Turning the page together: County Library launches Session One programs
Now through Feb. 15, doors are swinging open, and the hum of activity is returning to neighborhood San Bernardino County Library (SBCL) branches with the launch of Session One — a new season of connection, curiosity and community. The latest lineup features a wide range of fun, free and educational programs designed to engage readers, learners and creators of all ages.
Each session offers fresh opportunities to explore, discover and connect. Families can enjoy early literacy programs and storytimes; teens can participate in creative challenges and technology workshops; and adults can join book discussions, attend lectures, or explore hands-on maker and art activities.
Highlights of the season include:
- Storytimes and Family Reading Events – Nurture early literacy and spark imagination in young readers.
- STEAM & Maker Programs – Encourage innovation through hands-on experiments and creative projects.
- Arts, Crafts and Cultural Programs – Celebrate creativity and community through guided workshops.
- Special Seasonal Events – Join the fun with Love Your Library events featuring themed activities for all ages.
- Book Clubs and Craft Activities – Engage in lively book discussions and explore creativity through hands-on projects.
“Libraries today are about access — access to information, resources and each other,” said SBCL Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “These programs bring people through our doors and remind them that the library belongs to everyone.”
As Session One gets underway, the message is clear: from toddlers discovering their first favorite book to adults mastering new technology, SBCL is opening its doors wide and inviting the community to take part. Program schedules and registration details are available at local branches and online, with offerings for nearly every age and interest.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220, or follow SBCL on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries serving a diverse population across a vast geographic area. The County Library is committed to providing equitable access to information, technology, programs and services for all San Bernardino County residents.
Black Renaissance: A Contemporary Reflection
On view at the San Bernardino County Museum from Feb. 1 through March 1, Black Renaissance is a month-long exhibition presented in partnership with the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Black History Month. The exhibition features twelve artists selected by the chamber, bringing together paintings, sculptures and mixed-media works that reflect diverse perspectives shaped by cultural memory, resilience and contemporary experience.
The works on view respond to the social, political and economic climate of Southern California while echoing the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance—an influential artistic and cultural movement centered in New York during the 1920s and 1930s. Through themes of identity, heritage, community and everyday life, the exhibition offers insight into the richness of contemporary Black culture and invites visitors to pause, reflect and consider connections across histories, generations and lived experiences.
An opening reception for Black Renaissance will be held on Jan. 31 from 6–8 p.m. at the San Bernardino County Museum, 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands, CA 92374. The event is open to the public, with general admission offered at a 50 percent discount; museum members receive free admission. Light refreshments will be provided.
County Library and Inland Empire 66ers team up to help readers “Hit the books”
The San Bernardino County Library is stepping up to the plate with the Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino in a winning new partnership designed to knock childhood literacy out of the park. The Hit the Books Reading Program is running now through March 6, giving readers a chance to turn pages into baseball tickets.
The program invites children and teens ages 0–17 to round the bases of reading success. For every five books read and logged in Beanstack, the County Library’s digital reading app, along with a checkout receipt showing five books borrowed from the library, participants will earn a special Hit the Books bookmark, their official ticket to the big leagues. Each bookmark can be redeemed for two free Inland Empire 66ers baseball game tickets at the ticket office.
“This partnership is a home run for families,” said County Library Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “By pairing reading with America’s favorite pastime, we’re showing kids that opening a book can be just as exciting as cheering from the stands.”
Readers can earn up to three bookmarks per person during the program, giving them multiple chances to score a free game-day experience. There’s no purchase necessary, and bookmarks cannot be combined with any other offer. All bookmarks earned during the program must be redeemed by Aug. 30, 2026.
Library staff will distribute bookmarks at County Library branches throughout the program period, helping young readers keep track of their progress as they swing through storybooks, chapter books and beyond.
With every book completed, participants move one step closer to crossing home plate — proof that when it comes to reading, everyone can be part of a winning team.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, events and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Read, catch, repeat: Join the Pokémon challenge at County Library
Pokémon® trainers, get ready to power up your reading skills! The San Bernardino County Library is inviting readers of all ages to embark on a month-long Pokémon adventure with Read to Catch ’Em All — a reading challenge that rewards participants for checking out library items while adding a spark of Pokémon fun to your library visits.
From Feb. 1–28, participants who check out 30 items will receive a Pokéball with a mystery Pokémon character inside — a surprise for every aspiring Pokémon Master! Supplies are limited, so don’t wait too long to catch yours.
That’s not all! Trainers who reach their checkout goal will also earn an opportunity drawing ticket for a chance to win a giant plush Pokémon. Plush prizes vary by branch, and with 32 library branches across the county, there’s a Pokémon for every reader to “catch ’em all.”
“Whether you’re a Pikachu fan or a Charmander enthusiast, this program sparks excitement for reading while letting kids and families experience the thrill of a Pokémon adventure,” said County Library Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “We can’t wait to see our readers level up their skills and catch some fun along the way.”
No need for a Pokédex — just visit your local library, check out items and start your journey to become a reading Pokémon Master!
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, events and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Create a crafty Valentine’s Day keepsake for that special someone at Glen Helen and Yucaipa Regional Parks
Join Regional Parks on Saturday, Feb. 7, at Yucaipa Regional Park from 10:30 a.m. to noon or at Glen Helen Regional Park from 2 to 3:30 p.m. for a hands-on activity making adorable Valentine’s Day cards or other sweet-themed decorations for that special someone.
Whether you’re crafting for a friend, a family member or just for fun, we’ve got plenty of materials and inspiration to help your imagination bloom. All supplies are provided while they last.
This activity is perfect for families, kids and anyone who enjoys a little heartfelt crafting in an outdoor setting. All ages are welcome. Pets are also welcome!
Come spend the day with us and enjoy our beautiful lakes, playgrounds and other amenities. Pack a lunch or come fishing, both Glen Helen and Yucaipa offer plenty of grills, picnic shelters, walking or biking paths and green open spaces to play ball.
Admission is $15 per vehicle and free for those camping at Yucaipa. Parks are open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Glen Helen is located at 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy. in San Bernardino and Yucaipa is located at 33900 Oak Glen Road in Yucaipa.
For more information on Regional Parks, visit parks.sbcounty.gov, or follow parks on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected with the latest park news and events.
Kessler Park hosts annual free Kite Day event with Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.
Join Regional Parks at Kessler Park in Bloomington for Kite Day with Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is free, and all ages are welcome to build or bring their own kite. Enjoy arts & crafts, games, music and giveaways with Bam from 104.7 Old School as well as food vendors.
Pre-register and get more info at parks.sbcounty.gov or call 909-677-0066. You can also register on-site at 10:30 a.m.
Kessler Park is located at 18401 Jurupa Ave. in Bloomington.
This event is sponsored by the office of Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., San Bernardino County Regional Parks and Special Districts, the Bloomington Little League and The Olive Branch. See you at Kessler Park!
In the event of rain or adverse weather, Kite Day will be rescheduled to Saturday, Feb. 28 at the same time and location.
Venom Exhibit & Education reptile show comes to Prado and Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Parks
Join us at Prado Regional Park, Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon or at Cucamonga-Guasti from 2 to 4 p.m. for The Wild Man Dan Show, an in-person educational program designed to engage audiences with a hands-on learning experience with various types of reptiles and critters.
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to safely interact up close with a variety of venomous animals, non-venomous reptiles and invertebrates. Throughout the show, learn about the differences between snakes, lizards and more.
Bring the whole family, pack a lunch and explore the great outdoors before or after the show. All ages are welcome, even pets are welcome!
Admission is $15 per vehicle and free for those camping with us at Prado.
Prado Regional Park is located at 16700 S. Euclid Ave. in Chino and Guasti Regional Park is located at 800 N. Archibald Ave. in Ontario. Park hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information on Regional Parks, visit parks.sbcounty.gov, or follow parks on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected with the latest park news and events.
Code Enforcement to host community cleanup events in Rialto and Colton
San Bernardino County Code Enforcement and the Solid Waste Management Division will be providing bulky trash collection containers for the FREE disposal of accumulated trash, e-waste, tires and on-site confidential document shredding for unincorporated residents only. No business materials will be accepted. Free disposal services will end at noon or when the equipment is full.
- This program is limited to the residents of the unincorporated county area.
- We cannot accept commercial or industrial waste from businesses. Please remember to safely secure and properly cover your loads prior to traveling to the event.
- If you are bringing waste tires, please limit your load to a maximum of nine tires. (State law prohibits hauling of more than nine tires, unless an exemption is granted. Please call us for more information.) Tires on rims WILL be accepted.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU ARE REQUIRED TO UNLOAD YOUR OWN WASTE MATERIALS.
If you have oversized, loose or hard-to-handle loads, you may be turned away to dispose of your waste materials at your own expense.
WE WILL ACCEPT household trash, bulky items, green waste and vehicle tires, (we DO NOT accept concrete).
The Urban Conservation Corps will be present to accept electronics (TVs, computer monitors, VCRs, stereos, cell phones and more).
WE CANNOT ACCEPT HAZARDOUS WASTE. This includes household and auto batteries, motor oil and oil filters, antifreeze, gasoline, drain cleaner, pesticides, fertilizers, fluorescent lights, wood preservatives, pool and hobby supplies, auto/furniture polish, paint thinners, paint products, medications or similar products.
For current information, locations and times for the disposal of household hazardous waste, please call the Household Hazardous Waste Program at 800-645-9228 or 909-382-5401.
Event Dates and Locations:
Feb. 7, 2026, Rialto
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Riverside Outer E. (Between Country Club Drive and Rowan Ave. in Rialto)
Feb. 14, 2026, Colton
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location 1: West C St. (between Grand Ave. and N. Cypress Ave. in Colton)
Location 2: N. Cypress Ave. (North of W. Olive St. in Colton)
Love Written in the Stars at Galaxy Nights – Valentine’s Edition
Love is truly written in the stars at Galaxy Nights – Valentine’s Edition, a free, family-friendly community astronomy and stargazing event hosted by the San Bernardino County Library in partnership with Avantus, a California-based leader in clean energy, and the High Desert Astronomical Society (HiDAS). The event will take place on Friday, Feb. 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lucerne Valley Janice Horst Branch Library, located at 33103 High Desert State Scenic Highway in Lucerne Valley.
This Valentine’s Day themed evening invites community members of all ages to spark a cosmic connection through astronomy, mythology and hands-on learning. Guests are encouraged to bring their curiosity — and perhaps someone special — to enjoy interactive activities, partner tables and guided stargazing experiences that celebrate love across the universe.
Attendees will explore celestial love stories written across the night sky, including:
- Perseus and Andromeda – A legendary rescue that led to marriage, eternal love and neighboring constellations shining side-by-side.
- Cassiopeia and Cepheus – A royal pairing whose story of love, pride, sacrifice and redemption still sparkles overhead.
- Orion and Artemis – A star-crossed romance marked by devotion, tragedy and an immortal place among the stars.
One of the evening’s most anticipated viewing opportunities is Betelgeuse, the glowing red giant in Orion’s shoulder. Often referred to as the “Valentine’s Star,” Betelgeuse captures attention each February with its warm hue and striking brilliance.
Love in nature will also take center stage through a special presentation by High Desert Falconry, which will feature two Peregrine falcons — a mated pair — along with an additional Eurasian eagle owl, highlighting the powerful bonds formed by life-long pair-bonding bird species. Their presence offers a living reminder that some of the strongest love stories are found not only in the stars, but here on Earth as well.
Adding to the evening’s sense of wonder, a team from the NASA Goldstone Visitor Center will engage guests with educational insights into space exploration, astronomy and humanity’s ongoing connection to the cosmos.
In addition to stargazing and partner-led activities, attendees can enjoy a variety of Valentine’s Day themed crafts designed for all ages. The evening will also feature a circulation incentive and an exciting grand prize drawing. To be eligible for the grand prize, visitors must check out 10 items during the event, with each checkout counting toward unlocking a universe of knowledge — and the chance to win a special prize.
“Galaxy Nights is about bringing people together to celebrate curiosity, learning and connection— whether that connection is to science, storytelling, or each other,” said County Library Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick. “This Valentine’s Edition invites our community to fall in love with the library in a whole new way.”
Galaxy Nights will take place both indoors and outdoors, with most activities held under the open sky. Guests can also treat their sweethearts — or themselves — to sweet and refreshing offerings available for purchase from Abbey’s Cakes & Moore and its Drinkzilla division, featuring cake pops, cheesecake, cookies, brownie bites, lemonade fusions, slushies, soda and water.
California Days returns to Calico Ghost Town Feb. 14-15
San Bernardino County Regional Parks is excited to commemorate the 5th annual California Days event at Calico Ghost Town over Presidents Day weekend on Feb. 14-15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event celebrates early California history when the state was officially admitted as the 31st state in the Union on Sept. 9, 1850, but recognizes statehood on February 22, every year.
This family-friendly event highlights the people and culture of early California by hosting family activities, gunfighter shows by the Calico Mountain Volunteer Gunfighters, butter churning, and historic reenactments along with educational displays on the state’s Bear Flag, Pony Express Trail and Butterfield Overland Trail.
Serving as a natural backdrop to the Old West, Calico will travel back in time with a beard and mustache contest, arts & crafts, games and contests for all ages, pony rides, stories about the Pony Express, and a Pony Express relay for kids under 11.
Live music from popular artists such as The Storytellers, Blue Henry’s and Holy Crow as well as Calico favorites: High D Boys, Orange Town Revival, Mojave County Band and Blacksmith Boys. Other entertainment includes the Victorian Muse Theater at the Town Hall and classroom reenactment sessions from the 1800s at the schoolhouse as well as some Wild West street skits performed by the “Scoundrels Alley” Calico troupe.
The popular Dorsey Dog Delivery Game will return as a doggie scavenger hunt where owners and their furry friends search for clues throughout town to win a prize.
There will be plenty of food options and beverages for attendees at the Calico House Restaurant, Silver Rush Burger and Lil’s Saloon. All the Calico attractions will be open, including Maggie Mine and the Calico Oddessa Railroad. Attractions are an additional charge. For attraction prices, visit www.calicoattractions.com.
The event is sponsored by Apollo Silver Corp. and Mitsubishi Cement Corporation who will be on-site with regional mining displays and information materials related to mineral uses in modern consumer products.
Calico will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prices are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-11, and free for children 3 and under. For more details and a daily schedule of events, visit parks.sbcounty.gov/calico-california-days.
Calico Ghost Town offers full and partial RV hookup camping. Reservations may be booked directly online at www.sbcountyparks.com or by calling 800-862-2542. Calico offers cabins, bunkhouses and RV trailers as rentals. Calico Ghost Town is located off I-15 at Ghost Town Road in Yermo, just 10 miles north of Barstow. Follow Calico Ghost Town on Facebook for event photos and videos.
Code Enforcement to host community cleanup events in desert communities
San Bernardino County Code Enforcement and the Solid Waste Management Division will be providing bulky trash collection containers for the FREE disposal of accumulated trash, e-waste, tires and on-site confidential document shredding for unincorporated residents only. No business materials will be accepted. Free disposal services will end at noon or when the equipment is full.
- This program is limited to the residents of the unincorporated county area.
- We cannot accept commercial or industrial waste from businesses. Please remember to safely secure and properly cover your loads prior to traveling to the event.
- If you are bringing waste tires, please limit your load to a maximum of nine tires. (State law prohibits hauling of more than nine tires, unless an exemption is granted. Please call us for more information.) Tires on rims WILL be accepted.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU ARE REQUIRED TO UNLOAD YOUR OWN WASTE MATERIALS.
If you have oversized, loose or hard-to-handle loads, you may be turned away to dispose of your waste materials at your own expense.
WE WILL ACCEPT household trash, bulky items, green waste and vehicle tires, (we DO NOT accept concrete).
The Urban Conservation Corps will be present to accept electronics (TVs, computer monitors, VCRs, stereos, cell phones and more).
WE CANNOT ACCEPT HAZARDOUS WASTE. This includes household and auto batteries, motor oil and oil filters, antifreeze, gasoline, drain cleaner, pesticides, fertilizers, fluorescent lights, wood preservatives, pool and hobby supplies, auto/furniture polish, paint thinners, paint products, medications or similar products.
For current information, locations and times for the disposal of household hazardous waste, please call the Household Hazardous Waste Program at 800-645-9228 or 909-382-5401.
Event Dates and Locations:
Feb. 21, 2026, Morongo Valley
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Covington Park Community Center, 11165 Vale Drive in Morongo Valley
Feb. 28, 2026, Newberry Springs
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Springs Senior/Family Center, 33383 Newberry Springs Road in Newberry Springs
Feb. 28, 2026, Daggett
Daggett Community Services District, 33703 Second St. in Daggett
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
If you have questions regarding this event, please call Land Use Services Staff Analyst De Leon Luna at 909-383-2133.
Prado Regional Park’s Equestrian Center brings back popular Equine Education Day for kids
The Prado Equestrian Center is hosting a unique experience for kids ages 12 and under to spend a day on the ranch learning all about horses! Kids will have a chance to learn how to groom, feed and interact with a horse.
Dates include:
A two-hour session from 9-11 a.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 22
- Sunday, April 26
- Sunday, May 24
- Sunday, July 26
- Sunday Aug. 23
- Sunday, Oct. 25
A fun introduction to horses and equestrian life for the whole family to enjoy! All children will also get to paint their own horseshoe to take home as well as a certificate of completion.
Each session is $35 for two hours, from 9-11 a.m. The Prado Park Equestrian Center (PPEC) is located inside Prado Regional Park. The Equestrian Center’s entrance is located at 16629 Johnson Ave., Chino.
To reserve your spot, email pradoequestriancenter@gmail.com or visit their website at pradoequestrian.com.
Additional County Update News – January 29
- Board Actions – Jan. 27
- Targeted crime suppression – Operation Consequences: Jan. 19-25
- H.O.P.E. Team conducts Operation Shelter Me in Chino Hills
- Complete the County Update survey by Feb. 13
- Mobile Defense Program to bring free legal and county services to Joshua Tree on Feb. 11
- Regional Parks kicks off Santa Ana River Trail Phase III completion with ribbon-cutting and official ride
- So Much to Explore: Discover how San Bernardino County serves you
- San Bernardino County destinations: Kelso Dunes
- Call for photo and video submissions: Share your favorite county destinations
- San Bernardino County history: Interstate 40
- Pet of the Week: Aja