Spring into the library this March!

It’s that time of year again. Don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead this weekend and don’t be late for any library programs this week.

Library and Lunch will be held this Tuesday, March 11 at 12 p.m. for Sara Paretsky’s “Bleeding Kansas”.  It’s the Kansas Reads 2014 pick and I didn’t tell the group yet but I was on the committee to pick it this year. It was selected through survey across the state by librarians and library folk.  As for Library and Lunch we look for new members all the time so even if you haven’t read the book come and join in on the conversation. 

If you can’t make it over the lunch hour, check out Book Chat on Thursday, March 20 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss books you’re currently reading.  If new books have come in that week, we let you browse the books that are about to hit the new book shelf.  For those who like the culinary arts better, check out Recipe Swap on the last Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m.  This month’s theme is loosely breakfast based. I recently discovered the wonders of coconut milk and have coconut cream sodas on the brain.

During spring break we have a slew of activities for the kids. On Monday, March 17 at 2 p.m. we will be showing a movie for teens. A 2013 movie about two characters that become targets of the Capitol after their victory sparks a rebellion in the Districts of Panem.  There will be an animated movie on Wednesday March 19 at 2 p.m. for the kids.  Looms will be on Thursday, March 20 at 2 p.m.  Come to the library to use colorful rubber bans to create different patterned bracelets or rings. Those are just two examples. You can make other items as well.  If you have your own Rainbow Loom bring it! And lastly Board Games will be played on Friday, March 21 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The library's magazine to subscription began late last fall.  Patrons now have access to full color, interactive digital magazines that can be downloaded and read on mobile devices, home computers, or one of the library's computers.  There are no waiting lists especially for the brand new issue and there's no need to return any magazine issue once it has been checked out.  They can be held on a device until it is deleted.  There’s a really cool feature where you can bookmark aka ‘favorite’ pages. So if there’s a page you’d like to read later on you can do so. It’s a stellar feature.

Creating an account has two parts to it. First you create a library Zinio account to check out and a personal Zinio reading account to download and read your magazines.  Directions can be found on our website.  If you have any questions, feel free to ask us at the circulation desk.

At the end of the month in collaboration with SCCC/ATS Library we will be celebrating National Women's History Month with a panel discussion of prominent women who serve our community. It will be held here at Liberal Memorial Library on Wednesday, March 26 at 12 p.m.  We'll also be showing a movie on Thursday, March 13 at 5:45 p.m., a 1992 movie about two sisters who join the first female professional baseball team. Check out Debbie’s spectacular Women of Kansas alcove when you’re at the circulation desk!

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. See you at the library this month!

Let your heart flip into the library this week

Starting Monday, the library will be having our heart promotion similar to ones we have done in years past. Patrons will be asked to share their favorite author.  Check out the hearts on display as you walk into the adult and teen area and what patrons have written. In years past, we have asked for favorite books, books turned into movies, and what you love most about the library.

We have a slew of heart-y events planned this week. On Monday, February 10 at 6:30 p.m. it’s dinner and a date, a modified version of our Recipe Swap. Bring a copy of a recipe to win over someone’s heart. When our Adult Services Coordinator pitched the idea, he said “recipes to win over his heart”. Fellas, you have to win ours too.

In the children’s department also on Monday between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. the kids will make Valentine’s Day cards. So if you haven’t made your cards yet kids, stop on by the library.

On Tuesday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. it’s Blind Date with a Book.  Library staff will match you up with a book or you can blind browse the books that have been pulled from the shelves.  Library and Lunch will be meeting earlier in the day at noon to discuss this month’s pick “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. If you haven’t read the book, you can still join in on the conversation! Gals, I finished it mid-week.

On Wednesday, February 12 at 4 p.m., there will be a Cupid is Stupid Teen Pizza Party. Come and hang out at the library for an hour.

Movie and a Date will be held on Thursday, February 13 at 6 p.m.  Bring your favorite person or bring yourself for a 1984 action adventure romantic comedy starring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner.

On Friday we’ll hold a drawing for stuffed animals. Through the week make sure to stop by the circulation desk and fill out a slip at the same time you’re filling out a heart to enter the drawing.

Maryellen Anderson, a local author has postponed her book signing from this weekend to next. She’ll be at the library on Saturday, February 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to promote her book “The Bailey News”.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. See you at the library this week!

Make visits to the library a part of your NYE Resolutions

Eleven days into the New Year, have you kept your New Year’s Resolutions?  Some core items that individuals set their goals on include spending more time with family and friends, getting fit, financial goals, learning something new, and getting organized, taming the clutter. If one is on your list, the library can help you! We have a wealth of information and books about making your resolutions a possibility.

For getting fit, we have Zumba and introductory yoga books and DVDs to help you along the way. Within the last few weeks, we've acquired new cookbooks including “The Daniel Plan” by Rick Warren, Daniel Amen, and Mark Hyman, “Giada’s feel good food: my healthy recipes and secrets” by Giada De Laurentiis, and “Wheat Belly” by William Davis. On display in the adult area are “Real Food’ by Nina Planck and “Skinny Bitch in the Kitch” by Rory Freedman.

The newest financial book on the shelf, is “Jim Cramer’s get rich carefully” by James Cramer as well as others on the non-fiction shelves.

For organization check out “Organic Housekeeping” by Ellen Sandbeck, “The Organized Home” by Leslie Plummer Clagett, and a slew of Martha Stewart books. Family Circle, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping, and Martha Stewart Living magazines (not the only ones) are great for finding articles and recipes. Or check out our newest Zinio magazine subscription on your e-reader.

If you’re learning something new, check out our computer classes every week on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. Or start a path on web design and languages with “Web design in a nutshell” or an audiobook on learning German, Greek, Portuguese or Japanese.  

As for spending more time with family and friends, do so at the library! You knew that’s where I was going didn't you? In the month of January, children’s programs include Stories on Mondays at 11:15 a.m., Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m., and Thursdays at 11:15 a.m., Lapsit on Tuesdays at 11:15 a.m., and Evening Story time on Tuesday nights at 6 p.m.  There will be a Cowboy Party on Saturday, January 25. Registration is required for this one so call the library today.  There will also be a Chinese New Year’s Eve Party on Tuesday, January 28 during Evening Story time.

Family Place Library Parent/Child Workshops will also have a run early this year starting on Thursday, February 27 at 6:30 p.m.  Join us to play with your children, meet other parents, and have fun.

 

Library and Lunch will be meeting this week on Tuesday, January 14 at noon for “The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty.  We meet every second Tuesday of the month so join us this year! Book Chat will also take place on Thursday, January 16 at 6:30 p.m. Come and discuss what you’re reading and check out new books at the library. Recipe Swap will be held on Monday, January 27 at 6:30 p.m. Bring a copy of a recently made by you recipe to share with the group.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. Make visits to the library a part of your NYE Resolutions!

Check out a National Book Awards book

The NBAs were held over three weeks ago. National Basketball Association? No! The National Book Awards! The librarians here at the library left that night prepared to watch the awards live. Okay, we didn't end up watching them.

The fiction winner was "The Good Lord Bird" by James McBride and finalists included The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner, "The Lowland" by Jhumpa Lahiri, "Bleeding Edge" by Thomas Pynchon, and "Tenth of December" by George Saunders.

One of the ladies in my Library and Lunch group read "The Good Lord Bird" by James McBride over the Thanksgiving holiday.  Carol thought it was hilarious and she loved it. I've heard from many that it's a pretty funny book if at times dark. McBride takes a variety of liberties with true facts but it seems a believable story of John Brown's fanatical and very righteous efforts against slavery.  Speaking of Library and Lunch, the January pick is “The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty.

"The Flamethrowers" by Rachel Kushner is beautifully written about SoHo in 1975 and motorcycle racing.  The main character Reno ends up in Italy with an amour amid her love for racing.  Some have said that her character is a blank slate that's difficult to relate to but its reasons are revealed in the end.  

One of my favorite authors, Jhumpa Lahiri also made it as one of the finalists.  I read all of her books the first or second year I moved out to southwest Kansas.  I haven't picked "The Lowland" up yet.  It's about two brothers bound by tragedy and different personalities. One brother stays in India and the other leaves home to pursue a life of scientific research in America.  When one brother learns what's happened to his sibling he goes back to India to pick up the pieces of a broken family and heal wounds.  

"Bleeding Edge" by Thomas Pychon is about Maxine Tarnow who is running a nice fraud investigation business on the Upper West Side and everything is great until she starts looking into the finances of a computer security firm and its billionaire geeky CEO. She finds herself mixes up with a drug runner in an art deco motorboard, a professional nose, a neoliberal enforcer with footwear issues, Russian mob and various bloggers, hackers, code monkeys, and enterprenuers.  This one looks like a fun read!  

The final finalist in the fiction category was "Tenth of December" by George Saunders.  It's a collection of short stories that have been described as his most honest, accessible, and moving collection yet.

 

Let's skim over the non-fiction category. The non-fiction winner was "The Unwinding: An inner history of the New America" by George Packer.  I talked to someone who is currently reading it (surround yourself with readers I say!) and they're really enjoying it.  Its focus is on the decline of America over the last thirty or forty years and is on the moderate spectrum.  No one is left smelling like roses.  The finalists included "Book of Ages: the life and opinions of Jane Franklin" by Jill Lepore, "Hitler's Furies: German Women in the Nazi Killing Fields" by Wendy Lower, "The Internal Enemy: Slavery and War in Virginia, 1772-1832" by Alan Taylor, and "Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief" by Lawrence Wright.

Our children's librarian, Casandra read all of the finalists in the children’s category.  I asked her her thoughts on the books.

The children's winner was "The Thing About Luck" by Cynthia Kadohata.   Kadohata is the author of the Newbery Medal-winning book Kira-Kira.  The main character is a Japanese-American girl named Summer who goes with her brother to stay with their grandparents in Kansas while their parents deal with a family problem in Japan. According to Casandra, the grandmother is a great character and they are part of a custom combining crew that travels from Kansas to Texas and other states harvesting a wheat crop. It's intended for an older audience and adults might like it more than kids. Much of the story is a "coming of age" tale involving this girl, but other parts describe quite accurately the lifestyle of the harvesters.

According to Casandra, some of the finalists were quite good on par with the winner.  

"The True Blue Scouts of Sugar Man" was a really great book.  It's by the Kathi Appelt, Newbery author of "Underneath".  This book is about two raccoons that are the main characters.  They have to wake up a monster in a swamp because wild pigs are coming to devour the sugar cane. (I had to check out a more info on this one and the cover is adorable.)

"Far Far Away" by Tom McNeal is about a boy who has the ghost of Jacob Grimm following him around.  He's an outcast who becomes more so with Jacob Grimm.  He meets a girl, forms a friendship, and then they get into a little bit of trouble.  

"Picture Me Gone" by Meg Rosoff is about a girl and her father from London who go to New York City to find her father's friend who seems to have disappeared.  The girl has a power of perception. "Boxers and Saints" by Gene Luen Yang is about the Chinese revolution as told through the eyes of a Chinese peasant.  It's a hilarious book. The main character learns kung-fu and tries to defeat the foreigners.  It's not really a children's book but geared more so for older young adults.  

She also gave a shout out to "Flora and Ulysses" by Kate DiCamillo that didn't make it into the short list.  This one is about a squirrel who gets sucked up by a vacuum and develops powers of strength, flight, and poetry!

We have all of the children's books available for check out in the library!

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any question or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this holiday season!

Skip a jolly beat into the library this season

We’re upon the holiday season. Decorations are slowly starting to come out on lawns and the lights are going up.  The library is also getting into a festive mood.

Library and Lunch will meet on Tuesday, December 10 at 12 p.m. for holiday tales.  Read a holiday themed book and come discuss it at the library. Plan to join us over the lunch hour.

We have two musical events at the library in December.  The Bell Choir will be performing at the library on Tuesday, December 3 at 7 p.m. and we’re excited to welcome the Redskin Singers for their annual holiday appearance on Thursday, December 12 at 7:10 p.m.  Light refreshments will be served.

Our last Recipe Swap was a crockpot success! The next one combines the theme of two upcoming holidays and will be held on Monday, December 9 at 6:30 p.m.

The children’s department has plentiful activities for the kiddos the rest of the year.

Chess will be on Mondays at 6 p.m.  We have some kids who are becoming chess aficionados. Story Fun is held on Mondays at 11:15 a.m., Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m., Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m., and Thursdays at 11:15 a.m.  There will be no activities the week of December 23.

There will be a Family Place Play Day on Saturday, November 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  For all the kids and their families who were a part of our two Family Place workshops this past year, there will be a Family Place Reunion taking place on Tuesday, December 10 at 6 p.m. Come mingle and play.

The library’s Annual Gingerbread House Decorating for children ages 4 through 11 will take place on Saturday, December 15, with two sessions being offered. The session times will be 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.  All materials are provided.  Make sure your kiddo wears something that’s okay in case there are any frosting explosions. Reservations are required and will open on December 2, so phone or stop by the library today to secure a spot.

Santa will be making an appearance at the library before he starts his journey on Tuesday, December 17 at 6 p.m.

The library will be closed for the Thanksgiving Day holiday on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29.  We will reopen on Saturday, November 30 at 9 a.m.

The library will also be closed part of the day on Wednesday, December 4 for staff development training. We will reopen at 4 p.m. that day.

If you’re passing by the library, everything may be returned via the book drops.  There are still individuals who ponder the return of DVDs in the book drops.  Besides e-readers and pre-literacy kits, all items may be returned to the book drops all year long.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any question or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this season!

Thirty Ways to Use Your Library Card

September is National Library Card Sign Up month. What do you have in your wallet? A library card? You should! It gives you access to many services and books.  The American Library Association releases a yearly “ways to use your  library card” list. Let's explore some of the great ways you can use your library card and library services:

- Download an e-book.  Your library is where you can get e-books and other digital content. Download now – ask your librarian how! Through 3M Cloud Library that is accessible on our website, check out the titles that are available for download.

- Not sure how to download an e-book on your new device?  A librarian can show you how. Take a workshop on how to use your e-reader or other gadgets.  Doreen, our tech usually hosts a workshop on e-readers every season.

- Use a computer to finish a school project. Over 62 percent of libraries report they are the only provider of free public computer and Internet access in their communities.

- Use free Wi-Fi. Almost 91 percent of public library outlets offer wireless Internet access.

- Learn the secrets of using the computer. Nancy, one of our circulation clerks teaches weekly computer classes in the morning.

- Learn check mate: attend a library game night. Casandra, our children’s librarian hosts chess on Mondays in September and we have Teen Gaming and Dungeons and Dragons monthly. Dungeons and Dragons will be held on Thursday, September 12 at 4 p.m. and Teen Gaming on Tuesday, September 24 at 4 p.m.

- Take the kids to a free movie or pick up a DVD to watch together at home... or get a movie for free from your library's website. There’s usually a movie night every month!

- Save money while spending quality time: plan a family afternoon at place that’s free - the library!

- Attend preschool story hour with your child. Story Fun is held on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 11:15 a.m. and Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.

- Librarians are early literacy experts... The library is in our second round of Family Place workshops this month for children ages birth to five years. It’s a chance for parents to mingle and chat with each other and our weekly specialist. They’re held on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Also, we have a brand new AWE Early Literacy Station in the children’s area particularly geared for those two to eight. It’s a touch screen with lots of educational materials.  The kids love it!

- ...that can put your child on the path to becoming a baby Einstein.

- Launch your future: Get free assistance with job searches, resume writing and interviewing tips...

- ...or become an entrepreneur. Learn how to write a business plan. Check out a book to do so!

- Get help with homework.

- Research your term paper.

- Explore new opportunities and research technical schools, community colleges and universities.

- Get ready for the SAT with online test-prep services.  We have a lot of online resources!

- Check out your favorite graphic novel.

- Trek to another planet in a Sci-Fi novel.

- Talk mysteries with people who like mysteries, too, at a library book club. Library and Lunch meets every second Tuesday of the month at 12 p.m. and Book Chat meets every third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m.!

- Learn a new language with books or online language-learning software. Talk like a pirate, eh? Try out Mango Languages offered through the State Library of Kansas.

- Empower yourself. Check out a book on auto repair or learn how to change a flat tire.

- Borrow or download an audio book for your next road trip or commute.

- Find a new hobby.  So many choices!

- Enjoy a concert. This fall we're excited to have events with the Swingin’ Jazz Band, Bell Choir, and the Redskin Singers.

- Enroll your child in a summer reading program.

- Learn new knitting techniques and get new patterns. Lots of books in the library collection on this one plus we’re clicking away every other Saturday this month for the Click for Babies campaign led by the Kansas Children's Service League.  We’ll be having Knit In’s on Saturday, September 7 and September 21 at 9 a.m.

- Join your Friends group. The library will be aiming to bring back our Friends group this fall at a special Kansas Humanities Council speaker event in October at an off-site location. Interested? Let us know!

- Take a cooking class. We don’t have cooking classes yet; we do have the next best thing: Recipe Swap every last Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. where we do have noodle demonstrations and all around fun.

- Find a quiet spot, curl up with a good book and enjoy.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this month!

Catch a library program before the summer’s over!

The summer reading programs have wrapped up for the year. It was an astounding success! The adult program finished a week ago and we’re in the beginning stages of planning a Murder Mystery for the lucky individuals who received bingo's on their bingo cards.

Library staff has so far been out in the community twice this month.  First at the Five State Fair where we met a lot of patrons and non-patrons, a nice opportunity to showcase our services and secondly at  the Teacher Fair this past week welcoming the new teachers at USD 480 into the community.   We’ve been particularly excited over the fact that many new teachers have already stopped by the library to sign up for library cards before the fair!  It establishes a great connection for us particularly when they have projects and assignments for the kids throughout the school year. We love being prepared for requests from the kids particularly if we can get more materials into the library. We are most definitely here to provide extra resources!  I even have had the chance to get to know one of my new neighbors, a new fourth grade teacher. 

This week, kids (and adults alike) had a chance to learn about bike repair.  We had a few bikes that kids brought in and were shown how to fix all the ailments of their bicycles by Mr. Ed.  Some of us may also have learned how to pump bicycle tires.

Ms. Casandra, our children’s librarian, has a few programs in the works this month before the start of school.  There will be a program “Back-to-School with Amelia Bedelia” celebrating her 50th birthday this year. It’s a back to school event with crafts, fun, and stories, on Tuesday, August 13 at 6 p.m. Registration is required so call the library at 626-0180.  There will also be “Camping at the library” on Wednesday, August 14 at 2 p.m.  Come set up a tent, learn about camping, and tell scary stories.  Join the camp out!  Ms. Casandra will also be hosting Chess on Thursdays, August 15 at 2 p.m., Monday, August 19 at 6 p.m., and Monday, August 26 at 6 p.m.  Come beginners and advanced players!

And of course our much awaited adult programs!  Library and Lunch will be held on Tuesday, August 13 at noon for “Ladies Night” by Mary Kay Andrews.  Last month, we decided an end of the summer book was in order.  The novel follows Grace Stanton who finds herself locked out of her home, checking account, and her beloved blog after she catches her husband cheating and torpedoes his pricey sports car.  She starts attending court-mandated weekly therapy session with three other women and one man.  Their “divorce coach” starts acting suspiciously and they decide to start their own Wednesday “Ladies’ Night” sessions.  

The theme for this month’s Recipe Swap on Monday, August 26 at 6:30 p.m. is noodles!  My favorite food group in the form of homemade chicken noodle soup which my aunt made when my sister and I were growing up or lo-mein by far the best comfort food or my attempts at pierogi (they’re so noodley!) for which after years of experimenting I have found the perfect dough recipe.  Next on my personal list is tortellini.  In the meantime at this Recipe Swap, Mr. Tian will be demonstrating noodle-making at the library.  One of these days he will teach me how to make his Chinese dumplings.

So for the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this month!

Catch a library program this month!

There are a few more weeks left of summer before the kids go back to school.  Schedule a visit to the library in the coming weeks! We have a lot of great programs scheduled. Library card not required! Though if you don’t have one, check out the details on the library website and we can set you up with one before the school year commences.

The summer reading program has wrapped for the kids and teens.  The High Readers Party was this past week for those who read more than 35 hours in the month of June.  The Ice Cream Party, a chance to pick up certificates and t-shirts for the kids and teens will be held on Friday, August 2 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.  The adult summer reading program has a few more weeks to go. 

On Tuesday, July 23 at 2 p.m. a session of Pictionary will be held with our children’s librarian Casandra.  Let your inner artist out in a friendly game.  Don’t worry if your dogs look a little bit like elephants.  Bring your friends for even more fun.

Other kid programs this month include Chess on Thursdays at 2 p.m. and Sports on the Lawn on Fridays at 11 a.m.

On Thursday, July 25 at 6:30 p.m. Book Chat will be held. Share and discuss what you’ve read lately with your fellow readers.  It’s also a time to see what the library has recently acquired.

Local author Markie Adcock will be holding a book signing on Saturday, July 27 at 10 a.m.  She’ll be selling and signing copies of her first book “Palomino Blue”. 

The theme for this month’s Recipe Swap on Monday, July 29 at 6:30 p.m. is ice cream.  Bring recipes for ice cream (or something cool and sweet).  One of our staffers is quite the fan of making ice cream.

The library will have a booth at the Fair this year the first week in August. If you’re out and about, stop by and say hello!

It’s not this month, but check out “Ladies Night” by Mary Kay Andrews, to get a start on the August Library and Lunch pick. The chat will take place on Tuesday, August 13 at noon.  The novel follows Grace Stanton who finds herself locked out of her home, checking account, and her beloved blog after she catches her husband cheating and torpedoes his pricey sports car.  She starts attending court-mandated weekly therapy session with three other women and one man.  Their “divorce coach” starts acting suspiciously and they decide to start their own Wednesday “Ladies’ Night” sessions.   

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this month!

Summer reading …it’s not just for kids!

It’s that time of year again… summer reading! Sign up has been steadily moving along as kids, teens, and adults are embarking on the adventures of reading through the hot sweltering days ahead. The children and teen programs run through the end of June and the adult program runs through July. There are many activities and drawings involved for all age groups in the next few weeks.

The theme of adult summer reading is "Groundbreaking Reads". For chances to win t-shirts and other prizes, adults must fill out a line on a Bingo sheet and enter into a drawing to be held the first week in August. It’s a chance for adults to get out of their comfort zone and read books in categories such as classic fiction, spy novels, biographies, historical fiction, science fiction, westerns, romance, fantasy, Kansas authors, short stories, favorite books from childhood, etc. If left to my own devices, mysteries and biographies would be the only genres I’d read.

The first event on the adult summer reading agenda will be a Social on Tuesday, June 4 at 6:30 p.m. It’s a chance for adults who are participating in the program to get together and kick start the program. Library and Lunch will be held on Tuesday, June 11 at noon. The book "Where’d You Go, Bernadette" by Maria Semple will be discussed. Gardening Club will be meeting on Tuesday, June 18 at 6:30 p.m. for Some Like It Hot to discuss growing vegetables particularly peppers and other spicy items. Book Chat will meet on Thursday, June 20 at 6:30 p.m., a social get together to discuss what books we are currently reading and seeing who may or may not have gotten a Bingo on their sheets. Recipe Swap on Monday, June 24 at 6:30 p.m. will continue the theme of Some Like It Hot. Bring a copy of a recipe (and the recipe if you’re so inclined!) that is hot and spicy.

The conclusion of Groundbreaking Reads this year will once again be a Murder Mystery. The date is yet to be announced. To be eligible, participants in the summer reading program must have earned at least one Bingo.

The teen summer reading program theme is "Beneath the Surface". Teens set a goal of how many hours they plan on reading during the program's five weeks. If they reach their goal, they are eligible to win a t-shirt and those who read 35 or more hours have the opportunity to join in on the High Readers Party at the end of the program.

Beneath the Surface activities will include Zumba with Lydia Augustine, Wild hairstyles with Sheila Schieb and SCCC students, Soil tunnel, a tunnel tour with Lydia Hook-Gray, Life in a Cup of Dirt with Dr. Patrick Ross, Dungeons and Dragons with Brad Kearn, Dig it with J & R Sand, Tai Chi with Terri Barnes, Mad Science, Yoga with Alli Lyons, Learn to Juggle, and the end of the summer reading Ice Cream Party in August! These are the events in store for teens at the library this summer. For dates and times, check out our website or grab a calendar from the circulation desk.

For both adults and teens, if you prefer to read at home instead of joining in on library activities that’s fine as well! We’d still love to see you signed up this summer and participating in the capacity that you are able.

So pick up a summer reading packet and sign-up sheets this month and grab a newsletter at the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions don’t hesitate to ask. Hope to see you at the library this summer!

Journey into the library this summer

It’s May and who would think to expect snow to start it off. May is Bike Month celebrated every May for the last 55 years.  If you happen to get on the road check out the League of American Bicyclists and challenge yourself by playing Bike Month Bingo!

Preschool storytimes meet Mondays from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m., toddler storytimes meet Tuesdays from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m., and infant storytimes meet Thursdays from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m.

The next Library and Lunch will meet on Tuesday, May 14 at noon. The book chosen for the month is "The Chance" by Karen Kingsbury.  It’s a heartwarming story about childhood friends, broken lives, and a long ago promise that just might offer the hope of love for today. In “The Chance”, Kingsbury delves deeply into a theme that resonates with us all: It’s never too late for those willing to take a chance.

Teen Pizza Party will be held on Thursday, May 16 at 4 p.m. All high schoolers are welcome to come and hang out at the library.

Book Chat will be held on Thursday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m.  Come discuss what books you are currently reading. Discover what new books have hit the shelves and what others are reading.  If you haven’t read one in a while, stop by, and share what books you adore.

The library will be hosting a Recipe Swap on Monday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m.  Dessert was the focus of the Recipe Swap last week… lemon cake, coconut pineapple cupcakes, apple cake and cinnamon roll cake were on display. This month we’re focusing on picnic salads!  I visited my sister while I was out of town and she makes the best summery salad. That might have to be my contribution in May!

The Gardening Club will meet on Tuesday, May 21 6:30 p.m. The latest update on the daisies is that they haven’t shown up for this gardener. The basil was a flop too.

The countdown begins for Summer Reading 2013. Sign up starts on Monday, May 20! What will be digging into this summer? The kickoff event is Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. where we will be making dirt cups!

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this summer!

Hop into the library this spring

Oh the Ides of March! The date reflects the assassination of Julius Caesar and in many circles is the original date for new year celebrations and picnics. For film buffs, it’s the movie starring Ryan Gosling and George Clooney. For others, it means March is half way over and spring is in the air!  

Book Chat will be held on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m.  Come discuss what books you are currently reading. Discover what new books have hit the shelves and what others are reading.  If you haven’t read one in a while, stop by, and share what books you adore. 

The library will be hosting a Recipe Swap on Monday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m. Our first session went quite well. Recipes shared included Chocolate Mousse Pie, Honey Glazed Chicken with Curried Apples, Lasagna Stoup, Layered Ham Dinner, Spicy Shells with Vegetables, Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Dressing, Choco-Oatmeal Brownies, Jamaican Coconut Pie, and Taco Soup. Due to the weather, the library was closed the last time the group was meeting so the Irish recipes stand for March! 

The library display of the week in the adult area of the library is all things Ireland, mostly adult fiction set in the country.  Speaking of displays, check out the alcoves the next time you hop into the library. There’s one on Women’s History Month and one filled with quilts for National Quilt Month done by the quilting guild in town.  The members are quite talented.  Personally I’m enamored with the Harry Potter bookcase.  Whoever quilted that one, give me a call.   

The next Library and Lunch will meet on Tuesday, April 9 at noon. The book chosen for the month is "The Storyteller" by Jodi Picoult. The group had a great turnout this month for “Sutton” but was a little quiet. Not the harried world of a bank robber.  This pick is making a buzz as most of Jodi Picoult’s books do. Sage Singer is a baker who befriends an older and beloved man in her community. They strike up a friendship and he confesses a long buried and shameful secret, one that no one in town would suspect and asks Sage for an extraordinary favor.  One that if she says yes to will cause her to face moral and legal repercussions. Sage begins to question the assumptions and expectations that she’s made about her life and her family.  This one is going to be good. Where does one draw the line between punishment and justice, forgiveness and mercy?

The Gardening Club will meet on Tuesday, March 18 and April 16 at 6:30 p.m. The club didn’t meet up during the winter.  Interested to see what others are working on. This gal is in the process of planting English daisies and an herb garden. 4-H has a display in the adult area to recruit more cloverleaves into their midst.  4-H makes me think of chickens… memories of chickens following this five year old around my grandparents’ farm.

Teen Pizza Party will be held on Thursday, March 21 and April 18 at 4 p.m. All high schoolers are welcome to come and hang out at the library.

Preschool storytimes meet Mondays from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m., toddler storytimes meet Tuesdays from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m., and infant storytimes meet Thursdays from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. with Ms. Debbie.  Ms. Casandra, our new children’s librarian is busy settling into Liberal this week.  The staff is very excited to have her start. Look out for a library column from her one of these days! 

As the resident attender of Catholic schools for twelve years, a suggested topic for this week’s column was Pope Francis. Instead, I’ll leave you to discover the books we have at the library documenting the papacy and its process: “The Vatican collections" by H. N. Abrams, “An illustrated history of the popes: Saint Peter to John Paul II” by Michael Walsh, and “The rise of Benedict XVI: the inside story of how the Pope was elected and where he will take the Catholic Church” by John L. Allen, Jr.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social meida pages.  If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this spring!

Descent into the library and browse for a book

Monday marks President’s day.  It’s a federal holiday in honor of George Washington, the first President of the United States.   He is often referred to as the Father of Our Country known for his love of the land and farming and not a proponent of war.  He was a distinguished general and commander in chief of the colonial armies in the American Revolution. 

In the 1950s a committee was set up to attempt a generic day with the purpose not to honor any particular President but to honor the office of the Presidency. That was stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee. So the holiday celebrates George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, observes the community, and honors veterans and Purple Heart recipients.

The library has a couple of newer books on Washington including “Washington: a life" by Ron Chernow, “General George Washington: a military life” by Edward G. Lengel, and “Arguably: essays” by Christopher Hitchens.

Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth President known for leading the country through the Civil War. He is famous for the Gettysburg Address.  The phrase “With malice toward none, with charity for all…” is inscribed on one wall of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. a phrase he used during his second inaugural address.

A couple of newer books on Lincoln include “The hour of peril: the secret plot to murder Lincoln before the Civil War” by Daniel Stashower, “”38 nooses: Lincoln, Little Crow, and the beginning of the frontier’s end” by Scott W. Berg, and “A. Lincoln: a biography” by Ronald C. White Jr.

This week the library will be closed on Monday and on Tuesday, February 19 at noon Library and Lunch will be meeting for “Safe Haven” by Nicholas Sparks.  I haven’t finished the book yet so there might have been a bit of running the other night when a patron started chatting it up at the circulation desk in preparation of seeing the film that is currently out.

Book Chat will be meeting on Thursday, February 21 at 6:30 p.m.  Come and chat up the books you are reading, what you have read recently, and discover what books have come into the library.  If you haven’t read one in a while stop by anyway!

Recipe Swap will be meeting on Monday, February 25 at 6:30 p.m.  We had a wonderful turnout last month with dessert, soup, and entrée recipes shared.  For the next meeting, bring a pink, green, or pancake inspired recipe in honor of Valentine’s Day, St. Patty’s Day, or Pancake Day respectively.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. See you at the library this month!

Fall into the library this February

Starting February 1 and running the week of Valentine's Day, the library will be having a heart promotion similar to the one we’ve done in years past. Patrons will be asked to share their favorite movie adapted from a book! Previously, we have had hearts on display as you walked through the entrance to the adult area with favorite books and what patrons loved about their library.

This week the library will be hosting our first Recipe Swap on Monday, January 28 at 6:30 p.m. Come prepared to share a recent (or favorite) recipe.  Bring one copy of your recipe and copies will be made depending on how individuals come for the meeting. Hopefully once we get chatting, we can decide on thematic sessions (desserts, crockpot, appetizers, main dishes, etc.!) for future meetings.

On Thursday, February 7 at 4 p.m. there will be a session for middle schoolers (ages eight to thirteen) on Chinese New Year. We’ll have a sampler and craft.  A week later, there will be one for Valentine’s Day.

The next Library and Lunch will be held on Tuesday, February 19 at 12 p.m. The book chosen by the group is “Safe Haven” by Nicholas Sparks.  More than likely we’ll have a chance to discuss favorite books, so if you haven’t read the book or don’t get an opportunity to do so, just bring yourself.

Children’s storytimes continue every week with Ms. Debbie. On Mondays, preschool storytime meets from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. for children ages 3, 4, and 5.  On Thursdays, toddler storytime meets from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. for children 19 months to 35 months. On Tuesdays, infant storytime meets from 11:15 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. for little ones birth through 19 months.  There will be a special evening Valentine’s Day storytime on Thursday, February 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Book Chat will meet on Thursday, February 21 at 6:30 p.m. Come down to discuss what books you are currently reading and discover what new books have hit the shelves. If you haven’t read one in a while, stop by and discuss what book you absolutely adore!

While you're at the library, make sure to go on a blind date with a book. Grab a title that you wouldn't normally take off the shelf whether it is non-fiction, fantasy, science fiction, or mystery. Try something new.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. See you at the library this month!

Roll into the library in the New Year

Happy New Year! The library has exciting programs in the works this year.

 The next Library and Lunch will be held on Tuesday, January 15 at 12 p.m. “A gift of hope” by Danielle Steel will be discussed. In this non-fiction work, Steel shows how she transformed the pain of losing her son into a campaign of service that enriched her life beyond what she could imagine.  For eleven years she took to the streets with a small team to help the homeless of San Francisco.

While you're at the library this year, make sure to go on a blind date with a book. Grab a title that you wouldn't normally take off the shelf whether it is non-fiction, fantasy, science fiction, or mystery. Try something new.

Book Chat will meet on Thursday, January 17 at 6:30 p.m. Come down to discuss what books you are currently reading and discover what new books have hit the shelves.

The Kansas Center for the Book pick this year is “Then We Came to the End: A Novel” by Joshua Ferris. The characters in this wickedly funny, big-hearted novel about life in the office cope with a downturn in the time-honored way: through gossip, secret romance, elaborate pranks, and increasingly frequent coffee breaks.  By day they compete for the best office furniture left behind and try to make sense of the mysterious pro-bono ad campaign that is their only remaining ‘work’.  The library will be having a special book discussion sometime this year. Stay tuned.

The Gardening Club resumes this month on Tuesday, January 15 at 6:30 p.m. They meet every third Tuesday of the month.  Someone who has not come up with any New Year Resolutions this year is curious to hear the group’s suggestions on growing kitchen herbs.

A new program this month Recipe Swap will hold its first meet on Monday, January 28 at 6:30 p.m. Join us at the library to share your favorite recipe with fellow cooks and bakers. Whether you are a newbie or a veteran to the kitchen world, come down and share your experiences with others who share your passion.

The next session for middle and high schoolers will be a Teen Pizza Party on Thursday, January 24 at 4 p.m. Stop by the library to hang out after school.

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages. If you have any questions or suggestions about books or programs don't hesitate to ask. Make a resolution to visit your library this year!

Saunter into the library this September!

The kids are back in school.  Autumn is slowly approaching. The library has a lot of activities planned for September.

Teens looking for activities after school can stop by the library on Thursdays. Chess classes run every two weeks.  They will be held on Thursday, September 6 and 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Teen Gaming will be on Thursday, September 13 and 27 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  for video games, board games, and card games.  Snacks and refreshments will be served.

The library will be holding a Knit In on Saturday, September 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Kansas Children's Service League Period of PURPLE Crying. Come and knit purple baby caps for newborns across the state.  The library's goal is 100 hats! Purple skeins and light refreshments will be provided. The gals at the circulation desk are furiously working on their hats through looming.  It is remarkably similar to knitting.  Some of us are trying our hand at it for the first time and bring our mistakes for our master expert Debbie to fix until we learn how to fix them ourselves.

Our weekly NASA program for middle schoolers will commence on Monday, September 10 at 4 p.m. with Space Rocks! A Giant Meteorite Board Game where students assume the roles of meteorites and learn about meteors, meteoroids, and meteorites competing to get to Antarctica! On Monday, September 24, a speaker from the Cosmosphere will be at the library for a Life in Space program detailing what an orbit is and how it is achieved, what micro-gravity is and how it affects human physiology and function and how an astronaut spends a typical day in space…  still harboring dreams of becoming an astronaut.

We will be hosting a Mexican Independence Day Carnival at the library in Cooper Park on Saturday, September 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Entertaining activities will include: raffles, bingo for books, musical chairs, soda toss, basketball toss, piñatas, chicken chuck, fishing, kissing booth, fortune telling, tortilla toss, beauty salon, and many more! 

The Library and Lunch gang is growing!  The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 11 at noon.  The book “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn will be discussed.  A husband comes home and discovers his wife missing… Trying to avoid spoilers from patrons at the circulation desk until my copy comes in utilizing a lot of shushing.  The book has been making its rounds on the New York Times Bestseller list. 

The Gardening Club meets every third Tuesday of the month.  The next meeting will be on Thursday, September 18 at 6:30 p.m.  Discover what autumn and winter plants and activities are in store for the group.

Book Chat will be held on Thursday, September 20 at 6:00 p.m.  Come down to discuss what books you are currently reading and discover what new books have hit the shelves!

Out in the community, the library will have a booth at the Duck Races on Saturday, September 22. So before you get a duck, stop by the booth and say hello!

The final stages of programs are in the works for a lot of excitement for all age groups this coming fall so stay tuned!

For the latest library programming take a peek at the library website or grab a newsletter from the circulation desk. Stay tuned and connected through our social media pages.  If you have any question or suggestions about books or programs don’t hesitate to ask.  See you at the library this coming month!