October 2025 at San Mateo County Libraries

Written by Josey, Atherton Library

This October, San Mateo County Libraries invites you to illuminate and create with a vibrant lineup of events that celebrate creativity, culture and community. Whether you're diving into artistic workshops, exploring cultural traditions or connecting with local authors and musicians, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall.

These events are just a glimpse into the exciting activities happening at your local library, designed to inspire, educate and bring people together. View all our October events on our Events Calendar.

Art Talk - Legion of Honor 100: An Unconventional Woman's Vision for a Museum 🖼️

Learn about how Alma de Bretteville Spreckels' unique approach to art and culture shaped a museum’s legacy. Don't forget to RSVP!

Block Printing and Artivism / Grabado en Bloque y Artivismo 🎨

Express your creativity through block printing and explore how art can make a difference. Use your hands to create meaningful pieces that speak to social change. Sign up for a block printing session.

Cascada De Flores 🌺

Immerse yourself in a cultural performance that blends myth, music and storytelling. Join us for Cascada de Flores and experience the journey with us!

Diwali Special Henna Art 🏵️

Celebrate Diwali with stunning henna designs that capture the spirit of the festival. Learn the art of henna and embrace the beauty of this cultural tradition. Find a henna art event happening at your library.

Friendship Line: Cultivating a Culture of Connection 💌

Reach out and connect with others through the Friendship Line, a support line fostering a stronger sense of community for older adults, caretakers and adults with disabilities. Learn more about Friendship Line at these in-person events.

Glow With Joy: Create Your Mid-Autumn Calligraphy Lantern 🖋️

Craft your own glowing Mid-Autumn lantern and add a personal touch with traditional calligraphy. Bring light and joy to your home this season. Sign up for Glow with Joy.

Indie Author Fest 📝

Meet independent authors and discover fresh, unique voices at Indie Author Fest. Support local writers and find your next favorite read. Mark your calendars for Indie Author Fest.

Mid-Autumn Stitches 🧵

Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with a relaxing stitching workshop. Create beautiful, festival-inspired pieces while learning a new craft. Sign up for Mid-Autumn Stitches.

Musical Performance With Dan Ashley 🎸

Join Dan Ashley for an afternoon of rock ‘n roll magic and discover how a news anchor became a rock star. Get ready to groove and connect through music! Bring your friends and family to the musical performances of Dan Ashley.

Pour & Glow Candle Making 🕯️

Create your own beautiful, glowing candles this October. The candles are perfect for adding warmth and light to your home, or gifting to loved ones. Sign up for Pour & Glow Candle Making.

Sugar Skull Decoration 💀

Get creative this October by decorating your own sugar skull. Celebrate Day of the Dead traditions and honor loved ones through art and culture. Join us for Sugar Skull Decorating.

Two-Day AARP Driver Safety Course 🚗

Stay safe and confident on the road with the AARP Driver Safety Course. This is a perfect refresher for drivers of all ages. Sign up for the Two-Day AARP Driver Safety Course.

Library Closures 📚

All San Mateo County Libraries and Customer Care are closed for Indigenous Peoples' Day on Sunday, October 12, and Monday, October 13.

Illuminate and Create With Us 🌟

These events are perfect for all ages and backgrounds—each designed to celebrate the diversity of our community through art, culture and connection.

But don’t stop here! These are just a few highlights of the many exciting events happening throughout the month. Explore our full calendar of events to find even more opportunities to create, connect, and celebrate with us.