October 2023 at OPL

Welcome to ominous October at the Oakland Public Library! 

This month we're leaning into the spooky vibes with the family friendly Halloween Parade (with allergen free candy!) and the long awaited Haunted History Bike Ride for daring adults! We also have pumpkin painting for teens and a kids costume swap so the young folks can enjoy the fall festivities too. The Cesar E. Chávez branch will also have a community Día de Los Muertos Community Altar, opens a new window that you are invited to contribute to and we'll also have a series of sugar skull decorating crafts at various branches.

And yes! We're putting on a brand new library card art contest! Details will follow shortly so stay tuned.

Fall History Series

The Oakland History Center’s fall series is back this October! From audio storytelling to a haunted bike ride, join us for our series of events showcasing Oakland’s rich history. Follow @oaklandhistorycenter for more Oakland History Content!

Halloween Parade

Come trick-or-treat at the Main Library in your scariest, shiniest and best costumes.We'll parade all through Main, starting in the Children’s Room. We'll have stickers and bookmarks in addition to allergen-free candy, too!

Haunted History Bike Ride

RSVP required! Please bring a bike in working order, water and fuel for your ride, and a helmet if you wear one. Costumes encouraged!

Día De Los Muertos Community Altar

Our Día de Los Muertos Altar will be on display until November 12th, 2023. If you would like to contribute a picture, please make it 4x6 or smaller. Please include your information on the back of the photo if you would like it back; if not it will become part of our altar next year. // Nuestro Altar del Día de los Muertos estará en exhibición hasta el 12 de noviembre de 2023. Si desea contribuir con una imagen, hágala de 4x6 o más pequeña. Incluya su información si desea recuperar la imagen, de lo contrario, formará parte de nuestro altar el próximo año.

Pumpkin Painting

For children and teens -- all materials provided, while supplies last. Presented by the Chávez and Rockridge Library Teen Advisory Boards.

Kids Costume Swap

Bring clean, gently used costumes and accessories to Dimond Branch Library! We are accepting costume donations starting Monday, October 9th. If you are contributing costumes, please arrive before 2pm!

Library Card Contest

Details coming soon.