The Village Librarian

Programming

2009-04-02T06:40:00.005-04:00

As we are probably all aware - one of the big "trends" in libraries today is the library as a destination place or a third place. This means that people spend time at home and at work or school. Much of our socialization now is done through the Internet or via text messaging. Busy schedules and over-committed people have reduced much of the social visits considered necessary by the previous generations.

The library is, in many communities, emerging as the "third" place. A location where people can meet, talk face to face, enjoy entertaining and educational programs, have play-dates and, well, be social. In light of the current economy, this is even more so, as the library's many resources are usually free, or nearly free. Someone can come to the library, spend hours looking at books, browsing videos, going online to surf the net and attending a program, and they will not have to purchase a thing nor will they even be asked to purchase anything. There is no pressure to spend a dime. Try that in your local mall.

As we go through the coming weeks, I hope to be talking about one specific area of this third place philosophy, the library's function in the area of programming. Not only how to create and carry out programs, but networking to expand your programs, how to get free programs, which programs to have, considering your staff in programs, and promoting your programs so people come. I would love to have your thoughts on these posts.

- The Village Librarian

Fighting the Winter Blahs

2009-03-03T17:37:00.005-05:00

Here we are again, in the midst of the winter blahs. We have windy, overcast and cold (winter's counterpart to summer's hazy, hot and humid). The days are beginning to be longer, but until we hit that magic "turn the clocks ahead" day, they are still dark too soon. It's somewhat of a challenge to get up and get going, even if you like what you are going to do that day. Schedule an appointment with the dentist and you may never get out of bed.

So what does this have to do with libraries? Well, while our part of the world clings to the hope of spring, libraries can offer a respite, an oasis, a short reprive from the isolation that is winter in the northeast. Keep the programming going, keep the signs brite and cheery and make sure your staff has loads of chocolate. Plan a summer storytime and have it on a blanket like a picnic. treat your staff to lemonade and watermelon, play the beach boys before you open. There are hundreds of ways to capture the spirit of summer in the midst of the gray days of winter.

Even with the winter blahs on the outside - it can be summer all year round in the library. Be sure to let me know what you did! I love to hear from you!

~The Village Librarian

Restart

2009-02-12T15:31:00.002-05:00

It is amazing how much energy you need to learn something new - perhaps it is just those of us over the 30 marker - but a new job will really take it out of you.

As I begin to settle in to my new surroundings and the new procedures become commonplace, I am finding time to do those things I enjoy, like posting to my blog. I sometime wonder if anyone reads it - but I find the writing of it to be theraputic, so I write.

These are perilous times for libraries in Pennsylvania. The proposed budget calls for small cuts in state funding for public libraries, but large, in fact massive cuts in the budget for the State Library. Many of us depend on the services, training, support and databases provided by our state library in order to serve the needs of our patrons. It is a dire time indeed.

It amazes me that a civilization on the order of ours, who have solved so many problems, still struggles to provide the level playing field for all its citizens. This level field, this safety net - is the local public library. Do contact your state representative and senator and let them know that we cannot allow this most public of all public services fall by the wayside.

~The Village Librarian

Home

2008-12-11T06:18:00.005-05:00

A recent conversation with my co-workers turned to another incident of teenage violence. Each person spoke of why they felt these things happen, what is the difference from years ago, when teens did not bring guns and bombs to school.

There were a few good thoughts, I would like to share one - home. Actually - the concept was safe haven. Everyone needs a place where they are not forced to have their defenses up all the time, where they know they are loved and accepted for who they are and where it is ok to be silly, or quiet, or in a word - to be yourself.

I fear that fewer and fewer teens (or people in general) are finding those safe havens. Schools are tough places and other teens are harsh, cruel and just plain mean. Some teens find such a place in religious institutions, but some just find more troubles.

The home is not always such a place, sometimes the difficulties parents find themselves dealing with spill over into their families, making home a stressful place.

So I would challenge you who work in small town libraries. Be a safe haven for your teens. Allow them to be who they are (within the confines of what you can allow in a library). Accept them, challenge them to be the best version of themself they can. But make sure the library is safe - no bullies, no mocking, no knocking someone down when they want to reach beyond the crowd. It's not easy, but if you can do it - your library will be a unique place in your community. And you will have found yourself some very staunch library supporters.

Happy Holidays!
The Village Librarian

Holidays

2008-12-05T07:38:00.003-05:00

Can you believe that it is the holiday season?! Goodness, where does the time go?

As you search for just the right gift for your family or friends or spend time enjoying the decorations and holiday music, please remember this -

This is a tough time for many people. Some are spending a first holiday without a loved one, some have no one to spend the holiday with, some are victims of the economic situation and find that their holiday present is a pink slip.

If you are among the blessed this season please take a few minutes and give a little back. Donate, volunteer, help. The gift of you - given from your heart, will have lasting effects - not only for those who receive your gift, but also for those who give it.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

The Village Librarian

While we are on the subject

2008-11-19T05:35:00.005-05:00

Since we are on the topic of new starts, I have begun a new job. With this has come new responsibilities, new names to remember (not my strong suit), new technologies to learn and so on and so forth.

One of the new things that have come as part of this fresh start is a challenge to develop the life-long learner in each of us. To do this, the system I am now a part of has encouraged the staff to participate in a program entitled 23 Things. This is a partial list from a Stephen Abram’s article, 43 Things I (or You) might want to do this year (Information Outlook - Feb 2006)

To encourage participants to learn and explore new technologies, each person is to create and write a blog - since I already have this blog, I figured that I could just post here - you don't mind do you gentle reader? Good!

As a true believer in life-long learning, I whole-heartily support this challenge. We all need to stretch and grow, it's what keeps us young and keeps the gray matter in shape. As a participant, I am aghast at how much I don't know. Well, everyone has a first day - so off we go.

The easiest of the 71/2 habits we are working on will be to begin with the end in mind. Being very, very goal orientated, I work best with deadlines and specific goals. The most difficult will be to play. Being goal oriented, I find it difficult to remember that those lovely, objective goals are not the end all and be all. They are steps in a process.

Keep tuned in, for the continuing episodes of the Village Librarian in 2.0 land. I am sure the unexpected will be around every turn.

Be thankful for Fresh Starts

2008-11-17T19:43:00.005-05:00

Have you ever noticed how a clean, new piece of paper can be inspiring and terrifying at the same time?
Do you remember how excited the first day of school made you feel, when everything was new, like a clean slate? How about your first glimpse of a new snow fall?
Or perhaps starting a new project? A weed free flowerbed, ready for planting?

All these things are fresh starts, a chance to accomplish something without any of the errors or blemishes of the past. As I begin working at a new position in a new library, I am reminded that at times, everyone enjoys a fresh start.

As the New Year lies in wait just around the corner, think about this time as a chance for a new start in your life. What new habit, new skill, what improvement would you like to see in your life? What new thing would you like to see in your library? Think about how to bring that to pass, and be ready to act on it come January 1, 2009.

While new beginnings and fresh starts can be a scary thing, they are also a chance for us to try something that perhaps our "old self" would not have done, so stretch a little, reach for something just beyond the comfortable - Who knows what you may accomplish with that clean, fresh piece of paper?

- The Village Librarian

Presentations

2008-11-10T08:48:00.004-05:00

I am usually all for doing presentations - I will talk to just about anyone about libraries, usually at the drop of a hat and sometimes without even being asked :o)

Yesterday I had the great privilege of doing a presentation of a different kind - I presented to other librarians. I have to admit to being more nervous than I had been in some time. These individuals are the committed members of their profession, who were able to convince their library board to spend money to send them for more training. I hope I did not waste their time.

For those of you who came - thank you! I truly enjoyed talking to all of you. If you wanted more information - I will be glad to send you the power point presentation from that program. Leave a request in the comment section and I will email the file to you. Also, please feel free to contact me with any questions, just leave them as a comment and I will get back to you shortly!

It was a wonderful experience, thank you for allowing me the privilege!

Library Closings?

2008-11-09T09:49:00.005-05:00

Being a librarian, I find that more and more I am included in the discussions regarding library closings. Should this or that library close? What kind of money does the government save if they close? What could be done to keep them open, etc.

First off - let me say that it is my firm belief that closing a library usually costs more than keeping it open. For every child, unemployed adult and senior citizen you ban from using the library by closing it - you create one more individual who must get their information, entertainment and Internet access somewhere else; one more person who has a few more free minutes to seek other ways to fill their time. Perhaps one more person who crosses over the line from seeking work to giving up, one more child who goes from having hope of a different future than his parent or grandparents to one who sees only the streets as a way of life. For every library closed I would estimate that a city should plan on hiring 10 more full time police - but that's just an estimate.

Second - libraries that are a part of government must start taking clues from their independent cousins - the rural library. Constructed as 501(c)3's, these organizations have learned to do a lot with very little. they know all about fundraising, networking and partnering with local organizations, recruiting interns & part time help and best of all - they are willing to share their information. Even as a part of city government, start looking outside the box.

The last thing I am often asked is, "What can I do, since I am not the librarian?" What you can do is go to the local board or council meetings and speak up for the library, every month. Regular, simple, positive statements about your library at each township board meeting, each borough council meeting, each city or county board meeting will say 2 things: 1 - there are individuals here that support the library and would be negatively affected if it were closed & 2 - the library is important enough for them to come here every month so we should avoid closing it.

In times of economic crisis, the library sees more use, more visitors, more business than any other time. And while we are always busy, this may be the busiest time for us.

Support your library. To to local government meetings, write letters and be counted a library supporter. It can make a difference!

Libraries are not brick and mortar

2008-11-05T11:27:00.004-05:00

While visiting family I have noticed that there are many small libraries. Some are urban, some rural, some a little of both. Many serve several generations of visitors by offering unique combinations of books, movies, programs, audiobooks and other items. Some are independent organizations, some are part of a county system and some are branches of a larger library, but all strive to provide as much to their users as they can on their limited budgets.

So next time you visit your library, take note of the people who work behind the desk, who shelve the books and who offer their assistance; these individuals are the library; much more than the bricks and mortar of the building that holds them.

Beyond the Expected

2008-10-14T15:45:00.002-04:00

I am following with much interest the flight of my Phillies. Born and raised a Philly fan, I can hardly believe that they are within an arm's reach of the reach of a World Series. I was just out of college the last time my team played ball this late in the year. They were not the early season pick, but have reached beyond what was expected of them - much to our delight.

As I consider expectations and the library world, I realize that there are other groups of people who exceed the expectations set for them. Those libraries who, during these tough economic times, have stepped up to the plate and are swinging home runs for the library users in their areas - they are champions. The small and isolated, rural, suburban or urban, those institutions who struggle to keep their door open and staff paid, but who still offer excellent service.

Let us swing those rally towels and cheer them on, for their wins are our wins. Here's to the library world series champions - the small libraries who insist on playing all 9 innings with or without the major league budget.

Information Central

2008-09-25T07:09:00.014-04:00

For library members, their library has a personality, a distinct purpose in life. For some the library is a bookstore, or a video store. For some it's a children's center or perhaps a senior center, others may consider it an Internet cafe, the local coffee house or teen hangout. But most everyone would consider their library to be an information center, a place where they can go to get information on . . . anything.

Information on medical, legal, organizational, historical or business matters. How to plant a garden, train a puppy, do yoga, speak Italian, play the clarinet or understand poetry can all be found at the library. But where do librarians go to get information, especially small librarians? And where can those who love libraries go to find out ways to support and encourage library staff?

The best place is other, successful libraries. But since travel takes time and money, here's a solution - - how about an online social networking site for libraries, librarians and those who love the small library?? Sound good?

It's here - well not here, here - but it is available. Webjunction has created a site just for small and rural libraries - the address is www.webjunction.org/arsl. This site, hosted by OCLC and started with funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, hosts several sites just for libraries, one of which is the Association for Small and Rural Libraries webpage. In addition to being an information clearing house full of all kinds of help on nearly every aspect of small librarianship, the site now has a social networking feature which allows individuals to join in the fun, link up with friends, share ideas, express concerns and ask questions.

If you have any connection at all to the small library where you live, I advise you to visit this great "Information Central" for all things small and rural in the library world. Stop by, take a look and join in.

Slight bend in the Road

2008-09-22T20:02:00.004-04:00

For the past several months, I have been using this blog as a way to keep the residents in the area of the Village Library up on curent events, coming events and other items of interest to our region.

Today, as I sit in the airport at Sacremento, we come to a curve in the road. As a member of the global community, I hope to begin to include more items of interest to all those who live in a small or rural community and who hold libraries near and dear to their heart.

This represents a change in the original mission of this post and so i will be removing the link to our library's homepage and will, instead, place a set of links to local and library blogs inside our website. Please look for the change. I hope that those of you who may enjoy this new direction will continue to read and perhaps even comment on occasion. Remember you can link to this blog with the RSS button.

I have a flight to catch, but will post more later. Welcome to the new Village Librarian - a blog for those who are, who know and who support the Village Librarian in your town!

How much is a million? Really!

2008-07-19T08:00:00.005-04:00

We, as a culture, like to celebrate milestones. We consider birthdays, anniversaries and certain achievements to be memoriable milestones, an opportunity to celebrate. I am certain that the psychologist or sociologist amongst us would say it's tied to some deep seeded need for hope, a reason to see good. Personally, I think it's because we like to see accomplishement, forward movement and in terms of our lives as a society, that is easiest to see when we reach a milestone. That and who doesn't like cake?!
With that in mind - the library has recently reached just such a milestone. During the month of June, the library circulated its 1,000,000th item from our current location. Yup, you read right - one million. (If I had a nickel for every... :o)
It's a great milestone! For us at the library, it means that we are finding the right titles for you, our patrons. For you it means that the library is there, ready to help you find the book, movie or other information you need.
We hope you will help us celebrate. During the month of August we will be holding a 1,000,000 party with cake and balloons. Look for the details at the library and help us celebrate this wonderful accomplishment.

The Future

2008-07-07T16:05:00.002-04:00

I apologize for neglecting this blog for a whole month. I have had several of you drop in at the library and tell me that you enjoy reading the random thoughts I set down here. . . I'm glad, because I enjoy setting them down here for you to read. :o)

Having said (written) that, however, today's Blog is not all that random. It's about our library and its future and the part you play in the success or failure of its future - - got your attention?! Good.

The slogan, if you will, of the Village Library is "Preserving the Past . . . Preparing for the Future." A successful future for our library lies not only with the board and the staff - - it lies with you gentle reader. If you have been with the library for any time at all, you have noticed the wonderful growth at the Village Library. There has been a growth in how many people use our library, in how many programs we offer, how many books we loan and I believe growth in how happy people are with the library in general.

This wonderful growth has had many positive effects. We at the library have been able to offer better programs, because you are telling us what you like and what you want. The increase in how many items we loan means that we have a better idea of what types of books, movies and audio books to purchase.

The growth has also brought its own set of difficulties. We have more people, books and computers in the same space, so things are a little cramped. The staff truly appreciates the patience our patrons have shown while waiting to check out or receive help. We are going as fast as we can.

"But dear librarian," I can hear you say, "You said there was something I could help with?" And so there is. Our township, Caernarvon township, is currently considering a building program. Included in this program is the possibility of an increase in the amount of space available for our library and the community center. If you use either of these spaces, you know that both of them are in desperate need of space.

I am asking you for some time, a few hours, to come to one of the township's meetings and express your support for an expanded library. The library board and staff can share our need for room, but it's the opinions and thoughts of our patrons, especially those who live in Caernarvon Township, that make the difference.

The Caernarvon Township Board meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 pm. I know how valuable your time is and how much you all squeeze into one day, but if you could make this a priority, it could make a big difference in what your library can offer you in the coming months and years.

Thank you,
The Village Librarian

Time to Blog

2008-05-20T14:06:00.005-04:00

Time to blog, time to blog - what should i write?
Should i tell them again what's on our site?
Should this blog challenge or should it inform?
Perhaps it's really just very rather poor form.

Coming events, new programs, choices galore,
i really don't know how you could ask for much more.
Books and movies, tapes and CD's
How 'bout the change in how we loan DVD's?

i sometimes wonder, will anyone read?
Do the words i put down fulfill some small need?
Maybe i should simply quote Dr. Seuss
or warn the dear patrons that a cat's on the loose.

Time to Blog, Time to Blog - what should i write?
Perhaps it is time to just say good night.
The library's busy, as busy can be,
We're just a bit tired, a nap would be glee.

Time to Blog, Time to Blog - what will you read?
What can i say that will help in your need?
The best thing, i think, is to remind you and me
To remember the library is always, always free.

The Village Librarian

Hello Summer!!

2008-05-06T11:36:00.005-04:00

I do apologize for the length of time since my last blog entry. I hope you have kept busy?! You have? - Great!

The summer is almost upon us and with it comes thoughts of the beach (or the mountains), warm summer afternoons, cool evening breezes, relaxing vacations, higher gas prices, poison ivy, sunburn and . . . . wait a minute - how did those thoughts get in here?!?! Don't you hate reality checks?

If the present economy, the rising gas prices and the coming months of entertaining children home all day have you worried, let the library give you a hand. During the summer months the library will be doing all we can to help you live on a budget, spend less and save more - both financially and ecologically.

First off - we offer stuff for free - free now, free when you return it on time, free. You just don't get much better than free.

Secondly, the library is scheduling a series of programs and workshops on how to live frugally and green. Ways to lower your bills, lower your "footprint" on this world and perhaps enjoy life a little more.

The first workshop will be on Tuesday, June 3 at 1 pm. How to Start Saving instead of Spending will teach you how use coupons to save on your living expenses and how to maximize your savings through free saving clubs such as those offered by local drug stores. Participants will receive a coupon organizer along with dozens of savings strategies, helpful websites and other practical advice. This workshop will be conducted by a stay-at-home-mom who can shop at a nationwide drug store chain and by using a savings card and coupons buy $65.20 of items for only $2.57 out of pocket. Her blog can be found by clicking here - The Savings Swap. If this interests you, sign up today. Seating is limited to 15 attendees.

In addition to our informational workshops the library will be doing all we can to provide some local entertainment. To that end, we have started a new Board Game Club. The BGC will meet Fridays from 1 to 4 pm in the Community Room. Bring along your favorite game or come out and try something new. There is no cost for this weekly program and no registration is required. Game players of all ages and levels are welcome to join.

Keep your eye on this spot for more upcoming events. In the meantime - enjoy the following new titles at the library.

DVD's

Across the Universe
Alvin and the Chipmunks
Atonement
Bee Movie
Dan in Real Life
Enchanted
I Am Legend
No Country for Old Men
One Night with the King
Richie Ashburn: A Baseball Life
Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
The Water Horse
Who Killed the Electric Car?

Books

Sundays at Tiffanys - James Patterson
The Serpent's Tale - Arinan Franklin
The Outlander - Gil Adamson
Home - Julie Andrews
My Bat Boy Days - Steve Garvey
Taste to Die For - JG Goodhind
Careless in Red - Elizabeth George
Secrets in the Shadows - VC Andrews
Phantom Prey - John Sandford
Santa Fe Dad - Stuart Woods

Food for Fines

2008-03-24T12:40:00.003-04:00

The Village Library is celebrating National Library Week by giving you the opportunity to erase your overdue fines and help the Twin Valley Food Bank.
During the week of April 13 the library will be accepting donations for the food bank. New, non-perishable food items can be brought to the library during normal business hours. For each item you bring in, we will remove $1 of overdue fines from your account. All items will be donated to the Twin Valley Food Bank.

This is a Once-A-Year Opportunity so don't miss out! For more infomation, please check out our website at Food For Fines.

Looking for a new DVD to view?
The library is always adding new titles to our growing list. Some of the newest of the new include:
Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporim
Gone Baby Gone
Becoming Jane
The Assassination of Jesse James
The Game Plan
3:10 to Yuma
I now pronounce you Chuck and Larry
Mythbusters Collection 1
Dirty Jobs Collection 2
Next
The Beyonce Experience Live

Click on the title to go to the catalog and reserve a copy today!

Did You Library Today?

2008-02-28T10:30:00.004-05:00

One of the local department stores ran a campaign for a number of years asking if you had stopped by their store today. There were prizes and coupons for stopping each day- it was quite a success.

While we are not giving aways prizes, we are give away everything else. Movies, Books, Music, Tapes, even time on the computer - all available for use, all for free. Even better - once you are finished with it, you don't have to find a place to store it, we do that for you too.

Your library is the one stop you should make every time you are in town. And since we are on the subject of storage - next time you need to make some room on that DVD shelf or have decided that those kids movies will never again interest your now teenager, consider donating your gently used items to the library. We will keep them for you and lend them to 10,000 of your closest neighbors and friends or sell them to buy some truly new things so that you have even more choices. It's like the free enterprise system run amok.

So make sure you "library" today, you never know what great things are sitting on the shelf, waiting for you!

The Village Librarian

The True Harbinger of Spring

2008-02-22T14:03:00.006-05:00

"That's the true harbinger of spring, not crocuses or swallows returning to Capistrano, but the sound of a bat on a ball." ~Bill Veeck, 1976

Around our house we do not use the gregorian calendar. Our year does not really start in January, nor is Dec 25th always the day we anticipate the most. . . Don't get me wrong, those are great days, but not when you compare them to March 31st. "Why March 31st?" you may rightly ask. Because March 31st is opening day for another wonderful baseball season. The boys of summer are right around the corner. I can just taste a ball park hot dog with mustard, the feeling of the sun baking the back of my neck and the thrill of victory as the Phillies beat the Mets, again. (With all due respect to those of you who are Mets fans).

Now that you know that the librarian is a baseball nut - it makes all the sense in the world that the library would host a Baseball Night. Friday, March 7 at 6 pm the library welcomes all baseball fan, young and old, to join us for hot dogs, drinks and some great baseball talk. (Sort of a Pre-Season Tailgate at the library!)

Commonwealth Speaker Richard Pawling will join us with his presentation "American's game and the culture of a Nation." Dressed as an 1800's hurler, Pawlings will talk on the history of baseball, the changes in the game and how it has affected America. Wear you best baseball attire - your favorite jersey, your most comfortable hat - and come on out!

This is a FREE program, all we ask is that you sign up (so we know how many hot dogs to cook). You can email the library, call the library (610-286-1022) or best of all - stop by the library. We look forward to seeing you then!

Until then - here is something to think about - "Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there?" ~Larry Anderson

Do you Love Libraries?

2008-01-29T20:13:00.000-05:00

There are quite a few things Americans love: We love winners, we love underdogs, we love individualism, we love a great team efforts, we love to indulge in an extravagance and we love freebies. One more thing Americans love - we love our libraries. Did you know, for instance, that there are more public libraries in America than there are McDonalds?

So with February approaching we at the library want you to help us show how you love the library. How? next time you stop in at the library do us a favor and purchase a "Love Your Library" heart. They are only 1$ and all donations go directly into the library general fund. While you are there - let us know what you love about your library.

Also - remember that you can still get DVD's in Morgantown. The library loans movies for 1 week for free. Stop in, pick up a movie for the next cold evening. The library is also looking for donations of DVD's. So if you have seen your favorite movie so often that it is no longer your favorite movie - donate it to the library and let someone else discover it.

How It's Made

2008-01-10T12:30:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite shows walks viewers through the process of how some everyday item is made. I have learned how they make locks, candy, fences, boots and hockey sticks. It is interesting to see how the process is broken down to small steps that lead to a finished product.

Perhaps some of you may be interested in how the library incorporates books, movies and auidobooks. For those of you who are - here is my best impersonation of How It's Made.

Libraries began centuries ago, when information was stored on scrolls or tablets and archived for only the learned few. Through the years, subscription libraries allowed more individuals access to books that were too expensive for any one person to own. Creation of the free library system has been credited to Benjamin Franklin. The growth of this concept has led to the system of free public libraries we have today.

When a library chooses a book or other item to purchase, it has already done research on that subject or on works by that author. The purchasing librarian has to know what the patrons of that library like to read, watch or listen to. The librarian considers which titles best suit the needs of that community, which will help the library have a balanced collection and then selects titles based on that knowledge.

When a book arrives from the publisher, it comes first to the processing and cataloging department. Here it has an ID label attached to it. This identifies which library owns the book. It also receives a unique barcode label. This allows the library system to track that particular copy of that book. Following this, information about the book - its title, author, publisher, plot summary, main characters, home library and unique barcode - are entered in the computer catalog. The cataloger prints a spine label to show where this book should be shelved. The processing department also covers the book or puts reinforced book tape on the spine to protect the book during its life in the library. It is then placed in a bin to travel to its new home.

When the book arrives at the library, the librarian checks the title against that library's order forms. The book is stamped with the library's name and the date it arrived.
The librarian also check the list to see if any of their patrons have already requested this author's work. Once the holds are place the book is checked in and ready for circulation.

New Year Resolutions

2007-12-14T11:51:00.000-05:00

Yes, hard as it is to believe, the new year is just around the corner. I have just gotten used to writing 2007 and here 2008 is in the waiting room.

With a new year comes new resolutions - lose that weight, clean out those closets, start exercising, learn a language. . . They come from the best of intentions and every once in a great while they work, but most fall by the wayside after only a week or two, pushed aside by the immediate needs of our microwave world. If you want to work on something new, stop by and check out a new book on yoga, eating healthy or a how-to book on your newest hobby interest. That way you will not feel quite so bad about letting it fall by the wayside. After all, at least you didn't pay for the book?! :o)

The New Year is also a great time for us to unveil some new programs and services, sort of our Christmas present to you - our patrons. So here are some presents we have for you, coming in 2008.

Computer 101 Classes - Not sure if having a mouse is a good thing? This is the class for you. Join us for four 1 1/2 hour sessions that will cover turning on the computer, log-in on the Internet, finding websites, basic word processing and making an email address. Registrations open January 14 and there is a $10 fee for the course.

Most Wanted Book Club - Do you want to make sure you don't miss the newest releases by your favorite author? Then stop by the library and sign up for our Most Wanted Book Club. Select up to 10 authors from our list. When the library receives a copy of their new books, you are automatically put on the hold list. Registration is required for this free service.

TumbleBooks - These wonderful, online, free e-books are designed for the young and the young at heart. Colorful, animated and delightfully told, these online wonders take a child's natural desire to play on the computer and use it to build a love of the written word. With a wide assortment of titles, from picture books to elementary level readers, TumbleBooks provide entertainment but they also build some basic reading skills for both the young reader as well as the reluctant reader. TumbleBooks come with the Accelerated Reader levels and professional reviews. Stop by and take a look. They are worth the time.

Happy Holidays!

2007-11-30T11:03:00.000-05:00

Someone reminded me that I needed to change our blog - so here I am again. . . A white paper waiting for an idea.

With the holidays coming, it seems that we often find ourselves drawing a blank. How can I show my friends & neighbors that I care without going bankrupt? What in the world should I give my children's teacher, coach or music instructor? What in the world should I give Uncle Harry, who has everything?!

We (present company included) often find that the one thing we look forward to each gift giving season becomes the one thing that causes the most stress. While I may not have THE solution, I think maybe I have some suggestions for dealing with a case of holiday burnout.

1. It does not have to be "Perfect" - make it easy and fun. Let your kids help (even if the results are not quite as nice as if you did it yourself). Involve as many people as you can. The holidays are about spending time with family and friends and making
Holiday Crafts gives you some great, simple holiday craft and decorating ideas.
The Best Holiday Crafts Ever! Has some terrific ideas for kids crafts, with step-by-step instructions.

2. Be Flexible & Embrace the Unexpected. The party when the stove breaks, the perfectly decorated tree that gets pulled over by the cats, the carolers that show up without warning, the snow that comes just as you have errands to run can all become memories that will stand out for years to come. Embrace those moments, take delight in being able to allow the bad to fall by the wayside and take the good to heart. So often stress is the result of expectations, so expect the unexpected. It will come, invited or not.

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - Covers ways to minimize stress and how to deal with daily responsibilities without them taking over your life.

3. Do Something for Someone Else. Volunteer at a local church, homeless shelter or community center. Donate to a food bank, send cards to residents of a local nursing home or get involved in Angle Tree, Toys for Tots or some other group working to make the season a little brighter for someone. Volunteer to help a new mom go shopping, drop off a batch of cookies to the local police station or volunteer at some other community service organization. Studies show that your spirits will be raised when you help others.
Here are some websites and contact information.

Angle Tree
Twin Valley Food Bank - 610-286-2842
Toys for Tots - for a list of drop off locations.

4. Start a New Tradition. There is often a defining moment each holiday season when what is important becomes crystal clear. Take that moment and make it your new "tradition." Share with family how you've grown as a person this year, describe a perfect winter day, take a walk on Christmas with your loved ones, make a picture, take a photo, enjoy a special food watch a favorite movie together or read your favorite story out loud. Here are some suggestions that everyone might enjoy:

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg.
The Night Before Christmas
Pennsylvania Dutch Night before Christmas by Chet Williamson
Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The original with Boris Karloff
Holiday Inn - Staring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire
The Family Man - an updated version of "It's a Wonderful Life" staring Nicolas Cage.

5. Gift a gift that keeps giving. Adopt-A-Book offers you the opportunity to give a book or audiobook to someone and to the community at large all at the same time. You donate to the library through Adopt-A-Book and we send a card to your gift receiver to acknowledge your gift. When the book arrives, they get to read it first, you get to read it second and the library community receives a new title to enjoy. Forms are available on our website and at the library.

Holiday Stress relieving ideas taken from "How to Deal with Holiday Stress" by Gail Blank of Real Simple Magazine. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16097118/

Hello Holidays!!

2007-11-01T12:02:00.000-04:00

Hello Holidays!

It's that time of year again. Halloween is barely past, you haven't decided what size turkey to get for Thanksgiving and the Christmas decorations are already on sale.

Before you stress out, burn out or run out of money making sure that all those family traditions continue for another year, stop by the library. We have some wonderful books on holiday decorating, cooking and simple crafts you can make for those unique but not expensive gifts. They are on display near the computers. And if you need something to read or listen to that will get you over the holiday stress. . .

Check out these Librarian Picks.

Hood & Scarlet – the first two titles in Stephen Lawhead’s newest trilogy. A superb retelling of the Robin Hood legend! Historically accurate, intriguing and full of lively characters. A must read for any fan of the Hood Tale!

World Without End – This is the long awaited sequel to Ken Follett’s work “Pillars of the Earth”. Set in Medieval Europe, this work is a worth sequel to Ken Follett’s bestselling title.

And on Audiobook - The Bonesetters Daughter – A tale by a wonderful storyteller. This duel story relates the life of LuLing and her daughter Ruth. When her mother develops Alzheimer’s, Ruth is driven to learn about her history. This tale celebrates the power of family and gives great insight into Chinese culture.