Grow from a library user to a true Friend of our library by joining—or renewing—your membership with the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) for 2026! Memberships are affordable and open to everyone, with annual levels ranging from $5 for Individual Student/Senior memberships to $100+ for Contributors and Businesses. Member perks include a free book with a $5 purchase at Grace’s Book Nook (just show your membership card) and priority access at book sales with a private entrance and head-of-the-line status. Learn more or join at https://www.srfol.org/join.htm.

If you’re already a lifetime member, please consider making a donation—SRFOL is a 100% volunteer organization, and every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting library programs, materials, events, and amenities for our community. Even better, to the greatest extent possible, funds raised by SRFOL are matched dollar-for-dollar by the City of San Diego, doubling the impact of your support. Donate at https://www.srfol.org/donate.htm.

Monday Closure and Construction Update

The start date for the planned 6–8 month closure of the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library for roof and HVAC replacement is tentatively expected as early as February, but has not yet been confirmed. Work on the lower parking lot, which has been suspended for the past 20 months, is also expected to resume at the same time.

In the meantime, please note that the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library remains closed on Mondays due to City budget issues. For a list of San Diego Public Library locations that remain open on Mondays, visit the SRFOL website at https://www.srfol.org/index.php. Additionally, all San Diego Public Library locations will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Grace’s Book Nook

Grace’s Book Nook, the used bookstore in our library, open Tuesday–Saturday during library hours, offers something for every reader—along with CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, greeting cards, and more.

Don’t miss the 2nd Saturday Sale on January 10, from 10 am–2 pm, our biggest yet, featuring the popular Big Yellow Bag special: fill a large yellow bag for just $10, or shop by the book at bargain prices. Every purchase supports the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center—because the Book Nook is entirely volunteer-run, 100% of proceeds benefit the library, and thanks to the City of San Diego’s Matching Book Fund, each dollar you spend is matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling your impact.



Tax-deductible donations of gently used books are always welcome and help keep this support going.

• Kamishibai StoryBox Theatre: Friday, January 2, 10:00–10:30 am. An engaging, family-friendly storytime for all ages, presented by Write Out Loud San Diego.

• Pajama Storytime: Every Tuesday, 6:45–7:15 pm, Children’s Area. Enjoy a cozy bedtime story with our new Youth Services Librarian, Ms. Sarah. Pajamas encouraged but optional.

• Children's Storytime: Every Wednesday, 10:00–10:30 am. Led by Youth Services Librarian Ms. Sarah. Storytime for toddlers and preschoolers.

• Bilingual Storytime: Saturday, January 3, 10:00–10:30 am. Storytime for toddlers and preschoolers in Spanish and English with “Señor Roberto.”

• Brush Up Art Class: Saturday, January 17, 10:30 am–12:00 pm. Led by Youth Services Librarian Ms. Sarah. Open to children of all ages.

• Family Board Game Afternoon: Saturday, January 17, 2:00–4:00 pm. Children ages 2–17 and their families are invited to play together. In partnership with Toy Hermit.

• Craft-to-Go: Craft kits are available to take home while supplies last—perfect for creative fun at home! Sponsored by SRFOL.

• Open Beading: Wednesdays, 10:00 am–12:00 pm. Beaders of all skill levels are welcome. Please bring your own supplies.

• Mahjong Fun: Thursdays, 10:00 am–12:00 pm. Game sets provided. In collaboration with Scripps Ranch 50 Plus.

• Scripps–Mesa Garden Club: Tuesday, January 27, 5:30–7:30 pm.

Join Us as a Library Volunteer!

We’d love for you to be part of our friendly, community-focused library. Volunteers help with simple but meaningful tasks like organizing books, keeping work areas tidy, creating displays, and assisting with programs and events. Whether you have a little time to share or want to learn new skills, volunteering at the library is a great way to support learning, meet new people, and make a positive difference in your community.

Interested? Visit City of San Diego Library Volunteer Page to explore opportunities and apply.

Current opportunities include:

• Beautifier – Apply here
• Item Request Volunteer – Apply here

This month the group is reading James by Percival Everett.  Join the discussion Thursday, January 22, 12:30–2 pm, in the Seminar Room.  Bring a brown bag lunch, if you’d like.  New members welcome!  Next month’s selection is The Mighty Red  by Louise Erdrich.  Copies of the books are available at the circulation desk.   

The Winter Reading Challenge has officially begun! Through reading and creative activities, participants are encouraged to uncover the quiet magic that lives behind art. Sign up online or pick up a reading log at any San Diego Public Library and get started: sandiego.gov/winterreading

This month's recommendation comes from Karen Nguyen, Librarian II, Central Library. Karen recommends: The Novel Life of Jane Austen by Janine Brachas.

“In this charming graphic novel by Janine Barchas and illustrated by Isabel Greenberg, The Novel Life of Jane Austen: A Graphic Biography, the beloved British author takes center stage, just in time to celebrate her 250th birthday in December. The biography is segmented into three distinct periods of Austen’s life to frame her journey as a writer: “Budding Writer”, “Struggling Artist”, and “Published Author.” Readers follow along to learn how Austen's interactions with the people and society around her influenced and inspired her craft. In particular, her strong...”. To read Karen’s full review, check out the December 14th, 2025 issue of The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Reviewed Book

“The Novel Life of Jane Austen”, by Janine Barchas

Book:

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1871516

Ebook:

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1937332

*****

Playlist

The Illustrated Letters of Jane Austen by Jane Austen; edited by Penelope Hughes-Hallett

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1003068

*****

Jane Austen's Bookshelf: A Rare Book Collector's Quest to Find the Women Writers Who Shaped a Legend by Rebecca Romney

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1855385

*****

The works of Jane Austen

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1820263

*****



“What Jane Saw”, website

https://www.whatjanesaw.org/

Imagine yourself in young Jane’s shoes and view artwork from two art exhibitions witnessed by her in her lifetime, one of which is referenced at the beginning of the graphic novel. This project was created by author Janine Barchas.

Recommended Reads is an ongoing partnership with The San Diego Union-Tribune. Every other week, Behind the Desk goes in-depth on the books we recommend. Read the Sunday Paper to see our most recent reviews or view our past archive on the SDPL website: sandiego.gov/sdplreviews