In this Issue

A message from Executive Director Sarah Beck, new library at Juvenile Hall, new Branciforte Friends chapter, branch events, and ways to support the Friends

Message from our Executive Director

Dear Friends,

My background as a nonprofit leader has brought me here from adventures through public gardens, museums, and new media (all allies to the library world). It is the fundamental accessibility for everyone to ideas, to knowledge, to culture, and to shared experience that drives my passion to support the Santa Cruz Public Libraries. I am so happy to be here.

There are many collective achievements for us to celebrate. I hope you will enjoy our latest feature story "Boundless Minds" that demonstrates the incredible impacts of a deserving program this community rallied to support. 

As we embrace the core idea that Everyone Can Be a Friend, we will strive to provide pathways for all members of our community to support the libraries that serve them. We honor your willingness to participate, volunteer, and donate towards these vital community centers.

I deeply appreciate your participation and support.

Your Friend,

Sarah Beck

Executive Director

Friends of Santa Cruz Public Libraries

Latest News

Collaboration is at the heart of the work of the Friends of the Library. In June 2024, a new library opened at Juvenile Hall as a result of partnerships between the Santa Cruz Public Libraries’ Jail Reach team, the County Probation Department, the County Office of Education, and the Friends of the Library. Read more.

Are you passionate about libraries and community? Join us in building a new chapter of the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries! We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to help shape the future of the Branciforte Branch Library. Together we can create vibrant spaces that foster learning, inspire creativity, and inspire community members.

New Friends Chapter Planning Meeting

August 29, 2024 1 pm

Branciforte Branch Library Community Room

230 Gault Street, Santa Cruz

Baby Grand Piano Now Available!

When the pianist in your household sits before this baby grand piano, your home will be filled with rich and resonant sound! Like a baby elephant, a baby grand piano does need a bit of room but it will stay where you put it.

You can now take home this well-loved baby grand piano which has resided at the Downtown Library Branch for a $100 or more donation! Your gift will go directly to supporting library programs such as Munching with Mozart, bringing the joy of live performance to patrons.

To learn more please contact addisond@santacruzpl.org

Board Leadership Opportunity - Seeking a Boulder Creek Representative

Are you interested in getting further involved with your community? Do you want to play a part in fostering a county that is culturally rich and equitable? The Board of the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries is currently looking for a library-loving community member to join our team and contribute ideas, skills, and time to a growing organization.

If you have a special connection to the Boulder Creek Branch Library and would like to learn more about this board membership opportunity please contact Board President Janis O’Driscoll president@fscpl.org

Branch Events

Branch Locations, Hours, and Additional Events

Visit santacruzpl.org/branches for branch addresses and hours of operation. Click on your local branch below for complete listings of upcoming events, including talks, workshops, storytime, games, crafting, and many other activities for all ages.

Everyone Can Be A Friend

A wide range of opportunities include joining your local Friends Chapter or contributing to library support, literacy programs, working with children, or special projects. 

Your gifts may be designated for “where they are needed most” as well as to a single library branch. Your generous financial contributions directly support Santa Cruz Public Libraries.