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Library · San Jose

Joyce Ellington Library

Public library branch at 491 E. Empire St. See its official page for current services and opening hours.

Upcoming at Joyce Ellington Library101

Tomorrow

Tomorrow · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Tomorrow · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Tomorrow · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

Wednesday, October 28

Wed, Oct 28 · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Oct 28 · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Wed, Oct 28 · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Oct 28 · 5:30 PM

BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) Book Club

Bring a book that you have read that fits into our monthly theme. Come for recommendations, reviews and rapport. We meet in person at the Joyce Ellington Library. Please join us for an afternoon of literary discussion! All are welcome! Upcoming Book Themes: January 28: New Year, New You!: Kick off the new year with a book to inspire or motivate you. Discover a new hobby, dive into a self-help book, or explore health and fitness. February 25 : Romance: Fall in love with a classic romance novel or discover a new romantasy author. March 25: Spring Cleaning! Clean out your bookshelf and read a…

Wednesday, November 4

Wed, Nov 4 · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 4 · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Wed, Nov 4 · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 4 · 4 PM

Joyce Ellington Teens Reach Orientation

This program is for teens, ages 13-18, who are new to volunteering for Teens Reach at the Joyce Ellington Branch Library. Attend the orientation and stay afterwards, 5:00-6:30 PM, to attend your first Joyce Ellington Teens Reach Meeting where you'll meet other teen volunteers and start earning volunteer service hours. Teens Reach Orientation: 4:00-5:00 PM Teens Reach Meeting: 5:00-6:30 PM Our in-person meeting plans: Teen Volunteer Opportunities SJPL Teen Programs Games & Activities Snacks Guest Speakers (occasionally) Bring a friend, and learn more about what to expect with volunteering this…

Wed, Nov 4 · 5 PM

Joyce Ellington Teens Reach Meeting

Teens Reach is the youth council for the San José Public Library, providing a key way for young adults to build their leadership skills by developing and participating in library activities, as well as becoming library advisors and advocates. For ages 13-18. Our in-person meet up plans: Teen Volunteer Opportunities SJPL Teen Programs Games & Activities Snacks Guest Speakers (occasionally) Bring a friend, and learn more about what to expect with volunteering this year. If you are new to volunteering with the San Jose Public Library, please visit the Teens Reach: Community Service webpage:…

Sunday, November 8

Sun, Nov 8 · 1 PM

Game On at the Library

Join us every Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at the Joyce Ellington Branch for a fun afternoon of board games! Choose from our large selection of games, including exciting new favorites and classic games that are fun for all ages. Bring your family and friends, roll the dice, and enjoy some friendly competition! No Registration Required. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sun, Nov 8 · 3 PM

Everyone Can Create: Beginning Stop Motion Animation

Children ages 6-12 are invited to this fun, in-person introduction to stop motion animation. Participants will use the Stop Motion Studio app to make simple stop motion animations using small toys and paper. Participants will have an opportunity to showcase their work at the end of the session . iPad devices will be provided to all participants. The theme of all four classes in October is Halloween. October 4 Introduction to Stop-Motion Animation Children will learn how stop-motion animation works and create their own Halloween-themed props and characters for their movie. October 11 Creating…

Sun, Nov 8 · 3:30 PM

OneInMath: Math Support for Grades K–3 at Joyce Ellington Branch

Build confidence and strengthen math skills in this free program for students in kindergarten through third grade. Students will receive individualized support from trained volunteers while working through engaging math activities, games, and lessons designed to reinforce foundational math concepts. Student can progress at their own pace in a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Registration is required. Visit the One in Math website to register. You may be asked to provide personal information to sign-up. Please review One in Math’s Privacy Policy before registering. Request an ADA…

Thursday, November 12

Thu, Nov 12 · 11 AM

Native American Heritage Storytime

Join us for an enriching celebration of Native American Heritage Month during our special storytime at the library. Immerse yourself in captivating tales and engaging activities that honor Native American communities' diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions. This program is developed to align with the Early Education Quality Standards . ADA Accommodation Requests

Thu, Nov 12 · 2 PM

Reading to Children

Participating in the Reading to Children program is a great way for children to develop their imagination and spark a love for books, reading, and learning. Children will enjoy one-on-one or small group interactions with our librarian. Kids are also welcome to practice reading aloud. Reading to Children will take place in the Children's Area. ADA Accommodation Requests

Thu, Nov 12 · 5 PM

Volunteer Away Your Fines as a Branch Buddy

Every now and then, libraries need a little extra love from the communities they serve. Volunteer away your library fines at a rate of $20 per hour while helping the library maintain a clean and welcoming environment. Volunteers are needed to help with: Tables and Chairs Cleaning – Wipe down crucial furniture used for library events Book Cover Cleaning – Use disinfecting wipes to reinvigorate dingy books Material Inspection – Check books for torn pages, pen marks, etc. Details and Requirements: Must be able to commit to the full session Anyone under the age of 15 must volunteer alongside a…

Sunday, November 15

Sun, Nov 15 · 1 PM

Game On at the Library

Join us every Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at the Joyce Ellington Branch for a fun afternoon of board games! Choose from our large selection of games, including exciting new favorites and classic games that are fun for all ages. Bring your family and friends, roll the dice, and enjoy some friendly competition! No Registration Required. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sun, Nov 15 · 3 PM

Everyone Can Create: Beginning Stop Motion Animation

Children ages 6-12 are invited to this fun, in-person introduction to stop motion animation. Participants will use the Stop Motion Studio app to make simple stop motion animations using small toys and paper. Participants will have an opportunity to showcase their work at the end of the session . iPad devices will be provided to all participants. The theme of all four classes in October is Halloween. October 4 Introduction to Stop-Motion Animation Children will learn how stop-motion animation works and create their own Halloween-themed props and characters for their movie. October 11 Creating…

Sun, Nov 15 · 3:30 PM

OneInMath: Math Support for Grades K–3 at Joyce Ellington Branch

Build confidence and strengthen math skills in this free program for students in kindergarten through third grade. Students will receive individualized support from trained volunteers while working through engaging math activities, games, and lessons designed to reinforce foundational math concepts. Student can progress at their own pace in a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Registration is required. Visit the One in Math website to register. You may be asked to provide personal information to sign-up. Please review One in Math’s Privacy Policy before registering. Request an ADA…

Monday, November 16

Mon, Nov 16 · 1 PM

Tech Mentor: One on One Computer Help

Confused by your computer? Get personalized tech assistance. Help is available for basic tasks such as: Printing Using email Connecting to WiFi Creating documents Accessing library resources such as e-books We can also provide basic instructions for using devices such as laptops, smartphones, e-readers, etc. Free. No registration or appointment required. Just drop by and ask for assistance. ADA Accommodation Requests

Mon, Nov 16 · 2:30 PM

Monday Matinee: Smoke Signals

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with the 1998 film Smoke Signals . Smoke Signals--one of the first feature films to be written, directed, and produced by Native Americans--won the Audience Award at Sundance. The film follows Victor Joseph and Thomas Builds-the-Fire, who travel from their Idaho reservation to collect the ashes of Victor's estranged father. Rated PG-13; 89 minutes Movie trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQhviwp8j38 Free. No registration required. ADA Accommodation Requests

Mon, Nov 16 · 4 PM

Reading Buddies

Reading Buddies provides students in grades K-3 with an opportunity to improve their reading skills by working one-on-one with a reading coach. Reading Buddies creates a positive reading experience for beginning and developing readers and helps children build confidence as readers. Our reading coach will listen to children read and provide support in reading and comprehension. Students can bring their favorite book or choose from the available selection at the Joyce Ellington Branch Library. Free. Pre-registration not required. However, reading sessions are available on a first come, first…

Wednesday, November 18

Wed, Nov 18 · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 18 · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Wed, Nov 18 · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 18 · 5:30 PM

BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) Book Club

Bring a book that you have read that fits into our monthly theme. Come for recommendations, reviews and rapport. We meet in person at the Joyce Ellington Library. Please join us for an afternoon of literary discussion! All are welcome! Upcoming Book Themes: January 28: New Year, New You!: Kick off the new year with a book to inspire or motivate you. Discover a new hobby, dive into a self-help book, or explore health and fitness. February 25 : Romance: Fall in love with a classic romance novel or discover a new romantasy author. March 25: Spring Cleaning! Clean out your bookshelf and read a…

Saturday, November 21

Sat, Nov 21 · 10:15 AM

Reading To Children

Participating in the Reading to Children program is a great way for children to develop their imagination and spark a love for books, reading and learning. Throughout this 30-minute session, our trained volunteer or a staff member of the library will not only read to your kids but also engage with them using music, felts and finger plays. As a result of participating in Reading to Children, your child will develop imagination and love of books and reading. Reading to Children will take place in the Children's Area. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sat, Nov 21 · 10:30 AM

Guided Meditation & Yoga for Wellness and Stress Relief

Free in-person meditation and yoga session. Simple standing or chair-based stretches (no mats required). Practice is designed to improve focus, emotional balance, and inner calm. Presented by Dhyan Foundation, dedicated to promoting physical, mental and spiritual well-being through authentic yogic practices and community education. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sat, Nov 21 · 3 PM

Wee Love Art: Frida Kahlo

Celebrate creativity and explore the vibrant legacy of Frida Kahlo, a pioneering Mexican artist, with our Wee LOVE ART program. Immerse yourself in Kahlo's colorful world of self-expression and symbolism through hands-on art activities inspired by her iconic style. Join us on this artistic journey as we honor the life and legacy of this extraordinary artist. Free. No registration required. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sunday, November 22

Sun, Nov 22 · 1 PM

Game On at the Library

Join us every Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at the Joyce Ellington Branch for a fun afternoon of board games! Choose from our large selection of games, including exciting new favorites and classic games that are fun for all ages. Bring your family and friends, roll the dice, and enjoy some friendly competition! No Registration Required. ADA Accommodation Requests

Sun, Nov 22 · 3 PM

Everyone Can Create: Beginning Stop Motion Animation

Children ages 6-12 are invited to this fun, in-person introduction to stop motion animation. Participants will use the Stop Motion Studio app to make simple stop motion animations using small toys and paper. Participants will have an opportunity to showcase their work at the end of the session . iPad devices will be provided to all participants. The theme of all four classes in October is Halloween. October 4 Introduction to Stop-Motion Animation Children will learn how stop-motion animation works and create their own Halloween-themed props and characters for their movie. October 11 Creating…

Sun, Nov 22 · 3:30 PM

OneInMath: Math Support for Grades K–3 at Joyce Ellington Branch

Build confidence and strengthen math skills in this free program for students in kindergarten through third grade. Students will receive individualized support from trained volunteers while working through engaging math activities, games, and lessons designed to reinforce foundational math concepts. Student can progress at their own pace in a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Registration is required. Visit the One in Math website to register. You may be asked to provide personal information to sign-up. Please review One in Math’s Privacy Policy before registering. Request an ADA…

Monday, November 23

Wednesday, November 25

Wed, Nov 25 · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 25 · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Wed, Nov 25 · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Nov 25 · 4 PM

Family Movie Club: Wonder

Please join us for Family Movie Club at the Joyce Ellington Branch Library as we watch Wonder, a movie that follows August Pullman, a 10-year-old boy born with facial differences, as he attends a mainstream school for the first time and inspires his classmates and community to choose kindness Families are invited to relax and enjoy this fun movie together in a welcoming community setting. Popcorn will be provided, and we will have coloring pages available for those who prefer a quiet activity during the movie. Free. No registration required. The program is sponsored by the F riends of the…

Wednesday, December 2

Wed, Dec 2 · 10:15 AM

ESL Conversation Club for English Language Learners (ELL)

Practice and improve your English-speaking skills in a group setting with a volunteer facilitator, discussing a variety of topics. A basic understanding of English is required. The purpose of this group is to help learners practice speaking and build confidence and comfort when communicating in English. ADA Accommodation Requests

Wed, Dec 2 · 11 AM

Family Storytime

Storytime is a fun and interactive experience designed to accommodate a mix of ages and invites the entire family to participate in early literacy activities such as stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and movement activities. This program promotes the joys of reading and learning for children of all ages and their parents/caregivers! Stay after storytime for our Stay and Play session, where kids can enjoy hands-on activities, toys, and social playtime together. Free, with limited capacity. Seating for Storytime is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tickets…

Wed, Dec 2 · 2 PM

Homework Club at Joyce Ellington Branch

Need help with your homework or a subject in school? Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade can come to Joyce Ellington Branch Library on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to get free assistance . Students can get help with their homework/school enrichment or use our Study Room as a space to work on school projects independently. Free. No registration required ADA Accommodation Requests

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