November 8, 2007

It’s all happening at the Almaden Branch Library

By Ed Koetitz, Almaden
Young Adult Librarian
Special to the Times

Doris Dillon Children’s Library dedication
Join us as we dedicate the Doris Dillon Children’s Library on Saturday, Nov. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. Nationally recognized librarian and educator Doris Dillon inspired Almaden students to love reading, learning and life in a career spanning more than 30 years.

The National World War II Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. on May 29, 2004.

Twice named Teacher of the Year by local schools, Dillon was known for bringing literary characters to life. Although she died of ALS in 2001, the Children's Library of the Almaden Branch, named in her honor, will carry on her legacy, introducing children to the joys of reading for many years to come.

The schedule of the day's events includes the Doris Dillon Children's Library Dedication, a light reception, visiting author program featuring Robert San Souci and a book-signing opportunity with a closing reception.

The Doris Dillon Children’s Library prominently displays a quote by her that captures her philosophy of life: “Never lose sight of the big picture and how precious each day is – there is so much sunshine to gather.”

Wartime memory sharing and luncheon
The Almaden Branch Library and the Almaden Community Center are co-sponsoring a Wartime Memory Sharing event.

Special guest retired Maj. Don Clawson will speak about his career in the U.S. Air Force during the height of Cold War tensions. In addition, he will share his experiences related to the task of writing about difficult and painful war memories.

Afterwards, participants will get a chance to write their own memoirs about wartime experiences, whether they were enlisted or if they were on the home front, perhaps going to work for the first time because of the war.

A light luncheon will be served and there will be an opportunity for open sharing and discussion. To sign up for the event, call (408) 808-3040 or visit the Almaden Library information desk. Signing up in advance is not required, but it is helpful to obtain a rough headcount for the luncheon. This event takes place on the second floor of the Almaden Community Center in Room 3.

November events
- On Friday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 4:45 p.m., teens ages 13-18 are invited to participate in our monthly teensReach meeting held in the library’s program room. The purpose of the group is to provide input on library programming and purchases that are geared for teens. Community service credits are given to participating students. Light refreshments are served courtesy of the Friends of the Almaden Library.

- Family Story Time is held on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s program room. Barbara Gilbert, Almaden’s children’s librarian, will share fun stories, songs, and finger plays geared toward the whole family. (There will be no story time during December.)

- Preschool Story Time is held on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:15 a.m. in the library’s program room. “Mr. K” will share stories, finger plays, songs and puppets for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers (no story time during December).

- Mother Goose Story Time is held on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. in the library’s program room. There will be nursery rhymes, finger plays, stories and songs tailored for children 12 months to 2 years and their caregivers (no story time during December).

- A homework center is available to students Monday and Tuesday from 3:30 to 6 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. This educational enhancement program has two paid staff members and is held in the library’s program room.

- Reading to children volunteers are available in the children’s area on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Thursdays from 12 to 1 p.m., and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

- ESL Conversation Club is held Wednesdays from 12 to 1 p.m. in the library’s program room. Come practice your English-speaking skills with our friendly conversation group.

For news of other library activities, including those at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, visit: http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/events/.

Almaden Branch Library is located at 6445 Camden Avenue. The library will be closed Monday, Nov. 12 for Veterans’ Day and Thursday, Nov. 22 and Friday, Nov. 23 for Thanksgiving. Regular hours are Monday 2 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For questions, please call (408) 808-3040 during business hours. E-mail may be sent at any time: ab.sjpl@sjlibrary.org.

Ed Koetitz is a Youth Services Librarian at the Almaden Branch Library.