Por Kathryn Johnson

Library holiday hours

Please note that the library will have a change of hours on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The library will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. so staff can get home and get a head start on meal preparations. We will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 23 for Thanksgiving and reopen on Friday, Nov. 24 at 9:30 a.m.

We will also be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 for Christmas and open for our regular hours on Tuesday, Dec. 26.

Hecho a mano en tu biblioteca

Take time out of the stressful holiday season and relax while creating a simple vintage paper star at our December Handmade @ Your Library program.

Participants will be able to make a large star for decorative display or smaller stars for gift or tree adornment.

This program free and open to adults. Friday, Dec. 15 at 2:30 p.m.

New photography exhibit

Our new exhibit features the nature photography of Michael Ready in conjunction with Cabrillo National Monument. “The See Life Collection” highlights animals that live in the ecosystems around the Cabrillo National monument. Stop by and take a closer look at these diverse creatures that often get overlooked due to their tiny size. Runs through January 2018.

Handmade Holidays

Looking for Thanksgiving recipes and holiday gifts ideas? Check out our “Handmade Holidays” book display. We have a revolving selection of cook books and craft books to inspire you!

Kids corner

Our Snowman Coloring Contest is back! Dress the snowman in any way you wish, using crayons, markers, paint, glued decorations, etc. Then return it to the Benjamin Branch Library before 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16. All ages are welcome to participate, winners will be chosen by age level.

Do you like candy, frosting, graham crackers and fun? Children and caregivers are welcome to join us Tuesday Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. to make their very own graham cracker gingerbread houses! All supplies will be provided. For ages 4 and up. Sign up required.

We continue to offer story times for babies, toddlers and preschoolers throughout the week. Please visit the branch for a schedule.

Thanks for reading and we look forward to seeing you at the library!

— Managing librarian Kathryn Johnson and the staff of the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library can be reached at [email protected].