The Contra Costa County Library has selected “James” by Percival Everett as the featured book for this year’s Read Contra Costa program. Running from September 2 to November 8, 2023, the initiative invites residents to engage with the powerful novel, which offers a retelling of “Huckleberry Finn” from the perspective of its character Jim.
Readers can access “James” in various formats, including hardback, e-book, and e-audiobook. The library encourages community members to join the conversation around the book and participate in events designed to enhance their reading experience. For more information on upcoming activities and local book clubs, visit the library’s website at ccclib.org. This year, the program includes partnerships with Los Medanos College and the Richmond Public Library, further enriching community engagement.
As part of the program, the library is also promoting Library Card Sign-Up Month throughout September. A library card grants access to a wealth of resources, including e-books, streaming films, online tutoring, and free subscriptions to newspapers and magazines. This initiative aims to enhance the educational experience for students of all ages by providing essential tools for learning and exploration.
In addition to the Read Contra Costa program, the Contra Costa County Library is set to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of special events and programs. One highlight is a multipart celebration at the Pittsburg Library, which includes an exhibit titled “Quinceañera Memories: Stories from Our Community.” This exhibit features personal reflections and photographs from local women sharing their quinceañera experiences.
Another exciting event, the “Quinceañera Fashion Show and Fiesta,” will take place at 11:30 a.m. on September 13. The event features models showcasing traditional attire, as well as a performance by the Mariachi Serenade, allowing attendees to learn more about this cherished cultural tradition.
The library also recently introduced PebbleGo Science, a digital resource aimed at K-2 students. This platform includes narrated texts, animations, and educational videos that help young learners explore subjects such as math, engineering, technology, and the sciences.
For those seeking entertainment, the library offers access to Kanopy, a movie-streaming service that provides thousands of independent, classic, and documentary films. Library cardholders have 24 tickets each month to watch films, and from September 19 to 28, users can enjoy the film “The Love Punch” without using their tickets.
The Contra Costa County Library system continues to innovate and provide valuable resources to the community. For questions about library services, programming, or to sign up for a library card, individuals can reach out via email at [email protected] or text inquiries to 925-344-5524.
Upcoming events include a Fiction Writing Workshop on September 9 at the Martinez Library, designed for both new and experienced writers. Participants will engage in pre-writing exercises to enhance their craft. Another notable event is “Consumer Reports Made Easy,” scheduled for September 23 via Zoom, which will guide attendees in utilizing the library’s digital resources effectively.
The Contra Costa County Library remains a vital resource for the community, fostering a love for reading and learning through its diverse programs and initiatives.