First observed in 1958, National Library Week, sponsored by the American Library Association, occurs each April. In 2025, it is celebrated April 6-12.

The San Mateo Public Library Foundation is spotlighting the programming that the Library offers, including many special events. There are quite a few kid- and family-friendly activities, including:

• Any time during March 1 - April 9, go on a self-paced scavenger hunt that involves visiting one or all three branches of the San Mateo Public Library (with a chance to prizes).
• On April 6, bring the whole family to check out all the library-related programming and performances at a festival in the main library, including storytime, a magic show, puppets, and music.
• On April 7, SF Shakes will be performing a shortened version of Romeo and Juliet geared toward students.
• Also on April 7, enjoy the first-ever Library Night with the SF Giants!
• Parents, test your knowledge at Trivia Night on April 11.
• To wrap it all up on April 12, bilingual educator and performer José-Luis Orozco will host an afternoon of community fun including live music and the winners of the children's poetry contest and scavenger hunt will be announced.

More details can be found at: www.sanmateocelebrates.com. Burlingame has events too!

After the week is over, visit the San Mateo Public Library to take advantage of its regular offerings. Did you know that you can:

• Attend book clubs and other meetups, as well as storytimes (including baby, toddler, family, and many more)
• Take your kids to watch movies (including after school movie clubs and Saturday morning cartoons)
• Sign up for crafting and other classes
• Borrow a California State Parks Pass and equipment (backpack kit and child carrier backpack kit)
• Access free seeds from the seed bank to plant in your garden
• Get assistance with your computer or electronic device from Tech Help
• Use or borrow various equipment, such as sewing machines, induction stove kits, portable photo studios, and lots more
• Reserve museum passes through Discover and Go

All of this is available for free, as long as you have a library card!