Library and Community Services News banner

November 11, 2023

Quote of the week

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.

 

"United Against Hate” Community Game-In

Man with against hate sign

In honor of United Against Hate Week (Nov. 12–18), join us at the library to enjoy one another’s company and play games, a Game Day Against Hate. Meet your neighbors and relax together playing one of our games—or bring in one of your own to share. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Monday, Nov. 13 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Belle Haven Branch Library, 413 Ivy Dr.
 

About United Against Hate Week
United Against Hate Week (Nov. 12–18) is a call for local civic action to stop the hate and implicit biases that are a dangerous threat to the safety and civility of our neighborhoods, towns and cities. Since inception in 2017, United Against Hate Week has spread to over 200 communities across the U.S., as well as faith-based groups, LGBTQ and human rights organizations who join together in embracing the strength of diversity and striving to build inclusive and equitable communities for years to come. Menlo Park City Council issued a proclamation on Nov. 7, recognizing the week of Nov. 12–18 as United Against Hate Week.

 

Save the date for community events

Save the date on calendar

The City of Menlo Park hosts several community events and celebrations throughout the year. Mark your calendar for these upcoming seasonal events.

  • Light Up the Season. The City of Menlo Park will host a Light up the Season community event at Fremont Park Friday, Dec. 2 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. This “winter wonderland” themed event will feature family-friendly entertainment, performances by Menlo Park youth, wintry photo opportunities, free hot cocoa and the annual lighting of the big evergeen tree. Admission is free. The event will take place rain or shine. It will be a  festive community gathering for people of all ages and walks of life to enjoy. Join us Friday, Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. at Fremont Park.
  • Photos with Santa. The City of Menlo Park will host a Photos with Santa community event at Arrillaga Family Recreation Center on Saturday, Dec. 16 between 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. Bring your camera and join us with friends and family for a morning full of holiday cheer, including a continental breakfast, holiday crafts and a photo with Santa. Advance registration is required – visit the event page to register.

 

Tip of the week: Event rentals at Arrillaga Family Recreation Center

Reserved on table with glasses and dinnerware

The City of Menlo Park’s Arrillaga Family Recreation Center is available for booking events. It is a great location for hosting a business meeting, a celebration, special event or even a wedding. With five rooms and beautiful outdoor spaces, the Arrillaga Recreation Center can be the next venue for your special occasion. For more information and to request a reservation online, visit the meeting rooms web page.

 

Mystery Readers: Dearly Departed of 2023

Open book

Meet fellow mystery lovers online to remember some of the mystery authors we’ve lost this year and share some of our favorites among their works. Favorite authors exiting the scene this year have included Carol Higgins Clark, Christopher Fowler, Anne Perry (AKA Juliet Marion Hulme) and Kate Saunders. Let’s talk about their work and share some of their favorites. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 3 p.m. via Zoom.

 

Transgender Youth in the Crosshairs: Gender Identity Culture Wars

Trans flag heart

Join us to learn about current political and legal controversies related to transgender youth in the United States. Dr. Melissa R. Michelson, Dean of Arts & Sciences and award-winning author of three books on LGBTQ politics will share current conflicts, the real lives they affect, and how you can make a difference. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St.
 

Virtual author talks

Authors and books

  • Savala Nolan. Join us online to meet Savala Nolan, author of Don't Let It Get You Down: Essays on Race, Gender, and the Body. This free virtual event is presented in partnership with libraries across San Mateo County in conjunction with United Against Hate week. Join us Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
  • Ali Kamanda. Join us online to meet Ali Kamanda, author of the picture book, Black Boy, Black Boy. This free virtual event is presented in partnership with libraries across San Mateo County in conjunction with United Against Hate week. Join us Thursday, Nov. 16 at either 9 a.m. or 1 p.m., timed so that classrooms may also tune in for these free events.

 

 

Global Language Storytime: Portuguese

Portuguese flag

Children aged one–eight and their grown-ups are invited to join us for a fun-filled storytime featuring books, rhymes and fun in Portuguese, with a volunteer from Sementinhas Brasileiras. Non-Portuguese speakers will benefit from exposure to the language, as well as experiencing rich culture and traditions. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Thursday, Nov. 16 at 3:30 p.m. at Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St.

 

StoryFest

Storyfest authors

The 8th Annual Menlo Park Storytelling Festival is coming to its end, with a special live virtual event featuring an international cast of performers. Experience the magic of performers Zooming in from locations including California, Illinois, Texas, Australia, Singapore and South Korea. Best for ages six–adult. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Friday, Nov. 17 from 5-7 p.m. Sign up now.

 

Music with Twice As Good – 2XG

Two men playing music

It’s time for another concert at the library! Paul & Rich Steward are Twice As Good (2XG), the Son & Father, Native American, Ultimate Blues duo. The much-lauded, award-winning Pomo pair will fill the library with their blend of Blues, Soul, R&B and Rock & Roll, with a hint of the Indian beat, featuring sweet guitar and soulful vocals. This free community event received funding support from Friends of Menlo Park Library. Join us Saturday, Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. at Belle Haven Branch Library, 413 Ivy Dr.

 

Library Commission meeting

Library

The Library Commission will be holding its next meeting on Monday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 PM. This is a hybrid meeting, participants can join online via Zoom or in person at the Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St.

 

Parks and Recreation Commission meeting

Park

The Parks and Recreation Commission will be holding its next meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 PM. This is a hybrid meeting. Participants can join online via Zoom or in person at the Arrillaga Family Gymnastics Center, 501 Laurel St.


 

Community events for all – calendar listings

Calendar

The City of Menlo Park hosts cultural, literary and educational events that reflect our diverse community and are accessible to all. View a complete calendar of upcoming city events.
 

 

 

 
Share
 
       
 
Sent by the City of Menlo Park
701 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025
tel 650-330-6600 | text 650-679-7022
Unsubscribe | My Subscriptions
 
View this email in a browser