January is Picture Book Month and the Library is celebrating with the theme “Bundle Up with Picture Books.”
There is no denying the benefits of reading picture books with young (and not-so-young) children. They help children learn about the structure of a story while building vocabulary and comprehension. They are also a collective experience between a child, or a group of children, and a trusted adult.
Reading books together builds a bond that is very special and unique. Bundle up with picture books this month and every month. Stop by any branch to enjoy activities including a cozy seek and find hot cocoa, crafts and a book bundle checkout challenge. Visit online at ccclib.org to explore Bundle Up booklists, discover more Bundle Up events, plus virtually log activities and reading time.
New library courtesy notices: Beginning Jan. 13, look for changes to the account notification emails. All notices will have “Contra Costa County Library” in the subject line and the body will now include graphics and book covers when possible. There will be due date reminders and overdue notices. Print notifications will no longer be available, but patrons still have the option to be notified by phone.
Please visit ccclib.org/card-renewals or your local library to update or add an email address or phone number to your account to receive account notifications. California residents with cards in good standing and less than one year expired may renew their accounts online or visit a local library with a valid ID.
Washington Post: Get online access to expert reporting and analysis from Washington, D.C., and around the world, including award-winning investigative coverage and editorial commentary. Also included are a searchable 15-year backfile, recipes and crossword puzzles. Visit the Digital Resources page at ccclib.org to get started.
Visit ccclib.org to sign up for a library card and get connected to books and resources. For questions about Contra Costa library services and programming or account information, contact the library system via email at ask@library.cccounty.us, online chat at tinyurl.com/cccl-chat or text questions to 925-290-7627.
Brooke Converse is the Contra Costa County Library system’s public information officer and can be reached at brooke.converse@library.cccounty.us.
Library calendar
New Year’s Screen Printing Party: Jan. 4, 1:30 p.m. in the Crockett Library. Join in for a New Year’s Celebration featuring local artist Chris Granillo. Come by and screen print tote bags with a Crockett inspired original design. Registration required as supplies are very limited.
Trails and Tales: Jan. 14, 10 a.m. at the Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area. Enjoy a nature walk with a Naturalist followed by storytime with a Librarian. This program is part of a special partnership between the Contra Costa County Library and the East Bay Regional Parks. This event will be located at Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area at 6531 San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante.
Begin the New Year with Meditation: Jan. 14, 6 p.m. via Zoom. Join Ajili Hodari, Esq. for this powerful program and learn a simple meditation technique to reclaim your peace and incorporate more positivity and relaxation into your daily routine. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
Sweet Thursday Presents: Brian Copeland: Jan. 16, 7 p.m. in the Lafayette Library. Author Brian Copeland discusses his debut novel “Outraged,” a fresh voice in the crime fiction arena blending action, mystery and social commentary. Orinda Books will be onsite for book sales. Registration is required.
Step Dancing with Marina Vista Elementary Step Dancing Club: Jan. 25, 10:30 a.m. in the Pittsburg Library: Watch dancers from Marina Vista Elementary School’s step dancing club demonstrate their skills and learn a few moves for yourself!