January marks the celebration of Picture Book Month, and the Contra Costa County Library system is engaging the community with the theme “Bundle Up with Picture Books.” This initiative emphasizes the importance of reading picture books, which foster vocabulary development and comprehension skills in children while creating cherished moments between young readers and their caregivers.
Throughout the month, library branches will host various activities designed to promote reading and bonding through literature. Visitors can participate in a cozy seek-and-find, engage in a hot cocoa craft, and take part in a book bundle checkout challenge. The library system encourages everyone to stop by and explore these interactive events, designed to make picture books a central part of the community’s experience.
For those looking to start the new year with fresh reading material, the library offers a personalized book recommendation service. By completing a brief questionnaire on the library website at ccclib.org/personalized-picks, patrons can receive curated lists tailored to their interests within a week. This initiative aims to connect readers with new titles, including staff picks, bestsellers, award winners, and new releases.
Community Events and Workshops
The Contra Costa County Library system is also hosting a variety of community events throughout January. Notably, there will be an introduction to the art of Chinese calligraphy with Jojo Liu to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year. Attendees will learn the basics of traditional Chinese calligraphy, including brush techniques and essential strokes. Registration is required for this popular workshop, with sessions scheduled across various locations, including the Walnut Creek Library and the San Pablo Library.
In addition, readers can meet local author and illustrator Robert Liu-Trujillo at the El Sobrante Library on January 10 at 12:00 p.m. Liu-Trujillo, a lifelong artist, will share insights from his multifaceted career in public art and children’s book publishing.
For those interested in organizing their living spaces, a workshop titled “Clutter-Free in 2026 — How to Let Go and Get Organized” will be held on January 13 at 6:00 p.m. at the Martinez Library. Local professional organizer Jenna Carlsson will guide participants through effective strategies for creating a calming and rejuvenating environment.
Additional Programs for All Ages
The library is also offering activities for children, including a Capoeira class for kids aged 5 to 8 years on January 17 at 11:00 a.m. at the Dougherty Station Library. This program introduces participants to the Afro-Brazilian cultural art through a combination of martial arts, acrobatics, and dance.
Teens can look forward to a DIY Boba Workshop at the San Ramon Library on January 22 at 16:30. Participants will learn how to create their own boba tea drinks, with all materials provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
To stay updated on library services and programming, community members can visit ccclib.org to sign up for a library card and access a wealth of resources. For inquiries, the library can be contacted via email at [email protected] or through text at 925-344-5524.
The Contra Costa County Library system, under the guidance of its public information officer, Brooke Converse, continues to provide valuable resources and programs to enhance community engagement and literacy.
