The City of Santa Maria Public Library and all branch Libraries will be closed 

The January 2nd, 2025 meeting has been cancelled, but meetings will resume January 16th!  Proud Fellowship is a program created for LGBTQIA+ young adults (ages 16-22) to collaborate in a safe and welcoming environment. Discuss ideas, create art, play games and more in “Proud Fellowsh...read more

Preschoolers will discover early literacy skills through stories, play, and songs. This special play time is designed especially for nontraditional caregivers (friends, family, and neighbors). Snacks will be provided. For ages 3-5. This program runs approx. 2 hrs. 

Come hang out for an afternoon of gaming. Play to win on our Nintendo Switch or sit back and watch the action on our large screen. Light snacks will be provided.

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 required.

It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination! -- ¡Es hora de crear, explorar y usar su imaginacion!  Makey Makey Gift Tags - Etiquetas de regalo Woven Coasters - Posavasos tejidos

Visit the Youth Services Desk on the first Sunday of each month to receive a coupon for a free book of your choice from the Library Bookstore! For ages 0-17. For more information, please call the Information Desk at 805-925-0994.

Visit the Youth Services Desk to borrow a board game to play while at the library. Play a favorite or try something new.

Mondays, January 6- February 10; 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 caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. This program runs approx. 30 mins. 

Tuesdays, January 7 – February 11; 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 Monday, December 30.

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.  

Story 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. This program runs approx. 30 mins.

Celebrate imagination and creativity with hands-on activities that are just right for preschoolers. Make new friends at this monthly drop-in program. For ages 3-5. 

The Board of Library Teens (BOLT) helps shape the future of YOUR Library. BOLT seeks teens just like you who want to help determine and plan relevant teen programs and services. Snacks will be provided. New members are always welcome!

Thursdays, January 9 – February 13; 10:00am 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 Monday, December 30.

Bring your friends and family to see what Gru and gang are doing again. Light snacks will be provided. This program runs approx. 1.5 hrs.Despicable Me 4, 2024, 95 mins., PG

Take advantage of a welcoming and relaxed environment to do homework or study after school with your peers. Grab a snack, sit with friends, or ask the Teen Librarian about the library and its free resources. Need a brain break in between studies? Take part in a passive activity. This program runs ap...read more

Preschoolers will explore and create with Play-Doh in endless ways. This program encourages imaginative play while developing fine motor skills. For ages 3-6. 

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.

It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination! -- ¡Es hora de crear, explorar y usar su imaginacion! Digital Photo Editing - Editar fotos digitales Decoupage Box - Caja de decoupage Crochet - Tejer

The Valley Reads is a monthly book club for adults featuring coffee, snacks, and lively discussion!  The book selection for January is Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez.  Please call the Reference desk at 805-925-0994 ext. 8562 to reserve a seat.

Be prepared for epic excitement with tabletop gaming presented by the Santa Maria Adventurer's League. Everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. All children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited and registration is required.

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 required.

 Fall into a quick mystery with these DIY puzzle bookmarks!  Kits are available for pick-up at Orcutt, Los Alamos and Cuyama branch libraries beginning January 13th. For ages 18 and up, while supplies last.

Mondays, January 6- February 10; 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 caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. This program runs approx. 30 mins. 

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Calling all mad scientists! Conduct an experiment, engineering challenges, and create art once a month at this drop-in program. For ages 6-12.

Flirty Fiction is a book club for readers of contemporary romance fiction. The group meets 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 January is When in Rome by Sarah Adams.&nbs...read more

Tuesdays, January 7 – February 11; 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 Monday, December 30.

Orcutt Preschool Story TimeStory Time is held on:Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.For Preschoolers ages 3 to 5. Featuring stories, puppets, fingerplays, and songs.*Please note the library will open ONLY to parents/caregivers and preschool children at 10:15 a.m. for nametags, playing with puzzles,...read more

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Story 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. This program runs approx. 30 mins.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Stop by the library for an afternoon of Lego madness. Meet with other Lego fans, build together, or build your own creation. This program runs approx. 1.5 hrs.

Thursdays, January 9 – February 13; 10:00am 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 Monday, December 30.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Proud Fellowship is a program created for LGBTQIA+ young adults (ages 16-22) to collaborate in a safe and welcoming environment. Discuss ideas, create art, play games and more in “Proud Fellowship”; meetings will occur every first and third Thursday of the month. This program is sponsore...read more

Join us for a morning of sport stories and activities, learn more about a sport and meet local athletes. This program is in partnership with Allan Hancock College Athletics. January's session will be all about basketball!

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!

Visit the second floor Reference Desk at the Main Library to sign up for the Adult Winter Reading Program and pick up a reading log. Complete the program and win a prize! The Adult Winter Reading Program will take place December 16th through January 18th. The last day to submit your c...read more

Visit Youth Services to sign up for the Winter Reading program, pick up a reading tracker, and a book to keep. Turn in a completed Winter Reading tracker to display in the library and receive a prize. Winter Reading Program will take place December 16th through January 18th. The last day to submit y...read more

Young minds will become master builders! Join us to construct wondrous structures with a variety of craft supplies, recycled materials, and endless creativity.  

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 required. Please call the Information Desk at (805) 925-0994 ext. 8562.

It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination! -- ¡Es hora de crear, explorar y usar su imaginacion! Legos - Construir con Lego Rhyming Dominoes - Dominó que rima Magazine Wall Art - Revista arte de la pared

Help kick off our new Junk Journal Book Club. Participants will vote for what book to read for the next book club meeting and create a junk journal with a mix of found and recycled materials. The junk journals will be used for journaling discussion questions and creating vision boards. Please call t...read more

Looking for a new form of self-expression? Poetry facilitation is the use of poetry to promote 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 this workshop is f...read more

Tuesdays, January 7 – February 11; 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 Monday, December 30.

Orcutt Preschool Story TimeStory Time is held on:Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.For Preschoolers ages 3 to 5. Featuring stories, puppets, fingerplays, and songs.*Please note the library will open ONLY to parents/caregivers and preschool children at 10:15 a.m. for nametags, playing with puzzles,...read more

Use your imagination with this craft that will challenge your creativity. Create your own tiny world inside of an ornament for yourself or as a gift.This workshop is free; all materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons 18 or older.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

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 dogs do! First come, first served for a 15-minute time slot. This program runs a...read more

Novel Nightmares is a book club for lovers of haunting horror. This group meets the third Tuesday of each month to discuss a creepy tale. The book for January is Pet Sematary by Stephen King. Registration is required, ages 18 and older.

Story 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. This program runs approx. 30 mins.

Sing, dance, play instruments, and move to the beat. Develop motor skills and listening skills while having fun. Ideal for younger children but all ages welcome.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Thursdays, January 9 – February 13; 10:00am 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 Monday, December 30.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

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. This program runs approx. 2 hrs.

Join us every month as we read and discuss literature that focuses on LGBTQIA+ authors, characters, and themes! The book for January is Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune. See sm.blackgold.org for available titles! Registration is required.

Pack pick-up begins Saturday, January 25It’s story time for your family and friends with this storytelling pack. Tell silly stories or create a sock puppet to act out a story. Play charades to guess favorite movie or book scene. Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos Friends o...read more

Pack pick-up begins Saturday, January 25It’s story time for your family and friends with this storytelling pack. Tell silly stories or create a sock puppet to act out a story. Play charades to guess favorite movie or book scene. Supported in whole or part by the Orcutt and Los Alamos Friends o...read more

Let’s read together! Each month will feature a new book and activity. Free copies of the book will be provided on a first come, first served basis.  The book for January is The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani. For ages 9-14.   

It's time to create, explore, and use your imagination! -- ¡Es hora de crear, explorar y usar su imaginacion! Magformers - Juguetes magnéticos Paper Plate Snake - Serpiente de plato de papel Yarn Snake - Serpiente de hilo

Make reading more exciting with an origami bookmark of your choice. Learn some beginner-friendly origami and craft your own bookmarks to take home! This worksop is free; all materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required for this program. For patrons 18 and up.

Get ready to join an epic adventure with Dungeons and Dragons presented by Central Coast Games. This easy to learn game is the world’s most popular tabletop role playing game, and everyone is welcome regardless of previous experience. Space is limited and registration is required, designed for...read more

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 required. Please call the Information desk at (805) 925-0994 extension 8562.

Mondays, January 6- February 10; 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 caregivers. For ages 0-12 months. This program runs approx. 30 mins. 

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Tuesdays, January 7 – February 11; 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 Monday, December 30.

Orcutt Preschool Story TimeStory Time is held on:Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.For Preschoolers ages 3 to 5. Featuring stories, puppets, fingerplays, and songs.*Please note the library will open ONLY to parents/caregivers and preschool children at 10:15 a.m. for nametags, playing with puzzles,...read more

Preschoolers and caregivers, learn how to create your own 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 this program runs approx ...read more

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

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 dogs do! First come, first served for a 15-minute time slot. This program runs a...read more

Create your new favorite accessory for the new year! Follow a pattern or make your own design to wear as a pin. This workshop is free; all materials and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. For patrons 18 or older.

Story 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. This program runs approx. 30 mins.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required

Join us for reading fun in the Altrusa Theater! Build your own mini fort and read in the dark with a flashlight. Feel free to bring your own fort supplies and flashlight. Space and supplies provided by the library are limited. 

Thursdays, January 9 – February 13; 10:00am 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 Monday, December 30.

Mondays-Thursdays in Youth ServicesFree after school homework help Volunteer tutors are available to help with assignments and work on skills.  For children in grades K-6. First come, first served, no sign-ups are required