Welcome to a stunning September at the Oakland Public Library! This month we're celebrating Library Card Sign Up Month, Hispanic Heritage Month (starting the 15th), National Literacy Month, and the 60th anniversary of the Fruitvale Branch!
Here’s a few events you can look forward to:
Screen Printing
Local artist Chris Granillo reached a screen printing workshop in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month! In this very popular workshop, you'll learn the basics of screen printing and create a one-of-a-kind screen printed tote bag.
Fruitvale Branch's 60th Anniversary
Come celebrate the 60th birthday of the Fruitvale Branch, the first Spanish-language library in the nation! There'll be balloon twisting, henna for all ages, Marima Mejor Melodía de Oakland performances, food, and a raffle.
Meet the Author of Everyday Sake
Kayoko Akabori and Yoko Kumano, proprietors of Oakland's Umami Mart, will discuss their book, Everyday Sake: The Go-To Guide for Choosing, Pairing, and Serving. Kayoko and Yoko will be joined by Shawn Conway, former CEO of Peet's Coffee, who will moderate this discussion
MOCHA at the library
(Various locations and dates)
MOCHA workshops focus on building creativity, social-emotional and academic skills through art. Join us for monthly art workshops for children and families led by teachers from the Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA). (For ages 5-15 and caregivers.)
Cooking with Chef Marlene
Experience the heart of Chef Marlene's family recipes and the traditions that have shaped her love for Mexican food. Through each dish, she shares her deep respect for quality, local ingredients and the meaningful relationships with farm workers and all those who care for the land—bringing warmth, connection, and community to every bite.
Marlene will be making bebidas/drinks: Atole, Champurrado, Pinole
Find more Hispanic Heritage Month programs and reading recommendations.
DIY soap workshop
In this class, local maker and textile artist Bea Byrne will guide you through designing and mixing your own personalized soaps. Choose the colors and scents that best suit you personally, mixing and matching to create unique combinations. Each student will leave class with 3 individual soaps, as well as the know-how to make more at home!
Finally, here is your booklist of the month in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Hispanic Heritage in California and the Bay Area
Explore context & community with these Hispanic Heritage Month selections! All titles are available to view in the Oakland History Center; some are also available at other locations.
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