January is Picture Book Month, and the Contra Costa County Library system is celebrating with the theme “Bundle Up with Picture Books.”
The benefits of reading picture books with young (and not so young) children can’t be overemphasized. They help children learn about the structure of a story while building vocabulary and comprehension. They’re also a collective experience between a child or group of children and a trusted adult.
Reading books together builds a bond that is very special and unique. Bundle up with picture books next month and every month. Stop by any branch to enjoy activities that include a cozy seek-and-find, hot cocoa craft and a book bundle checkout challenge. Visit the library system online at ccclib.org to explore “Bundle Up” booklists, discover more related events and virtually log activities and reading time.
2026 book list: Looking to start the new year with a fresh list of books? Share your interests, and the knowledgeable staff at Contra Costa County’s libraries will curate a personalized list of titles just for you.
Fill out a quick questionnaire at ccclib.org/personalized-picks, and receive your recommendations within a week. For even more inspiration, explore staff picks, bestsellers, award winners and new releases on the Reading Recommendations page.
Social media: Support public relations at Contra Costa libraries from the comfort of your home by volunteering as a social media ambassador. You can help the library system extend its reach into the community and raise awareness of library collections, resources and programs at the same time. No application is required. Simply sign up to receive social media ambassador emails and begin posting about the county libraries.
Classical music: Alexander Street, a performing arts database available for free with your library card, provides an extensive collection of influential performances and documentaries demonstrating the continuous development of classical music, spanning eras from canonical masters to modern composers. Visit the libraries’ Digital Resources webpage at ccclib.org/resources to get started.
Chinese calligraphy: Join the libraries for an introduction to the art of Chinese calligraphy with Jojo Liu. To celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year, learn the art of traditional Chinese calligraphy basics including holding a brush, writing basic strokes and new year sayings. Registration is required at all locations.
Please be aware that some locations fill up quicker than others. Class times, dates and locations are 4 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Walnut Creek Library; 4 p.m. Jan. 8 at the San Pablo Library, 6 p.m. Jan. 8 at the El Cerrito Library, 4 p.m. Jan. 15 at the San Ramon Library and 11 a.m. Jan. 17 at the Antioch Library.
Visit ccclib.org to sign up for a library card and get connected to free books and resources. For questions about Contra Costa library services and programming or account information, contact the library system via email at ask@library.cccounty.us or text questions to 925-344-5524.
Brooke Converse is the Contra Costa County Library system’s public information officer and can be reached at brooke.converse@library.cccounty.us.
Library calendar
Meet Robert Liu-Trujillo: 12 p.m. Jan. 10 at the El Sobrante Library. Meet local author and illustrator Robert Liu-Trujillo, a lifelong artist from Oakland, who has worked in murals, public art, arts education, merchandise making, illustration and children’s book publishing.
Clutter-Free in 2026 — How to Let Go and Get Organized: 6 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Martinez Library. Start the year off right by clearing out clutter and get a head start on your goals. Create a rejuvenating, calming space that feels like a sanctuary. Presented by local professional organizer Jenna Carlsson. Registration is required.
Capoeira for Kids!: 11 a.m. Jan. 17 at the Dougherty Station Library. Kids ages 5 to 8 years old are invited. Through this Afro-Brazilian cultural art, students will be introduced to martial arts, acrobatics and dance in a fun and relaxed environment. All abilities and experience levels are welcome.
DIY Boba Workshop for Teens: 4:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at the San Ramon Library. Learn how to make your favorite boba tea drink in a do-it-yourself workshop hosted by the San Ramon Teen Advisory Board. All materials will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Open to middle- and high-schoolers.