Alameda Free Library Event Alert - August 2026
Published on July 28, 2026
There are no Children’s programs during the month of August. Children’s programs resume at all library locations on Tuesday, September 8th.
Online Author Talks
Online Author Talk Program Descriptions (in date order as they appear in the table above):
Paula J. Johnson: Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm your heart (and make your stomach rumble), as we delve into the legacy of cooking icon Julia Child with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson, author of Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space. The book includes interviews with chefs who knew Julia well, commentary on her favorite culinary tools and kitchen gadgets, and a stunning array of photos. Register and add questions for Paula J. Johnson.
Beronda Montgomery: Join us for a riveting conversation with award-winning biologist Beronda Montgomery as we discuss her book, When Trees Testify: Science, Wisdom, History, and America’s Black Botanical Legacy. In When Trees Testify, award-winning plant biologist Beronda L. Montgomery explores the ways seven trees, as well as the cotton shrub, are intertwined with Black history and culture. She reveals how knowledge surrounding these trees has shaped America since the very beginning. As Montgomery shows, trees are material witnesses to the lives of enslaved Africans and their descendants. Register and add questions for Beronda Montgomery.
Lucy Foley: Join us for a thrilling conversation with acclaimed author Lucy Foley as we delve into her brand-new Miss Marple mystery, Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel. High in the Swiss Alps, accessible only by a single, winding railway, stands the luxurious Grand Alpine Hotel. With glorious mountain views and exclusive access to powdery slopes, it draws guests from far and wide. But not everyone is here for a winter holiday. And someone is watching from the shadows. A polite, unassuming woman with an extraordinary mind: Miss Marple. Register and add questions for Lucy Foley.
Other Special Events
Special Event Descriptions (in date order as they appear in the table above):
Summer Plant Swap: Bring healthy plants, cuttings, seedlings or bulbs that you’d like to share, and pick up something new to take home. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a lover of house plants, come connect with fellow plant enthusiasts and grow your garden or plant collection in a fun, sustainable way. Please label and place plants in secure, travel‑safe containers (unless they are already potted). Please make sure all plants you'd like to share are pest and disease-free.
Speed Friending 35-45 Edition: Are you looking to make new friends? Join us for a fun interactive event, where you will meet new people and hopefully make new friends. Speed friending events will be hosted on the fourth Thursday of the month (every month) and will be separated by age range. This event will be for people who are between 35(ish) and 45(ish). First come, first seated, only 24 spots available. Registration is highly encouraged by emailing to WEBREF@alamedaca.gov. Bring along fast facts and interesting questions to dive deep into the handful of moments provided with each participant. Sheets of interesting questions and ideas will be available for participants. Hope to see you there! Herbal Tea will be available.
Movie Matinee: Join us for an Adult Movie Matinee! Movie will be announced soon. Visit Bay Farm Island Library during the first few weeks of August to vote on a movie choice! Audience members are welcome to bring in food, blankets, and pillows! We provide light refreshments and snacks during the movie screening. This is an adult program for ages 18+.
Craft Supply Swap: Join us for a Craft Supply Swap! Bring your gently used art and craft supplies and leave with some new-to-you materials. Participants are also welcome to bring a mug and join us for tea! Please note that this is an adult program for ages 18+. Additionally, due to our limited space, we will not be able to accept donations prior to the event.
For more information about any of these programs, please contact the following:
Bay Farm Island Library: bfiref@alamedaca.gov, 510-747-7787
West End Branch Library: webref@alamedaca.gov, 510-747-7767
Adult and Teen programs (Main Library): refdesk@alamedaca.gov, 510-747-7713
Children’s programs (Main Library): childred@alamedaca.gov, 510-747-7705
All events are free and open to the public. Sponsored by Friends of the Alameda Free Library.
If you need accessibility accommodations to participate, or information translated or in other formats, please contact ada@alamedaca.gov at least seven (7) working days before the event.