LIBRARY EVENTS

Join us for upcoming events, classes and programs at Santa Maria Public Library! All events are free and open to the public. Registration required where noted.

Color Key: All Types Children and Family Teen Adult Branches
          
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1
Manhattan Short Film Festival
2:00pm-4:00pm
 Manhattan Short Film Festival
Sunday, Oct. 1, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Shepard Hall - Santa Maria Public Library
Santa Maria will join communities across the globe to screen the finalists in the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audience members will enjoy 10 outstanding international short films and then vote for their favorite film and actor. The worldwide audience determines the ultimate victor. Wh...read more
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Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Monday, Oct. 2,
Youth Services
Come to the library for a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Participate in activities for all ages while learning more about the importance and history of this month.
Preschool Play Time
11:00am
 Preschool Play Time
Monday, Oct. 2, 11:00am
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Preschoolers and their caregivers are welcome to play and socialize with kids similar in age. Children will have the opportunity to engage in imaginative play, sharing, and making friends. For ages 3-5.
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Casual Crafternoon: Macrame Bracelets
12:00pm-2:00pm
Casual Crafternoon: Macrame Bracelets
Tuesday, Oct. 3, 12:00pm-2:00pm
Learning Loft
Create a beautiful macrame bracelet to keep or give away. Registration is required.

Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
3:30pm
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
Tuesday, Oct. 3, 3:30pm
Learning Center
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century is a series of fun and informative workshops designed for emerging adults ages 16-23. Participants will learn valuable skills to support them in their adult and workforce preparedness through a set of five modules. For more information call 805-925-0994...read more

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Manhattan Short Film Festival
5:30pm-7:30pm
 Manhattan Short Film Festival
Friday, Oct. 6, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Shepard Hall - Santa Maria Public Library
Santa Maria will join communities across the globe to screen the finalists in the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audience members will enjoy 10 outstanding international short films and then vote for their favorite film and actor. The worldwide audience determines the ultimate victor. Th...read more
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World Space Week Preschool Pack
 World Space Week Preschool Pack
Saturday, Oct. 7,
All Locations
Pack pick-up begins Saturday, October 7Celebrate World Space Week October 4th -10th by learning more about space and trying some space themed activities. For ages 3-5. Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos Friends of the Library at those locations, and by the Santa Maria Public Lib...read more
World Space Week Preschool Pack
 World Space Week Preschool Pack
Saturday, Oct. 7,
Youth Services Desk
Pack pick-up begins Saturday, October 7Celebrate World Space Week October 4th -10th by learning more about space and trying some space themed activities. For ages 3-5. Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos Friends of the Library at those locations, and by the Santa Maria Public Lib...read more
Tech Made Easy: iOS Devices
10:30am
 Tech Made Easy: iOS Devices
Saturday, Oct. 7, 10:30am
Learning Loft
This workshop is for anyone wanting to learn more about their Apple mobile device.  We will cover phone basics, apps, and simple troubleshooting.  Please bring your cell phone to this free class and make sure you know your password!

Pokémon Club
11:00am
 Pokémon Club
Saturday, Oct. 7, 11:00amPokémon Club
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Join other Pokémon trainers at the popular Pokémon Club. Learn how to play the Pokémon Trading Card game, watch Pokémon, and participate in other fun activities. Bring a deck from home to battle or use one from the library.
Makerspace
12:00pm - 3:00pm
 Makerspace
Saturday, Oct. 7, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Learning Center
It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination!3D Printing Comic Book BookmarksPaper Plate Gnomes 
Saturday Crafternoon: Spooky Books
2:00pm
Saturday Crafternoon: Spooky Books
Saturday, Oct. 7, 2:00pm
Learning Loft
Learn how to create your own spooky spell book for Halloween! Upcycle old books and give them a new life as your new favorite Halloween decoration. Registration is required.

Manhattan Short Film Festival
6:30pm-8:30pm
 Manhattan Short Film Festival
Saturday, Oct. 7, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Lavagnino Plaza
Santa Maria will join communities across the globe to screen the finalists in the 26th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. Audience members will enjoy 10 outstanding international short films and then vote for their favorite film and actor. The worldwide audience determines the ultimate victor. Th...read more
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Tech Help Sundays
2:00pm-4:00pm
 Tech Help Sundays
Sunday, Oct. 8, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Learning Loft
Schedule a one-on-one appointment for instruction on technology topics like setting-up new devices, installing apps, privacy best practices, and enjoying library e-resources at home. Registration is required. Please call to reserve an appointment.
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To-go Kits: Mini Pumpkin Painting
To-go Kits: Mini Pumpkin Painting
Monday, Oct. 9,
Pick-Up Only: Los Alamos, Cuyama, Orcutt
Don't like pumpkin goo? Paint a miniature pumpkin! Collect a to-go kit with everything needed to create the perfect fall decoration. For patrons 18 and older, only one kit per person while supplies last.Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos Friends of the Library at those locat...read more
Sensory Bin Creation Station
11:00am
 Sensory Bin Creation Station
Monday, Oct. 9, 11:00am
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Preschoolers, learn how to create a sensory bin. Sensory bins allow children to explore, discover, imagine, create, and learn while engaging their senses. For ages 3-5; adult assistance is required to assemble sensory bins. Registration is required, and begins on Monday, October 2.

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Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
3:30pm
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
Tuesday, Oct. 10, 3:30pm
Learning Center
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century is a series of fun and informative workshops designed for emerging adults ages 16-23. Participants will learn valuable skills to support them in their adult and workforce preparedness through a set of five modules. For more information call 805-925-0994...read more

Family Craft Time
4:00pm
 Family Craft Time
Tuesday, Oct. 10, 4:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Families, get creative with an afternoon of Arts and Crafts. Try out a new medium, make something amazing together, and take home a piece of art. All skillsets are welcome.
Flirty Fiction Book Club
5:15pm
 Flirty Fiction Book Club
Tuesday, Oct. 10, 5:15pm
Learning Loft
Flirty Fiction is a book club for readers of contemporary romance fiction. The group meets the second Tuesday of each month to discuss a new title. Diverse romance books of all types are welcome in this inclusive space. If it’s a romance, we’ll read it! The book for October is The Propos...read more

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Lego Club
4:00pm
 Lego Club
Wednesday, Oct. 11, 4:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Stop by the library for an afternoon of Lego madness. Meet with other Lego fans, build together, or build your own creation.   
Library 101: Library Databases and Resources
5:00pm
Library 101: Library Databases and Resources
Wednesday, Oct. 11, 5:00pm
Learning Center
This introductory workshop is for anyone who wants to learn more about resources that can be accessed with a library card. Follow along as we explore a new Library Resource each session. Databases are provided by the California State Library. Wednesday, October 11, 5:00pm – NorthstarLearn...read more
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Let’s Blow Off Some STEAM!
4:00pm
Let’s Blow Off Some STEAM!
Thursday, Oct. 12, 4:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Curious preschoolers come to a special story time filled with exploration and discovery. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math themes will be explored through stories and discovered through hands-on activities. Come dressed for mess!  For ages 3-5.
Murder, They Read: Cozy Mystery Book Club
5:00pm
Murder, They Read: Cozy Mystery Book Club
Thursday, Oct. 12, 5:00pm
Learning Loft
Join us each month as we select a different cozy mystery author and explore their collection.  The author for October is Alexander McCall Smith’s No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series.  You can choose any book in the series! Check our catalog at sm.blackgold.org for a list of ava...read more

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Teen BOLT
4:30pm
 Teen BOLT
Friday, Oct. 13, 4:30pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Teens, have a chance to help shape the future of YOUR Library. Discussions during BOLT will help determine teen program themes, and BOLT members will have the opportunity to help plan and run teen programs. Light snacks will be provided.
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Solar Eclipse
7:30-9:30am
 Solar Eclipse
Saturday, Oct. 14, 7:30-9:30amSolar Eclipse
Lawn Bowling Parking Lot
Experience the annular solar eclipse with the Recreation and Parks department’s Mobile Observatory across the street in the lawn bowling parking lot. A limited supply of viewing glasses and space themed activities will be available. Crafts begin at 7:30 am. The partial eclipse begins just...read more
Tech Help Saturdays
11:00am-1:00pm
 Tech Help Saturdays
Saturday, Oct. 14, 11:00am-1:00pm
Learning Loft
Schedule a one-on-one appointment for instruction on technology topics like setting-up new devices, installing apps, privacy best practices, and enjoying library e-resources at home. Registration is required. Please call to reserve an appointment.
Instrument Petting Zoo with the San Luis Obispo Symphony
12:00pm
Instrument Petting Zoo with the San Luis Obispo Symphony
Saturday, Oct. 14, 12:00pm
Orcutt Branch Library
The Instrument Petting Zoo provides an up-close and personal encounter with a menagerie of musical instruments. Symphony Zookeepers will introduce well-loved instruments, and help youth figure out how to make some noise! Learn about different types of instruments, how each one creates a unique sound...read more
Makerspace
12:00pm - 3:00pm
 Makerspace
Saturday, Oct. 14, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Learning Center
It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination!LegosButton MakingCoin Spinners 
Saturday Crafternoon: Fall Leaves Art
2:30pm-4:00pm
Saturday Crafternoon: Fall Leaves Art
Saturday, Oct. 14, 2:30pm-4:00pm
Learning Loft
Get into the autumn season with a one-of-a-kind work of art using canvas, fall leaves, and paint!  Registration is required.

15
Poetry for Self-Care Workshop
2:00pm
 Poetry for Self-Care Workshop
Sunday, Oct. 15, 2:00pm
Learning Loft
Looking for a new form of self-expression? Poetry facilitation is the use of poetry to promote mental health and well-being. Workshop participants will be introduced to a poem and explore their reaction through writing or illustration with guest facilitator Dot Winslow. Registration is required and ...read more
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Star Wars READS Week
 Star Wars READS Week
Monday, Oct. 16, Star Wars READS Week
Youth Services Desk
Celebrate Star Wars READS week with different activities each day in the youth services area. Visit the youth services desk   to pick up a Star Wars activity. Activities include booklists, take home programs, scavenger hunts, photo opportunities and free books for youth while supplies last...read more
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Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
3:30pm
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
Tuesday, Oct. 17, 3:30pm
Learning Center
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century is a series of fun and informative workshops designed for emerging adults ages 16-23. Participants will learn valuable skills to support them in their adult and workforce preparedness through a set of five modules. For more information call 805-925-0994...read more

Youth Maker Market Orientation
4:00pm
 Youth Maker Market Orientation
Tuesday, Oct. 17, 4:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Creative youth are invited to learn more about the library’s Youth Maker Market which will be held December 2nd.  Youth, have hands-on experience learning about planning, marketing, money handling, and customer service selling handcrafted items. Orientation is required for Youth Maker Mar...read more
Family History Workshop with Ancestry.com
5:00pm
Family History Workshop with Ancestry.com
Tuesday, Oct. 17, 5:00pm
Learning Loft
October is Family History Month! Library staff will host a free workshop for adults interested in getting started with the Library Edition of Ancestry.com. Patrons are invited to bring the names of ancestors they would like to research to this hands-on workshop. Laptop computers will be available fo...read more
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Youth Sew Much Fun Club
4:00pm-6:00pm
 Youth Sew Much Fun Club
Wednesday, Oct. 18, 4:00pm-6:00pmYouth Sew Much Fun C
Learning Center
Youth will learn to sew, and practice sewing skills at the library.  Learn the basics of a machine and sewing by hand, or practice skills with the club. Materials will be provided.  Youth are welcome to bring fabric from home.
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Private
10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
 Private
Friday, Oct. 20, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Learning Center
Teen Anime Club
4:30pm
 Teen Anime Club
Friday, Oct. 20, 4:30pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Teens who are interested in anime or manga; come to Anime Club! Hang out with other fans, eat Japanese snacks, and do fun activities. New members are always welcome!
21
Car Seat Safety (In Spanish and English)
11:00am
Car Seat Safety (In Spanish and English)
Saturday, Oct. 21, 11:00am
Shepard Hall - Santa Maria Public Library
This free class is for anyone wanting information about choosing the right car seat.  Nationally certified Car Seat Technicians will teach about safety features, California laws pertaining to car seats, when to move the child up to the next level, and correct installation.   All paren...read more
Makerspace
12:00pm - 3:00pm
 Makerspace
Saturday, Oct. 21, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Learning Center
It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination!Makey MakeyPinecone AnimalsPipe Cleaner Indian Corn 
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D & D @ the Library
1:00pm
 D & D @ the Library
Sunday, Oct. 22, 1:00pm
Shepard Hall - Santa Maria Public Library
Get ready to roll with Central Coast Games. Join an epic adventure with Dungeons and Dragons at the Library. This easy to learn game is the world’s most popular tabletop role playing game. Everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Space is limited and registration is required.

Tech Help Sundays
2:00pm-4:00pm
 Tech Help Sundays
Sunday, Oct. 22, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Learning Loft
Schedule a one-on-one appointment for instruction on technology topics like setting-up new devices, installing apps, privacy best practices, and enjoying library e-resources at home. Registration is required. Please call to reserve an appointment.
Family Yoga Story Time
2:00pm
 Family Yoga Story Time
Sunday, Oct. 22, 2:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Come for an afternoon of yoga with stories and breathing exercises. Children are introduced to mindfulness and will learn exercises to help regulate emotions. Yoga mats will be provided or bring one from home.  
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Preschool Storytime
10:00am
 Preschool Storytime
Monday, Oct. 23, 10:00am
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Story time Session: Mondays, October 23 - December 4Story time is designed to build literacy skills and school readiness, all while having a great time. This fun story time will feature songs, fingerplays, and stories. For ages 3-6. No story time November 21-24
Casual Crafternoon: Spooky Birdhouses
4:00PM
Casual Crafternoon: Spooky Birdhouses
Monday, Oct. 23, 4:00PM
Learning Loft
Let's get spooky! Use supplies to create a spooky birdhouse out of a nightmare. Registration is required.  

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Toddler Time
10:00 AM
 Toddler Time
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 10:00 AM
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Story time session: Tuesdays, October 24 – December 5High-energy learning experience just for toddlers. Toddlers learn and grow through stories, movement, and music. Sign up for only one six-week timeslot. For ages 1-3. Registration is required, and begins Tuesday, October 17.

Paws to Read
3:30pm-5:00pm
 Paws to Read
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 3:30pm-5:00pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Reading to dogs is a wonderful way for children to gain confidence while reading aloud. These dogs absolutely love all kinds of books and are excellent listeners. No one pays attention to a child reading quite like a dog! First come first served for 15-minute time slots.
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
3:30pm
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 3:30pm
Learning Center
Adulting 101: Life Skills for the 21st Century is a series of fun and informative workshops designed for emerging adults ages 16-23. Participants will learn valuable skills to support them in their adult and workforce preparedness through a set of five modules. For more information call 805-925-0994...read more

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Bouncing Baby Story Time
10:00am
 Bouncing Baby Story Time
Wednesday, Oct. 25, 10:00am
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Story time session: Wednesdays, October 25 – December 6, 10:00amExplore pre-literacy skills through music, movement, and visual stimulation and promote a healthy bond between baby and caregiver. Learn, connect, and grow with other babies and their caregivers.  For ages 0-12 months.No stor...read more
Library 101: Library Databases and Resources
5:00pm
Library 101: Library Databases and Resources
Wednesday, Oct. 25, 5:00pm
Learning Center
Wednesday, October 25, 5:00pm – Learning Express  This introductory workshop is for anyone who wants to learn more about resources that can be accessed with a library card. Follow along as we explore a new Library Resource each session. Databases are provided by the California State Libra...read more
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Toddler Time
10:00 AM
 Toddler Time
Thursday, Oct. 26, 10:00 AM
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Story time session: Thursdays, October 26 – December 7, 10:00am (English/Spanish)High-energy learning experience just for toddlers. Toddlers learn and grow through stories, movement, and music. Sign up for only one six-week timeslot. For ages 1-3. Registration is required, and begins Tuesday, ...read more

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Teen Tiny Altars
4:30pm
 Teen Tiny Altars
Friday, Oct. 27, 4:30pm
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Celebrate Día de los Muertos by creating your own mini altar. Learn why we add food, flowers, and pictures to the altar. Light snacks will be provided.
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CraftWorks: Cork Pumpkins
10:30am
 CraftWorks: Cork Pumpkins
Saturday, Oct. 28, 10:30am
Learning Loft
Repurpose vintage corks to create a unique decorative pumpkin!  Registration is required.

Tech Help Saturdays
11:00am-1:00pm
 Tech Help Saturdays
Saturday, Oct. 28, 11:00am-1:00pm
Learning Loft
Schedule a one-on-one appointment for instruction on technology topics like setting-up new devices, installing apps, privacy best practices, and enjoying library e-resources at home. Registration is required. Please call to reserve an appointment.
Cookies and Chapters Book Club
11:00am
 Cookies and Chapters Book Club
Saturday, Oct. 28, 11:00am
Altrusa Theater - Santa Maria Public Library
Let’s read together! Each month will feature a new chapter book. Free copies of the book will be provided on a first come, first served basis.  The book for October is Pax by Sara Pennypecker. For ages 9-14.
Makerspace
12:00pm - 3:00pm
 Makerspace
Saturday, Oct. 28, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Learning Center
It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination!Programming GamesPumpkin BooksPopsicle Stick Scarecrows 
The Valley Reads Book Club
2:00pm
 The Valley Reads Book Club
Saturday, Oct. 28, 2:00pm
Learning Loft
The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion.  The book selection for October is The Guest List by Lucy Foley. The past and the present collide as old high school and college friends reminisce about their wilder days at a remote wedding site...read more
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