Friends Supported Events

LIBRARY EVENTS SUPPORTED BY THE FRIENDS

Below are upcoming one time and ongoing library events supported by the Friends of the Albany Library. The one-time events are listed in date order, then the ongoing events follow. Please go to the Albany Library Website Events page for more detailed information, and also to see additional Events that are provided by the Alameda County Library Events | Alameda County Library | BiblioCommons

SPECIAL 3-MONTH SERIES OF ALBANY READS EVENTS THROUGH MAY

Please join us as the Albany Library launches a three-month community wide reading and event experience inspired by the “The Poet and the Silk Girl: A Memoir of Love, Imprisonment, and Protest” by Albany author Satsuki Ina. Receive a free copy of the book (while supplies last), hear from the author, experience a powerful documentary presentation, and help fold thousands of origami cranes as a shared symbol of remembrance and hope. Link to all of the events on the ACL Albany Library events page: Events | Alameda County Library | BiblioCommons

Through films, art, poetry, history talks, cultural programs, and conversations on civil liberties and belonging, Albany Reads invites neighbors of all ages to learn from the past and imagine a more just future together. Given the current national political climate, the Albany Reads events will be timely, topical, educational, interesting, inspiring. Link to ACL Albany Library Community Reads 3-month program: Come participate in this extraordinary season of learning and connection with your neighbors, because when a community reads together, it can also grow, heal, and imagine together. “We are stronger together than we are alone.” – Walter Payton, Chicago Bears Running Back

 

One Time Library Events  

May Events 

Below is detailed information about one time May Events supported by the Friends of the Albany Library. 

Kindness and Belonging Storytime

Join us for a special storytime all about kindness and belonging! This 30-minute storytime is designed for ages 3-5, but children of all ages are welcome. Stay after the songs and stories for a simple craft activity.  Link to event for more information: Kindness and Belonging Storytime

Saturday, May 2,  11:00 am – 11:30 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Albany Reads Discussion Group

Join us for a community discussion of Albany Reads 2026 selection, The Poet and the Silk Girl: A Memoir of Love, Imprisonment, and Protest by Albany author Satsuki Ina. Link to event for more information: Albany Reads Discussion Group

Saturday, May 2, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Chess Class  

Each session will have a lesson, demonstration, “simul” play against our experienced chess guide, and open informal play. For 2nd grade – teens. Beginners are welcome, but students should know the names of the pieces and how they move. Registration encouraged. Link to event for more information & registration: Chess Class

Sunday, May 3, 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm – Edith Stone Room

Build It

You can build with LEGO, Duplo or Straw Connectors. Try button making or watch a 3D printing demonstration on a LulzBot Mini 2. The 3D printer is for demonstration only and is not available for public use. Children under 8 must be with an adult.  Link to event for more information:  Build It

Monday, May 4,  2:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Tsuru for Solidarity: Panel Discussion  

Join members of Tsuru for Solidarity for a panel conversation on history, memory, and solidarity. Rooted in the history of Japanese American incarceration during World War II, this program explores how the idea of “Never Again” continues to shape conversations about civil liberties, detention, and community responsibility today. Speakers will share perspectives on current issues, local efforts, and what solidarity can look like across communities. Participants will have the opportunity to listen, reflect, and consider ways to stay informed and engaged. Link to event for more information: Tsuru for Solidarity: Panel Discussion

Tuesday, May 5,   6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Edith Stone Room

Author Talk with Ellie Yang Camp – Louder than the Lies, Asian American Identity, Solidarity & Self-Love  

Join Bay Area author Ellie Yang Camp as she talks about her book Louder Than the Lies: Asian American Identity, Solidarity and Self-Love. Ellie will discuss how Asian Americans experience race in the United States, including what it can feel like to be positioned between racial groups in a society shaped by racial inequality. She also shares reflections on identity, solidarity, and self-understanding. Link to event for more information: Author Talk with Ellie Yang Camp – Louder than the Lies

Wednesday, May 6,  6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Edith Stone Room

Game On

You can play Nintendo Switch 2 and Wii. Ages 8 and up. Link to event for more information: Game On

Thursday, May 7,  3:45 pm – 5:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Arts and Crafts at Albany Library – Secret Craft We’re Making – Come See What We’re Creating! 

We are combining multiple materials to create unique crafts. Come to our session on May 9th and we’ll show you how. Our programs are free and require no prior experience. Just a desire to create unique art pieces by following simple instructions and use of everyday supplies. Attendees will find this art form fun and unique, and it will take 20 minutes or less to complete. This event will accommodate 20 attendees. Link to event for more information: Arts & Crafts at Albany Library – Secret Craft

Saturday, May 9,  2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Family Music Lab

Play along to the beat on basic percussion instruments like hand drums, tambourines, shakers and more! All ages of children are welcome. We have instruments for babies and toddlers. Children under 8 must be with an adult. No experience necessary. Link to event for more information: Family Music Lab

Sunday, May 10,  1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Build It

You can build with LEGO, Duplo or Straw Connectors. Try button making or watch a 3D printing demonstration on a LulzBot Mini 2. The 3D printer is for demonstration only and is not available for public use. Children under 8 must be with an adult.  Link to event for more information:  Build It

Monday, May 11,  2:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Introduction to Estate Planning & Living Trust at Albany Library

Improve your ability to have a return on investments. Reduce the chance you’re bankrupt after a natural disaster. Have enough money for your child’s education or your retirement.

  • May 12, 2026 – Introduction to understanding Estate Planning and Living Trust.
    • This workshop covers the following topics:
      • What is an Estate Plan & a Living Trust.
      • What are the steps to implementing an Estate Plan and a Living Trust.
      • How to sign up for a free consultation.

Link to event for more information: Introduction to Estate Planning & Living Trust

Tuesday, May 12,  6:30 pm – 8:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Toddler Dance Party

Children and caregivers are invited to a fun dance party or drop-in playtime. Enjoy music, movement, and time to connect with other families. We provide the music. You bring the energy! . Link to event for more information: Toddler Dance Party

Thursday, May 14,  10:30 am – 11:00 am – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

One Book, One Coast Discussion 

Let’s meet and discuss George Takei’s graphic novel They Called Us Enemy. Before the group meets, get a free copy of the book at the Reference Desk (while supplies last). We will meet and talk about the themes in the book, the artwork, our impressions, the history of the incarceration camps, our own experiences with the topic, whatever comes to mind. Everyone is welcome! They Called Us Enemy by George Takei, Steven Scott, and Justin Eisinger, illustrated by Harmony Becker, is a graphic memoir recounting George Takei’s childhood experience in American incarceration camps during World War II. The book explores themes of patriotism, family, loyalty, identity, and what it means to be American.  Link to event for more information: One Book, One Coast Discussion

Thursday, May 14,  1:00 pm – 2:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Albany Library’s Saturday Afternoon Book Club – The Frozen River

From the New York Times bestselling author of I Was Anastasia and Code Name Hélène comes a gripping historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century midwife who investigates a shocking murder that unhinges her small community Link to event for more information:  Saturday Afternoon Book Club – The Frozen River

Saturday, May 16,  1:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Preparing an Emergency GO Bag

There are unforeseen emergencies that occur which one cannot anticipate. However, not preparing for their occurrence potentially places you and your family in harm’s way. This workshop prepares attendees for some of the unexpected events (e.g., earthquake, fire, flooding, evacuations, & more). Paul Giganti, who created and delivered this workshop for the Albany Rotary Club, now wants to share what he’s learned from that experience with you. Please consider joining us for this important event! Link to event for more information:  Preparing an Emergency GO Bag

Saturday, May 16,  3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Chess Class

For 2nd grade – teens. Each session will have a lesson, demonstration, “simul” play against our experienced chess guide, and open informal play.
Beginners are welcome, but students should know the names of the pieces and how they move. Registration required. Link to event for registration and more information: Chess Class

Sunday, May 17,  1:30 pm – 3:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Make Your Own Beeswax Food Wraps

Learn how to make reusable beeswax wraps to cover food and reduce plastic use. These wraps can be used for bowls, sandwiches, and cut fruits or vegetables. This is a hands-on class. You will make your own wraps to take home. Supplies are provided. You may bring your own cotton cloth if you would like to use it.  Link to event for registration and registration: Make Your Own Beeswax Food Wraps

Sunday, May 17,  3:30 pm – 4:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Ikebana with Keiko Kubo 

Join us for a hands-on class introducing ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, with Bay Area artist Keiko Kubo. You learn simple techniques and create your own arrangement using seasonal flowers. Ikebana focuses on balance, simplicity, and noticing natural shapes. All materials provided. No experience needed. Link to event for more information:  Ikebana with Keiko Kubo

Tuesday, May 19,  6:00 pm – 7:30 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Toddler Dance Party

Little ones and their caregivers are invited to join us for a dance party (or sometimes a drop-in playtime). This is a great opportunity to have fun with your children and meet other families in the community. We’ll provide the music and encourage you to dance along. Link to event for more information:  Toddler Dance Party

Thursday, May 21,  10:30 am – 11:00 am – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Game On

You can play Nintendo Switch 2 and Wii. Ages 8 and up. Link to event for more information: Game On

Thursday, May 21,  3:45 pm – 5:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Family Music Lab

Play along to the beat on basic percussion instruments like hand drums, tambourines, shakers and more! All ages of children are welcome. We have instruments for babies and toddlers. Children under 8 must be with an adult. No experience necessary. Link to event for more information: Family Music Lab

Sunday, May 24,  1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Finals Study Zone

A space for teens to study for Finals.  Link to event for more information: Finals Study Zone

Wednesday, May 27,  3:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Finals Study Zone

A space for teens to study for Finals.  Link to event for more information: Finals Study Zone

Thursday, May 28,  3:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Edith Stone Room, Albany Library

Ongoing Library Events 

Ongoing Library Events are divided by age category; Babies and Toddlers, Kids, Tweens & Teens, and Adults. 

Babies & Toddlers

Baby Story Time  

Join us for Baby Storytime at the Albany Library! The lap sit story time is designed for babies up to 18 months and their adult caregivers. Hear stories, sing songs, participate in lap bounces and stay after to play with toys. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Baby Story Time

Every Tuesday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Edith Stone Room
 

Stay and Play  

Little ones and their caregivers are invited to join us for a drop-in playtime. This is a great opportunity to have fun with your children and meet other families in the community. We’ll provide toys, music, and a warm, welcoming setting. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Stay and Play

Every Thursday 10:30 am – 11:00 am Edith Stone Room
 

Kids     

Build It/Make and Play Lab/Kids Craft Hour 

Join us every Wednesday at the Albany Library for crafts, STEAM activities, Lego building, and more! We’ll be doing a different activity each week in the Edith Stone Room.  Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.  Note that each Make and Play Lab may have different activities. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Kids Craft Hour
  

Build It/Make and Play – Every Wednesday during the school year 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Edith Stone Room

Kids Craft Hour – Every Wednesday  2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Edith Stone Room

Family  

Family Storytime

On a Saturday each month at the Albany Library for Family Storytime.  Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.  Link to Albany Library Events for more information including the date of Family Storytime each month: Events At Albany Library

  
On some Saturdays each month (see link above for dates and times)  Edith Stone Room
   

Teens & Tweens

Dungeons and Dragons and Beyond: Roleplaying Games at Albany Library   

Swords! Sorcery! Snacks! Looking for somewhere for your fantasy roleplaying game needs? Come over to the Albany Library! We’ll be running a campaign for you! We’ll teach you the rules, and while you’re welcome to bring your own character, pre-built characters will be provided to everyone. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Dungeons and Dragons and Beyond: Roleplaying Games at Albany | Events | Alameda County Library (bibliocommons.com)
Every Tuesday  3:45 pm – 5:45 pm  Edith Stone Room
     
Game On   
 A space for teens and tweens to hang out after school. We have board games, card games, snacks, and art supplies, and we hook a Switch up to the projector for multiplayer gaming. Come by for some low-pressure recreation! Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Game On

Every Monday  4:00 pm – 5:00 pm  Edith Stone Room   

Teen Zone – Chess, Board Games and Crochet   

Come hang out and play board games with your friends, dive into some drop-in chess, or chill out and learn to crochet. We have the games, yarn and needles. You bring creative strategizing skills and curiosity! Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Teen Zone – Chess, Board Games and Crochet 
  

Every Wednesday  3:30 pm – 4:30 pm  Edith Stone Room    

Teen Chill Zone – Silent Reading and Coloring   

Need a break from a noisy world? Grab a book (we have plenty!) and enjoy some relaxing downtime. We’ll have mandala coloring available too. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: Teen Chill Zone – Silent Reading and Coloring 
  

Every Thursday  4:30 pm – 5:30 pm  Edith Stone Room                                                                                                                      

       
Albany Library Teen Advisory Group   
   

Get involved with the Teen Advisory Group (TAG)! TAG members advise the library on the best way to connect with and serve teen library members. For example, they may select new teen books, build displays, suggest new programs and services, or even design and run their own programs. Link to Albany Library Events for more information: TAG – Teen Advisory Group 

Monthly on 2nd Sunday, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm  Edith Stone Room