Class Visits: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I schedule a class visit to the library?

A. To schedule visits to the Main Library for children's classes, call Susan Nilsson, Children's Librarian, (768-3416). She can give a tour of the children's room, a story time, facilitate a game, or give instruction on using the online catalog. You can be scheduled for a 9:00 visit, before the library is open, if you like.

To schedule visits for junior high and high school classes at the Main Library, please contact Eva Nottage, Young Adult Services Librarian, (768-3400).

To schedule visits for adult classes at the Main Library, please contact Watonka Addison, Adult Services Librarian, (768-3400). She can facilitate tours of the library and provide orientations on searching the library catalog, databases, and using other library resources.

To schedule visits to the Freedom Branch Library call Heather Broere, Senior Librarian, Freedom Branch (768-3420).

You must give the librarian three weeks advance notice for a visit.

Q. I'd like the students to get cards. What do I need to do?

A. We are so happy you'd like to initiate your students' use of the library! This will take some advance planning, but is not too difficult.

Three weeks before your visit, come in to the library to pick up application forms (in English or Spanish) for your class, or print copies from the preceding links. We also have brochures available with our hours and policies, so that you and the parents can become familiar with them. All materials are in English and Spanish.
Two weeks before your visit, send applications home for parents to fill out. Send a letter to parents explaining the benefits of having a library card or copy one provided by the library. Obtain a class roster from your school's office of students' current names, addresses and phone numbers.
One week before your visit, bring the filled out applications and class roster to the Circulation Department of the Main Library. Ask for Alicia Martinez, Circulation Manager. With a week's notice, we can have the library cards ready for your visit!

Q. Can the children check out books with their new cards?

A. Yes, they can. You should limit the number of books they check out on this visit to 3.

Q. Some of my students turned in their applications late. Can they still get cards?

A. Yes, but we will have to mail them their cards. Bring their applications on the day of the class visit.

Q. I'd like to get a card too, but I don't live in Watsonville.

A. Great idea! If you check out books from the library, your students will better appreciate the power of a library card. Residence in Watsonville is not a requirement for getting a Watsonville Public Library card. Come in with your picture I.D. and proof of your current address, fill out an application, and you'll be set. (By the way, a Santa Cruz County Library card is not valid at our libraries.)

Q. My students don't know much English yet. How can we work that out?

A. Youth services staff will be glad to deliver your presentation in Spanish. We will also be happy to recommend appropriate materials in English and/or Spanish.

Q. What are the library hours? Can our class come before you open?

A. The main library is open from 10am-8pm Monday through Thursday; 10am-6pm on Friday and Saturday. You may be able to arrange a visit before open hours. The Freedom Branch is open from 10am-8pm Monday through Thursday; 10am-6pm on Friday; 12pm-4pm on Saturday, and can accommodate some early class visits.

Q. Is there anything else I can do to make our visit go smoothly?

A. It would be helpful if you reminded your class of three library rules: Use quiet voices, leave food and drinks at home, and walk!