Baker & Taylor, one of the nation’s largest and longest-serving book and media wholesalers for libraries, recently announced the unexpected closure of its business.
B&T has served the nation’s library community for nearly 200 years, and the Contra Costa County Library system is just one of many nationwide that have relied on them for decades. The abruptness of this closure presents a significant challenge across the industry.
Fortunately, the Contra Costa libraries began diversifying their wholesale vendors over the past year and are well positioned to resume receiving materials more quickly than many other library systems affected by this change.
Delivery of some newly ordered physical books may temporarily slow down. As ordering ramps up with new vendors, new materials should become more available in the next few months. Wait times for materials may be slightly longer for popular new releases that were scheduled to be fulfilled by B&T.
Library staff are actively reviewing these titles and reordering them through other vendors as quickly as possible. The library system is focused on keeping the shelves stocked, mitigating delays and maintaining the quality of the collection. Patience is appreciated as Contra Costa libraries navigate this unprecedented, complex transition.
Read Contra Costa: Read Contra Costa continues through Nov. 8 with a wonderful opportunity to meet acclaimed author Percival Everett in-person. Everett will discuss his award-winning novel “James.” The live event promises a deep dive into the book that re-examines Mark Twain’s classic “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
Everett will explore the novel’s themes of language, identity and freedom, offering unique insights into his creative process and literary influences. Following the discussion, Everett will be available to sign copies of his book. This event will start at 11 a.m. Nov. 8 in the Los Medanos College Student Union.
It will also be available live on Zoom and via CCTV. Please visit ccclib.org/read-contra-costa to register.
Libby Reads: Contra Costa libraries invite readers to join Libby Reads — the global digital book club from library reading app Libby. From Nov. 18 throug Dec. 2, library card holders can enjoy “The Village Beyond the Mist” by Sachiko Kashiwaba as an e-book or e-audiobook with no waitlists or holds through Libby.
Libby Reads also includes a reading guide to help readers explore the book’s themes, coloring pages and a writing workshop from the author. Visit the library system’s Digital Resources webpage at ccclib.org/resources to get started.
Kanopy: Skillshare videos are now being added to Kanopy, a streaming platform available for free to the Contra Costa system’s patrons with yours library cards.
Skillshare is a learning community for creative professionals and others wanting to build a business and/or learn new skills. The collection is still growing, so be sure to check back periodically for new content. Kanopy is available from the Digital Resources webpage mentioned above.
Visit ccclib.org to sign up for a library card and get connected to 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
“Triangle, the Fire that Transformed Industrial America”: 2 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Moraga Library. Join Professor Gerald Henig as he describes the circumstances leading to the horrific tragedy of New York City’s 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, who was responsible and its consequences.
Ohlone Cultural Program with East Bay Parks: 11 a.m. Nov. 4 via Zoom. Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a presentation by the East Bay Regional Park District that introduces people to parts of Ohlone culture, their connection to the land and natural resources. View cultural objects and replicas that Ohlone people still use today. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
“Safeguarding Your Assets from Scams and Identity Theft”: 11 a.m. Nov. 12 at the Pittsburg Library. As scams and identity theft surge during the holiday season, it’s more important than ever to stay informed. This timely session presented by Contra Costa Senior Legal Services will equip you with the knowledge and tools to recognize common scams and warning signs and prevent identity theft before it happens.
“Puppet Art Theater Co. presents Hansel and Gretel”: 2:30 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Martinez Library. This classic story stars brother and sister Hansel and Gretel, a wicked witch and a house made of gingerbread. Humor, charm and audience engagement have made Puppet Art Theater Co. shows a hit with young audiences across California for years. Best for children ages 3 and older with their families.