San Jose community briefs for the week of April 24

Library do’s and don’ts

While many San Jose residents may have the urge to clean out their clutter while sheltering in place, the San Jose Public library cannot accept any book donations until its branches reopen. Library officials discourage leaving donations outside library locations, which can lead to clutter and blight.

The library has launched a new phone service to keep the youngest San Jose residents entertained at home. Kids ages 5 and younger can call the library 24/7 to hear a story, rhyme or song read by library staff. Hear stories in English at 408-808-2108, in Spanish at 408-808-2005 and in Vietnamese at 408-808-2065. New stories are added every Friday.

Bilingual virus updates

San Jose has begun putting out biweekly video reports in Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Cantonese, updating residents on the city’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic. The reports will have information on changes to city services and links to online resources for residents and business owners. The videos can be found on the city’s YouTube channel.

Virtual SoFA fest

San Jose’s next SoFa Street Fair will feature more sofa and less street. On April 26, 2-9 p.m., the first-ever SoFa Music Festival will launch virtually, streaming more than 100 bands on different channels. Vendors will have “virtual booths” so viewers can still support their local music and arts communities. For more information on how to tune in, visit sofamusicfestival.com.

Neighborhood Notes

CAMBRIAN PARK>>Planned development on Cambrian Park Plaza has slowed due to COVID-19. Property owner Weingarten Realty intends to continue working on plans for the shopping center to show city officials this summer, although the new timeline remains unclear. District 9 Councilmember Pam Foley is still accepting feedback and comments on the development from residents via an online survey at tinyurl.com/CambrianParkPlaza.

WILLOW GLEN>>Hicklebee’s children’s bookstore has teamed up with the Santa Clara County Office of Education to raise funds to buy and distribute new books to kids throughout the county. Donate to the effort at hicklebees.com/keep-kids-reading-book-drive.

ALMADEN VALLEY>>District 10 Councilmember Johnny Khamis is hosting virtual office hours Thursday, April 30, at 7 p.m. on his Facebook page, facebook.com/johnny.khamis. To send questions ahead of time, email district10@sanjoseca.gov.