Library News Archive From November 2026

November Happenings 

All libraries are closed Wednesday, November 11 for Veteran's Day and Thursday and Friday, November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. All libraries will also close early at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, November 25 for the holiday. Check our calendar for 2026 closing dates. 

Tarea Hall Pittman inducted into the Bay Area Hall of Fame 

On October 10, 2026, Tarea Hall Pittman was inducted into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame as part of its Class of 2026. Tarea Hall Pittman South Children's Librarian Juan Castille accepted the award on behalf of the Library.

Pittman was longtime Berkeley resident, and the South Branch of the Berkeley Public Library is named in her honor.

She was a civil rights leader, public speaker, and local radio host who celebrated the Black community by providing positive stories to combat the ever-present negative news coverage. 

She was a true pioneer of civil rights who organized protests against war industries to get African Americans hired, helped desegregate the Oakland Fire Department, pressed for the expansion of California’s childcare program, and helped the NAACP get Fair Employment Practice laws passed.

Tarea Hall Pittman - photo courtesy of Localwiki Oakland . 

Tarea Hall Pittman South Library entrance. 

Join us at our Fourth Annual Comic Con, November 14 

Fans of all ages—Berkeley Comic Con is back with a FREE day of all things comics.

Join us on Saturday, November 14, from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm  at the Berkeley Public Library  (on 2090 Kittredge at Shattuck) for community discussions celebrating comics, graphic novels, art, and storytelling.

Learn about the creative process from writers, illustrators, and more. Dress in cosplay, join an interactive drawing workshop, bring your ideas for your own brainstorming and for a collaborative comic creation.

Explore diverse voices and perspectives through LGBTQIA+ comics, Afro-Punk culture, and more.

More than 30 creators speaking and another 35-plus tabling—don’t miss out!

Poster image created by local comic artist Jason Shiga. 

Check the event page for a full list of speakers, vendors, and schedule details.

You can also drop-in for UC Berkeley's Brick by Brick Club for a Comic-Con themed LEGO build at 4:00 pm. Geared toward ages 5 and older.

Join an Author Talk and Learn about our Creative Writing Space Program 

Author Talk 

Meet award-winning author Tomas Moniz for a conversation about community, writing, and his latest book, The King of Aloe Vera. 

Thursday, November 19 
6:00 pm 

 

Creative Writing Space 

Join our Creative Writing Space to write alongside others.

Tuesday, November 17 
4:00 pm 
Both programs at West

The Halloween Spirit Caught Our Furry Booklovers in Action 

We asked and you delivered - by sending adorable photos of your furry friends dressed up for Halloween.

We can only showcase a few in the newsletter, so pop over to Instagram for the big reveal.

On the left photo of cat with crown: Nima the Queen. You can bow down now! 

Center photo of four Pomeranians: Alice in Wonderland Pomeranian floof crew with Blueberry as the Queen of Hearts, Maddie as Alice, Toasty as the Mad Hatter, and Hazelnut as the White Rabbit.

On the right photo of cat in yellow: Dragons may love tacos, but Orlando - um, not so much. 

Please visit the Berkeley Public Library website for the most up to date information about events and services. 

Event Highlights 

Listen, move, create, and explore music at the library this month. Hear a solo classical guitar performance, jam with little ones at our interactive children's concerts, explore Black American music sessions featuring Jazz, R&B, RAP, Hip Hop, Soul, and more. Or find your own groove as you learn how to make a beat and write a song.

Find your rhythm with one of our many cultural connections:

• Join the Black Parents of Berkeley Writing Circle and if you are younger, join the Black Youth of Berkeley Writing Circle .
• Swing by the  mak-'amham/Cafe Ohlone to discuss a East Bay Ohlone culture, experiences, and community.
• Take your family to an interactive a Native heritage experience full of storytelling, singing, music, puppets, and more.
• Groove with others in an interactive African drumming class with dancing, songs, and stories.

Learn about pollinators and UC Berkeley's cutting-edge research, join various culture and hobby-related clubs, start crafting your own memoir, and explore local history in the Berkeley History Room at Central.

If you are into crafting, come sew a backpack, make a plushie charm, crochet, or create a fiber art project with others.

Explore the full monthly calendar and plan your next visit.

Black Parents of Berkeley Writing Circle 

For all Black Parents and caregivers in Berkeley! Be heard, share experiences and build community. No writing experience needed.

Thursday, November 12 
5:30 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Berkeley History Room 

Search for a long-lost Berkeley relative, find out who lived in your home before you, or explore Berkeley's rich history.

Wednesdays 

November 4 

November 18 
10:00 am at Central

Musical Storytime with The Story Time Band 

Music, movement, and stories for children.

Thursdays 
November 5 at The Freight

November 12 at Frances Albrier Community Center

10:30 am for both events

Stories Only You Can Tell: A Memoir Workshop 

Your life is full of stories - get started on telling them with the help of Katharine Harer, a memoir and creative writing teacher at the SF Writing Salon.

Saturday, November 14 
2:00 pm at Claremont

The Three Sisters, Corn, Bean, and Squash 

A highly interactive experience with elderberry clapper sticks, storytelling, singing, 7-foot tall corn husk puppets, and more! Ages 4 and up.

Saturday, November 21 
11:30 am at West

The Buzz About Pollinators 

Learn about pollinators and how native plants support them with naturalist Margaret Flaherty.

Saturday, November 21 
3:00 pm at Claremont

Electronic Music-Making Studio 

Play and learn music creation with Ableton music software and instruments.

Tuesday, November 24 

4:00 pm at Central

Sew a Backpack 

Learn the basics of using a sewing machine in this workshop with local sewing expert Kathe Boyd.

Monday, November 23 

10:00 am at Claremont

Dia de los Muertos Pet Altar 

Día de los Muertos Community Ofrenda for Pets.

November 2 - November 7 

All day during library hours at North

Author Talk with Julia Moss 

Local author of Wanderers explores the history of transportation and the amazing vehicles people have invented over time.

Monday, November 9 
4:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Family Game Night 

Learn a new game or revisit a classic. Light snacks provided.

Thursday, November 5 
5:30 pm at West

Super Cinema 

Join us Friday afternoons for movies sharing the same theme each month.

Fridays, November 6,13, 20 
2:30 pm at Central

mak-'amham/Cafe Ohlone 

Join founders Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino as they discuss East Bay Ohlone culture, experiences, and community.

Thursday, November 19 
3:30 pm at "Cafe Ohlone" or “Hearst Museum of Anthropology” - on the UC Berkeley campus at Bancroft on College Avenue.

Cuauhtli Mitotiani Mexica 

Experience traditional Aztec dancing with Berkeley High School's R.I.S.E. Danza! 30 minute performance followed by a craft.

Monday, November 23 
1:00 pm at Central

Popping the Science Bubble 

Join us for this science series about cutting-edge research happening at UC Berkeley, directly from the scientists themselves.

Tuesday, November 17 

5:30 pm at Central

The Break Room Sound event highlights 

Curated Music Listening Music Sessions 

Experience Black American sound at this sonic exhibit.

Tuesday, November 3 

5:00 pm

Tuesday, November 17 

3:00 pm

Both events at Central

In the Stax feat. Kayatta 

An American rapper, poet, producer and educator recently crowned best Hip Hop artist in Sonoma.

Thursday, November 5 

6:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Beat Making and Song Writing Workshop 

Youth-centered workshop of beat construction, sampling, songwriting, and collaborative music-making. 

Tuesday, November  10 
3:00 pm at Central

Church of John Coltrane Convocation and Jazz Night 

Honoring John Coltrane through live performance, listening, testimony, and reflection.

Friday, November 13 
3:00 pm at Central

Cosmic Full Moon Jazz Affirmations and Sound Bath 

Enjoy an outdoor evening of soft yoga, collective reflection, and affirmations under the full moon.

Tuesday, November 2 
5:00 pm at North

Please register to attend. 

Youth Spotlight 

The Three Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash 

A highly interactive experience with elderberry clapper sticks, storytelling, singing, 7-foot tall corn husk puppets, and more! Ages 4 and up.

Saturday, November 21 

11:30 am at West

Black Youth of Berkeley Writing Circle 

A workshop led by Berkeley Youth Poet Laureate Nolawit Ketema for Teens to explore and learn writing techniques.

November 12 

5:30 pm at Tarea Hill Pittman South

Teen Hangouts 

Every Wednesday visit your local library ( North , Claremont , and Tarea Hill Pittman South ) for games, snacks, and crafts.

November 4 

November 18 

2:00 pm, various locations (see above)

Math Tutoring 

Get help in math for grades K-12.

Thursdays 

November 5 

November 12 

November 19 

4:00 pm at Central

Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPG) Club 

Beginner and seasoned adventurers join us for tabletop role-playing games!

Tuesday, November 17 
4:00 pm at North

Please register to attend.

Beads for Every Body 

Make a beautiful, beaded bracelet for yourself.

Tuesday, November 3 

3:30 pm at West

Collage Club 

Bring out your inner artist with this simple and engaging art form. Open to all; children 12 and under should be accompanied by an adult.

Fridays, November 6 and 20 
4:00 pm at Central

Very First Concerts 

A free classical musical series with our youngest listeners in mind. Each interactive, 30 minute concert features a central theme, short selections, and fun hands-on musical activities geared toward families with young children.

Saturday, November 7 

11:30 am at Central

1:30 pm at West

Reading Buddies 

Kids pair up with a teen reading mentor to build reading confidence.

Wednesday, November 4 

4:30 pm at Central

MOCHA Creative Art Play 

Join us and the Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) for different projects with a Teaching Artist.

Thursdays and Fridays 

November 5 

November 6 

November 12 

November 13 

November 19 

November 20 

3:30 pm

Thursdays at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Fridays at Central

Puzzle Swap 

A monthly puzzle swap to freshen your puzzle collection. Bring your old puzzles and go home with new ones.

Saturday, November 14 

10:00 am at Claremont

Kids Yoga 

Stretch bodies, minds, and hearts with yoga, mindfulness activities, and games.

Saturday, November 14 

11:00 am at West

Baby Toddler Storytime 

Join for books, rhymes, music and more.

Tuesdays

November 3 

November 10 

November 17 

November 24 

10:30 am

Tarea Hall Pittman South

Village Rhythms African Drumming 

Interactive fun with African drumming, dancing, songs, and stories!

Saturday, November 7 
3:00 pm at Claremont

Wellness, Art, and Music 

Shake It Off: A Somatic Reset for Stress Series 

Three-part interactive series on the first three Mondays of November.

Mondays 

November 2 

November 9 

November 16 

4:00 pm at West

Hearing Loss Presentation 

A family conversation about hearing loss.

Thursday, November 5 

3:00 pm at West

Line Dancing 

Step-by-step instruction of easy-to-do dances choreographed to a variety of music from Old Standards to Country, Latin, Rock-n-Roll, Hip Hop, and the latest hit tunes.

Tuesdays 

November 3 

November 17 

1:00 pm at Central

Bay Area Tabletop Role Playing Games (TRPG) Society 

A free indie Tabletop Role Playing Game convention brought to you by the Bay Area TTRPG Society (BATS)

Tuesday, November 10   
4:00 pm at North

Heart Talk: Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Youth 

Interactive session aimed at teaching youth heart health.

Saturday, November 14 

2:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Memory Cafe 

Join us in this free monthly gathering for seniors living with cognitive decline and the people who care about them.

Tuesday, November 10 
1:00 pm at North

Claremont Poetry Circle 

Share poetry, your own, the famous, the ancient, or something new.

Thursday, November 19 

6:00 pm

Music of Four Centuries: A solo Guitar Recital 

Classical guitarist Peter Fletcher will perform a program spanning the centuries without any amplification or microphones

Tuesday, November 3 

6:00 pm at Central

Free Accessible Kidney Screening 

Drop-in for a screening; no health insurance or appointment necessary.

Saturday, November 7 

10:00 am at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Quilting 

Make your own a quilt top in the company of others.

Wednesday, November 18 

2:00 pm at West

Registration required.

Visit Claremont for some great crafting opportunities! 

Claremont Crafternoons 

Get creative with fun, hands-on crafts for young children!

Tuesday, November 10 
3:00 pm

Pop-Up Creative Lab 

Bring your ideas to life with tools to explore graphic design, music, photography, sewing, electronics, art and crafts, 3D printing/design, and more.

Wednesday, November 18 

5:00 pm

Cozy Crafts 

Evoke comfort and warmth with this hands on crafts when you make adorable plushie bag charms.

Saturday, November 21 

11:00 am

Plus don't forget to come by at 10:00 am on Monday, November 23 to learn how to Sew a Backpack . 

Leamos Autoras 

¡Bienvenides al primer club de lectura en español de la Biblioteca Pública de Berkeley! Noviembre: Malinalli / Verónica Chapa.

Friday, November 20 
4:30 pm, Virtual

Herbalism with Hanan 

Join for a workshop on herbal healing.

Tuesday, November 17 

6:30 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Herbal Supports for Sleep 

Remedies to help you with sleeping.

Thursday, November 12 

5:00 pm at North

Please register to attend 

Community Resources 

Hearing Loss Presentation 

Learn about the building blocks of hearing, hearing loss, and potential treatments.

Thursday, November 5 
3:00 pm at West

CalFresh Trouble? 

Get free support from the Food Justice Project for CalFresh applicaitons. Drop by with any notice or correspondence related to your CalFresh decision. 

Saturday November 7 

3:30 pm at West

Social Services Drop-In 

Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.

Fridays

November 6 - 10:00 am at North

November 20 - 1:00 pm at West

Mondays

November 2 

November 16 

10:00 am at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Tuesday, November 3 

10:00 am at Claremont

Wellness Dance 

Join us for this supportive and inclusive Community Wellness Dance Class.

Thursdays

November 5 

November 19 

2:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Spectrum Community Services 

Need help paying your energy bill? Drop by for some help with an application.

Wednesday, November 18 

11:00 am at Central

Eviction Defense Center 

Need help with housing matters or facing eviction?

Thursday, November 12 
10:00 am at Central

ESL Conversation Club 

Come talk to others in English to help improve your understanding of the language.

Thursday, November 12 
12:00 pm at West

Focus on Updating Your Resume and Job Searching 

Shifting Norms and Advice for 2027 

What influences drive changes in resumes and job searching? Come find out.

Tuesday, November 10 
5:00 pm, Virtual

Gliding Your Job Search Over the Bumps Ahead 

What influences drive changes in resumes and job searching? Come find out.

Tuesday, November 24 
5:00 pm, Virtual

Technology Help  

Drop-in for technical help with your own device or our computers.

Fridays

November 6 

November 13 

November 20 

November 27 

11:00 am

Wednesdays

November 4 

November 18 

November 25 

Central (in-person), Virtual appointments can be scheduled online via Zoom.

November Death Cafe 

A group discussion "to increase awareness of death by helping people make the most of their (finite) lives."

Saturday, November 21 

2:00 pm at Central

Please register to attend. 

Event Calendar 

Many library programs are funded by the generous support of the 

Friends of the Berkeley Public Library . 

Thank you, Friends! 

Thank you Friends & Foundation!

All libraries are closed on Monday, October 12 for Indigenous People’s Day. All libraries will open late at 11:00 am on Friday, October 30 after staff training. 

Visit The Break Room Sound Installation this Fall 

Through December, our Central Library is hosting The Break Room , a sound-based art installation by artist Derwin Deon Brown II and the artist collective Black American Sound System (B.A.S.S.).

The exhibit will transform library spaces through sound, music, listening sessions and artist-led programs. Visitors can explore the main installation on the 2nd floor and a vinyl listening station on the 5th floor, with special events and performances throughout the Fall.

Check out functions of The Break Room at the end of event highlights. 

Derwin Deon Brown II and Berkeley Public Library Director Rebecca Alcalá-Veraflor at opening of The Break Room exhibit. 

"Berkeley Is": The collaborative public art project developed with Ohlone community partners, youth interns, artist Hannah Pae, Library Equity, Diversity and Inclusion staff, Indigenous Collaborations Committee, and the Berkeley Public Library Foundation. 

Come to "Berkeley Is" Land Acknowledgment Mural Reception 

Meet the Berkeley YouthWorks artists who helped bring the Berkeley Public Library’s Community Mural to life.

Explore the artwork, installed over the summer of 2026, as you search for your favorite Berkeley icons woven throughout the design.

Accompanied by digital and audio content, the mural transforms a transitional space into a place of learning and connection while improving wayfinding, strengthening community partnerships, amplifying Indigenous perspectives, and fostering belonging within the Library.

October 17

11:00 am at Central

Pet Parents: Send Your Pet’s Halloween Costume Photo by October 15 

Does your furry (or scaly, or feathery) baby have a Halloween costume this year? We want to see it!

Send us a photo* for a chance to be featured on Berkeley Public Library's social media on October 31. Bonus points if the costume has a bookish twist, like a little Hermione Granger, a tiny Dracula, or whatever your imagination cooks up.

To enter, email your photo to cluu@berkeleyca.gov with your pet's name, their costume, and any other details you want to share. Submissions due by October 15 . We'll select photos to feature on October 31!

*By submitting a photo, you grant Berkeley Public Library permission to share it on our social media channels and other communications materials. 

Our Fourth Annual Comic Constarts November 14 

A day of panels, workshops, artists, and more!

Featuring 27 guests with more added as we get closer to the event.

Check the event page for a full list of speakers, vendors, and schedule details.

Poster image created by local comic artist Jason Shiga. 

Setup your required PIN by October 15 

Starting October 15, 2026, you will need both your library card number and your PIN to sign in to Libby and Kanopy.

Your PIN is your last name.

Previously, you could access Libby and Kanopy with only your library card number. This added sign-in step helps protect your account and your borrowing information.

Libby and Kanopy are digital services provided by OverDrive. 

Please visit the Berkeley Public Library website for the most up to date information about events and services. 

Event Highlights 

This month you can enjoy Halloween themed events like a costume swap, tea party, or haunted themed party. Swap costumes or work on a fiber costume for the month with others.

Attend wellness classes to learn about effective communication, herbalism, kidney disease, and body alignment and movement.

Celebrate Latine Heritage Month with a film screening, live music, multiple activities honoring Día de los Muertos, and more!

East Bay Vivarium and Author Steph Lau 

Local author, Steph Lau, will read her new book Medusa's Pet Rock . After, the East Bay Vivarium will showcase some snakes.

Saturday, October 3 
3:00 - 4:00 pm at Central

Halloween Extravaganza with The Story Time Band and Fratello Marionettes 

Music, movement, and read-aloud stories for children and their caregivers.

Saturday, October 31 - Halloween event!

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

The Freight

Musical Storytime with The Story Time Band 

Thursday, October 1 

10:30 - 11:30 am

The Freight

Thursday, October 8 

10:30 - 11:30 am 
Frances Albrier Community Center

Fiber Arts Halloween Costume Creations 

Spruce your Halloween costume or make one from scratch.

Tuesday, October 6 
3:30 - 5:30 pm at Central

Mend, Alter, & Upcycle Your Clothes 

Bring your own items or use our collection to learn to mend and re-use clothes!

Tuesday, October 6 
4:00 - 7:00 pm at North

Registration required. 

Author Talk with Dorothy Lazard 

Demystifying the library including political threats and people's freedom to choose what to read.

Saturday, October 10 
4:00 - 5:00 pm at North

Left Coast Chamber Ensemble 

Special live concert with Anna Presler (shown above) and Leighton Fong of Left Coast Chamber Ensemble.

Saturday, October 24 

2:00 - 3:00 pm at Claremont

Leamos Autoras Club de lectura en español 

¡Únete al primer club de lectura en español de la Biblioteca Pública de Berkeley!

Thursday, October 8 at Central

Friday, October 30 meet Virtually

4:30 - 5:30 pm

American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez Screening 

Film director David Alvarado will join on Zoom after screening for a discussion.

Monday, October 5  
5:30 - 8:00 pm at Central

Super Cinema 

Join us Friday afternoons for a movies sharing the same theme each month.

Fridays, October 2, 9,16, 23, 30 
2:30 - 5:00 pm at Central

Author Talk with Khiara Bridges - "Expecting Inequity" 

Racism in reproductive healthcare in the US and her book.

Thursday, October 8 
5:00 - 7:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Your Turn, A Community Board Game Night 

Wednesday, October 14 
5:30 - 7:30 pm at West

Let The Land Breathe: The History of East Bay Shellmounds 

Learn the history of East Bay Shellmounds (sacred sites where First Peoples of the San Francisco Bay Area buried loved ones) with focus on West Berkeley.

Thursday, October 22 
6:00 - 7:30 pm at West

The Haunted Library 

Join for an afternoon of Halloween fun!

Thursday, October 29 

3:30 - 5:30 pm at Claremont

Costume Swap 

For all ages and sizes.

Thursday, October 15 
4:00 - 5:00 pm at North

The Break Room Sound event highlights 

In The Stax with Connoisseur Rat 

Come listen to Connoisseur Rat, an experimental Jazz musician from the Bay.

Thursday, October 1  
6:00 - 7:30 pm at Claremont

High Fidelity Radio Panel Discussion 

Where musicians and radio journalists speak about impact of radio in music and culture.

Thursday, October 22 
6:00 - 7:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Curated Listening Music Sessions 

Experience Black American sound at this sonic exhibit.

Tuesday, October 6 
Tuesday, October 20 

3:00 - 5:00 pm at Central

In the Stax Live Music 

Saturday, October 17  
3:00 - 5:00 pm at Central

Car Show and Live DJ Set 

Saturday, October 24 

2:00 - 4:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

CD Burning and Poster Collage 

For audio you can hold and art you can hang.

Thursday, October 15 
4:00 - 6:00 pm at West

Wild West Femme Cypher After Hours 

Join an after-hours femme hip-hop cypher where towering bookshelves become the backdrop for raw rhythm and wordplay.

Friday, October 30 
6:30 - 8:30 pm at  
Central

Registration required. 

Latine Celebrations 

Herencia Guantanamera 

Afro-Cuban music, dance and culture, all ages welcome.

Friday, October 2  
4:00 - 4:45 pm at Tarea Hall South Pittman

Worry Doll Craft 

Make your own Guatemalan worry doll to take home!

Tuesday, October 13 
4:00 - 5:00 pm at North

Día de los Muertos Cascada de Flores 

Una Ofrenda Musical - A Musical Altar for our Muertos.

Saturday, October 10 

3:00 - 4:00 pm at Claremont

Sugar Skull Craft  

Decorate a clay sugar skull. 

 

Tuesday, October 27 
4:00 - 5:00 pm at North

Celebrate Latine Heritage Month with Aguacate Music Kids 

Saturday, October 17 
10:30 - 11:15 am at Central

Día de los Muertos Pet Altar 

Submit photos of cherished pets to North Branch service desk or areeder@berkeleyca.gov through October 24.

Tuesday, October 27 - Saturday, November 7 

All day during operating hours at North

Live Music featuring LoCura   

Come enjoy live music in the library featuring Latin American sounds.

Thursday, October 15 
6:00 - 7:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Youth Spotlight 

Teen Hangouts 

Every Wednesday visit your local library ( North , Claremont , and Tarea Hill Pittman South ) for games, snacks, and crafts.

October 7

October 14

October 21

October 28

2:00 to 4:00 pm, various locations (see above)

Math Tutoring 

Get help in math for grades K-12.

Thursdays 

October 1 

October 8 

October 15 

October 22 

October 29 
4:00 - 5:30 pm at Central

Chess Club 

Come play chess with others from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. All ages and skills levels are welcome.

Thursdays at Central:

October 1 

October 8 

October 15 

October 22 

October 29 

Saturday, October 3  at North

Goosebumps 

Watch two Goosebumps movies back to back with friends.

October 3 

2:00 - 3:45 pm - Goosebumps 

4:00 - 5:30 pm - Goosebumps 2 

Both events at Claremont

Musical Instrument Petting Zoo 

Come try out a large selection of musical instruments to see what instruments you like playing.

Saturday, October 31 
2:00 - 4:00 pm at West

Ballet and Books 

Every Saturday drop in for Ballet and Books, a dance and literacy program for children ages 6–9 where movement-based learning is paired with reading skills to support early education. 

 

October 3 

October 10 

October 17 

October 24 

October 31 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Central

Kids' Terrarium Workshop 

Make your own terrarium with upcycled glass jars, succulent cuttings.

Friday, October 2 
3:30 - 4:30 pm at Central

Family Place Parent Child Playshops 

Enjoy open-ended, child-directed play with a variety of toys and art activities.

Friday, October 2 , 9, and 16 
10:15 - 11:15 am at Central

Register to reserve your spot. 

Reading Buddies 

Kids pair up with a teen reading mentor to build reading confidence.

Wednesdays 

October 7 

October 14 

October 21 

October 28 

4:30 - 5:15 pm at Central

MOCHA Creative Art Play 

Join us and the Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) for different projects with a Teaching Artist.

Thursdays and Fridays 

October 8 

October 9 

October 15 

October 16 

October 22 

October 23 

October 29 

October 30 

3:30 - 5:00 pm

Thursdays at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Fridays at Central

Stepping into STEM: Strawberry DNA and Brain Science for 3rd-5th Grades 

Join us for two sessions centered around different science-related themes, presented by young folks in STEM with an engaging activity!

Saturday, October 31 
2:00 - 3:30 pm at Central

Wellness, Art, and Music 

Pain Clinic with the Art of Self-Alignment 

Join us for a workshop with Brandon Chien, where you'll learn self-massage and alignment techniques to enhance flexibility, strength, and body awareness.

Wednesday, October 14   

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at Tarea Hill Pittman South

Wellness Dance 

Join us for a another series of this supportive and inclusive Community Wellness Dance Class.

Thursday,  October 1 , 2:15 - 3:15 pm

Thursday, October 15 , 2:00 - 3:00 pm 
Both events at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Bay Area Tabletop Role Playing Games (TRPG) Society 

A free indie Tabletop Role Playing Game convention brought to you by the Bay Area TTRPG Society (BATS)

Saturday, October 10 
10:00 am - 5:00 pm at Central

Bike Camping in the East Bay 

Learn about bike camping.

Saturday, October 1 7 
1:00 - 2:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Communicate Effectively  

Learn strategies and techniques to decode verbal and behavioral communication. This class is for caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's and other dementias.

Monday, October 26 

11:00 am - 12:00 pm at Claremont

Dance Party for Queer Families/Allies 

Join us for a costume party for adults and kids of all ages. Costumes are highly encouraged!

Saturday, October 24 

2:00 - 4:00 pm at West

Read to a Dog 

A great way for children to practice oral fluency, spend time with a friendly dog, and have fun. Ages 5 to 12.

Thursdays  

October 1 

3:30 - 4:30 pm at North

October 8 

October 15 

October 22 

3:30 - 4:30 pm at Claremont

Tai Chi 

Low impact exercise for all knowledge levels and ages. 

 

Saturday, October 3 

Saturday, October 10 

10:00 - 11:00 am at North

Tuesday, October 13 

Tuesday, October 27 

2:30 - 3:30 pm at Central

Sewing Machine Open Studio 

Sewing machines available for your own project.

Wednesday, October 28 

5:00 - 7:00 pm at North

Kidney Disease Presentation 

Learn about what chronic kidney disease is and how to maintain kidney health from the UC Berkeley Kidney Disease Screening and Awareness Program (KDSAP).

Saturday, October 24 

4:00 - 5:00 pm at North

Registration required. 

Cultivating Compassion in Difficult Times 

Join speaker to discuss importance of compassion in difficult times.

Tuesday, October 27 
6:00 - 7:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Community Resources 

Social Services Drop-In 

Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.

Fridays

October 2 - 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, North

October 16 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm, West

October 23 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm, West

Mondays

October 5 

October 19 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Tuesday, October 6 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Claremont

October Death Cafe 

A group discussion "to increase awareness of death by helping people make the most of their (finite) lives."

Saturday, October 10 

2:00 - 4:00 pm at Central

Register to reserve your spot. 

Eviction Defense Center 

Need help with housing matters or facing eviction?

Thursday, October 8 
10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Central

How Money Works 

Learn how life insurance works.

Saturday, October 3 
3:00 - 4:30 pm at Tarea Hall Pittman South

Technology Help   

Drop-in to the Central Library for technical help with your own device or our computers. No appointment is needed.

Fridays

October 2 

October 9 

October 16 

October 23 

October 30 

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Wednesdays

October 7 

October 14 

October 21 

October 28 

Central (in-person), Virtual appointments can be scheduled online via Zoom.

Event Calendar 

Many library programs are funded by the generous support of the 

Friends of the Berkeley Public Library . 

Thank you, Friends! 

Thank you Friends & Foundation!

September Happenings 

You made Berkeley Library's Fiber Mascot Contest such a roaring success. Follow us on Instagram to see what the new three winning mascots and the Berkeley Libraries are up to.

Thanks to everyone that entered, voted, visited the library mascot display, and supported the contest in any way. If you have not yet picked up your mascot, please schedule a time to do so through Friday, September 4.

If you are feeling inspired—like we are—by these incredible entries from our community, join other adult creators at some upcoming library events. Not only will you craft something cool, but you might also make a new friend and learn more about crafting from yarn, string, felt, and needles. 

Adults can join these activities:

• Fiber Arts at Central on  September 1 and September 15 
• Sewing Circle at Central on September 5
• Fiber and Needle Arts at North on September 9
• Sewing Machine Open Studio at North on September 23

Teens and Adults can also bring any project you're working on, learn from each other, and enjoy conversation at the:

• Community Craft Circle at Tarea Hall Pitman South on September 11 and September 25 

Please visit the Berkeley Public Library website for the most up to date information about events and services. 

Library News 

Not only is September "Back to School Month," but it’s also the start of the Fall Season.

What a great time to welcome our new Library Director , Rebecca Alcalá-Veraflor, following a yearlong search.

With more than two decades of Bay Area library experience, Rebecca is the first Latinx person to lead the Library in 65 years and brings a leadership approach rooted in community partnership, equity, and the belief that libraries can transform lives.

Fall marks fresh starts and growth—come explore possibilities and transform with us at the Library.

Catch the Luchador professional Mexican wrestling event, celebrate the Worldwide Day of Play with kids, or learn about living Ohlone culture. This month, enjoy different cultures, learn, grow, and have fun.

Event Highlights 

Musical Story Time with The Story Time Band   

Music, movement, and read-aloud stories for children and their caregivers.

Thursday, September 3 

10:30 - 11:30 am

The Freight, Main Music Hall

Thursday, September 10 

10:30 - 11:30 am 
Frances Albrier Community Center

Berkeley & Portland LGBTQIA+ Book Club 

Every month focuses on a book featuring prominent Queer characters and themes, not restricted by genre.

Saturday, September 5 

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Virtual

Registration required. 

Celebrate Latinx Heritage w/ Museum of Children's Art 

Bring the whole familia and crea algo bello!

Saturday, September 12 
10:30 am - 12:00 pm 
West

Ala Costa Art Walk 

Walk or roll with us from Tarea Hall Pittman South Library Branch to the Ed Roberts Campus for a viewing of the Ala Costa X Ed Roberts Campus Community Mural.

Tuesday, September 29 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tarea Hall Pittman South, Outside the Tool Library

mak-'amham/Cafe Ohlone 

Learn about living Ohlone culture while enjoying tea and a treat.

Founders Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino (shown in photo) will discuss a topic related to East Bay Ohlone culture, experiences, and community.

Wednesday, September 23 

3:30 - 4:30 pm

Central

Lucha Libro Wrestling 

Join us for a live pro-wrestling event for all ages.

Watch as Luchador wrestlers take the ring and show off their high-flying moves in high-energy, story-driven matches.

Friday, September 4 
3:00 - 5:00 pm

Tool Lending Library Lawn at Tarea Hill Pittman South

Author Talk: Punk and Archiving 

Join Tom McEnaney and Judith Peraino, authors of We're Having Much More Fun , and Anna Brown, author of Hail Murray! , for a conversation about archiving and uncovering punk history in the East Bay and beyond.

Thursday, September 10 

6:00 - 7:00 pm  
North

Learn Book Binding 

This is a two part series led by artist Xochitlpili 'Prince' Faulkner, 10 year artist will focus on scientific illustrations of flora and fauna.

Wednesday, September 16 

Saturday, September 19 

3:00 - 5:00 pm 
Tarea Hill Pittman South

Registration required. 

Learn Simple Handsewn Bookbinding 

Learn the steps to create a handsewn saddle-stitch booklet and leave with a your own free journal.

Tuesday, September 29 
5:00 - 7:00 pm 
Central

Registration required. 

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention 

As part of the annual, weekend-long Berkeley Old-Time Music Convention, the string contest, family concert, jam sessions, and panel discussions will take place all day throughout the Central Library.

Saturday, September 19 

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Central, Mystery Room

Habitot Worldwide Day of Play 

Celebrate the Worldwide Day of Play with a Sensory Playdate for kids ages 1-7. 

 

Saturday, September 26 

3:00 - 5:00 pm

North

Acupuncture 101 

Join Dr. Lee for an informative talk on acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

Saturday, September 12 

11:30 am - 12:30 pm

North

Chinese Medicine for Chronic Pain 

Learn what the healing process for pain may look like, strategies to cope with pain during the healing process, and beneficial attitudes that support pain relief, plus more!

Saturday, 

September 26 

11:30 am - 12:30 pm Claremont

Herbal Skin Care 

Learn about gentle, herbal ingredients and simple routines for healthy skin with Hanan Masri.

Call to reserve your space: 510-981-6280

Wednesday, September 30 

6:00 - 7:30 pm

Claremont

Youth Spotlight 

Teen Hangouts 

Every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00pm visit your local library ( North , Claremont , and Tarea Hill Pittman South ) for games, snacks, and crafts.

September 2 

September 9 

September 16 

September 23 

September 30 

Navigate Living Online & In Real Life (IRL) 

Cybersecurity, identity safety, and wellness for young people in the digital age.

Tuesday, September 1 
4:30 - 6:00 pm 
North

College Essay Workshop with experienced college essay coach Jess Reich 

Are you ready to write your college application essays, but need help getting started? 

 

Thursday, September 10 

4:00 - 5:30 pm 
Central Library - Teen Room

Registration required. Only 5 spots left! 

Bad Art Afternoon 

Unleash your creativity in a light hearted environment and make some "bad" art!

CraftLab is the 3rd Wednesday of the month at West Branch. Every month is a different theme.

Wednesday, September 16 

3:00 - 4:30 pm 
West

Chess Club 

Come play chess with others. All ages and skills levels are welcome.

Every Friday afternoon: 

September 4 

September 11 

September 18 

September 25 

3:00 - 5:00 pm 
Outside the Claremont Branch

Little Explorers Petting Zoo 

Meet a variety of friendly animals in this amazing hands-on experience.

Registration is required, with 10 participants admitted at a time to allow for focused animal interaction.

Saturday, September 12 

2:30 - 4:30 pm

North

Once Upon a Time: A Storytime for School-Aged Children 

For ages 4 to 8, join Children’s Librarian Mr. Michael for a delightful selection of picture books.

Tuesday, September 1 
4:00 - 4:30 pm 
Claremont

Stepping into STEM: Strawberry DNA and Brain Science for 3rd-5th grades 

Join us for two sessions centered around different science-related themes, presented by young folks in STEM with an engaging activity!

Saturday, September 26 
2:00 - 3:30 pm 
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room

A Sprinkle of Spanish / Un poquito de Español Storytime 

Storytime with Spanish! ¡Hora de cuentos con español!

Every Wednesday morning: 

September 2 

September 9 

September 16 

September 23 

September 30 

10:30 - 11:00 am

Central

Storytime on the Lawn 

Join us at North Branch for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun! This 30-minute story time is geared towards children ages 2-5. 

 

Every Wednesday morning: 

September 2 

September 9 

September 16 

September 23 

September 30 

10:30 - 11:00 am 
North

Soccer Storytime 

Enjoy a special storytime with a professional soccer player from Oakland Roots.

Wednesday, September 16 
2:30 - 3:30 pm 
North

Wellness, Art, and Music 

Tai Chi 

Come practice this ancient Chinese Mind/Body low impact exercise for all knowledge levels and ages every week at our libraries.

Tuesday mornings 

September 8   

September 22 

2:30 - 3:30 pm

Mystery room

Central

Registration required. 

Saturday mornings 

September 5 

September 12 

September 19 

September 26 

North 

10:00 - 11:00 am

On the lawn

Playreaders Circle 

Bringing plays to life by gathering together to Read a different play each month.

Thursday, September 3 

Berkeley History Room

Thursday, September 10  

Community Meeting Room

Thursday, September 17 

Berkeley History Room

12:00 - 1:00 pm 
Central (all rooms located here)

Wellness Dance 

Join us for a another series of this supportive and inclusive Community Wellness Dance Class.

Thursday, September 3 

Thursday, September 17 

2:00 - 3:00 pm 
Tarea Hall Pittman South, Meeting Room

E-Bike Safety - Bike East Bay 

Learn e-bike basics.

Saturday, September 12 
11:00 am - 12:00 pm 
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch

Read to a Dog 

Children ages 5 to 12 can practice oral fluency by reading to a dog. It's a great way spend time with a friendly dog, and have fun.

Thursday, September 17 

Thursday, September 24 
3:30 - 4:30 pm 
North - Meeting Room

Ukulele Club   

Play ukulele with us. No experience needed, bring your own ukulele or use one of ours!

Saturday, September 5 

Saturday, September 19 

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Tarea Hall Pittman South

Old-time Tune Jam 

Bring your musical instrument and play American old-time repertoire in a jam-session.

Everyone, at all levels is welcome, including listeners.

Tuesday, September 15 
5:30 - 7:30 pm 
Central, Art & Music Study Hall

Chorus Circle 

Join us for an intergenerational folk song circle and build community through singing a mix of old and new songs.

Saturday, September 5 

2:00 - 5:00 pm 
Tarea Hall Pittman South, Meeting Room

Community Resources 

Veteran Support Services 

Come to Central and speak to a Swords to Plowshares representative about rapid rehousing, back rent support, employment and training referrals and more.

Wednesday, September 16 

2:00 - 4:00pm

Central, 1st floor near the entrance.

Social Services Drop-In 

Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.

Friday, September 4 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

North

Friday, September 18 

1:00 - 3:00 pm

West

Monday, September 21 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tarea Hall Pittman South

Friday, September 25 

1:00 - 3:00 pm

West

Insight Housing 

The Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Alameda Team will be on-site to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Wednesday, September 2 

11:00 am - 1:00 pm 
Central

September Death Cafe 

Sarah Hill, a Bay Area end-of-life doula, will share how she helps individuals and their constellation of care navigate end-of-life transitions. Questions welcome after the presentation.

Saturday, September 12 

2:00 - 4:00 pm

Central

Register to reserve your spot.

Take Back Your Privacy 

Learn tips and alternative platforms to safeguard your digital footprint in this data autonomy series!

Thursday, September 17 

5:30 - 7:00 pm

Tarea Hall Pittman South, Meeting room

Technology Help   

Drop-in to the Central Library for technical help with your own device or our computers. No appointment is needed.

Every Friday: 

September 4 

September 11 

September 18 

September 25 

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Every Wednesday: 

September 2 

September 9 

Central (in-person), electronic classroom

Virtual appointments can be sceduled online via Zoom.

Do You Need Medical Care? 

Get help for assistance connecting with urgent care, care coordination and more. Services provided free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the event.

Tuesday, September 8 
10:00 am - 3:00 pm 
Central

Eviction Defense Support 

Get help with substandard housing, subsidized housing, rent increases, fair housing, and eviction defense, plus Rental Assistance Applications for the City of Berkeley.

Thursday, September 10 

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Central

Bay Area Community Services (BACS) 

If you need help with housing, shelter, and employment resources come to the library to meet with a prepresentative from BACS.

Thursday September 10 

Thursday, September 24 

1:00 - 3:00 pm

Central

Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer's 

Dr. Anu Agarwal covers typical age-related changes, common warning signs of Alzheimer's, how to approach someone about memory concerns, and resources offered by the Alzheimer's Association.

Monday, September 28 
11:00 am - 12:00 pm 
Claremont - Flex Space

Event Calendar 

Many library programs are funded by the generous support of the 

Friends of the Berkeley Public Library . 

Thank you, Friends! 

Thank you Friends & Foundation!