Imagine you had access to free concerts, kids' performances, expert talks, a seed bank, a portable photo studio, a California State Parks pass, and thousands of books — all in one place and within a few blocks of downtown San Mateo. You don't have to imagine it; it's the library, and this month it's throwing a party!

First observed in 1958, National Library Week is sponsored by the American Library Association and occurs each April. In 2026, it is celebrated April 19–25, with the theme "Find Your Joy at the Library."

The San Mateo Public Library Foundation is marking the week with San Mateo Celebrates!, its annual National Library Week festival. This year's theme is "A Place for Everyone's Story," honoring the Main Library's 20th anniversary and the role it plays as a shared civic space where individual lives and community history meet.

The festival lineup includes a few kid- and family-friendly activities, including:

• April 22: San Mateo Delights is headlined by Grupo Falso Baiano, in celebration of nearly two decades of partnership with Music at Kohl Mansion.
• April 25: Generations Day is a full-day, multi-generational celebration featuring storytelling, José-Luis Orozco, Chef Martin Yan, and characters from Elephant & Piggie, bringing families together to mark the Main Library's twentieth year.
• April 26: Library Day with the SF Giants!

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!