Mission Branch - San Francisco Public Library

Show Your Love with Buttons!! (click on image to enlarge)

2012-02-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

Mission League Gaming!

2012-02-11T15:03:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Monday Night Mission League Gaming! Come in and game with us any time between 6:30pm to 8:30pm on February 13th at the Mission library in the children’s room. We will have video games here, but feel free to bring your own PS2 & Wii games. (rated E or T only, please!) Ages 8-18 For more information contact Nicole at (415) 355-5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org.

Get Inked...Naturally! Henna for Teens on Thursday, January 12!

2012-01-11T11:47:00.001-08:00

Are you interested in unraveling the mysteries of one of the oldest most traditional arts of the ancient world? Come join us and kick off the New Year with San Francisco’s Organic body artist Charitie Bolling for an exciting afternoon of fun learning and hands on activities. Secrets and truths of the origins of henna will be unraveled and mysteries revealed. Learn how to mix, apply and adorn with this beautiful and delicate fine art. All workshop participants will be able to choose from a plethora of designs and be painted with henna the traditional safe and organic way. For attending you’ll be entered into a mini raffle for your chance to win a personalized gift after the workshop!! Refreshments will be provided don’t miss out!! Bring a friend! Ages 12-18. For participants under 18, a signed parent/guardian permission form must be returned prior to the workshop.
To reserve your space and/or request a form, contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

eReader Open Houses at the Mission Branch Tuesdays, Dec. 27, Jan. 3, and Jan. 10, 6:30 - 8:30pm

2011-12-22T15:00:00.000-08:00

Did you get a Kindle, Nook or other eReader this holiday season? Want to learn how to use it and download library ebooks?

Come to a Mission Branch eReader Open House...

Tues., Dec. 27
Tues., Jan. 3
Tues., Jan. 10
any time between 6:30 - 8:30pm.

A librarian will help you on the 2nd floor at the reference desk. (Feel free to bring a laptop so you can download and transfer library ebooks to your device.)

U.S. Congress on your Corner!

2011-11-28T15:28:00.000-08:00

If you are having problems with a federal agency or obtaining your Social Security, Medicare, veterans or other federal benefits, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi’s office may be able to help. Staff from her office will visit the Mission Branch to answer questions about federal agencies, programs and benefits, and to offer any possible assistance.

Please note that Congresswoman Pelosi will not be at this event. Only staff from her office will be present.

En Español:
Si tiene alguna pregunta o problema con una agencia federal o obteniendo su Seguro Social, beneficios de veterano, o de otro tipo, la oficina de la Congresista Nancy Pelosi podría ayudarle. Representates de su oficina estaran visitando la Biblioteca de la Mission para contestar sus preguntas.

Aclaración: por favor note que la Congresista Pelosi no estará presente en este evento. Solo representates de su oficina estarán disponibles.

Congress On Your Corner
Monday, December 5, 2011
6:15-8:30 p.m.
Mission Branch Library

Ricardo Antoni, Adult Services Librarian/Bibliotecario

eBooks Anyone?

2011-11-15T17:08:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the SFPL public library has downloadable
ebooks you can borrow and transfer to ebook readers like the
Kindle for free?

Let Joseph Trent Garcia, SFPL's eResources Specialist, show you
how you can borrow ebooks from your public library and learn
what devices are compatible in this free, hourlong
workshop.

This is a perfect workshop for those giving or getting an
eBook reader for the holidays! Don't miss!

eBooks Workshop
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:30 p.m.
Mission Branch Library Children's Room

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Mission Branch on Saturday, October 15!

2011-10-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

Please join us to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Mission Branch Library with a wonderful afternoon of programs:

1:00 p.m. in the Adult Reading Room:
Venezuelan Cooking Demonstration with Adriana Lopez Vermut

Chef and Co-Owner of local Mission eatery Pica Pica Maize Kitchen,
will visit the Mission Branch Library to present a cooking demonstration using recipes from Venezuelan cuisine. Don’t miss this gastronomic tour of the most characteristic and flavorful tastes of Venezuelan cuisine. All ages are welcomed!

2:00 p.m. in the Adult Reading Room:
Argentinean Music Performance by Tengo Tango Tengo Tango features Marcelo Puig(Guitar & Vocal) and Seth Asarnow(bandoneon). Marcelo is one of the most in-demand and popular performers of authentic Argentine Tango music in the Bay Area. A
native of the Bay Area, Seth is musical director of the Los Angeles Tango Festival as well as Nora’s Tango Week, a Bay Area international conference celebrating tango. All ages welcome and tango dancers too!

3:00 p.m in the Children's Room:
Music and Dance from Mexico with Maria Luna
This workshop is based on integrating Mexican folk dance and creative movement. Children will become exposed to Latin-American culture, history, geography, and traditions as they learn dances from different regions in Mexico including structured footwork and partner dancing.

See you at the Mission Branch on October 14!

Orquesta La Moderna Tradición Live at the Mission Branch!!

2011-09-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

From the first note, you'll want to jump out of your seat! Since 1996, the San Francisco-based Orquesta La Moderna Tradición has thrilled audiences across the country with a mix of contemporary timba-infused arrangements of Danzón music. Originating in the late 1800s, Danzón still remains one of the most important musical styles in Cuba, and it was the music of choice at the Havana social clubs of the 1950s.

La Moderna Tradición has performed at Lincoln Center in New York, the Smithsonian Institution, the San Francisco Jazz Festival, and the Telluride Jazz Festival. Don’t miss this rare free concert by Orquesta La Moderna Tradición as part of the American Sabor Exhibition at the San Francisco Public Library and don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes!

Orquesta La Moderna Tradición Live!
Mission Branch Library - Adult Reading Room
Saturday, October 1, 2011
2:00 p.m.

Presented as part of American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music, a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian at the San Francisco Public Library.

Bring on the Buttons! (for Teens)

2011-09-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

Do you have any idea how fun it is to make your own buttons?

Join us on Monday, September 19, from 3:30-5:30 and find out!

Draw a picture, cut one out, or bring one in! Bring on the buttons!

Ages 11-18 welcome

For more information contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

The Comic Book Guide to the Mission Program

2011-07-21T17:50:00.001-07:00

Over 60 patrons attended yet another "happening" event at the Mission Branch!

Lauren Davies and over 10 of the anthology's contributors were on hand to discuss and read from newly published "The Comic Book Guide to the Mission". Lauren herself projected pages on a screen from the anthology as each contributor read from their piece. It was an evening to remember.

There are lots of more Adult programs and events coming to your Mission Branch. On Monday, August 1, we will offer a "Write your Will" workshop. Stuart Bronstein, an estate planning and probate lawyer in San Francisco for more than 30 years, will help participants create fully functional wills. Space is limited so please call us at (415) 355-5734 to sign up. As with all of our programs, the workshop is free!

See you at our next event!

Ricardo Antoni
Adult Services Librarian
Mission Branch Library

Workshop: Jewelry Making for Teens

2011-07-19T10:04:00.000-07:00

In this fun, hands - on workshop, local designer Chelsee Robinson will guide you in creating your own beautiful bracelet, necklace, or earrings. Come for the fun, leave with a skill! Materials will be provided.

Ages 12 - 18.
Pre - registration is required.

Mission Branch * 300 Bartlett Street
Monday, August 1st * 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Nicole at (415) - 355 - 5738 or email her at ntermini@sfpl.org.

All programs at the library are free. Supported by friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Just Published! The Comic Book Guide to the Mission

2011-07-06T20:13:00.001-07:00

Join us right here at the Mission Branch Library when Lauren Davis, Collector & Editor of The Comic Book Guide to the Mission, discusses this funny, raw, and vivid anthology of comics based on San Francisco's Mission District.

Contributors to the guide Justin Hall, Matt Stewart, Dan V., Aindrila Mukhopadhyay, Nomi Kane, Chuck Whelon, Jamaica Dyer, Sean Chiki and Mario Hernandez will also be on hand.

A book sale by local bookstore Mission: Comics & Art follows the event.

The Comic Book Guide to the Mission Author Event
Mission Branch Library - Adult Reading Room
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
7:00 p.m.

Omnifarious Origami: An Exciting Paper Folding Workshop

2011-07-05T10:06:00.000-07:00

Origami [折り紙] has been part of the Japanese culture since the Heian Period, as early as 794 b.c.e. In this fun, hands-on workshop, you too can take part in this ages-old tradition! Learn to fold just about anything, including boxes, decorations, cranes, and more! For youth ages 8-12, this is an event you DON'T want to miss out on.

INFORMATION

Who: Our skilled instructor Shinta Arifin and youth ages 8 - 18
When: Thursday, July 21st @ 3:00 - 5:00p.m.
Where: Mission Branch Library @ 300 Bartlett St.

For more information, call Nicole at (415) 355 - 5738 or email her at ntermini@sfpl.org.

In association with Shinta Arifin.

Power Your Mind with a Mystery!

2011-06-02T11:23:00.000-07:00

Join the Mission Branch Book Club!
Our first discussion will focus on the bold Swedish thriller: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, by Stieg Larsson.
When: Monday, July 11, at 6:30pm
Where: We'll meet at the Mission Branch Children's Room (1st floor).

Sign up at the 2nd floor Information Desk for the Mission Branch Book Club & pick up a copy of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (bring your library card!). See you July 11th! And, don't forget: There's still time to log your hours for Summer Read SF 2011.

¿Busca una buena novela de Mario Vargas Llosa?

2011-05-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Mario Vargas Llosa ganó el Premio Nobel de Literatura en el 2010. Si busca leer una de sus mejores libros le recomendamos “La Fiesta del Chivo” (2000). Esta obra es una extraordinaria ventana con vista a una de las dictaduras más largas y crueles que se han dado en la historia de Latinoamérica: la del General Rafael Trujillo en la Republica Dominicana. Mezclando personajes históricos e imaginarios y usando su genio narrativo, Vargas Llosa ha creado una novela histórica como ninguna otra.

Los hechos comienzan con la visita de Urania Cabral a la Republica Dominicana, su tierra natal, después de treinta y cinco años en el exilio en los Estados Unidos. La razón de su larga ausencia es lentamente revelada a través de dos narrativas que se desarrollan en los tiempos de la dictadura. Una de ellas sigue con detalle extraordinario los últimos días del dictador Trujillo describiendo la crueldad y los excesos que fueron característicos de su mandato. La otra narrativa sigue las acciones de un grupo de militares rebeldes que, después de treinta años de opresión y terror, planean asesinarlo.

A pesar de una excelente narrativa que trasporta al lector a la “Ciudad Trujillo” de los años sesenta, Vargas Llosa nos mantiene adivinando la triste razón del exilio de Urania. Cuando por fin se revela, la razón hace entender las repercusiones que una dictadura brutal, aun después de muchos años, puede tener sobre los que la han sobrevivido.

Tenemos copias de este libro en nuestra sucursal de la Mission. ¡Visitenos!

Ricardo Antoni, Bibliotecario de Adultos
Biblioteca de la Misión

May Button Magic!

2011-05-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

Do you have any idea how much fun it is to make a button? Join us and find out! It's magical! Draw a picture, cut one out, or bring one in. Think small because the buttons are less than 2 inches around...

Monday, May 23, from 4-6pm
Mission Branch Library 300 Bartlett Street

ages 11-18

For information or to register, contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

The Mission Branch's Cinco de Mayo and Open House Event

2011-05-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

Once again a great time was had at our annual Cinco de Mayo and Open House celebration on Saturday, May 7. If you missed it, well, our sympathies to you ;) But here are some photos from the event to cheer you up...

Local youth jazz band Futuro Picante playing Latin rhythms old and new...

Traditional Mayan embroidery demonstration and workshop...

Francisco Herrera playing songs and rhymes for all ages...

Manga Drawing Workshop!

2011-05-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

Become a manga artist!! Professional teaching artist Karen Luk will help you get there in this FREE drawing class.

For anyone ages 12-18 who loves manga and anime!

Sunday, May 15th, 2-3:30p.m.

For more information contact Nicole at (415) 355-5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

What is a Poet Laureate?

2011-04-25T16:27:00.001-07:00

Each year, when National Poetry Month arrives, we see news about the Poets Laureate of California and San Francisco. The appointing of a laureate is a tradition that many people have heard of, but perhaps you're interested in how it all started?

The concept of a Poet Laureate originated in England in the 1600s. The laureate description refers to the ancient Greek tradition of placing a laurel wreath or crown as recognition for significant achievements, from military accomplishments to literary triumphs.

Early lawmakers in California recognized the importance of a statewide Poet Laureate at the beginning of the twentieth century. Ina Donna Coolbrith was appointed the first honorary California Poet Laureate by Governor Hiram Johnson in 1915 and served until her death in 1928.

The position was an honorary lifetime appointment until 2001, when it was made into an official government appointment. The California Arts Council is designated to recommend individuals to the Governor for the position, the governor chooses the Poet Laureate, and Senate approves the appointment. The state Poet Laureate serves a two-year term and is limited to two terms. Quincy T. Troupe was appointed California's first official Poet Laureate in 2002. The current appointee is Carol Muskie Dukes who will serve until 2012. Many California poets have received notable honors including such awards as the Nobel Prize, the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize. A few have served as United States' Poet Laureate, like Robert Haas, a San Francisco native. Which leads us now, of course, to the Poet Laureate of San Francisco...

The San Francisco program was initiated by former Mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown. He was on a visit to Seoul, Korea, when he gave the surprise announcement that he would like San Francisco to have a poet laureate. He stated: "More than any historical facts or empirical data, literature is where we truly gain an understanding of other human beings."

Lawrence Ferlinghetti was San Francisco’s first Poet Laureate (1998-2000). He was chosen by a committee including notable authors, teachers, a representive from the Mayor's office and the City Librarian. Many think of Ferlinghetti as one of the fathers of modern poetry in the city. During his tenure he wrote a newspaper column, Poetry as News, in the San Francisco Chronicle. As publisher of City Lights Books he initiated a series of commemorative books of poems by successive SF Poets Laureate including Janice Mirikitani, devorah major, and Jack Hirschman.

The current Poet Laureate of San Francisco, Diane di Prima, was appointed in 2009, by former Mayor Gavin Newsom and City Librarian Luis Herrera. Ms. Di Prima has done a variety of programs with city youth and the public library. Her book, Recollections of My Life as a Woman: the New York Years: a Memoir, was the Jan. 2010 selection of San Francisco's Bi-monthly Book Club On the Same Page. Her works (and the efforts of all the city's laureates) embody the spirit that Mayor Brown was envisioning -- they aim to "broaden the world's appreciation of literature and its crucial function in society."

Notes:
Historical information located at the California Arts Council website: California Poet Laureate http://www.cac.ca.gov/poetlaureate/main.php

"Brown Wants Poet Laureate For S.F.'s Soul / Surprise announcement at University of Seoul," October 25, 1997By Edward Epstein, Chronicle Staff Writer http://articles.sfgate.com/1997-10-25/news/17759561_1_poet-laureate-lawrence-ferlinghetti-unofficial-poet

Press release: "Mayor Newsom Names Diane Di Prima as 5th Poet Laureate."
http://sfmayor.org/ftp/archive/209.126.225.7/archives/PressRoom_NewsReleases_2009_104403/index.html

Check the SFPL calendar for poetry events year 'round: http://sfpl.org/index.php?pg=1006262301

The Friends of the San Franciso Public Library hosts a weekly series at the Readers Cafe: http://www.readerscafe.org/thursdays-at-readers

Origami-O-Rama! Monday, April 11, from 4-6pm

2011-04-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Wanna pick up a new skill and have tons of fun in the process? Join us in this hands-on workshop and learn how to fold paper into just about anything, including boxes, decorations, you name it! Celebrate spring with Origami! Ages 12-18 Monday, April 11 from 4-6pm For more information contact Nicole at (415) 355-5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Staff recommended reading: Indian Givers: how the Indians of the Americas transformed the world

2011-03-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here the Western Hemisphere natives, usually treated as a footnote to world history, take center stage as anthropologist Jack Weatherford draws connections showing how nation-making and -breaking shifts in worldwide patterns of wealth, power, trade, population, health, and thought resulted from the gifts or theft of American indigenous knowledge, resources, and labor. Minerals; foods; medicines; technologies of agriculture, architecture, and transportation; templates of democracy and revolution – the fruits of contact, to non-Indians, were further-reaching than most people imagine, making the injustices of cultural and physical genocide perpetrated on the givers that much more heinous. Having done his spadework in the myriad relevant geographic and academic areas, Weatherford lays these effects out, from the obvious to the highly extrapolative, engaging our sympathy, gratitude, indignation, and awe with a network of revelatory anecdotes, facts, and causalities.

See if Mission Branch's copy of Indian Givers is available.

Judy

Jewelry-Making with Chelsee Robinson!

2011-03-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

In this fun, free, hands-on workshop, local designer and entrepreneur Chelsee Robinson will guide you in creating your own beautiful bracelet, necklace, or earrings. Come for the fun, leave with a skill! Materials provided. Ages 12-18.
Monday, March 21st
4:30-6p

For more information or to register contact
Nicole at (415)355-5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org.

Question of the week: "Do you have tax forms?"

2011-03-02T15:23:00.000-08:00

Every year around tax time, we get lots of questions about filing income taxes, most of which are in regards to whether we have the forms and instruction booklets for people to take home with them. The quick answer to this is, yes, here at the Mission Branch we do have some of the forms. However, our stockpile is dwindling.

Now here is the long answer: Every year we request the federal 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ forms and instruction booklets from the IRS, and the state 540 EZ and 540 2EZ booklets (which contain the forms) from the California Franchise Tax Board. As mentioned, we currently still have most of the forms and booklets, but they're going fast. Once they're gone we always keep some reference copies which you can use to make your own copies. (We do have a copy machine here at the branch).

Additionally, you can download all the federal forms and instructions from the IRS Web site and state forms and instructions from the California Franchise Tax Board Web site. Here are some direct links to those Web pages...

Federal Income Tax forms and instructions:
IRS home page
IRS forms and publications
Have IRS forms and publications sent to you

State Income Tax forms and instructions:
California Franchise Tax Board (CFTB) home page
CFTB forms and publications
Have CFTB forms sent to you

For more tax information, please have a look at the Web page set up by the staff at SFPL's Government Information Center. Here you will find information about where to pick up free tax booklets, where to file your returns and where you can get free help preparing your income tax returns. Our reference librarians can also help find the answers to some of those questions and help you locate the nearest post office.

Don't forget: Federal and state forms are no longer mailed to most residents --- except by request. And remember, this year Tax Day is April 17, 2011!

Get Inked...Naturally!!

2011-02-17T11:26:00.001-08:00

Henna for Teens

February 28, 2011

4:00-6:00

Thinking 'bout getting inked? Come join us at the Mission Branch Library for a free organic temporary tattoo! Unravel the mystery of henna and its ancient/traditional uses, learn how to apply it, and have all your questions answered by SF's natural henna artist, Charitie Bolling. All participants will receive a free design for participating. Refreshments will be provided. Bring a friend and get entered into a raffle for a chance to win a gift after the workshop! Space is limited! Don't miss out!!

Ages 12-18~For participants under 18, a signed parent/guardian form must be returned prior to the workshop. To reserve your space and/or request a form contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Show Your Love with Buttons on Valentine's Day!

2011-02-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

Who wants to get crafty with buttons on Valentine's Day?

February 14th, 2011 @ 4:00

Draw a picture, cut one out ,or bring one in.

Make a button for your LOVE or yourSELF!

FYI: The buttons are less than 2" around, so think small.

Ages 12-18

For more information contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Write Your Will Workshop Follow-up

2011-01-28T13:33:00.000-08:00

The Write Your Will workshop went really well, and was well attended. However, we had a number of people who couldn't make the workshop call to ask when we might be doing it again. As of now, we haven't scheduled anything, but we do intend to have Mr. Bronstein back for another workshop maybe during the summer. It's also possible that he will do the workshop at other library branches (he's already done it at Richmond and Mission Bay branches). You can check the library's events schedule here. Or you can contact Mr. Bronstein directly through his Web site (go to the "Contact" page) to ask him when he might be doing the workshop again either at the library or somewhere else.

Write Your Will Workshop

2011-01-20T16:45:00.000-08:00

Participants will write their own wills under supervision of a California estate lawyer with more than 30 years of experience. You will have it completed at the end of the session. Bring non-erasable pen, preferably blue-colored.

Monday Jan. 24, 2011
6:30 - 8:00pm
(meet in the Children's Room)
here at the Mission Branch
300 Bartlett Street

Felt Pin Fun for Teens!

2011-01-18T13:58:00.000-08:00

January 24, 2011 @ 4:00
Fashion a felt pin for yourself or a friend!!
Make one based on your favorite Lucha Libre wrestler,Day of the Dead image,or create your own unique design.
All materials provided.
Ages 12-18

For more information contact Nicole at

415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Get Inked...Naturally!

2010-12-20T18:55:00.000-08:00

Henna for Teens

February 28, 2011

4:00-6:00

Show Your Love with Buttons!

2010-12-20T18:23:00.000-08:00

Who wants to get crafty with buttons on Valentine's Day?

February 14th, 2011 @ 4:00

Draw a picture, cut one out ,or bring one in.

Make a button for your LOVE or yourSELF!

FYI: The buttons are less than 2" around, so think small.

Ages 12-18

For more information contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Felt Pin Fun for Teens!

2010-12-07T12:42:00.001-08:00

For more information contact Nicole at

415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Mission Library: A Space for All

2010-12-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

A very nice article about the Mission Branch was published by Mission Loc@l, an online news journal covering the Mission District. But please, finish your coffee before coming into the library ;)

Hispanic Heritage Month photos

2010-10-19T17:05:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun at our annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration here at the Mission Branch, as you can see by these photos we took...

Tambores de Colombia...

Red Poppy Art House's Family Art Program (Arte en Familia)...

Diana Gameros sings and plays guitar...

Ghost Hunting for Teens this Thursday at the Mission Branch!

2010-10-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

Ever Wonder if ghosts are real? Tommy Netzband, a ghost hunter from the SF Ghost Society, will talk about his experiences investigating ghosts and hauntings. He'll also be sharing ghostly images and sounds he has caught on DVD. Get the info and then you decide what to believe!

Thursday, Oct. 14
3:30-5:30 p.m.
(in the children's room)

Latino Hispanic Heritage in Literature

2010-10-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Latino Hispanic Heritage defines California, the nation, and many parts of the world. A month was designated in 1988 by President Reagan to celebrate this important aspect of the history of the United States. It begins September 15 and ends October 15. September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. They all declared independence in 1821. In addition, Mexico, Chile and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18 and September 21, respectively.

Here are a few Latino Interest titles, some in English and some in Spanish (and some bilingual), that we and some of our patrons recommend. They are by authors from North, South, and Central America:
The hummingbird's daughter : a novel / Luis Alberto Urrea.
Chronicle of a death foretold / Gabriel García Márquez
César Vallejo : the complete posthumous poetry (English & Spanish)
In the time of the butterflies / Julia Alvarez
Y una sed de ilusiones infinita / Rubén Darío
El huracán lleva tu nombre / Jaime Bayly.
The devil's highway : a true story / Luis Alberto Urrea.
Daughter of fortune : a novel / Isabel Allende
Veinte poemas de amor y una canción desesperada. (English & Spanish)/ Pablo Neruda

And here are some titles that explore the history of Spain and the Spanish in the Americas:
Conquistador : Hernán Cortés, King Montezuma, and the last stand of the Aztecs / Buddy Levy
El espejo enterrado / Carlos Fuentes
A Traveller's History Of Mexico/ Kenneth Pearce
A land so strange: the epic journey of Cabeza de Vaca: the extraordinary tale of a shipwrecked Spaniard who walked across America in the sixteenth century / Andrés Reséndez
Mission San Francisco de Asís / Kathleen J. Edgar and Susan E. Edgar.

Recent Newsmakers:
Mario Vargas Llosa: born in 1936, novelist, journalist and essayist, winner of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Literature.
Sonia Sotomayor: Appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States in August 2009. She is the Court's 111th justice, its first Hispanic justice, and its third female justice.

Links:
Info on Mario Vargas Llosa found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mario_Vargas_Llosa
http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/literature/laureates/2010/
Info on Justice Sotomayor: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonia_Sotomayor
Hispanic Heritage Month: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hispanic_Heritage_Month

Find us on Facebook

2010-10-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

The Mission Branch now has a Facebook page. You can either "like" us on our organization page, or "friend" us on our main account page...

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Mission Branch Library

2010-09-10T14:29:00.001-07:00

Saturday, Oct. 2
1-4 p.m.

Featuring...

The Family Art Program 1:00 pm
As part of the Mission Arts Performing Project (MAPP), the Red Poppy Art House presents the Family Art Program, a free form space for youth and parents to explore their creative impulses with no limitations.

And musical performances by…

Tambores de Colombia 1:00 pm
Traditional music from Colombia's Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

Diana Gameros 2:00 pm
Singer-guitarist whose music travels the Spanish and Mexican landscapes, recounting stories of love, movement, and borders, accompanied by the beat of the Cajon.

Colibri 3:00 pm
Children and families are invited to enjoy lively music from Latin America with Colibri. This performance will take place in the children’s room.

Celebra el Mes de la Herencia Hispana en la Biblioteca de la Misión

2010-09-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

Sábado, 2 de octubre del 2010
1–4 p.m.

El Programa de Arte en Familia 1pm
Como parte del Mission Arts Performing Project (MAPP), el Red Poppy Art House presenta el Programa de Arte en Familia, un espacio libre en donde los jóvenes y los padres pueden explorar sus instintos creativos sin ningún límite

Interpretaciones musicales por…

Tambores de Colombia 1pm
Una agrupación musical dedicada a presentar la música tradicional de la costa Atlántica Colombiana como también un poco de nuestra música del litoral Pacífico Colombiano

Diana Gameros 2pm
Cantante-guitarrista cuya música recorre los paisajes latinoamericanos, contando historias de amor, movimientos y fronteras, acompañadas al compás del Cajón.

Colibrí 3pm
Niños y sus familias son invitados a disfrutar de música de Latino América con el grupo musical Colibrí. La presentación será en la sala de niños.

Staff recommended reading: Alias Grace

2010-08-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

Margaret Atwood is at the top of her form, superb indeed, as wordsmith, story designer, social critic, and humanitarian in her re-inhabitation of the legendary Canadian folk case of Grace Marks, 19th century indentured immigrant housemaid tried and convicted for abetting the murder of her abusive male employer and his housekeeper/lover. Bringing the feminism, empathy, class consciousness, and artistry of A Handmaid's Tale to this very different material, spinning it from multiple viewpoints, Atwood adroitly manages to leave Marks' guilt or innocence ambiguous while vividly illuminating class and gender provocations which could have righteously driven her to participate in the crime. The period recreation is impeccable, relevant, and undistracting – not precious at all. You just can't get better than Margaret Atwood at her best.

See if Mission Branch's copies of Alias Grace are available.

Judy

Print is not dead - libraries booming!

2010-08-19T12:44:00.000-07:00

Well, it's no surprise to us that there are a lot of people using the Mission Branch and other San Francisco Public Library branches, but apparently it was to Carl Nolte, writer of the SF Chronicle column "Native Son." He's written a nice article about how well used the public library is, and it seems to be inspired by his visit to the Mission Branch...

Print is not dead - libraries booming

Question of the week: "Can I donate books to the library?"

2010-08-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Mission Branch Library receives many generous materials donations such as books, DVDs, CDs, and more. Some of these items we're able to add to our collection here at the Mission Branch (and we have an area where we display some of the book donations on our Staff Picks table), and we're very grateful to those of you who think of us when donating such items. The items we can't use in the branch get sent on to the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library, a "nonprofit organization that advocates, fundraises, and provides critical support for the San Francisco Public Library" (http://www.friendssfpl.org/?About_Friends). The Friends organization has a couple locations where they sell the donated items that are forwarded to them from the branches as well as those that are donated directly to them: Book Bay Main at the Main library, and Book Bay Fort Mason. Additionally the Friends organization raises money through book sales, including their bimonthly Steps Sales at the Larkin Street entrance of the Main Library on the first and third Wednesday of every month (April through October), and the annual Big Book Sale which occurs every fall and is the largest book sale on the West Coast.

We definitely encourage you to drop items off at the Mission branch if you have a single box or stack of books. If you have multiple boxes there is a Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Donation Center nearby at 438 Treat Avenue (between 17th and 18th Streets). Also, you can take donations directly to their store locations at Book Bay Main and Book Bay Fort Mason. Something to keep in mind is that we here at the Mission Branch as well as the Friends organization cannot use books that are damp, moldy or otherwise badly damaged; sets of encyclopedias like World Book, Britannica, etc.; legal statutes and casebooks; or magazines of any sort. Those items you can take to Goodwill or Salvation Army, except maybe for the books that are damp, moldy or otherwise badly damaged -- not sure if they want those.

Staff Picks Table

2010-08-07T09:45:00.000-07:00

If you've been in the branch in the last few months, perhaps you've noticed that we now have a new Staff Picks table. This table was donated to us by a patron who wanted to see, in one place, books we've read and recommend others to read. We couldn't have been happier about this generous gift. Soon we'll be including notecards on the table with our reviews of the books. But until then, you can always check this blog, on which we post staff recommended reading reviews. And if you're in the branch, have a look at the titles on the table, which is located next to the New Books section on the far west wall of the 2nd floor.

Staff Recommended Reading: Roads to Quoz

2010-07-16T11:28:00.000-07:00

Roads to Quoz: An American Mosey by William Least Heat-Moon is as attractive for the folksy erudition and cantilevered but thoroughly sound architecture of its prose as for the odd, whimsical, provocative thoughts, themes, and facts ("quozzes") it traces through the byways and waterways of our nation. William Least Heat-Moon, whose name alone is enough to invite readership, came to fame exploring vanishing small-town America via his Blue Highways. Still a traveling man but now experience-ripened and learned, he lets us in on the series of side-road trips he and his wife took questing rare, curious, place-related discoveries. The travel counterpart to a Slow Food meal is this local, organic, satisfying read of many courses with a full palate of flavors.

Judy

Carnaval 2010

2010-07-10T10:14:00.000-07:00

We're finally posting some photos from Carnaval! The Mission Branch had the pleasure of taking part in the annual Carnaval parade here in the Mission. Staffmembers walked along with the San Francisco Public Library Bookmobile to promote the library and the Mission Branch. The theme was "Where the Wild Things Are..."

Staff recommended reading: Market Day

2010-06-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

Beautifully and simply told, this wonderfully illustrated graphic novel tells the story of Mendleman, a Jewish rug maker, who goes into town on "market day" in an attempt to sell his rugs. But when he finds out that the owner of the store where he usually sells his rugs is no longer there, and that the new owner doesn't care to buy his rugs, Mendleman's world is thrown into chaos as he begins to question his profession, his life, and all of existence. James Sturm, author of the great graphic novel collection James Sturm's America: God, Gold and Golems, elegantly brings to life through words and pictures the hustle and bustle of an early 1900s Eastern European village marketplace. Additionally, Sturm effectively incorporates Jewish beliefs and spirituality into the tale. For instance, Mendleman talks about how, after a debate over the exact time of the setting sun signaling the beginning of the Sabbath, he made a rug with the colors purple and black so that when dawn comes and the light of day fades, you can no longer tell the difference between the colors, and you know then that Sabbath has begun and prayers can be made. I highly recommend this book, especially for those who have never read a graphic novel before. This is a great one to begin with.

Check to see if the Mission Branch's copy is available, or, if not, reserve a copy from another branch...

Market Day by James Sturm

Brian

Summer Reading at the Library!

2010-06-03T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here at the Mission Branch (and at many other San Francisco Public Library branches) there will be three summer reading programs happening, covering all age groups. You'll notice the common theme this summer is water!

Adult Summer Reading
The summer reading program isn't just for kids this year. The Adult Summer Reading Program is a competition between the two sides of the city -- Oceanside branches and Bayside branches -- to see which side of town reads the most this summer! Adults can sign up for the Adult Summer Reading Program here at the Mission Branch beginning Friday, June 4th. As participants read books or listen to audiobooks, they can check off the number of books read in the sign-up binder at their library. Watch the water gauge at your local library rise for each book read. More info here.

Teen Summer Read 2010: Go with the Flow!
Register at your local library starting June 5th (you must be 13 years of age or older). You will receive a Go With the Flow gameboard. Complete 6 tasks on the gameboard. Activities include reading, visiting environmental places in San Francisco, getting friends to sign up, or going to library events! When you complete your 6 activities, come back to the library by July 31, 2010, to claim your prize: a flash drive and raffle ticket, the latter of which makes you eligible to win a MacBook, iPod Nano, Nintendo Wii or MP3 players! You must be present to win grand prizes on August 4, 2010, from 4:00pm - 6:00pm at the Main Library. Get your game board signed off by the librarian (anywhere on the form) and keep it - this is your party invitation to the Teen Summer Read Party and the Grand Prize Raffle! More info here.

Water Your Imagination: Children's Summer Reading Club
Beginning June 4, children through age 13 can up in the children's room to keep track of the books they read and win prizes. The more you read, the more prizes you can win! When you complete your eight-hour summer reading log you will earn a grand prize. AND while your are earning your grand prize check out our awesome free summer programs happening at our branches. The program ends July 31. More info here.

Annual Mission Branch Open House/Cinco de Mayo

2010-06-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

If you missed out on our annual open house/Cinco de Mayo event on May 1, you're in luck, because we took some pictures.

Diana Gameros with Cajon accompaniment...

Maria Luna prepares for her presentation of traditional dance and music of Mexico...

ABADA Capoeira performs...

Staff recommended reading: Django: The Life and Music of a Gypsy Legend

2010-05-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

In this centennial year of the birth of Django Reinhardt, by all means go out to hear and dance at the many Bay Area celebrations and tributes to the incomparable French Gypsy jazz guitarist who invented the string-band style of Le Hot Club of 20's, 30's and 40's Paris, but also treat yourself to this biography written with the grace of a novel, the research of a master journalist, and the passion of a musician. Michael Dregni, guitarist and frequent Vintage Guitar magazine writer, performs a feat of scholarship, tracing the life of a nearly non-literate genius who left exactly two paper documents in his own hand. This lively book will redouble your admiration for the colorful, charming, at times vexatious early jazz innovator who struggled out of the music "industry's" straightjackets to follow his own vanguard heart.

See if the book is on the shelf at the Mission Branch...

Django: The Life and Music of a Gypsy Legend

Also, check out these Django Reinhardt CDs from the Mission Branch...

The Best of Django Reinhardt

The complete Django Reinhardt and Quintet of the Hot Club of France swing/HMV sessions 1936-1948

Judy

Como Encontrar Trabajo y Carreras

2010-05-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

En este taller los alumnos aprenderán dónde localizar y cómo utilizar los recursos de empleo y de carrera en la Biblioteca Pública de San Francisco y el City College of San Francisco. Además, los estudiantes serán introducidos a una serie de búsqueda de empleo y orientación profesional en los sitios de la red. Se requiere la capacidad básica para navegar por la Red. No es necesario registrarse.

Jueves 20 de Mayo de 2010
3:30–5:30 p.m.

Atención: La clase se dará en la Biblioteca del Mission Campus
del City College de San Francisco
1125 Calle Valencia, Salón 408

The Mission Branch Annual Open House & Cinco de Mayo Celebration

2010-04-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 1, 2010
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Second Floor

Featuring...

1:00 p.m. Diana Gameros
Singer-guitarist whose music travels the Spanish and Mexican landscapes, recounting stories of love, movement and borders, accompanied by the beat of the Cajon.

2:00 p.m. Charitie Bolling/Le Petit Jolie Henna Workshop
Demonstrating the ancient and mysterious art of Mehndi body art design.

2:30 p.m. De Colores with Maria Luna
Celebrate with dance and music from Mexico. Dress in traditional costume, play instruments, learn about Mexican culture and dance! (For children of all ages.)

3:15 p.m. ABADÁ-Capoeira
Performing the traditional art of capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art form that incorporates acrobatics, dance, percussion, and songs.

Como Encontrar Trabajo y Carreras

2010-04-24T12:54:00.001-07:00

En este taller los alumnos aprenderán dónde localizar y cómo utilizar los recursos de empleo y de carrera en la Biblioteca Pública de San Francisco y el City College of San Francisco. Además, los estudiantes serán introducidos a una serie de búsqueda de empleo y orientación profesional en los sitios de la red. Se requiere la capacidad básica para navegar por la Red. No es necesario registrarse.

Jueves 29 de Abril de 2010
3:30–5:30 p.m.

Atención: La clase se dará en la Biblioteca del Mission Campus
del City College de San Francisco
1125 Calle Valencia, Salón 408

"Poets 11 2010" at the Mission Branch

2010-04-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

Friends of the San Francisco Public Library and their Poet-in-Residence Jack Hirschman, together with the San Francisco Public Library, present Poets 11, the annual citywide poetry contest and reading series that features select poets from each of the City’s 11 districts. We here at the Mission Branch are excited to represent the District 9 poets selected to read their poems for the Poets 11 2010 event, which will be held...

Tuesday, April 6
7pm
2nd Floor

Women's History Month Wrap-Up, March 2010

2010-04-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

When I think of women's history, I think of books and stories -- personal stories and family stories, of sewing and cooking, of gardening, of childraising, of wars and protests and uprisings, of voyages and emigrating, and of striving for education and relationships and human rights.

Here is a list of a few authors whose works have illustrated -- through fiction and nonfiction -- some part of women's history everywhere...

Margaret Atwood: The Handmaid's tale
Colm Toibin: Brooklyn
Emma Goldman: Living my life
Isabel Allende: Daughter of Fortune
Toni Morrison: Tar Baby
Marguerite Duras: Wartime Writings
Alice Walker: In Search of Our Mothers' Gardens
Christa Wolf: A Model Childhood (or Patterns of Childhood)
Edwidge Danticat: The Farming of Bones
Elizabeth Cady Stanton: Eighty Years and More: Reminiscences, 1815-1897
Simone de Beauvoir: The Second Sex
Maxine Hong Kingston: The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts
Barbara Kingsolver: The Bean Trees
Tracy Chevalier: The Virgin Blue
Marilyn French: The Women's Room & From Eve to Dawn: A History of Women

-Anonymous Mission Branch librarian

Are you confused about Medicare?

2010-03-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

If you are confused about Medicare or you have questions about your Prescription Drug Plan and costs(Part D), come the this presentation to find out more information about what services are offered by SF HICAP (San Francisco Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program).

Tuesday, March 30
7:00pm - 8:30pm
in the children's room

Esta confundido sobre su Medicare?

2010-03-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Si usted confudido sobre su Medicare o tiene preguntas acerca de su plan de medicina o costos de prescripción (Parte D), venga a la presentación para averiguar más información acerca de los servicios que ofrece SF HICAP (San Francisco Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program).

Martes, 30 de Marzo
7:00pm - 8:30pm
en la sala de niños

Organic Container Herb Gardening

2010-03-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

Learn how to grow a variety of organic herbs in containers from seeds/starter plants using organic gardening supplies and methods. Create your own kitchen garden in containers! This is a Green Stacks program. For more information go to the Green Stacks page on the SFPL Web site.

Wednesday, March 24
6:30pm
Mission Branch Library

Staff recommended reading: The Shack

2010-03-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

In The Shack by William P. Young, Mac, the main character, loses his daughter in a terrible tragedy, which (understandably so) leaves him bitter and depressed. One day he receives a letter asking him to go to the shack where he lost his daughter. It is right here that he finds the answers he's been searching for. He finds a God who talks to him and surprises him. The God he finds at the shack is the opposite of what he had been taught, and this makes him understand himself better and reconcile with what happened. This book makes you see and reflect on the relationship we all have with God. It may be a little too religious for some, but no matter—it's touching and makes you think. I highly recommend it! The Shack is available in both English (at the Mission Branch and other branches) and in Spanish as an eBook (titled La cabaña: donde la tragedia se encuentra con la eternidad).

We introduce to you, our new children's librarian!

2010-03-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

Hello Mission Community!

I would like to introduce myself. I’m Ricardo Antoni and I just started working as a Children’s Librarian here at the Mission Branch! I feel really fortunate for the opportunity to work in such a wonderful, vibrant, and diverse community like the Mission. As a librarian, I feel that to serve children and young people is one of the most important things that we can do. Children are our future and the library is a welcoming place where children can learn about the world and develop their reading skills. Reading skills that later will translate into academic, work, and life success!

Something about myself: when I was young, I used to steal books from my parents’ bedroom to read. I remember that sometimes I would get into a lot of trouble as some of the books were not appropriate for my age! Luckily, my parents realized that I loved reading and therefore started to regularly bring books home for me to read (and that were more appropriate for my age!). Because of their encouragement, it did not take long for me to become an avid reader and to discover all the benefits that reading at an early age can bring into our lives.

So, I’m looking forward to serving the children, the parents and the teachers, and everyone in this great Mission community. Stop by and say hello sometime!

Until then,

Ricardo Antoni
Children’s Librarian
Mission Branch
San Francisco Public Library
rantoni@sfpl.org

Amigos de la Communidad de la Misión,
Quería saludarlos. Mi nombre es Ricardo Antoni y acabo de comenzar a trabajar como Bibliotecario para Niños en la Biblioteca Pública de la Misión. Es un privilegio poder trabajar en una comunidad tan vibrante y diversa como esta.

Pienso que no hay nada más importante que servir a los niños y jóvenes de nuestra comunidad porque ellos son nuestro futuro. La biblioteca es un lugar en donde todos los niños están bienvenidos y en donde ellos pueden empezar a desarrollar el hábito de la lectura. Un hábito que ayuda al éxito en la escuela, en la universidad, y en la vida.

Acerca de mi, les puedo decir que cuando era un niño y estaba aprendiendo a leer, me metía en problemas porque me gustaba robarme libros de la habitación de mi padres para leer. ¡Libros que a veces no eran apropiados para un niño de mi edad! Cuando mis padres se dieron cuenta de que me gustaba leer, me empezaron a traer libros a la casa más apropiados para mi edad. Gracias a ellos, no pasó mucho tiempo antes de que me convirtiera en un ávido lector y me diera cuenta de todos los beneficios que trae la lectura.

Bueno, eso es todo por ahora. ¡Espero servirlos muy pronto en la Biblioteca de la Misión!

Hasta pronto,

Ricardo Antoni
Bibliotecario para Niños
Biblioteca de la Misión
San Francisco Public Library
rantoni@sfpl.org

Come to the "Finding Jobs & Careers" Workshop

2010-03-02T15:06:00.001-08:00

In this workshop students will learn where to locate and how to use job and career resources at both the San Francisco Public Library and City College of San Francisco. Additionally students will be introduced to a number of job search and career guidance Web sites. Basic ability to navigate the Web is required. No registration required.

Next class:
Thursday, Mar. 4, 2010
3:30 - 5:30pm

*Please note*: This class will be held at City College of San Francisco Mission Campus Library, 1125 Valencia St., Room 408

Como Encontrar Trabajo y Carreras

2010-02-24T12:22:00.001-08:00

En este taller los alumnos aprenderán dónde localizar y cómo utilizar los recursos de empleo y de carrera en la Biblioteca Pública de San Francisco y el City College of San Francisco. Además, los estudiantes serán introducidos a una serie de búsqueda de empleo y orientación profesional en los sitios de la red. Se requiere la capacidad básica para navegar por la Red. No es necesario registrarse.

Jueves 25 de Febrero de 2010
3:30–5:30 p.m.

Atención: La clase se dará en la Biblioteca del Mission Campus
del City College de San Francisco
1125 Calle Valencia, Salón 408

Urban Fiction Writing Workshops

2010-01-06T15:32:00.000-08:00

The Mission Branch & WritersCorps Present:

Urban Fiction Writing Workshops

Do you like to read stories about young people dealing with life in the ghettos & barrios of urban America?

Have you ever thought about writing your own urban fiction story?

In these workshops we will learn from our favorite urban fiction stories and then write our own.

Ages 14-22

Contact Nicole with any questions at 415-355-5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

The Mission Branch, in the News!

2009-12-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

You may remember that we posted about our Teaching Garden back in October (when we first unveiled it to the public). But now someone at the San Francisco Chronicle has taken notice. Check out the article...

Children's garden takes root at S.F. library

Staff recommended reading: A Land So Strange

2009-12-18T10:33:00.000-08:00

I highly recommend the book A Land So Strange: The Epic Journey of Cabeza de Vaca, the Extraordinary Tale of a Shipwrecked Spaniard who Walked Across America in the Sixteenth Century by Andrés Reséndez (2007, Basic Books, New York). It is an easy-to-read and fascinating nonfiction book about the strangely-named Spaniard Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca who, along with three other men, was one of the only survivors of a party of 300 colonists that landed near Tampa Bay, Florida, on April 15, 1528, and ended up making a 1500-mile trek across North America eventually arriving in Mexico City. It is a tale not only of survival, but of exploration, and also of transformation, as Cabeza de Vaca went from being a slave of various Native American tribes to a trader, allowing him to travel freely among the tribes, to eventually being regarded as a faith healer with a large following of Native Americans who called Cabeza de Vaca and his compatriots "children of the sun." Cabeza de Vaca published a report of his experiences in 1542 and called it La Relacion (The Report), later known as Naufragios (Shipwrecks). It has been reprinted many times under different titles and in many different languages. The San Francisco Public Libary has a few of these in the original Spanish, and translated into English. The following are available at the Mission Branch...

The shipwrecked men (2007, Penguin Books, New York) by Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca ; translated by Fanny Badelier ; translation revised by Harold Augenbraum.

Naufragios (2000, Ediciones SM, Madrid) por Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca ; prólogo de Marcos Giralt Torrente.

Naufragios y comentarios (1985, Espasa-Calpe, Madrid) por Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca.

Cabeza de Vaca's Adventures in the unknown interior of America (1983, Albuquerque, University of New Mexico Press) by Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca ; translated and annotated by Cyclone Covey ; with a new epilogue by William T. Pilkington.

Brian

Teen Winter Reading Contest!

2009-12-03T17:15:00.001-08:00

What are you doing over winter break?

Why not sign up for the

Teen Winter Reading Contest?

Here's how it works:

* Beginning Saturday, December 12th, visit the Mission Branch and pick up a reading log.

* Fill out 1 reading log for every 5 hours that you read.

* Return the logs to Mission Branch by Friday, January 23rd, 2010.

* For every 5 hours you read, your name will be automatically entered into a raffle for cool prizes! The more you read, the more chances you have to win!

You must be between the ages of 12 and 18 and have a San Francisco Public Library card to enter. Participation is free and prizes are funded by the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Questions? Contact Nicole at 355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Vampire Holiday Card Parties!

2009-12-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

WritersCorps & SF Public Library Present:

Vamipre Holiday Card Parties!

Make your own vampire holiday cards using collage materials and text from your favorite vampire novels!

Ages 12-22

Bring your friends! Drug store cards are nice, but vampire holiday cards are FOREVER...

Monday 12/21 6pm * Wednesday 12/23 2pm

Monday 12/28 6pm * Wednesday 12/30 2pm

Henna for Teens! Saturday, November 14

2009-11-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

Henna body art or mendhi, is an ancient art. This natural substance has been used to adorn young women's bodies as part of social and holiday celebrations since the late Bronze Age in the Eastern Mediterranean. In this workshop, you'll be able to choose a design for a free, safe, temporary tattoo, and learn how to apply it with henna! Henna artist, Charitie Bolling, will show you how. Program limited to 20 teens. For ages 12-18. For participants under 18 , a signed parent/guardian permission form must be returned prior to the workshop. Join us!

To reserve your space and/or request a form, contact Nicole at 415.355.5738 or ntermini@sfpl.org

Saturday, November 14, from 4-5 p.m.

Day of the Dead/El Día de los Muertos

2009-10-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Day of the Dead (El Día de los Muertos in Spanish) is a celebration that melds European Catholicism with Aztec and other Mesoamerican traditions, honoring ancestors and the recently departed. It combines Christianity's All Souls Day (Nov. 2) and All Saints Day (Nov. 1) with the annual Aztec celebration of the goddess Mictecacihuatl, as well as other indigenous peoples' festivals and traditions that honor the dead and help their spirits pass safely into the next world.

At Mission Branch we will be honoring El Día de los Muertos in a couple ways. The first is that we will be erecting an altar. The spirits of the deceased are thought to pay a visit to their families during Día de los Muertos, and altars are often prepared for those spirits. An altar usually consists of offerings such as mementos, photos, and favorite foods of ancestors, family members, friends and even favorite celebrities or honored citizens who have passed away. Patrons are welcome to add something to our altar here at Mission Library. The display will be on the 2nd floor near the Reference Desk. Additionally, the Mission Branch children's department will host a workshop where children of all ages can learn how to build their own Day of the Dead altar. This program will take place Friday, October 30, from 3-5pm.

And, of course, you won't want to miss the annual Day of the Dead procession here in the Mission District. In San Francisco, Day of the Dead has been celebrated since the early 70s with art, music, performances and a walking procession. Many galleries, gift stores and cafes have altars, art exhibits and performances. People are encouraged to bring photos, food, candles and souvenirs that remind them of the people they're honoring. These items can be placed on community altars throughout the procession. This event takes place on Monday, Nov. 2nd, at 7pm, beginning at 24th and Bryant Streets, and ends at a "Festival of the Altars" in Garfield Park, which is at 26th and Harrison Streets. This event is organized by Rescue Culture Collective. Please visit www.dayofthedeadsf.org for event details and more history.

Resources:
www.dayofthedeadsf.org/history.html
www.mexicanfood.about.com/od/history/a/dayofthedead.htm?r=et
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dia_de_los_Muertos
www.missiondispatch.com/news/view_article.html?article_id=bf9be8d441c019b7c13432afaf0ec1e0

Local event links:
www.dayofthedeadsf.org
www.missionculturalcenter.org
www.galeriadelaraza.org
www.somarts.org

Hispanic Heritage Month at the Mission Branch

2009-10-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

Every year from September 15 to October 15, the U.S. celebrates its Hispanic heritage, focusing on the culture and traditions of Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, Spain, and South America. On Saturday, Oct 3rd, the Mission Branch Library offered dance, poetry, and music celebrating a variety of traditions from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Argentina. Participating in the program were De Colores [pictured] -- demonstrating Mexican traditional dances, Maria Medina (performing poetry and percussion), Jurek Mazur (of the Academia de Tango Argentino, presenting the history of Argentine Tango), and Xiuhcoatl Danza Azteca.

Ghost Hunting for Teens! Tuesday, October 27th

2009-10-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder if ghosts are real? If they are, how can you tell a real ghost from a fake? Is it true that teens tend to experience poltergeists more than other age groups? A real ghost hunter from the SF Ghost Society , Tommy Netzband, will talk about his experiences investigating ghosts and hauntings. He will also show you how to use ghost hunting tools and share some ghostly images and sounds he has caught on DVD. Get the info., then you decide what to believe!

Questions? Contact Nicole, Teen Librarian, at (415) 355.5738 or nicoletermini@sfpl.org

Tuesday, October 27, from 6-8 p.m.

The Mission Branch Teaching Garden

2009-10-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

On Friday, October 16, from 3:00 to 4:00pm, students in the second and fifth grades of Marshall Elementary School will begin planting the first seeds and seedlings in the new Mission Branch Teaching Garden! A partnership between the Mission Branch library's children's room, Janet Moyer Landscaping, Garden for the Environment, and the Mission Greenbelt Project, the teaching garden will be a resource offering the Mission Branch's community the opportunity to learn about growing food sustainably in an urban environment. Garden for the Environment will be offering workshops in the garden on planning, maintaining, and harvesting food crops. Additionaly, the teaching garden will provide local schools with a resource for hands-on science lessons and other potential partnerships with programs such as Eat Ur Veggies at Mission High School. Lia Hillman, Interim Children’s Room Manager of the Mission Branch Library, organized the partnership and envisions intergenerational programs with seniors and/or teens working with children. Program offerings could include harvest celebrations, cooking and nutrition classes, and how to grow food in San Francisco.

The Mission Branch Teaching Garden is a response to Mayor Gavin Newsom’s directive to grow food on the City’s unused land. The teaching garden also fulfills the San Francisco Public Library’s desire to help the City go green, which it is doing through its Green Stacks program. In partnership with SF Environment and Friends of the San Francisco Public Library, Green Stacks empowers all library users to live a more eco-friendly life. Learn more about the Green Stacks program here.

Welcome to the new Mission Branch blog!

2009-10-10T14:38:00.001-07:00

The Mission Branch blog is back!! And we have a new look, and a new outlook, which is that we'll be dedicated to bringing you timely and consistent news and information about the Mission Branch and the whole San Francisco Public Library. Additionally, our new blog will be bilingual (English and Spanish). We hope you will keep track of us here, and feel free to give us feedback at any time.