Spring is here which means summer is just around the corner! If librarians say "summer", we definitely think of Summer Learning - now fast approaching with pre-registration kicking off May 1st and the official program running June 1st to July 31st. All ages of readers can participate, have fun, and learn all summer long- with a chance to to win sign-up prizes and exciting grand prizes throughout!
One way to get an immediate head start on Summer Learning is to pre-register May 1st-31st. All youth (18 and under) who pre-register will have a chance to win tickets to a San Francisco Giants baseball game or a $40 gift card to Hicklebee's Bookstore. Adults who pre-register will be eligible to win a Kindle Fire 7.
While pre-registration is one key step, here are several others you can take right now to ensure you are ready for SJPL's Summer Learning season and all its festivities:
Master the Library Essentials
Library cards are important!
Have you lost your library card? Haven’t used your card for a while? Maybe your card is expired. Did you forget your PIN number? We can help! You can apply for a new card and visit your closest library branch to pick up your new and shiny card. You can have your PIN reset, too, or reset your PIN yourself online.
Did you know that we currently offer different library card designs? Select the one that appeals to you the most.
Location! Location! Location!
Have you visited one of our branch libraries (or the magnificent King Library)? Each of them is unique and beautiful with original artworks to discover! Check which one is in your area and stop by during open hours.
Did you know that the materials housed in each of the branches are curated specifically for the local communities served? If you are looking for a great Spanish collection, visit the Biblioteca Latinoamericana. How about some new Vietnamese books or DVDs? The Tully Community Branch Library is a great place to find them.
Programs and events!
Get your feet wet before our Summer Learning extravaganza begins and attend one of the many upcoming SJPL programs! You can find something that will captivate your interests regardless of age! Or check out the growing list of Summer Learning events that will kick off starting June 1.
Did you know that SJPL offers hundreds of programs and events each week in both online and in-person formats? We host storytimes, gardening workshops, computer help, homework and book clubs, career workshops, and many more! Come check out what is happening in your community!
Reading
Reading… a vacation for the mind, as Dave Barry used to say. Are you ready for your summer vacation (meaning: reading a great book)? We offer a unique service called 5forU: Personal Reading Recommendations! Fill out a short form and have 5 suggested titles sent to your inbox in just a few days. Plus, while you wait for your recommendations, you can always browse our curated staff picks booklists.
Did you know that SJPL offers books in many formats? Print, eBooks, audiobooks, eAudiobooks are at your fingertips, all at no cost. Take advantage of it and start reading today!
Take-Home Books & Toys for Young Children
SJPL provides take-home materials for you to check out that can help children and caregivers find comfort in sharing books together, as well as discovering new ideas and skills to connect. Early Education has curated backpacks and activity boxes that promote the importance of early literacy through hands-on resources. Check them out this summer to explore, play, and grow!
- Books and More Bilingual Backpacks include books, toys, and a music CD so that you can read, talk, and sing with your child. Each bag also comes with a resource page with tips on how to capture children’s attention and make connections. These backpacks are available in English/Vietnamese and English/Spanish.
- Wee Read: Books to Go & Grow are themed bags that contain picture books that widely reflect culture, race, gender, family makeup, or ability. They also include a resource page for parents and caregivers with tips and ideas on how to foster positive early learning experiences using the material.
- Wee Play & Learn Activity Boxes include a variety of books and educational toys to take home and learn about concepts such as science, shapes, dinosaurs, and more!
Perfect Your Travel Plans
If travel is what you're looking forward to this summer, the library offers several eResources to help you plan:
- To visit places in and around San Jose, use Discover & Go to get free and discounted ticket passes for local attractions.
- To visit one of our state parks, you can check out one of our California Parks Passes to visit any of over 200 participating parks. You could also pick up an Outdoor Exploration Pack to enhance your visit, which already includes a park pass!
- Want an adventure a little closer to home? Check out one of the County Park Passes to visit some of the Santa Clara County Parks.
- To visit places within the USA, use A toZ the USA. Explore a state and its points of interest such as Architectural Landmarks, Historical Sites, Museums and Cultural Centers, Natural Sites, Parks, and more.
- To visit places around the world, use AtoZ World Travel. Explore the country you want to visit and learn about Climate & Weather, Language, Maps, Money & Banking, Transportation, Health & Medical Risks, Travel Warnings, and Visa, Passport, Customs, Entry & Departure requirements.
- You can also plan your travel with the Lonely Planet collection, an always available eBook collection in Overdrive. Wherever you are planning to head this summer, the library has got your back!
Happy Planning!
(Information Updated: April 2025)
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