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Register 19 Seats Remaining

Writing the College Essay @North

With Rae Shaw
2026-08-18 18:00:00 2026-08-18 19:00:00 America/Los_Angeles Writing the College Essay @North Learn about the college admissions practice and try out essay prompts. North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room

Tuesday, August 18
6:00pm - 7:00pm

Add to Calendar 2026-08-18 18:00:00 2026-08-18 19:00:00 America/Los_Angeles Writing the College Essay @North Learn about the college admissions practice and try out essay prompts. North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room

North Branch

North Branch Meeting Room

Learn about the college admissions practice and try out essay prompts.

Learn some basic do's and don'ts for writing a good essay and come away with some ideas of what to write for your own college personal essay. Teens should come prepared to write!

Recommended for students in 10th-12th grade but all teens are welcomed.

Rae Shaw brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from her professor experience at San Francisco State University. Her passion for teaching shines through as she imparts valuable insights and guidance to her students, nurturing the next generation of creative minds.

AGE GROUP: | Teens |

EVENT TYPE: | Literacy, Learning & Lectures |

Wheelchair accessible. Request sign language interpreter, real-time captioning, materials in large print, braille, or other accommodations by calling 510-981-6195 (Library) or the 510-981-6347 (City of Berkeley TDD line). Please refrain from scented products during public programs.

 

Many library programs are funded by the generous support of the Friends of the Berkeley Public Library. Thank you, Friends!

North Branch
Phone: 510-981-6250
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Upcoming Events

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Family Story Time @Central CCR
Sat, Jul 11, 10:30am - 11:00am
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for fun stories and songs in the Central Children's Room on the 4th Floor of the Central Branch!
Berkeley & Portland LGBTQIA+ Book Club
Sat, Jul 11, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Virtual
Monthly book club featuring prominent Queer characters and themes!
Registration is now closed
Ukulele Club @THP South
Sat, Jul 11, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Play ukulele with us. No experience needed, bring your own ukulele or use one of ours!
*CANCELED* Kids Create @West - Pinch Pots
Sat, Jul 11, 11:30am - 1:30pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
**This Program is Canceled.** Stop by West and make colorful pinch pots using air dry clay. All materials provided.
On the Record: Women of the World Take Over @ Central - A Pop Up Event
Sat, Jul 11, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
Celebrating Women's History Month with local vendors, artists, creators and entrepreneurs
July Death Cafe @Central
Sat, Jul 11, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
A Friendly Gathering with Strangers to Chat about Death.
Register
Chess @North
Sat, Jul 11, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Chess for all levels!
Toddler Art @North
Mon, Jul 13, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Explore early learning skills and imagination with your child through free-form art activities.
East Bay Community Law Center @Central
Mon, Jul 13, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library
Come to Central and speak to a EBCLC staff member about the following programs:
Fur, Scales and Tails @North
Mon, Jul 13, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
Meet a variety of animals - you might meet Baby Chicks, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, Turtles, Snakes, Ducks, Tortoises, Lizards, Tarantulas, Roosters, and More!
Monday Evening Storytime @Central CCR
Mon, Jul 13, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library
Jump into your jammies and join us for stories, songs, puppets, and more!
Need Medical Care @Central
Tue, Jul 14, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Central Library
Need help connecting to medical care or community resources?
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South
Tue, Jul 14, 10:30am - 11:00am
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South Books, rhymes, music and more
Lunch at the Library @Central
Tue, Jul 14, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Library Helper Club @North - for 4th and 5th graders
Tue, Jul 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Kids help out at the library!
Electronic Music-Making Studio @Central CMR - play and learn music creation with Ableton
Tue, Jul 14, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Drop-in, open-studio to play with Ableton music software and instruments -- learn how to make your own song *basic computer skills required*
Kids' Summer Movie Nights
Tue, Jul 14, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Kids’ Summer Movie Nights is a fun weekly movie program for elementary school students.
LEGO Club @Central CCR
Tue, Jul 14, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for a weekly LEGO club on Tuesday evenings from 4:30-6:00PM
Ways to rise above AI and show the unmistakable YOU - An interactive event for job seekers
Tue, Jul 14, 5:00pm - 6:15pm
Virtual
An interactive event for job seekers
Autistic Connections @THP South - Autism Support Group and Social Club
Tue, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
A supportive and inclusive autism support group and social club
Conference Calendar Discussion @North
Tue, Jul 14, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
The North Branch hosts open converstations with Conference Calendar!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Wed, Jul 15, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Berkeley History Room Open Hours @Central - Every Wednesday 10:00am-1:00pm
Wed, Jul 15, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Berkeley History Room
Visit the Berkeley History Room, located inside the Central Library in the southeast corner of the 2nd Floor Fiction Reading Room, during open hours every Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm.
Storytime on the Lawn @North
Wed, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn,North Branch Meeting Room
Join us at North Branch for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun! This 30-minute story time is geared towards children ages 2-5.
Stay & Play @North
Wed, Jul 15, 11:00am - 11:30am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn,North Branch Meeting Room
An opportunity for kids to play with toys, soft blocks, and musical instruments after storytime.
Spectrum Community Services @Central
Wed, Jul 15, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library
Need help paying your energy bill?
Lunch at the Library @Central
Wed, Jul 15, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)
Wed, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Electronic Classroom
Drop in tech help
Watercolor @West
Wed, Jul 15, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
An unstructured, community space to get creative using watercolors. All supplies are provided
Library Obstacle Course @North
Thu, Jul 16, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Musical Story Time @South Berkeley Senior Center - with The Story Time Band
Thu, Jul 16, 11:15am - 12:00pm
South Berkeley Senior Center
Music, movement, and read-aloud stories for children and their caregivers
Playreaders Circle @Central - Bringing Plays to Life
Thu, Jul 16, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Gathering Together to Read a Different Play each Month
Lunch at the Library @Central
Thu, Jul 16, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Family Movie Matinee @North
Thu, Jul 16, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Enjoy a family-friendly movie matinee at North Branch in the meeting room on Thursdays 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm in July.
Chess at Central
Thu, Jul 16, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for casual chess every Thursday from 3pm-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
mak-'amham/Cafe Ohlone
Thu, Jul 16, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Other
Learn about living Ohlone culture while enjoying tea and a treat.
Thursday Features @THP South
Thu, Jul 16, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Join us for movies in the Library!
Mandarin Classes for Adults @North
Thu, Jul 16, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
8-week Mandarin Language class
This event is full
Poetry Circle @Claremont - a friendly reading circle
Thu, Jul 16, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Teen Room
Share poetry, your own, the famous, the ancient, something new, with friendly ears. We take several turns around the circle. Everyone is welcome, even those who just want to listen.
Library Obstacle Course @North
Fri, Jul 17, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Bilingual Baby Bounce (Spanish/Español) @West - Hora de cantos y juegos para bebé
Fri, Jul 17, 10:30am - 11:00am
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Storytime in Spanish and English for babies and toddlers
Stay-n-Play @West
Fri, Jul 17, 11:00am - 11:30am
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Stay-n-Play a while, right after our Bilingual Baby Bounce
Community Craft Circle @THP South
Fri, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Community Craft Circle, work on your knitting, crochet, embroidery, or any craft you like!  This is not a class, so there will be no instruction, but we learn from each other and enjoy conversation.
Social Services Drop-In @West
Fri, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
West Branch
Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.
Botany with East Bay Parks @Central
Fri, Jul 17, 1:00pm - 1:40pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Two sessions for different age groups!
Botany with East Bay Parks @Central
Fri, Jul 17, 1:50pm - 2:30pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Two sessions for different age groups!
Super Cinema
Fri, Jul 17, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Movies from all genres and eras.
Chess Club @Claremont - A weekly chess meet-up for all ages and levels.
Fri, Jul 17, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Claremont Branch Exterior
Chess Club happens every Friday from 3pm-5pm outside the Claremont Branch. All ages and skills levels are welcome. Boards, pieces and clocks are provided.
Bones at Central - Let's get in a game of bones!
Fri, Jul 17, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for some casual dominoes games every Friday from 3-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Collage Club @Central A&M
Fri, Jul 17, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
Whether you're a seasoned collage maker or you've never tried to collage before, bring out your inner artist with this simple and engaging art form!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Sat, Jul 18, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Family Story Time @Central CCR
Sat, Jul 18, 10:30am - 11:00am
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for fun stories and songs in the Central Children's Room on the 4th Floor of the Central Branch!
Kids Yoga @West
Sat, Jul 18, 11:00am - 12:00pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Young yogis will stretch their bodies, minds, and hearts with yoga and mindfulness activities and games.
International Chess Day Tournament - A causally competitive chess tournament
Sat, Jul 18, 11:00am - 5:30pm
Claremont Branch
Our Fourth annual International Chess Day Tournament happens on Saturday, July 18th at the Claremont Branch. The tournament is for all ages, with three age categories: Youth, Young Teen, and Adults. 
Register
Japanese American History Walking Tour @THP South
Sat, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Meet at the Tarea Hall Pitman Library and join Arlene Makita-Acuña on a walking tour of her childhood neighborhood, a red-lined district in post-WWII Berkeley.
Board Game Swap @North
Sat, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Get your game on this summer!
Friends of the Fountain & Walk - An Anniversary Celebration
Sat, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library
Celebrate and learn more about Berkeley's Fountain & Walk association
Library Obstacle Course @North
Sun, Jul 19, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Mon, Jul 20, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Social Services Drop-In @THPS
Mon, Jul 20, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch
Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.
Toddler Music Play Group @North
Mon, Jul 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Music fun for Kids! Explore and play different musical instruments.
The Magic of Michael Nguyen
Mon, Jul 20, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Come enjoy the Magic of Michael Nguyen
Monday Evening Storytime @Central CCR
Mon, Jul 20, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library
Jump into your jammies and join us for stories, songs, puppets, and more!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Tue, Jul 21, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South
Tue, Jul 21, 10:30am - 11:00am
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South Books, rhymes, music and more
Lunch at the Library @Central
Tue, Jul 21, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Using Tools @North - Literally How: A Life Literacy Series
Tue, Jul 21, 12:30pm - 2:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Learn how to use manual and power tools safely and successfully!
This event is full
Line Dancing at the Library @Central
Tue, Jul 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Mystery Room
Join us for a fun line dancing class.
Library Helper Club @North - for 4th and 5th graders
Tue, Jul 21, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Kids help out at the library!
Fiber Arts @Central - Where Knitters and Crocheters Meet!
Tue, Jul 21, 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Come play with yarn or hop on a sewing machine.
Creative Writing Space @West
Tue, Jul 21, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Come by West and enjoy our peaceful, friendly and community writing space. All levels of writers welcomed!
Kids' Summer Movie Nights
Tue, Jul 21, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Kids’ Summer Movie Nights is a fun weekly movie program for elementary school students.
LEGO Club @Central CCR
Tue, Jul 21, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for a weekly LEGO club on Tuesday evenings from 4:30-6:00PM
Old-time Tune Jam @Central Art & Music - hosted by Berkeley Old Time Music Convention
Tue, Jul 21, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
Bring your musical instrument and play American old-time repertoire in a jam-session with Berkeley Old Time Music Convention.
Popping the Science Bubble - How neurons spark
Tue, Jul 21, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library - Mystery Room
A UC Berkeley seminar series
Board Games @THP South
Tue, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Come make new friends, share your favorite board games, and try something new!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Wed, Jul 22, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Berkeley History Room Open Hours @Central - Every Wednesday 10:00am-1:00pm
Wed, Jul 22, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Berkeley History Room
Visit the Berkeley History Room, located inside the Central Library in the southeast corner of the 2nd Floor Fiction Reading Room, during open hours every Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm.
Storytime on the Lawn @North
Wed, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
Join us at North Branch for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun! This 30-minute story time is geared towards children ages 2-5.
Stay & Play @North
Wed, Jul 22, 11:00am - 11:30am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
An opportunity for kids to play with toys, soft blocks, and musical instruments after storytime.
Lunch at the Library @Central
Wed, Jul 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)
Wed, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Electronic Classroom
Drop in tech help
Nature in Your Neighborhood
Wed, Jul 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library
An urban nature walk for families with kids ages 5 and up. Adults must accompany children.
Sewing Machine Open Studio @North
Wed, Jul 22, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch
Sewing machines available for your own project
Library Obstacle Course @North
Thu, Jul 23, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
ESL Conversation Club @West
Thu, Jul 23, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
West Branch - Community Meeting Room
ESL Conversation Club @West
Lunch at the Library @Central
Thu, Jul 23, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
BACS @Central
Thu, Jul 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library
Need help with housing, shelter, and employment resources?
Family Movie Matinee @North
Thu, Jul 23, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Enjoy a family-friendly movie matinee at North Branch in the meeting room on Thursdays 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm in July.
Chess at Central
Thu, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for casual chess every Thursday from 3pm-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
The Many Voices of Cinderella - an SF Opera Guild Sing a Story program
Thu, Jul 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Claremont Branch
Learn about the opera Cinderella, then act it out with costumes and props!
Dragon Days - Get fired up about Dragons!
Thu, Jul 23, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Get fired up about dragons at THP South branch!
Mandarin Classes for Adults @North
Thu, Jul 23, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
8-week Mandarin Language class
This event is full
Library Obstacle Course @North
Fri, Jul 24, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Bilingual Baby Bounce (Spanish/Español) @West - Hora de cantos y juegos para bebé
Fri, Jul 24, 10:30am - 11:00am
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Storytime in Spanish and English for babies and toddlers
Stay-n-Play @West
Fri, Jul 24, 11:00am - 11:30am
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Stay-n-Play a while, right after our Bilingual Baby Bounce
Social Services Drop-In @West
Fri, Jul 24, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
West Branch
Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.
Super Cinema
Fri, Jul 24, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Movies from all genres and eras.
Chess Club @Claremont - A weekly chess meet-up for all ages and levels.
Fri, Jul 24, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Claremont Branch Exterior
Chess Club happens every Friday from 3pm-5pm outside the Claremont Branch. All ages and skills levels are welcome. Boards, pieces and clocks are provided.
Bones at Central - Let's get in a game of bones!
Fri, Jul 24, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for some casual dominoes games every Friday from 3-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Sat, Jul 25, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Family Story Time @Central CCR
Sat, Jul 25, 10:30am - 11:00am
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for fun stories and songs in the Central Children's Room on the 4th Floor of the Central Branch!
Line Dance with Carah @THP South
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 12:15pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Come learn line dances in the library with fitness instructor Carah Herring
Ukulele Club @THP South
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - South Teen Room
Play ukulele with us. No experience needed, bring your own ukulele or use one of ours!
Topaz Toddlers Reception @Central
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
Learn more about the Topaz Toddlers Art Project, on display at Central Library from July 1-31.
Cozy Crafts @Claremont
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Claremont Branch
Let's get crafty! Evoke comfort, warmth, and relaxation by engaging in hands-on crafts that prioritize calming processes and gentle focus.
Storytme @Edible Schoolyard
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 11:30am
Edible Schoolyard
Storytime at the Edible Schoolyard Berkeley
Kids Build Your Own Hero Figurine @THP South
Sat, Jul 25, 12:40pm - 3:20pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch
Builders will create their own action hero figurine!
This event is full
Rescheduled
The Movement Book Club @North
Sat, Jul 25, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
New date Saturday, July 25, 10:30am - 11:30am
North Branch
Come together to discuss a book, learn from others, and create meaningful connections in our community.
Just masa y más y más
Sat, Jul 25, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library - Mystery Room
Celebremos con orgullo el Día Internacional de la Mujer Afrolatina, Afrocaribeña y de la Diáspora.
Haiku and other Japanese poetic forms @Claremont - a great way to be present in your writing
Sat, Jul 25, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Haiku, senryu, and renga are forms of Japanese poetry. They can help a writer pay attention to every moment. These poems are short but they contain more than it appears.
Octavia’s Legacy: Imagining Futures She Made Possible @THPS - Artists explore Octavia's influence on speculative fiction
Sat, Jul 25, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Join us for Octavia’s Legacy: Imagining the Futures She Made Possible, a powerful evening honoring the enduring influence of visionary science fiction writer Octavia E. Butler.
Register
Bug Power with the Beetlelady
Sat, Jul 25, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join the Beetlelady to learn about her new book and meet live bugs up close.
In The Stax & Libraries Rock! - Featuring School of Rock Berkeley
Sat, Jul 25, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Teen Room
Rock out at this FREE concert in the Central Library’s Teen Room! The School of Rock Berkeley House Band will bring high-energy live music right to the library. Show starts at 4 PM—don’t miss it! 🤘
Library Obstacle Course @North
Sun, Jul 26, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Mon, Jul 27, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Sterling the Bubblesmith
Mon, Jul 27, 11:00am - 11:30am
North Branch
Experience Sterling the Bubblesmith's wonderful world of bubbles!
Author Nancy Suter - Taking the Helm
Mon, Jul 27, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Leaving Everything Behind: Sailing Across the Pacific
Monday Evening Storytime @Central CCR
Mon, Jul 27, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library
Jump into your jammies and join us for stories, songs, puppets, and more!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Tue, Jul 28, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South
Tue, Jul 28, 10:30am - 11:00am
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South Books, rhymes, music and more
Lunch at the Library @Central
Tue, Jul 28, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Library Helper Club @North - for 4th and 5th graders
Tue, Jul 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Kids help out at the library!
Electronic Music-Making Studio @Central CMR - play and learn music creation with Ableton
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Drop-in, open-studio to play with Ableton music software and instruments -- learn how to make your own song *basic computer skills required*
Kids' Summer Movie Nights
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Kids’ Summer Movie Nights is a fun weekly movie program for elementary school students.
How to Train your Dragon - Dragon movies in the library!!!
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
No drag-in your feet, come watch a movie with us!
Mystery Book Club @West - The Blessing Way
Tue, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
This month we will be reading "The Blessing Way" by Tony Hillerman
LEGO Club @Central CCR
Tue, Jul 28, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for a weekly LEGO club on Tuesday evenings from 4:30-6:00PM
Job searching: Roadmap to reach your next career destination
Tue, Jul 28, 5:00pm - 6:15pm
Virtual
An interactive event for job seekers
Romance Book Club @North
Tue, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Join us for a summer of love!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Wed, Jul 29, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Berkeley History Room Open Hours @Central - Every Wednesday 10:00am-1:00pm
Wed, Jul 29, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Berkeley History Room
Visit the Berkeley History Room, located inside the Central Library in the southeast corner of the 2nd Floor Fiction Reading Room, during open hours every Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm.
Storytime on the Lawn @North
Wed, Jul 29, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
Join us at North Branch for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun! This 30-minute story time is geared towards children ages 2-5.
Stay & Play @North
Wed, Jul 29, 11:00am - 11:30am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
An opportunity for kids to play with toys, soft blocks, and musical instruments after storytime.
Lunch at the Library @Central
Wed, Jul 29, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)
Wed, Jul 29, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Electronic Classroom
Drop in tech help
Sound Advice @North
Wed, Jul 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Celebrate Disability Pride Month!
Library Obstacle Course @North
Thu, Jul 30, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Lunch at the Library @Central
Thu, Jul 30, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Family Movie Matinee @North
Thu, Jul 30, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Enjoy a family-friendly movie matinee at North Branch in the meeting room on Thursdays 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm in July.
Chess at Central
Thu, Jul 30, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for casual chess every Thursday from 3pm-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Thursday Features @THP South
Thu, Jul 30, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Join us for movies in the Library!
Mandarin Classes for Adults @North
Thu, Jul 30, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
8-week Mandarin Language class
This event is full
Repulsive Reads @North
Thu, Jul 30, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
Repulsive Reads is a book club celebrating all things grim, grotesque, unsettling, macabre, and weird in fiction. Every last Thursday of the month from 5 pm - 6 pm.
Library Obstacle Course @North
Fri, Jul 31, All day
North Branch
Catch the Cat Obstacle Course at North Branch!
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
Central Library
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
Claremont Branch
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
North Branch
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
Tool Lending Library
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Library Late Opening
Fri, Jul 31, 10:00am - 11:00am
West Branch
All library locations are closed according to the 2026 Schedule of Holidays, Early Closings & Late Openings.
Community Craft Circle @THP South
Fri, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Community Craft Circle, work on your knitting, crochet, embroidery, or any craft you like!  This is not a class, so there will be no instruction, but we learn from each other and enjoy conversation.
Super Cinema
Fri, Jul 31, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Movies from all genres and eras.
Bones at Central - Let's get in a game of bones!
Fri, Jul 31, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for some casual dominoes games every Friday from 3-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Bubbles and Books
Fri, Jul 31, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Strawberry Creek Park
Bubble show and free books!
Leamos Autoras - Club de lectura en español (virtual)
Fri, Jul 31, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Virtual
¡Bienvenides al primer club de lectura en español de la Biblioteca Pública de Berkeley!
Sewing Circle @Central - Make or Mend
Sat, Aug 01, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Drop in and use one of our sewing machines.
Puzzle Swap @Claremont
Sat, Aug 01, 10:00am - 11:00am
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Join us for a community puzzle swap at Claremont Branch.
Family Story Time @Central CCR
Sat, Aug 01, 10:30am - 11:00am
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for fun stories and songs in the Central Children's Room on the 4th Floor of the Central Branch!
DnD Celebration @Central
Sat, Aug 01, 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - 1st Floor Non-fiction Room,Teen Room,The Commons
Join us for crafts, snacks, games, and more at our second annual D&D Celebration!
Games Galore Retro Edition @CCR - Some of your favorite games all together!
Sat, Aug 01, 1:30pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room,Children's Non-Fiction Room
Games Galore, Retro Edition: board games, card games, and Wii games on a big screen! Ages 6 and up.
Chess @North
Sat, Aug 01, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
North Branch - North Branch Meeting Room
Chess on the first Saturday of the month
Social Services Drop-In @THPS
Mon, Aug 03, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch
Join our Social Services Specialist for support on various services, including healthcare, housing, and employment.
Meet a City of Berkeley Firefighter
Mon, Aug 03, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Meet a Berkeley Firefighter!
The Books Are Open @ Central - A Berkeley tattooer artshow
Mon, Aug 03, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
An exhibition of work by artists from Berkeley tattoo parlors, plus vintage tattoo equipment and materials
Monday Evening Storytime @Central CCR
Mon, Aug 03, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library
Jump into your jammies and join us for stories, songs, puppets, and more!
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South
Tue, Aug 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Baby/Toddler Storytime @THP South Books, rhymes, music and more
Lunch at the Library @Central
Tue, Aug 04, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Line Dancing at the Library @Central
Tue, Aug 04, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Mystery Room
Join us for a fun line dancing class.
Beads For Every Body @West
Tue, Aug 04, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Hey families, stop by West every First Tuesday of the Month between 3:30-5:00pm and make a beautiful, beaded bracelet.
Fiber Arts @Central - Where Knitters and Crocheters Meet!
Tue, Aug 04, 3:30pm - 5:30pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Come play with yarn or hop on a sewing machine.
Kids' Summer Movie Nights
Tue, Aug 04, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Claremont Branch - Claremont Area Flex Space
Kids’ Summer Movie Nights is a fun weekly movie program for elementary school students.
LEGO Club @Central CCR
Tue, Aug 04, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for a weekly LEGO club on Tuesday evenings from 4:30-6:00PM
Berkeley History Room Open Hours @Central - Every Wednesday 10:00am-1:00pm
Wed, Aug 05, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library - Berkeley History Room
Visit the Berkeley History Room, located inside the Central Library in the southeast corner of the 2nd Floor Fiction Reading Room, during open hours every Wednesday from 10:00am-1:00pm.
Storytime on the Lawn @North
Wed, Aug 05, 10:30am - 11:00am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
Join us at North Branch for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun! This 30-minute story time is geared towards children ages 2-5.
Insight Housing @Central
Wed, Aug 05, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Central Library
The SSVF Alameda Team will be on-site to support veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Stay & Play @North
Wed, Aug 05, 11:00am - 11:30am
North Branch - North Branch Lawn
An opportunity for kids to play with toys, soft blocks, and musical instruments after storytime.
Lunch at the Library @Central
Wed, Aug 05, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)
Wed, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Central Library - Electronic Classroom
Drop in tech help
Lunch at the Library @Central
Thu, Aug 06, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Central Library - Central Children's Story Room
Free lunch for kids and teens 18 and under. Plus activities like cooking classes, arts, crafts, games and more! 
Playreaders Circle @Central - Bringing Plays to Life
Thu, Aug 06, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Central Library - Berkeley History Room
Gathering Together to Read a Different Play each Month
Chess at Central
Thu, Aug 06, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for casual chess every Thursday from 3pm-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Family Game Night @West
Thu, Aug 06, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Families, join us for family fun with new and classic board games!
Super Cinema
Fri, Aug 07, 2:30pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Community Meeting Room
Movies from all genres and eras.
Chess Club @Claremont - A weekly chess meet-up for all ages and levels.
Fri, Aug 07, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Claremont Branch Exterior
Chess Club happens every Friday from 3pm-5pm outside the Claremont Branch. All ages and skills levels are welcome. Boards, pieces and clocks are provided.
Bones at Central - Let's get in a game of bones!
Fri, Aug 07, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - The Commons
Join us for some casual dominoes games every Friday from 3-5pm in the 1st Floor Commons!
Collage Club @Central A&M
Fri, Aug 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
Whether you're a seasoned collage maker or you've never tried to collage before, bring out your inner artist with this simple and engaging art form!
Family Story Time @Central CCR
Sat, Aug 08, 10:30am - 11:00am
Central Library - Children's Non-Fiction Room
Join us for fun stories and songs in the Central Children's Room on the 4th Floor of the Central Branch!
Ukulele Club @THP South
Sat, Aug 08, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch - THPS Branch Meeting Room
Play ukulele with us. No experience needed, bring your own ukulele or use one of ours!
Craft Supplies Swap
Sat, Aug 08, 11:00am - 1:00pm
West Branch - West Branch Meeting Room
Not using some of your craft supplies and need to make room? Want to try a new craft before buying all the materials for it? Come participate in our craft supply swap!
Rescheduled
August Death Cafe @Central
Sat, Aug 08, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
New date Saturday, August 22, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Central Library
A Friendly Gathering with Strangers to Chat about Death.
Karen Roze Talks Women in Tattooing @ Central - With the founder of Sacred Rose Tattoo
Mon, Aug 10, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Central Library - Art & Music Study Hall
A presentation on women in tattooing and the tattoo community in the Bay Area from local artist and shop owner, Karen Roze of Sacred Rose Tattoo
Monday Evening Storytime @Central CCR
Mon, Aug 10, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Central Library
Jump into your jammies and join us for stories, songs, puppets, and more!
See all events