Founded in 1972, Ala Costa Center offers after school learning programs for students with developmental disabilities. The center provides a wide range of activities, including community integration, specialty classes, sign language, music, dance and creative activities. Students are given a selection of different activities to experience, which develops their personal preferences and ability to learn. Headquartered in Berkeley, Calif., it enrolls students between the ages of 5- to 22-years and are grouped based on age and skill level. Its classrooms include the explorers, adventurers, voyagers, navigators and the apartment. The curriculum is designed to help students develop skills in independent living, mobility, fine arts, expressive and receptive language, functional academics, social interaction and vocational readiness. Ala Costa Center has a large playing field that offers many recreational opportunities, such as soccer, basketball and tennis, along with play areas for both preschoolers and school-aged children.
The main branch of the Oakland Public Library is one of the Bay Area's largest and is a valuable resource for information and knowledge. The spacious library features a vast collection of printed literary materials alongside DVDs, CDs, audio books, ebooks and other media. Special features include a computer lab, a children's room and the Oakland History Room with rare volumes and books that chronicle the history of the Bay Area. The library also supports a vibrant cultural and educational program featuring story time for kids, concerts, lectures and adult literacy programs. The library is conveniently located by Lake Merritt in Downtown Oakland.
We are your public library! Toddler Story Time every Wednesday at 10:15. Activities every Thursday after school for kids, teens and tweens. Book Club for adults (mostly) 3rd Tuesdays, monthly call or check our website for details.
