The King County Library System (KCLS) and the South Seattle Emerald are teaming up to bring you the "South End Scoop." Dig into this community-centered column each month for great book, music, movie, and event recommendations from your local librarians.
Expand your library holds list this spring with the engaging picks below.
And be sure to visit your local library or go online to check out our new library cards! KCLS partnered with seven local artists to design new library cards that reflect the vibrant communities across King County.
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
Margot Lee Shetterly’s inspiring picture book for young readers features true accounts of mathematicians Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden as they navigate racial and gender barriers at NASA in the 1960s. This powerful story of perseverance, STEM, and breaking boundaries became a feature film in 2016 (see the adult pick below to learn more about the film).
Once Upon An Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices, edited by S. K. Ali and Aisha Saeed
This joyous collection of short stories celebrates Eid through some of the most brilliant Muslim voices writing today. Filled with joy, family, and tradition, Once Upon An Eid beautifully captures the spirit of the holiday, making it a perfect read for those who love uplifting and inclusive stories, gift giving, holiday parties, and maybe even the sound of frying samosas.
Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans, edited by Sammy Lisel
Becoming Who We Are is a powerful collection of childhood stories from nine members of the transgender community. Through heartfelt and honest narratives, this book offers insight, representation, and support for trans youth and allies, fostering understanding and celebrating diverse journeys and how people become who they truly are.
Hidden Figures, directed by Theodore Melfi
Hidden Figures is an inspiring film based on the true story of three Black women — Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson — whose mathematical genius helped NASA launch astronauts into space. Facing racial and gender barriers, they persevered, proving that brilliance knows no boundaries. This is a must-watch for Women’s History Month! Pro tip: Read the kids' book above first for more historical context, and then watch the movie.
Recommendations courtesy of Cassie, a KCLS children’s services librarian. Her favorite books include adventures where the characters learn something new about the world around them, and she enjoys participating in STEAM-focused library events. From stop-motion animation, squishy circuits, and robotics classes to sensory art, she is very good at making (and cleaning up) messes made from artsy fun!
KCLS offers a variety of in-person and online events and activities for all ages! All events are free. Find one that interests you at KCLS.org/Events.
Monday, March 24, 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Online
Learn how to do Bollywood dancing with us! We'll dance to songs from Bollywood movies in this fun class for beginners and experts alike.
Tuesday, March 25, 6:30–8 p.m.
Skyway Library
Explore Mayan culture and learn about the art of printmaking. All supplies will be provided at the class. Presented by mixed-media artist Amaranta Ibarra-Sandys.
Wednesday, March 26, 3–4:30 p.m.
Online
Have you ever wondered how a book goes from an idea in someone's head to something you can pull off a library shelf? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing world from Ann Zhao, author of Dear Wendy; Jennifer March Soloway from Andrea Brown Literary Agency; and Foyinsi Adegbonmire from Macmillan Publishers to see how it's done.
Wednesday, March 26, 4–5 p.m.
Renton Library
Join coaches from the world-championship breakdancing crew Massive Monkees, to witness the incredible art of breaking and learn some of the basics. Gain confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills at this supportive and dynamic workshop.
Saturday, March 29, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Renton Highlands Library
Enjoy a special event featuring celebrity fashion designer and author Thai Nguyen. He will discuss his new children's book, Mai's Áo Dài, which celebrates the Áo Dài, a traditional Vietnamese costume. The first 20 attendees will receive a free copy of the book signed by the author.
Tuesday, April 1, to Monday, April 28
Bellevue Library
Celebrate National Poetry Month with KCLS. Submit your original poem online or at the Bellevue Library to participate in our month-long poetry contest. Winners will be chosen by the Bellevue Library Teen Advisory Board, with prizes awarded for First, Second, and Third Place. Attend the poetry recital and awards ceremony on Friday, May 2, to see who wins.
Sunday, April 6, 3–4:30 p.m.
Burien Library
Learn how to create a polished portfolio from scratch using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to help you stand out in college applications, internships, and job searches. No prior coding experience is required. Come to the Teen and New Adult Job and Opportunity Fair at the Burien Library on May 3 with your new portfolio to apply for jobs. Presented by Women in Computing at UW.
Sunday, April 6, 3–4 p.m.
Fairwood Library
Join a non-partisan presentation on the various offices and types of measures that will be on this year's ballot. Facilitated by Naheed Aaftaab from King County Elections.
Wednesday, April 9, 7–8 p.m.
Online
Discover how meditation can provide inner peace and fulfillment. Learn simple and time-tested techniques to help you achieve your deepest levels of peace and joy.
Saturday, April 12, 2–3 p.m.
Tukwila Library
Learn how to reduce food waste and save money on your grocery bills through proper food storage, label-reading skills, and innovative recipes. All participants will receive a kit from the City of Tukwila with tips and a guide for food storage.
Residents in the KCLS service area (in King County, outside the City of Seattle) can sign up instantly for a physical card to access our full collection. Seattle residents may sign up for a digital eCard to access our digital collection. Visit KCLS.org/Library-Cards to get started. Contact Ask KCLS at KCLS.org/Ask if you need assistance with your account, or call 425-462-9600 or 800-462-9600.
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