milestone of checking out over ten million items in one fiscal year. This statistic includes check outs and renewals of book, movies, music, and other library materials. This increase is a jump from the 2008-2009 fiscal year circulation statistics of eight million items.
This increase in circulation puts San Diego County Library as one of the top busiest libraries in the nation, despite limited funding opportunities. Library Director José Aponte attributes the accomplishment to the staff's ability to do more with less. Aponte sees the increase in library usage as a direct result of the economy and the community's need for affordable educational resources and entertainment, saying that, "When the economy is bad, when people lose work and money is short, the library's value is incalculable to people... We like to think of us as the most valuable card in your wallet."
The increase in library usage has also been seen with an increase in the number of customers visiting the library, the amount of time being spent using free Internet stations, and the number of new library card holders. San Diego County Library expects to see another round of increases for the 2010-2011 fiscal year.
Posted June 21, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARIES HOST FREE SUMMER CONCERTS
Come enjoy free summer concerts at your local library. San Diego County Library is hosting an Acoustic Showcase series featuring two local musicians each month. These concerts are free of charge, open to all ages, and are sponsored by local Friends of the Library groups. The summer concerts include:
Charles Johnson: June 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the Santee Library, 9225 Carlton Hills Blvd #17
Larry Robinson: June 27 at 5 p.m. at the Fallbrook Library, 113 S Main Ave
Lisa Sanders: July 6 at 6 p.m. at the Julian Library, 1850 Hwy 78
Gregory Page: July 24 at 2 p.m. at the Poway Library, 13137 Poway Rd
Dave Beldock: August 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rancho San Diego Library, 11555 Via Rancho San Diego
Folding Mr. Lincoln: August 14 at 2 p.m. at the El Cajon Library, 201 E Douglas Ave
For more information on the series and to hear demos of the musicians, visit http://sdcls.homestead.com or contact your local library. It's free, quality entertainment at San Diego County Library; check out www.sdcl.org to see what else is happening at your local branch.
Posted June 21, 2010
TEEN BANDS SIGN UP TO WIN BIG AT COUNTY LIBRARIES
San Diego County Library is hosting three Battle of the Bands events this summer and the deadline for teen bands to sign up for consideration has been extended until July 5. These competitions are open to teens ages 12-18, and each band must submit an application form, available on the Teen Lounge page, with a demo to San Diego County Library. Teens can submit their packet to one of the branch locations hosting the event, to the administrative center located at 5555 Overland Ave, San Diego, CA 92123, or via email to Jennifer.Lawson1@sdcounty.ca.gov. The first, second, and third place winners of each competition will win a paid gig at the library, and recording time sponsored by a local recording studio.
There are six bands playing at each competition, and the bands chosen to compete will be notified by July 12. Two competitions are taking place on August 7 from 2:30-4 p.m., one at the Poway library, 13137 Poway Rd, and the other at the Rancho San Diego library, 11555 Via Rancho San Diego. The third competition is taking place at the Vista library, 700 Eucalyptus Ave, on August 28 from 2:30-4 p.m. At the event, judges from a variety of music backgrounds will judge each band's five minute performance on planning and preparation, quality of performance, presentation, audience interaction, and originality. Winners will be announced immediately at the event.
The Battle of the Bands is a great opportunity for teens to express themselves through music, and be supported by the San Diego community. For more information, visit www.sdcl.org or contact the Poway library at (858) 513-2900, the Rancho San Diego library at (619) 660-5370, or the Vista library at (760) 643-5100.
Posted June 14, 2010
MUSEUM EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE FOR CHECKOUT
Friends of the San Marcos Library bring local museums to the library
Starting June 14, free museum passes have been added to the variety of items available for check out at San Diego County Library. Customers can now use their library card to check out a free one-day family museum pass at the San Marcos Branch, located at 2 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069. Participating museums include the Birch Aquarium, the California Surf Museum, the Museum of Making Music and the Oceanside Museum of Art.
This initiative is being funded by the Friends of the San Marcos Library and a group of local sponsors. Friends of the Library President, Kathe Robbins, feels that in these difficult economic times this program "provides an opportunity for everyone in our community to enjoy a variety of learning experiences at no cost." The San Diego County Library is proud to facilitate such an experience and Library Director, José Aponte, "salutes the Friends of the San Marcos Library for taking the long view in building foundational partnerships with our County museums and local libraries proving collectively we are all stronger."
The San Diego County Library thanks local pass sponsors: the San Elijo Middle School science teachers, Dr. Joseph Czvik of Integrity Medicine in Lake San Marcos, and the San Marcos Arts Council. If you are interested in supporting this or other Friends of the San Marcos Branch Library initiatives, please visit the Friends Bookstore located in the San Marcos Branch Library. For information on how passes can be checked out and reserved, please contact the library at (760) 891-3000. To see what is happening at your local branch, visit www.sdcl.org.
Posted June 14, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARY HOSTS SUMMER KICKOFF EVENTS FOR ALL AGES
San Diego County Library's annual Summer Reading Club is kicking off on June 14 and running through August 8, with sign-ups available at the library or at www.sdcl.org. This year's theme is water, and all ages are invited to join by reading, winning prizes, and enjoying fun library programs. Some of the exciting kickoff events include:
Raggle Taggle Pirate Band, June 16 at 3:30 p.m., Bonita Branch, 4375 Bonita Rd
Mango and Dango Entertainment, June 17 at 1 p.m., Ramona Branch, 1406 Montecito Rd
Rad Hatter Hat Making, June 18 at 10:30 a.m., 4S Ranch Branch, 10433 Reserve Dr
Charles Johnson Family Concert, June 19 at 10:30 a.m., Santee Branch, 9225 Carlton Hills Blvd #17
All San Diego County Library branches are hosting special events throughout the summer and encourage all ages to sign up to read, win, and have fun. For more information on the Club or the programs being offered this summer, contact your local library or visit www.sdcl.org.
Posted June 14, 2010
SANTEE LIBRARY HOSTS FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT FOR FAMILIES
Come enjoy the music of Charles Johnson at the Santee Branch Library, located at 9225 Carlton Hills Blvd #17, on Saturday, June 19 at 10:30 a.m. Johnson performs for families regularly, as his cowboy songs, sea chanteys, and railroad tunes are enjoyed by all ages. This concert is free of charge and is part of the San Diego County Library's Acoustic Showcase series, going on monthly countywide.
Your library isn't just about books anymore, as Library Director José Aponte seeks to provide cultural enrichment and increased access to quality entertainment for the community free of charge. The Friends of the Santee Library group is hosting this event and all ages are welcome.
Stop by the Santee Branch Library on June 19 and support local San Diego musician Charles Johnson. For more information on this musician, and to hear demos of the other musicians performing at various San Diego County libraries, stop by http://sdcls.homestead.com today or contact your local library. It's free, quality entertainment at your San Diego County Library; check out www.sdcl.org to see what else is happening at your local branch.
Posted June 9, 2010
SOLANA BEACH AND ENCINITAS LIBRARIES HOST BLOOD DRIVES
The Solana Beach and Encinitas branches of San Diego County Library are hosting blood drives this summer to help out local San Diego residents in need. The libraries are teaming up with the Red Cross to offer the drives which will take place at the Solana Beach branch, located at 157 Stevens Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075 on June 29 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Encinitas branch, located at 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024 on July 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The drive taking place at the Solana Beach library will be through the bloodmobile, which will be set up in the parking lot. The Encinitas library will host the drive inside their community room. Donors must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh more than 110 lbs, and be in good health. The American Red Cross recommends drinking plenty of water and eating iron-rich foods beforehand, and wearing comfortable fitting clothes.
For more information on these blood drive events, contact the Solana Beach branch at (858) 755-1404 or the Encinitas branch at (760) 753-7376. For more information on the American Red Cross blood donation program, visit www.redcrossblood.org. To see what else is happening this summer at San Diego County Library, visit www.sdcl.org.
Posted June 7, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARY HOSTS SUMMER READING CLUB FOR ALL AGES
San Diego County Library's annual Summer Reading Club is kicking off on June 14 and running through August 8, with signups starting June 1 at www.sdcl.org. This year's theme is water, and all ages are invited to join by reading, winning prizes, and enjoying fun library programs. Some of the exciting offerings include:
For kids: John Abrams' Animal Magic, July 20 at 2 p.m., El Cajon Branch, 201 E Douglas Ave
For teens: Candy Making, July 28 at 1:30 p.m., Lincoln Acres Branch, 2725 Granger Ave
For adults: Sand Candle Making, July 27 at 6:30 p.m., Pine Valley Branch, 28804 Old Highway 80
San Diego County Library's Summer Reading Club is free family fun and is a great way to keep kids and teens developing literacy skills during the summer. Customers of all ages can read, win prizes, and have fun this summer at the library. For more information on the Club or the programs being offered this summer, contact your local library or visit www.sdcl.org.
Posted June 7, 2010
LEMON GROVE LIBRARY HOSTS FREE SUMMER CAMP FOR TEENS
The Lemon Grove branch of San Diego County Library is hosting a free Summer Camp program beginning on June 21, which seeks to provide visually impaired and physically disabled teenagers with independent living skills while also having fun at the library. The camp runs from June 21 through August 11. Registration is required and is available starting May 17 by calling or visiting the branch, located at 8073 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945.
The Inclusion Fusion Summer Camp is designed to meet a variety of independent living needs, including finances, cooking, expression through art and exercise, and digital photography skill building. Teens will be given an opportunity to learn how to fence and engage in wheelchair friendly versions of popular sports. They will also learn how to make fresh, healthy meals, such as stir fry and banana pancakes. While this camp is designed for teens with visual impairments or physical disabilities, all teens are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Registration for this independent living series camp begins May 17; there is a maximum of 50 people allowed for the program, with some specific events having other attendance limitations. This program is supported in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian. Contact the Lemon Grove library at (619) 463-9819 to get more information. To see what else San Diego County Library has going on this summer, visit www.sdcl.org and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Posted May 17, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARIES HOST FREE
JEWISH ARTS FESTIVAL CONCERTS
On May 30, Jewish Klezmer musicians Alexander Gourevitch and Freilachs will be putting on a free concert at two branches of San Diego County Library. At 1:30 p.m. the concert will take place at the Encinitas library, located at 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024. At 3:30 p.m. the concert will be held at the Vista library, located at 700 Eucalyptus Ave, Vista, CA 92084.
Klezmer is a musical tradition of Judaism that is largely performed at weddings and other celebrations. The style of music is very expressive, with many sounds that imitate the human voice and emotions, such as crying and laughing. Alexander Gourevitch was trained in Russia and expresses his musical soul with his entire body as he plays the clarinet with passion.
These two free concerts are being sponsored by San Diego County Library and the Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival. For more information on the Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival, taking place May 30-June 24, visit www.sdrep.org. For more information about the San Diego County Library, visit www.sdcl.org, call your local branch, or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Posted May 12, 2010
LEMON GROVE LIBRARY HOSTS PRIDE CELEBRATION WITH AUTHORS, MUSIC & MORE
The Lemon Grove Library, located at 8073 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945, is hosting a Pride Celebration on July 10 from 12-3 p.m. This festival is celebrating the local literature, music, dancing, and more that contributes to the rich culture of San Diego.
The Pride Festival will host many popular authors, including Robert Heylmun, Eric Shanower, Walter G. Meyer, and Linda Patterson. Speeches by Sally M. Hall about the online news hub www.thatssogaylive.com and Toni Duran on the legal activist group Equal California, will be heard in between performances by singer/songwriters Mary Dolan and Lisa Sanders, the hip-hop themed Kruciaal Element Dancers, and the San Diego Gay Men's Chorus Ensemble.
The Lemon Grove Pride Celebration is a great place to celebrate literature and music while also learning about San Diego's gay and lesbian community and related legislation efforts. For more information on the Pride Celebration, contact the Lemon Grove library at (619) 463-9819.
Posted May 11, 2010
SAN MARCOS LIBRARY HOSTS
AUTHOR VISIT FOR TEENS
The San Marcos library is hosting a book signing and discussion with Richelle Mead, author of the popular young adult series Vampire Academy. On May 19 at 6 p.m., Mead will be speaking and signing copies of her books at the library, located at 2 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069. Books will be available for purchase, and vampire-related snacks and activities will also be provided.
Mead's Vampire Academy series follows the experiences of a half-vampire named Rose who lives in a world full of combative vampires and dangerous rendezvous. This popular series has received honors from the American Library Association and has been featured on the New York Times and USA Today bestsellers lists. The latest book in the series, Spirit Bound, will be released May 18.
For more information on this authorship event, please contact branch staff at (760) 891-3000. For more information about San Diego County Library and other exciting events, visit www.sdcl.org or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Posted May 6, 2010
VIDEO: CITIZENSHIP CLASS
It's back to class at the County Library's Vista branch, but the students are not after a diploma.
Posted May 6, 2010
CELEBRATE OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
WITH SAN DIEGO COUNTY LIBRARY
May is Older Americans Month and San Diego County Library is hosting a variety of programs with local seniors in mind. All San Diego County Library branches are doing something special for older Americans this month, and the topics range from healthcare assistance to cooking classes. Some of the events being held this month are:
Laughter Yoga, May 6 at 3 p.m., El Cajon Branch, 201 E Douglas Ave
Senior Expo: Protect Yourself and Your Wallet, May 7 at 11 a.m., Poway Branch, 13137 Poway Rd
Aging in Place: Home Sweet Home- Friend or Foe, May 11 at 1:30 p.m., Lemon Grove Branch, 8073 Broadway
Fight Your Medical Insurance Nightmares, May 19 at 6 p.m., Lakeside Branch, 9839 Vine St
Personal Safety, May 19 at 6:30 p.m., Imperial Beach Branch, 810 Imperial Beach Blvd
All of these programs are free of charge, and many are open to all ages despite focusing on senior interests. For more information on these programs and the many others being offered in May, visit the Older Americans Month web page, contact your local library, or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Posted May 3, 2010
EL CAJON LIBRARY TO CLOSE FOR RECARPETING
The El Cajon Branch of the San Diego County Library, 201 E. Douglas Av, will close for parts of two days for recarpeting, from Friday, May 14, at 12 noon until Saturday, May 15, at 12 noon. The library will open at its regular time on May 14 at 9:30 a.m., and open from noon until 5 p.m. on May 15.
During this time, the book return bins will remain open on the Lexington Av side of the branch. For customer convenience, due dates of any items with seven-day checkouts will be extended until Monday, May 17. Any other items that are due on May 14-15 will not accrue fines. Reserve item pick-up dates will also be extended by two days. For questions, please call the library at (619) 588-3718.
Posted April 29, 2010
FREE E-BOOKS @ YOUR LIBRARY
Friends of the San Marcos Library Sponsor Free E-book Collection
The San Diego County Library is proud to offer its customers access to free e-books. The collection was made possible by a generous donation from the Friends of the San Marcos Library. Readers will have hundreds of popular titles to choose from and with a variety of e-readers on the market, they will be able to download free books right to the compatible e-reader of their choice at any time of day, whether the library is opened or closed.
In celebration of the new collection, the library will host several e-book workshops where customers will learn how to download books to the popular Sony E-Reader Pocket Edition and Barnes and Noble Nook. In addition, workshop attendees will learn about the features of each device which include the ability to enlarge text, add bookmarks and to add commentary.
E-book workshops will be provided at the San Marcos Branch Library, located at 2 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069 on:
Friday, May 7 at 10 a.m.
Saturday, May 15 at 1 p.m.
Tuesday, May 18 at 6 p.m.
Please contact the library at (760) 891-3000 for more information. To access the e-book collection and to see if your device is compatible, please visit SDCL's Digital Media web site.
Posted April 21, 2010
BARBERSHOP QUARTET TO PERFORM
AT EL CAJON LIBRARY
"One More Time," a San Diego barbershop quartet, will perform at the El Cajon Library, 201 E. Douglas Av, on Sunday, April 25, at 2 p.m. The concert will be free of charge and open to the public.
The quartet's name, says leader Jim Shillady, came about because the group likes to "sing the old songs one more time." The members belong to the national Barbershop Harmony Society, historically known as the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America, with a membership of 30,000. With a focus on a cappella music (singing without accompaniment by musical instruments), the society's mission is to "bring men together in harmony and fellowship to enrich lives through singing." Groups consist of four people, whose famed tight harmonies include lead, tenor, bass and baritone.
For more information, call the library at (619) 588-3718.
Posted April 19, 2010
LA MESA LIBRARY HOSTS BIG NAME BOOK SIGNING FOR TEENS
The La Mesa Library is hosting a book signing and discussion with John Green and David Levithan, co-authors of the young adult book Will Grayson, Will Grayson, on April 23 at 6 p.m. Green and Levithan will host a discussion of their work, and then sign copies, which will also be available for purchase at the event.
Green is an award-winning author who is previously known for his novel, Paper Towns, which debuted in the fifth spot on the New York Times Bestseller List and won the Edgar Allen Poe Award for mystery fiction. Levithan is known for many young adult novels, including Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, which he co-wrote.
The two authors joined forces to create Will Grayson, Will Grayson, released on April 6, which is a young adult novel about two teenage boys, both named Will Grayson. Green and Levithan were each personally responsible for one of the Will Grayson characters, adding to the sense of duality in a story all about sexuality, maturation, and finding a sense of self.
San Diego County Library hosts many young adult book clubs and authorship events. Teens can also sign up for the Teen Online Book Club, which hosts virtual discussions and author meet-and-greets, at http://sdclteenbooks.ning.com.
Posted April 15, 2010
NATIONAL LIBRARY MONTH: COUNTY LIBRARIES WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
The San Diego County Library is celebrating National Library Month by encouraging local communities to speak up and show how they thrive at the library. Through the submission of pictures of customers enjoying library services, personal storytelling with The People's Post and a tribute to library workers making a difference, the San Diego community is encouraged to tell their story.
San Diego citizens are being offered the opportunity to have their library stories and experiences videotaped and shared with the public. These events are being held at El Cajon, Vista, and Borrego Springs branches throughout the month of April. Customers can contact The People's Post at (858) 495-5037 to make an appointment to have their voices heard. The footage will then be posted online at www.thepeoplespost.org.
In honor of Library Workers Day, April 13, customers can post stories about the difference a library worker has made for them by visiting the National Library Month web page. San Diego County Library is also accepting submissions of photos taken of library users enjoying their local branches and library services. These submissions are being accepted via email to csgpubsvc@sdcounty.ca.gov and may be featured via slideshow on the county library website.
For more information on all of the events that San Diego County Library has planned for National Library Month, visit the National Library Month web page or contact your local library.
Posted April 5, 2010
VISTA LIBRARY PARKING LOT TEMPORARILY CLOSED
The Vista Library parking lot is temporarily closed. Library parking is available in the Vista Civic Center lot or on the street. The library's lot is under construction for approximately 6 weeks (as of 3/24) for expansion. A curbside drop-off zone for customers is available by the library on Eucalyptus Street. We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your patience during this time.
Posted March 29, 2010
SOLANA BEACH LIBRARY UNVEILS MOSAIC MURAL
The Solana Beach Library is unveiling its newest artistic contribution, a library mosaic created by renowned local artist Christie Beniston and inspired by the illustrations of Pura Belpré winner Rafael Lopez. Paid for by donations from Pam Slater-Price and the County Board of Supervisors along with the Friends of the Solana Beach Library, the mural adorns the entry to the Solana Beach Library, located at 157 Stevens Avenue, Solana Beach, CA 92075.
Beniston is a Solana Beach artist who has been creating public art for over 25 years. She has won numerous awards at the San Diego County Fair and has been featured in numerous publications. Her art is featured throughout the county, with many mosaics located at local elementary schools and downtown parks. Lopez is best known for his Mexican Surrealism and ability to use graphics to create an intricate symbolism.
For more information about the mural, please contact the Solana Beach Library at (858) 755-1404.
Posted March 25, 2010
CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSET: VISTA TEENS NEED YOUR FORMAL DRESSES
The Vista Library is making the dream of prom possible for local young ladies by collecting gently used formal gowns to be gifted in their Gown Giveaway. From March 1 until April 10, donations of dresses purchased in the past four years that are in good condition are being accepted at the Vista Library, located at 700 Eucalyptus Avenue, Vista, CA 92084. The donated dresses should be on hangers, and preferably be in dry cleaning bags.
The recipients of these gowns are young women from around the county who otherwise would not be able to attend their school's prom. Registration to be a recipient is required, and is taking place beginning April 1st at the library or by calling (760) 643-5112.
Clean out your closet today and donate those gently used formal gowns to the Vista Library's Gown Giveaway. The giveaway event is taking place on Saturday, April 17 from 1-4pm in the Vista Library's Community Room. For more information please contact the Vista Library at (760) 643-5100.
Posted March 18, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARY PARTNERSHIPS
Learn about the innovative partnerships that help the Library better serve the public.
Posted March 11, 2010
BOOKED SOLID
County Library branches have become a refuge from the recession, offering free books, free DVDs, and free computer access.
Posted March 8, 2010
LEARN TO READ
SDCL's Adult Literacy program (LEARN) is making an impact in San Diego county. Watch the following County Television Network (CTN) video interviewing SDCL's Kevin Vigil and LEARN volunteer tutors and students.
Posted February 23, 2010
THE BIG READ: PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
As part of The Big Read, professional photographer Lisa Huber will teach workshops on how to tell a story with digital photos, how to share photos online, and creative ways to display digital photographs.
Posted February 10, 2010
CARDIFF LIBRARY POSTS TEMPORARY HOURS
The Cardiff-by-the-Sea Branch of the San Diego County Library, 2081 Newcastle Av, has changed its open hours temporarily to accommodate interior renovation. Morning hours will shift to a later opening in order for customers to avoid the noise and debris of the renovation. For the next two to three weeks, the following will be the library's hours:
Monday - Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Friends Bookstore's hours will also coincide with the temporary open hours of the library. For further details call the library at (760) 753-4027.
Posted January 28, 2010
CASA DE ORO BRANCH NOW OPEN ON MONDAYS
Beginning January 4, 2010, the Casa de Oro Library is open on Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, please call the library at (619) 463-3236.
Posted January 12, 2010
BOOKS BEHIND BARS
Through a special partnership, the San Diego County Library reaches one group of people who aren't able to come into a branch.
Posted January 5, 2010
CHILD HEALTH SCREENINGS
A program developed by First 5 San Diego screens children from birth to 5 years old to identify developmental delays and connects families to resources so that the child enters school ready to learn.
Posted January 5, 2010
COUNTY LIBRARY DIRECTOR WINS STATE AWARD
San Diego County Library Director José Aponte was named California Library Association (CLA) Member of the Year in November at the annual CLA conference in Pasadena. The award was given for "exemplary leadership, dedication and commitment to the vision of the California Library Association." Aponte has been a CLA member for 19 years. Among his accomplishments are the following: 1) member of the CLA Legislative Committee, 2) member of the American Library Association (ALA) Advocacy Committee, 3) member of the Board of Directors of the American Library Association/Public Library Association, 4) ALA Counselor at Large, 5) member of the Board of Directors, CLA Association of County Librarians. His record of leadership in the development of libraries and improvement of library service includes his appointment to the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries Advisory Council, and to the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science.
Aponte's reputation is known internationally, and he is often invited to give keynote remarks at conferences. His presentations include being the featured speaker at the Serra Cooperative Library System's Transborder Library Forum (2009), keynote presenter at the National Conference of the Argentine Library Association (2008), and keynote speaker at the Intercultural Toolkit Symposium at the University of Tennessee School of Information Science (2006).
Under Aponte's leadership, the County Library's growth has exploded in the past three years, as the Library has added more than 5,000 open hours per year, increased program attendance by more than 200,000 (112%) and doubled circulation from 4 million to 8.3 million.
Posted December 17, 2009
COUNTY LIBRARY TO BREAK GROUND ON NEW FALLBROOK BRANCH
The Fallbrook Branch of the San Diego County Library will hold a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, at 10 a.m., on the property of the current facility at the corner of West Alvarado Street and South Mission Road. Fifth District County Supervisor Bill Horn and County Library Director José Aponte will be on hand to officially break ground, along with the Friends of the Fallbrook Library, and officials from the design-build team.
Fifth District Supervisor Bill Horn said, "We have worked hard to reach this point. It has been an honor to partner with our Library people and the Fallbrook community on one of the most important projects in their history. The groundbreaking for the new library is a tribute to the determined spirit and generosity of people who are going to see a dream come true."
County Library Director José Aponte adds, "The project owes its success to the enlightened and engaged leadership of Jeri Patchett and the Friends of the Fallbrook Library whose work with the professional and architectural team has set a new standard for library development in the county and the region."
Community Project grants totaling nearly $980,000 have been awarded to the Friends of the Fallbrook Library in the past six years from the Fifth Supervisorial District to assist with their fundraising efforts toward construction and furnishings for the new library. In addition to this funding, the Friends of the Library have raised more than $1.3 million, and their fundraising efforts are ongoing. The group also actively participated in the building design process, organized an art design award process, and has raised awareness for the project continually throughout the community.
Measuring 19,076 square feet, the new library will be more than double the size of the current facility. Construction by the design-build team of C.W. Driver, Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects and Manuel Oncina Architects will begin in fall 2009, with a targeted completion date of December, 2010. The two architectural firms won a Design Award of Merit in the 2009 California Council of the Society of American Registered Architects Professional Design Awards competition for their design of the new Fallbrook Library. Designed to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) "Silver" criteria, the state-of-the-art library will include a 4,000 square foot "green roof" vegetated with low-water plants.
The current library at 124 S. Mission Road will be closed on Sunday, September 20, to prepare for the move to its temporary quarters at 113 South Main Avenue. The branch will reopen for one day on Monday, September 21, from 9:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., then library services will switch to the South Main Avenue location on Tuesday, September 22 until the new library opens. To accommodate the public's need for library materials and services, hours will be expanded at the temporary site as follows: Monday, Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday, Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 noon - 5 p.m. For more information, call the Fallbrook Library at 1-760-728-2373.
Posted September 21, 2009
Recent Headlines:
Revisiting a 'Small Piece of the City Where Goats Roam' (Voice of San Diego)
Their family tree has a library branch (San Diego Union-Tribune)
Latest Video:
A Library And More
For Lincoln Acres
Ground was broken Aug. 6 on a larger, much- needed library, park and community room for Lincoln Acres.