Welcome Our New Youth Services Librarian!

The Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) is delighted to introduce Sarah Banks as the new full-time Youth Services Librarian.

Sarah has been a dedicated member of the San Diego Public Library system for six years. Most recently, she served as the Library Assistant III at the Art Gallery at Central Library. A self-described "library kid" at heart, Sarah brings a vibrant passion for art, a love of laughter, and a sincere desire to continue learning within the community.

One of Sarah’s favorite aspects of library work is connecting readers with the information they need—and perhaps helping them discover something entirely new along the way. She is eager to build connections and get to know the Scripps Ranch community.

We invite you to stop by the library to say "hi" and give her a warm welcome!

Construction Update

Repair Status: Detailed information regarding repair work and ongoing progress is available at srfol.org/renovation.htm.

Planned Closure: The library is preparing for a planned 6–8 month closure to facilitate a roof and HVAC replacement, as well as the resumption of the parking lot expansion. While a start date has not yet been confirmed, it is currently anticipated for early spring.

Monday Closures: Please note that the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library remains closed on Mondays due to City budget constraints. For a list of alternative library locations open on Mondays, please visit the SRFOL website.



Holiday Notice: All libraries will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents Day.

Grace’s Book Nook

Time is running out to stock up on your reading materials before the upcoming months-long library closure. Be sure to visit Grace’s Book Nook, the used bookstore located within our library. We are open Tuesday–Saturday during regular library hours, offering a wide selection of books for all ages and tastes—all at amazing prices.

Don’t miss our 2nd Saturday Sale on February 14, from 10 am–2 pm. As the SRFOL is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, your donations of gently used books are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and directly support our library's operations and acquisitions.

This month brings a bunch of fun happenings for kids, teens and families. For complete details and updates, including recommended ages, check our website [www.srfol.org]. All materials provided for craft programs, courtesy of SRFOL.

Weekly Storytimes

• Pajama Storytime: Every Tuesday, 6:45–7:15 pm in the Children’s Area. Join Ms. Sarah for cozy bedtime stories; pajamas are encouraged but optional. (Best for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age children).

• Morning Storytime: Every Wednesday, 10–10:30 am in the Community Room. Designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Special Events

• Lunar New Year (Dance & Craft): Saturday, February 7, 10 am–12 pm. Join us in the Courtyard and Community Room for a festive celebration.
• Ramadan Storytime with Ms. Zeina: Friday, February 20, 10–11 am in the Community Room. A bilingual program featuring stories in both Arabic and English. All ages are welcome.
• Doodly Doos (Art Classes for Kids): Saturday, February 21, 10:30 am–12 pm in the Community Room. This creative session is open to preschoolers, elementary-age children, middle schoolers, and teens. Registration recommended.
• Stretchy Bracelet Craft: Saturday, February 21, 1–2 pm in the Community Room. This fun class is open to elementary-age children, middle schoolers, and teens; children under 8 are welcome with an adult assistant. Come explore colors, try simple beading techniques, and create a handmade piece of jewelry to take home. All materials are provided! Registration recommended.

Open Beading: Every Wednesday, 10 am–12 pm in the Seminar Room. Beaders of all skill levels are welcome to bring their own supplies and join this creative group.

Mahjong Fun: Every Thursday, 10 am–12 pm in the Community Room. Offered in collaboration with Scripps Ranch 50 Plus, this program provides game sets for seniors and enthusiasts to enjoy.

Scripps-Mesa Garden Club: Tuesday, February 24, 5:30–7:30 pm in the Community Room. This monthly gathering features guest speakers on various gardening topics. The group also organizes tours of members' gardens and outings to local nurseries and farms.

The Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) board members and volunteers recently spent time culling our collection to ensure the best selection for our patrons. During this process, they unearthed a hidden gem: a book detailing the history of Ellen Browning Scripps. This significant find will be preserved in our library’s historical collection.

Our library is often a treasure hunt for new knowledge; your next favorite topic is waiting for you on our shelves! Come explore what we have to offer.

You can find volunteer opportunities on our website.

The Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) invites you to our monthly book discussion. This month, the group is reading Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen.

Meeting Time: Thursday, February 26, from 12:30 to 2:00 pm.

Location: Seminar Room.

Details: New members are always welcome to join the conversation. You are invited to bring a brown bag lunch if you would like.

Next Month: Our selection for March will be Trust by Hernan Diaz.

Copies of the books are available for pick-up at the library circulation desk. 

Black History Month Author Series: Natalie Baszile

As part of our annual Black History Month celebration, the San Diego Public Library and the University of San Diego Copley Library proudly present an evening with Natalie Baszile, author of We Are Each Other’s Harvest. 

Event Schedule: Tuesday February 24

5:00 pm: Resource Fair 

6:00 pm: Author Talk and Q&A 

7:00 pm: Book Signing 

Registration: Attendees are encouraged to register at sandiego.librarymarket.com. Note: A limited number of copies of We Are Each Other’s Harvest and Queen Sugar will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This month's recommendation from Ereka Prevot, Librarian II, Central Library. Ereka recommends: Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton 

“Raising Hare is a beautiful account of connecting with nature during a time of isolation. Written by Chloe Dalton, political adviser and foreign policy specialist, the story begins on a cold winter day in the English countryside. Dalton finds a lone newborn hare in a field near her home. She cares for the hare into adulthood, altering her home and habits to ensure that the animal remains wild. Dalton describes the hare in tender detail, down to the subtle colors and seasonal changes of its coat. Her choice of words reflects the care...”. To read Ereka’s full review, check out the January 11th, 2026 issue of The San Diego Union-Tribune. 

Reviewed Book  

“Raising Hare,” by Chloe Dalton  

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C1899573  

*****  

Playlist  

“The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating,” by Elisabeth Tova Bailey  

https://sandiego.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S161C127857  

*****  

Chloe Dalton website  

https://www.chloedalton.uk/  

*****  

“A Chick Called Albert” YouTube page  

https://www.youtube.com/@AChickCalledAlbert/videos 

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