April is National Poetry Month

"Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Thou art more lovely, and more temperate," begins one of William Shakespeare's prettiest poems ("Sonnet 18"). The genre of poetry can be easy to celebrate in April, from cheeky limericks to the Presidential inaugural poem by Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. National Poetry Month is designed to promote the art of flowing words in small packages, launched 25 years ago (April 1996) by the Academy of American Poets. Try reading some classic or contemporary poetry, or writing your own, with the many books in our collection (including by local wordsmiths Patrice Vecchione or Robinson Jeffers).
Earth Day, April 22 2021

For the 50th anniversary of Earth Day on April 21, 2020, most people around the globe were in Covid lockdown and many activities had to go digital. But some quarantine results were great: Air pollution plummeted from cars staying home (New Delhi, India saw a 60% drop in "fine particulate matter"), noise pollution dropped, and wildlife got a rest from human activity. Locally, Earth Day 2021 can be celebrated by volunteering or getting outside to enjoy our parks. The library has lots of books on conservation, natural wonders, recycling and Earth-friendly topics, such as those above. Check them out!
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Monterey County Schools are Back!
Welcome back Monterey County students (and teachers)! Many local schools are getting started with in-person and hybrid learning for the first time in a year. Although the library is still closed for browsing, students, parents and teachers can call (831-646-3933) or email us (refdesk@monterey.org) for help! We still have our website pages for homework and fun books, and we welcome all questions.
  • Use your library card to reserve and pick up holds, Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm.
  • No overdue fines during Covid quarantine but please return any late items.
  • Lost your library card or is it expired? Call us or apply online.
  • Contact us by email or call us with any comments or questions, Monday-Friday, 10 am to 6 pm.
~ 1st Annual Student History Slam!
Saturday, April 24 from noon to 5 pm
Local history gets to shine at our first annual History Slam for high school and middle school historians. Register here to watch the collection of 10-15 minute Zoom presentations, all ages welcome. Enjoy research on topics such as "The first newspaper in California," "John Steinbeck's The Red Pony," "History of the Presidio" and more. Cash awards for the most creative, informative entries on a local history topic! For more information or to register, visit History Slam.
JobNow/ VetNow: Transitioning to Civilian Life
As a veteran or military family, use this free database to learn about local benefits and the transition from military to civilian life. You'll need your Monterey Library card to access personal assistance with finding veteran's benefits, getting help with resume-building and job searching, and building skills through adult education. Live help is available every day, 1:00-10:00 pm PST.
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Free Tax Forms & Filing Help
The Library still offers the common tax forms (such as CA 540 and US 1040) at our curbside pickup, Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11 am to 6 pm. If you need a special form, call 831-646-3933 Monday through Friday or email us (refdesk@monterey.org) and we can often print forms for you to pick up at the main door. For even more detailed help, the United Way of Monterey County is again hosting free tax assistance by appointment for eligible taxpayers. Visit the VITA Tax Prep page for more information.
Literary Birthdays
ONGOING EVENTS
Ms. Orquidea's Read & Sing: Second Saturday every month, 10:30-11:30 am. Sign up here.

Mindfulness Meditation: Every Wednesday, 12:15-12:45 pm. More info and register here.
Monterey Public Library | (831) 646-3933 | www.monterey.org/library