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San Rafael library introduces three new librarians and expands community programs
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Summary
The San Rafael Public Library on Feb. 10 introduced three new librarians and outlined an expanded slate of programs — including a seed library, Spanish book club and Indie Lens film screenings — aimed at boosting participation following the Carnegie renovation.
San Rafael Public Library trustees heard introductions of new staff and a preview of expanded programming at the board’s Feb. 10 meeting.
Bonnie Groschong, introduced herself as "senior librarian at [the downtown] branch" and told trustees she has worked with the library for 13 years. Javier Morales said he is "one of the new adult services librarians for San Rafael Public Library," citing prior work in Sonoma County with a focus on community partnerships and entrepreneurship programming. Trustees were also told that Brianna Collins is now the teen librarian and Maria Rosila Mares is the newest children’s librarian, both bringing prior experience in teen services and bilingual children’s programming.
The new and existing staff outlined a broad set of programs aimed at families and adults. Highlights include a monthly children’s craft tied to heritage months, a monthly Pokemon club, a new Spanish-language book club (Sobre Mesa Literaria) and weekly teen drop‑in homework help in collaboration with Marin Academy. Javier said the first "Unlock Your Digital Library" session, covering Libby, Canopy and Hoopla, "did pretty well," and previewed additional sessions on digital newspapers. The seed library launched Jan. 31, drew about 115 attendees with Marin Master Gardeners on hand, and will offer vegetables, herbs, flowers and native plants for patrons to take and exchange.
Staff also reviewed community partnerships that support programming: California Film Institute, Marin Academy, Davidson Middle School, Trips for Kids, Marin Master Gardeners, Marin History Museum and San Rafael High. An ongoing Carnegie Room exhibit by San Rafael artist Adrienne Biggs is on display through March 8, and a hands‑on Okagami workshop for adults and teens is scheduled for Feb. 21.
Shani Ford, supervising librarian, described the library’s Indie Lens partnership with PBS. The library will screen three Indie Lens documentaries during the program window; "The Inquisitor" is scheduled for Feb. 28 and "The Tallest Dwarf" for April 18, with evening programs beginning at 6:30 p.m. Indie Lens provides screening rights, programming guides and potential small grants for director visits.
Board members praised staff outreach and programming development and encouraged continued community engagement. Trustees were told additional program flyers and a consolidated calendar will be distributed to make screening dates and times easier to find.
The board did not take formal action on programming at the meeting; staff will continue to promote the new events and report back on attendance.
