Saturday, May 24 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: Boulder Creek
Room: Boulder Creek Community Room, Outdoor Amphitheater

Join us each Saturday morning for a relaxing time crafting with your neighbors. The Community Crafters are a diverse group of makers and love to share our knowledge. We knit, quilt, weave, spin, make jewelry, embroider, mend and so much more. All crafters are welcome! We hope you will join us in creating community and beautiful things!

Please note: Most weeks, crafters bring their own supplies to work on independent projects, but about once a month one of our members puts on a special workshop, sharing knowledge on a specific subject and materials are provided. Please refer to the Library calendar for updates on these special workshops, as they require registration.

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Saturday, May 24 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: Capitola
Room: Brad Mcdonald Conference Room

Please join us at the Capitola Branch Library on Saturdays, 10am-12pm for a chance to practice your English language skills with new friends and a group leader from the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County Literacy Program.

For more information about the Literacy Program visit https://scvolunteercenter.org/programs/literacy-program/ or call  831-427-5077.

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Saturday, May 24 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: La Selva Beach
Room: La Selva Beach Branch Library

Are you stuck with a technology question?

One of our tech savvy staff members at the La Selva Beach Library would like to help you troubleshoot your question with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Possible topics may include: creating an email account, creating documents, attaching files, using premium subscription library resources, downloading and streaming content like movies, books, and audiobooks, and more. Please bring any devices you use, and have your necessary passwords and library card with you. 

Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/laselvabeach 

Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit the library's information desk or call telephone information (831-427-7713) for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. Walk-ins are welcome, when openings are available.

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Saturday, May 24 (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Location: Downtown

Project SCOUT offers Volunteer income tax assistance and tax counseling for local residents during tax season at sites throughout Santa Cruz County. Volunteers are trained by Internal Revenue Service and Franchise Tax Board personnel. For disabled individuals unable to get to the tax sites, they have trained volunteers who can do in-home tax preparation. Seniors get priority at all library sessions.

 

Appointments are necessary for tax help and can be made by calling 831-427-7713 or by visiting the Downtown Branch Library Reference Desk.

 

For more information, call the Watsonville Office at 1-831-724-2606 or toll-free at 1-877-373-8297. Or visit the Project Scout Website: Project Scout

INCOME OF $64,000 and below, simple returns only.

El proyecto SCOUT y sus voluntarios ofrecen asistencia con preparación de impuestos y asesoría fiscal para residentes locales durante la temporada de impuestos del gobierno en sitios ubicados por todo el condado de Santa Cruz. Voluntarios están capacitados por el personal del IRS y el Franchise Tax Board (impuestos de ingresos estatales) de California. Para los individuos discapacitados incapaz de llegar a los sitios de asistencia, tendrán voluntarios preparados para ayudar con preparación de impuestos en su domicilio.

Para más información, llama a la oficina de Watsonville al 1-831-724-2606 o con llamada gratuita al 1-877-373-8297. También puede visitar el sitio web (solo en inglés): El Proyecto Scout

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Saturday, May 24 (10:15 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: Aptos
Room: The Betty Leonard Community Room

The 1st hour will be spent in conversation 

with a guest speaker, and during the 2nd hour volunteers 

will read aloud part of the play. During the final session 

a film will be presented. 

For INFORMATION, ZOOM LINK, or to BE A READER, 

contact: saturdayshakespeare@gmail.com 

May 24: Film directed by Michael Homan & starring Christian Bale, Rupert Everett, Calista Flockhart, Kevin Kline, Michelle Pfeier & Stanley Tucci (120 minutes)

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Saturday, May 24 (2:00 PM - 3:30 PM)
Location: Downtown
Room: Downtown Community Room

Professional chess instruction with Chess Master Gjon Feinstein.  For ages 6 - 18, all levels welcome!  If you have never played chess before, please contact Gjon before your first session: coach@santacruzchess.com or 831-425-7835.

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Saturday, May 24 (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Location: Capitola
Room: Barbara Gorson Multiuse Room

This is a group of writers working together to improve their writing and find ways to get published. The group meets every 4th Saturday of the month 3 - 5 in the Barbara Gorson Multipurpose Room.

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Saturday, May 24 (3:00 PM - 4:15 PM)
Location: La Selva Beach
Room: La Selva Beach Branch Library

Join us for an insightful talk with Dr. Ann López, Executive Director of the Center for Farmworker Families, as she explores the harsh realities faced by California farmworkers. Dr. López will discuss how NAFTA's impact on small farms in Mexico has contributed to forced undocumented immigration to the U.S., and the challenges farmworkers continue to endure.

This event is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of these complex issues while fostering empathy and building connections within our community. Dr. López, an emerita professor with expertise in biology and environmental science, has long advocated for awareness of human rights abuses in the migrant circuit and has initiated many projects aimed at alleviating the suffering of farmworker families.

Join us for this eye-opening discussion and learn how we can create a more informed, compassionate society.

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Sunday, May 25 (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Location: Downtown
Room: Downtown Community Room

Queer Gaming is a safe place for LGBTQ+ folks and allies to gather, play games and build community.

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Sunday, May 25 (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
Location: Virtual Library

Join Dickens enthusiasts and Pickwick Club members for a series of discussions about Silas Marner by George Eliot.

For two months, we will unpack George Eliot's novel, 'Silas Marner', a novel about an ex-communicated linen weaver that is noted for its realistic portrayal of social dynamics while exploring themes such as community, religion, wealth, and purpose. George Eliot was in fact a pen name for novelist, journalist, translator, and poet Mary Ann Evans, whose works label her as one of the leading authors of the Victorian era. 'Silas Marner' was Eliot/Evans third published book.

This discussion series is hosted online on the Dickens Project Zoom platform.

Zoom Registration 

Schedule:

May 25 - Chapters 1-10 with Nancy Henry

June 22 - Chapters 11-21 (End) with Wayne Batten

 

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Sunday, May 25 (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
Location: Downtown

Are you stuck with a technology question?

Our tech savvy staff at the Downtown Library would like to help you troubleshoot your issue with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Fixing broken hardware or software is not within our scope. Possible topics may include: creating an email account, creating documents, attaching files, using premium subscription library resources, downloading and streaming content like movies, books, and audiobooks, and more. Please bring any devices you use, and have your necessary passwords and library card with you. 

Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/downtown

Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit the library's information desk or call telephone information (831-427-7713) for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. Walk-ins are welcome, when openings are available.

Visit the library's Digital Learning webpage for more opportunites: https://www.santacruzpl.org/digitallearning

We look forward to helping you!

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Sunday, May 25 (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
Location: Downtown

Are you stuck with a technology question?

Our tech savvy staff at the Downtown Library would like to help you troubleshoot your issue with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Fixing broken hardware or software is not within our scope. Possible topics may include: creating an email account, creating documents, attaching files, using premium subscription library resources, downloading and streaming content like movies, books, and audiobooks, and more. Please bring any devices you use, and have your necessary passwords and library card with you. 

Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/downtown

Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit the library's information desk or call telephone information (831-427-7713) for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. Walk-ins are welcome, when openings are available.

Visit the library's Digital Learning webpage for more opportunites: https://www.santacruzpl.org/digitallearning

We look forward to helping you!

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Monday, May 26 (12:00 AM - 11:59 PM)
Location: Systemwide

All library branches will close for Memorial Day. Regular hours resume on Tuesday, May 27th 2025.

Todas las bibliotecas públicas de Santa Cruz estarán cerradas por el Día de los Caídos. El horario regular se reanuda el martes, 27 de mayo, 2025.

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Tuesday, May 27 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: Aptos
Room: Dorosin Memorial Conference Room

Join us for Backgammon at the library, where players of all skill levels—beginners and experienced—can enjoy one of the world’s oldest and most strategic board games. Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your skills, this event is perfect for you!

What to Expect:

New to Backgammon? Our volunteers and fellow participants will guide you through the basics, explaining the rules, strategies, and tips to get you rolling with confidence. Already a pro? Challenge your peers, share strategies, and help foster a welcoming environment for newer players. Friendly competition is encouraged!

Highlights:

Introduction to Backgammon: Learn the fundamentals—rules, setup, and game flow. Guided Play: Play alongside others, with staff available to assist with questions and strategy tips. Friendly Competition: Experienced players can participate in informal matches. Social Fun: Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, meet new people, and have fun while exercising your mind.

When: Every Tuesday 
Where: Aptos Library - Conference Room

                                                Bring a friend or come solo—everyone’s welcome!

Backgammon is not just a game of luck, but a game of skill, tactics, and social interaction. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn or a veteran eager for a challenge, this is the perfect opportunity to experience a beloved classic. We hope to see you there!

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Tuesday, May 27 (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Location: Boulder Creek
Room: Boulder Creek Community Room

Common Spirit Health/Dignity Mobile Wellness Clinic and Santa Cruz Public Libraries are partnering together to connect services that support the physical, mental and economic health and well-being of patrons and provide equitable care to underserved communities with a monthly visit to the Boulder Creek branch library.

Hours

10:00am-3:00pm

Services provided 

Bilingual (English & Spanish) staff  Evaluation and treatment of both acute and chronic health care needs Screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. Referrals to community providers for specialty care, including mental health Help navigating the health care system and local resources

Common Spirit Health/Dignity Mobile Wellness Clinic y las Bibliotecas Públicas de Santa Cruz se han asociado para conectar servicios que respaldan la salud física, mental y económica, así como el bienestar de los usuarios, y brindar atención equitativa a comunidades desatendidas con visitas semanales a la biblioteca de Scotts Valley. Acompáñenos los miércoles.

Horario

10:00am-3:00pm

Servicios proporcionados

Personal bilingüe (inglés y español) Evaluación y tratamiento de necesidades de atención médica agudas y crónicas Evaluaciones para diabetes, presión arterial alta y cáncer. Referencias a proveedores comunitarios para atención especializada, incluida la salud mental Ayuda para navegar el sistema de atención médica y recursos locales.

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Tuesday, May 27 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Location: Downtown

Are you stuck with a technology question?

Our tech savvy staff at the Downtown Library would like to help you troubleshoot your issue with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Fixing broken hardware or software is not within our scope. Possible topics may include: creating an email account, creating documents, attaching files, using premium subscription library resources, downloading and streaming content like movies, books, and audiobooks, and more. Please bring any devices you use, and have your necessary passwords and library card with you. 

Make an appointment: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/downtown

Advance appointments are prioritized. Visit the library's information desk or call telephone information (831-427-7713) for help making an appointment. Arriving later than 5 minutes after scheduled time may result in appointment cancellation. Walk-ins are welcome, when openings are available.

Visit the library's Digital Learning webpage for more opportunites: https://www.santacruzpl.org/digitallearning

We look forward to helping you!

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Tuesday, May 27 (10:15 AM - 11:00 AM)
Location: Capitola
Room: Ow Family Community Room

Join us for a fun and interactive dance program for children ages 2-5! The library has partnered with local dance studio International Academy of Dance (IAD) to explore movement, rhythm, and creativity through stories and music. Each session blends storytelling with dance, helping children develop coordination, self-expression, and a love for books and movement. No dance experience is needed—just bring your imagination and energy!

Participants will need their parent or guardian to read and sign a Waiver of Liability, Release, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement in order to participate. 

Register Now!

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Tuesday, May 27 (11:00 AM - 11:20 AM)
Location: Aptos

Toddler Time is a weekly early literacy program for families with children ages 0-3 years old. Music, movement, stories, fingerplays, rhymes, and songs are a fun way for your child to learn while spending valuable social time with other children and their caregivers. Please arrive on time. Let's play and learn together!

Location: Aptos Children's Room

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Tuesday, May 27 (11:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Location: Branciforte
Room: Community Room

You are invited to enjoy a highly informative Bird Talk by Nanci Adams, an esteemed, local bird enthusiast.  

Nanci will offer you enriching introductions and insights to our common birds such as waterfowl, raptors, shorebirds, and various songbirds.

Special treat: Short neighborhood walk for some birdwatching!

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Tuesday, May 27 (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Location: Downtown
Room: Life Literacies Center

Volunteer Housing Navigators provides housing navigation services for people experiencing homelessness every Tuesday, 11:30-1 in the Life Literacies Center.