Posted on January 12, 2017 by Amy Sonnie

Post-Election Know Your Rights Trainings

As we grapple with the uncertain future and a surge in bias-related crimes, knowledge is power. Join the ACLU for Know Your Rights workshops at your library.

Photo of mural with text that says Know Your RightsThis February, Oakland Public Library is offering a series of Know Your Rights workshops, in partnership with the ACLU of Northern California.

 

As our communities grapple with the uncertain future of immigration reform, the threat of a Muslim registry, a surge in bias-related crimes, and a groundswell of activism by citizens concerned about justice, safety and equity, we have a great deal to learn and do -- together.

 

Beginning with three workshops -- for immigrants, transgender residents and citizens exercising free speech through protest – Oakland Library and the ACLU will provide information to help you protect yourself, your family and your community.

 

Over the coming year, the library will continue to offer programs and

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Posted on December 6, 2016 by Erin Sanders

Women & Bikes & Books

Join Us Every 1st Thursday for the Women Bike Book Club

In partnership with Bike East Bay, we are co-hosting the Women Bike Book Club! Bike East Bay's Women Bike program enters its third year of bringing women, femme, trans, and gender nonconforming folks together in social settings to share experiences and resources with each other.

All are invited to discuss biking, books, and feminism at the Women Bike Book Club. Join us on the first Thursday of each month at 6:00pm at the Golden Gate Branch (5606 San Pablo Ave). We'll focus on a different book, film, or topic each month, with a few guest speakers and activities along the way. Here is a line-up for the next few months:

MARCH 1: Women's History Month selection: "

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Posted on July 27, 2016 by Sharon McKellar

OPL Loves Bikes

"My theory is that it’s because, like libraries, bikes represent a kind of freedom that is accessible to people of most ages. Or, maybe it’s because they’re another economic way to see more of your world. Maybe it’s just because they’re fun."

Photo of BrianI want to thank Brian Guenther, the Branch Manager at our amazing Martin Luther King Jr. Branch, for his guest post today.  The following words are his, not mine.  

***

We love bikes at OPL.

Photo of Girls and the bike library

My theory is that it’s because, like libraries, bikes represent a kind of freedom that is accessible to people of most ages. Or, maybe it’s because they’re another economic way to see more of your world. Maybe it’s just because they’re fun. Whatever the reason, bikes and biking are a big part of the Oakland Public Library culture.

You might’ve seen our

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Posted on July 22, 2016 by Sharon McKellar

Still Found!

It's been awhile, but here are some more things found in library books.

Hi!  Did you miss me and my things found in library books?  I went off and had two babies, and now that they are all grown up (one year old) I'm back in action.  I'm so lucky that the whole year I was gone, people kept finding things and leaving them on my desk for me.  So, be not worried.  Our finds will continue! 

What do we have today?  Well, here you go:

     

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Posted on March 25, 2016 by Amy Sonnie

Get Money Smart During Financial Literacy Month

This April, meet expert financial counselors who can help you manage money and achieve your goals.

Did you know? April is Financial Literacy Month. That means it is the perfect time to meet expert financial counselors who can help you manage money and achieve your goals.

Oakland Public Library is partnering with Balance Pro (formerly Consumer Credit Counseling Services of San Francisco) to offer a series of workshops. Whether you are trying to bounce back after a costly emergency or planning ahead for college education or home ownership, this series has something for everyone.

Join us as we build the power of our communities to create a better financial future.

 

Money Matters: Financial Empowerment Series 

 

Identity Theft Solutions

IN CANTONESE
Identity Theft is becoming more common. Learn how to protect your confidential information and what steps to take if you’re a victim of identity theft. Call 510-238-3400 for info in Cantonese.

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Posted on February 4, 2016 by Amy Sonnie

Celebrate Rad Women - Events, Displays and More

Dare to be radical this Women's History Month! Join us to celebrate women and transgender trailblazers and changemakers.

Poster advertising Rad Women EventsBefore the book Rad American Women A-Z debuted at #5 on the New York Times bestseller list for middle grade books, and before it sold out its first printing, Oakland Public Library was snapping up copies of this long-awaited treasure for feminists young and old.

Why? Of course, we love that it’s by two local authors — writer Kate Schatz and artist Miriam Klein Stahl, both teachers. We love the profiles of 26 diverse women and transgender

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Posted on January 2, 2016 by Winifred Walters

How well do you know the Oakland Public Library?

Take a short quiz about the library and win a chance for a prize. All answers can be found in the new Oakland Public Library Annual Report 2014-15.

To celebrate the publication of the Oakland Public Library's 2014-15 Annual Report, we're having a contest!  Answer seven questions correctly and be entered into our weekly drawings for a $20 gift certificate to the Friends of the Oakland Public Library's Bookmark Bookstore in Old Oakland (721 Washington Street). 

Drawings will take place at noon on January 8, 15, and 22, 2016.  All eligible entries with 100% correct responses will be entered into each of the drawings -- there is no need to resubmit each week. 

Do you need a hint or two?  Check out our 2014-15 Annual Report.

Have fun!

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Posted on November 30, 2015 by Amy Sonnie

Career Online High School

Do you know an adult (age 19+) who wants to get their high school diploma? Learn more about this exciting new program at Oakland Library.

woman on computerOakland Public Library’s Career Online High School (COHS) offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and a career certificate. Advance in your profession or take the next step in your education. We support you from enrollment to graduation so that you can achieve your goals.

The Library is offering a limited number of free enrollments to qualified adult learners. Applicants should:

  • Be over 19 years old
  • Reside in Oakland, Emeryville or Piedmont
  • Have a Library card
  • Be willing to dedicate 8-10 hours a week to coursework.

Program Quick Facts

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Posted on November 24, 2015 by Tamar Kirschner

Book an Appointment for eBook Help

One-on-One eBook help is now available at OPL at four different locations and four different times.

 We are happy to announce that OPL Librarians are now offering hands-on, one-on-one eBook Help at four of our libraries (by appointment): 

Eastmont - Mondays 5-6:30pm 
Eastmont Town Center
7200 Bancroft Ave.
(510) 615-5726 

Rockridge - Tuesdays 6-7:30pm

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Posted on September 24, 2015 by Amy Sonnie

Literacy Week: Are You Connected?

Learn how we are bridging the digital divide while investing in the professional capacity of local youth.

By Andrea Guzman, Coordinator, Ready Set Connect Program

Computer help photo

What can you do with the Internet?

As witnessed in business trends, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, and the Bay for the past couple of decades: A LOT. From gaming to job searching, online dating, apps, virtual classrooms and so much more, the use of the Internet through computers and personal devices has become a prevalent and necessary component of daily life in the Bay Area.

In Oakland, however, there are numerous families without access to a computer, the Internet, and other essential tools many of us take for granted. Just like the ability to read, using and understanding how to use digital tools can greatly impact the accessibility of crucial services and opportunities!

Luckily, the Oakland Public Library continues to serve as a valuable resource to community

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