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A graphic of San Mateo County’s new library outpost. Courtesy San Mateo County Libraries.

San Mateo County Libraries start construction on first library outpost 

The San Mateo County Libraries have started constructing their first library outpost, an automated vending hub that will be open 24/7. The first outpost will be located at the Pacifica-Sanchez Library and will offer a collection of over 300 books and media. 

The new construction will include a canopy with sustainable outdoor furniture and free Wi-Fi to expand library services and encourage community gatherings in an outdoor environment. 

Construction has already begun and is expected to be completed in the spring. 

SMCL is currently exploring other locations for outposts to increase accessibility of library materials throughout the county. 

Go here for more information.

San Mateo County launches bike and scooter share pilot program

San Mateo County’s City/County Association of Governments (C/CAG) is launching a bike and scooter share program. This will allow community members to rent bicycles, electric bicycles and electric scooters from libraries, shopping centers, transit stops, and other locations.

C/CAG is looking to include more communities within the county and is seeking feedback from residents, workers, and visitors of Redwood City, North Fair Oaks, Daly City, Broadmoor and Colma on future stations, program costs, and community needs. 

To participate in the survey, visit bit.ly/SMCmobility4all. The survey is open until Feb. 5. 

Peninsula Clean Energy to freeze rate increase for customers in San Mateo County

Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) has voted to freeze its electricity rates until at least June 30, following PG&E’s announcement of a 15% rate increase. 

PCE’s decision for a zero percent increase will allow Peninsula Clean Energy customers to save 10 to 15% compared to PG&E. 

Peninsula Clean Energy appears as a separate item on PG&E bills, replacing a higher charge from PG&E. Customers who receive power from Peninsula Clean Energy will still be charged by PG&E for the delivery of electricity and gas services.  

For more information, go to PenCleanEnergy.com/lowerbill.

City of Menlo Park seeks feedback on aquatic programs

Solo Aquatics Age Group students practice the "Kick six freestyle" drill, Friday, Oct. 15, at Burgess Pool in Menlo Park. Michelle Le/The Almanac
Solo Aquatics Age Group students practice the “Kick six freestyle” drill, Friday, Oct. 15, at Burgess Pool in Menlo Park. Michelle Le.

The city of Menlo Park is interested in hearing from residents about their needs and views on the city’s aquatic programs. 

The city currently has one open aquatics center at Burgess Pool, 501 Laurel Ave. and one that has been temporarily closed for construction since 2021 at Belle Haven Pool, 100 Terminal Ave., which will be replaced with a new center by this summer. 

Visit publicinput.com/mpaquatics2024 to take the survey.

San Mateo County shines light on social and emotional well-being of educators

The County Office of Education and San Mateo County Health have partnered with TeachWell, a local service provider, to create Be Well, Teach Well. This is a new guidebook focused on adult social-emotional literacy (SEL). 

The county recognizes that by helping educators develop SEL, school districts can promote the well-being of their educators, improve job retention and generate a thriving school community. 

The guidebook was launched in January and offers research, best practices and recommended approaches for educators to maintain their well-being. 

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