I always hate to say that...closed for the holidays. It's hard for me to ever imagine a library being closed for anything. Especially for the holidays. But then, our staff needs time off just like others. And being closed around Christmas time is probably the nicest time to be closed.
But while we're closed I always wonder what those people will do who need to use our computers. They're usually the ones who use the computer to job search, or do research for college classes, or just keep in touch with family and friends.
I also wonder about those people who come to our library to get in out of the cold. And it's been really cold lately for us Southern states. The other day a staff member and I were talking about some of the homeless people who come to the library to get warm and get out of the cold wind. They use our place as a refuge and even catch up on things they like to read. I always wonder where they'll go while we're closed.
Of course, there's been a great run on checking out books to read while we're closed. Those items won't have to be returned until we reopen, so there's a nice long two weeks to read a stack of good mysteries, crime novels, or romances.
And the children's books are going out in stacks also. Especially the books about Christmas, Santa Claus, elves, and even the Grinch.
So, let me tell you what the schedule will be. The MCCLS libraries (includes the Doerun Library and the Odom Library) will be closed from Saturday, December 18th, at 5:30 p.m. until Monday, January 3, 2011 at the regular times (8:30 a.m. for headquarters and 2 p.m. for Doerun).
Just writing 2011 looks strange, doesn't it? However, after we're closed for the holidays that's the number we'll be using.
I'd like to wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I hope all of you will be "open" for the wonderful opportunities that come your way in 2011. And we'll be open for you also. Happy holidays!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The new Rosner Estate books are coming in
Not too long ago I told you about a gift from the Estate of Joanna Rosner. Well, the books are coming in! Ms. Rosner's gift was to definitely include books by Anne McCaffrey and I see several on the list of "here now."
If you're a fan of McCaffrey, you'll be delighted to know that we have on our shelves the following books: All the Weyrs of Pern, Dragondrums, Dragongirl, Dragonheart, Dragonquest, Dragonsblood, Dragonsdawn, Dragonseye, A Gift of Dragons and Dragon's Fire. And there are more to come.
If you like to quilt, be sure to pick several of Jennifer Chiaverini's books. She has a series about the Elm Creek Quilters. On the shelf we have The Aloha Quilt: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel, The Christmas Quilt, Circle of Quilters, The Cross-Country Quilters, and The New Year's Quilt. All of these books seem to fit right in with our holiday season.
For all you coffee lovers, you'll be delighted with the books by Cleo Coyle. Look for Decaffinated Corpse, Espresso Shot, French Pressed, Latte Trouble, Murder Most Frothy, Roast Mortem, Through the Grinder, and Holiday Grind, with more to come.
Susan Conant has the Dog Lover's Mysteries: The Barker Street Regulars, Evil Breeding, Gone to the Dogs, and Ruffly Speaking. And Denise Swanson has the Scrumble River Mysteries: Murder of a Barbie and Ken, Murder of a Royal Pain, Murder of a Small-Town Honey, Murder of a Sweet Old Lady, and Murder of a Wedding Belle.
Be sure you look for the Aunt Dimity series by Nancy Atherton (Aunt Dimity is a ghost), the Hope Street Church Mysteries by Jennifer Stanley, and the Chet and Bernie Mysteries by Spencer Quinn.
And for all you food lovers, be sure to look for the Wine Country Mysteries by Ellen Crosby, the books by B. Haywood (Town in a Blueberry Jam and Town in a Lobster Stew), Jeffry Cohen's Some Like It Hot-Buttered, Avery Aames' The Long Quiche Goodbye, Riley Adams' Delicious and Suspicious, and Julie Hyzy's Eggsecutive Orders.
Of course, there are many more books to list. Instead of me listing them here, you can find them listed in our Pines System. Look for books by Mary Clay, Emilie Richards, Mary Maffini, Jessica Conant-Park, Elizabeth Lynn Casey, Christy Evans, Jennie Bentley, Laura Childs, Richard Castle, Kate Carlisle.... The list goes on and on.
You really need to come visit us and see all these new books on the shelves. If the titles don't draw you in, the fascinating covers certainly will.
And I can guarantee you this...we have so many books from the Rosner Estate gift that we can keep you reading for the entire year of 2011. Well, maybe not all of it, but the biggest part anyhow. Enjoy reading! You'll never regret making the time to lounge in your favorite place and hold a good book in your hands while you get totally involved in a magical place called imagination.
If you're a fan of McCaffrey, you'll be delighted to know that we have on our shelves the following books: All the Weyrs of Pern, Dragondrums, Dragongirl, Dragonheart, Dragonquest, Dragonsblood, Dragonsdawn, Dragonseye, A Gift of Dragons and Dragon's Fire. And there are more to come.
If you like to quilt, be sure to pick several of Jennifer Chiaverini's books. She has a series about the Elm Creek Quilters. On the shelf we have The Aloha Quilt: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel, The Christmas Quilt, Circle of Quilters, The Cross-Country Quilters, and The New Year's Quilt. All of these books seem to fit right in with our holiday season.
For all you coffee lovers, you'll be delighted with the books by Cleo Coyle. Look for Decaffinated Corpse, Espresso Shot, French Pressed, Latte Trouble, Murder Most Frothy, Roast Mortem, Through the Grinder, and Holiday Grind, with more to come.
Susan Conant has the Dog Lover's Mysteries: The Barker Street Regulars, Evil Breeding, Gone to the Dogs, and Ruffly Speaking. And Denise Swanson has the Scrumble River Mysteries: Murder of a Barbie and Ken, Murder of a Royal Pain, Murder of a Small-Town Honey, Murder of a Sweet Old Lady, and Murder of a Wedding Belle.
Be sure you look for the Aunt Dimity series by Nancy Atherton (Aunt Dimity is a ghost), the Hope Street Church Mysteries by Jennifer Stanley, and the Chet and Bernie Mysteries by Spencer Quinn.
And for all you food lovers, be sure to look for the Wine Country Mysteries by Ellen Crosby, the books by B. Haywood (Town in a Blueberry Jam and Town in a Lobster Stew), Jeffry Cohen's Some Like It Hot-Buttered, Avery Aames' The Long Quiche Goodbye, Riley Adams' Delicious and Suspicious, and Julie Hyzy's Eggsecutive Orders.
Of course, there are many more books to list. Instead of me listing them here, you can find them listed in our Pines System. Look for books by Mary Clay, Emilie Richards, Mary Maffini, Jessica Conant-Park, Elizabeth Lynn Casey, Christy Evans, Jennie Bentley, Laura Childs, Richard Castle, Kate Carlisle.... The list goes on and on.
You really need to come visit us and see all these new books on the shelves. If the titles don't draw you in, the fascinating covers certainly will.
And I can guarantee you this...we have so many books from the Rosner Estate gift that we can keep you reading for the entire year of 2011. Well, maybe not all of it, but the biggest part anyhow. Enjoy reading! You'll never regret making the time to lounge in your favorite place and hold a good book in your hands while you get totally involved in a magical place called imagination.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Have I told you about Darrell Huckaby?
I haven't? Well, lordy mercy, let me tell you about this funny man!
He's an author who has been called "Garrison Keeler with a Southern accent." He's been called "the South's hidden literary treasure." He's a syndicated columnist, a noted author, a teacher and a public speaker.
And he's going to here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library on Monday, December 6th, at 7 p.m. to tell you all about grits and catfish, the flag of the South and the Civil War (not what he calls it), and road trips, Georgia football, and his family.
Darrell draws from his own experiences about growing up in Newton County, Georgia's mill village of Porterdale. He writes about everyday life in America the way it is, the way it used to be, and the way he thinks it should be. He'll make you laugh, occasionally cry, and sometimes shake your head in disbelief.
In fact, when you come see him on Monday, you'll even be able to purchase his books, which include What the Huck!, Dinner on the Grounds (a great cookbook), Grits is Groceries (my favorite), Southern is as Southern Does, Need Two and Need Four. And if you want, he'll even autograph the books for you. (Think of it this way, you will be purchasing some of the best Christmas gifts you can give; you can't give anything better than a book!)
Oh, yes! Since Darrell is a graduate of the University of Georgia and writes a syndicated column called The Dawgbone each week during football season, I bet you can even get him involved in a good discussion about those Georgia bulldogs!
Come join us! We expect to have a good time.
This project is sponsored by MCCLS and supported by the Georgia Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities and through appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly.
He's an author who has been called "Garrison Keeler with a Southern accent." He's been called "the South's hidden literary treasure." He's a syndicated columnist, a noted author, a teacher and a public speaker.
And he's going to here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library on Monday, December 6th, at 7 p.m. to tell you all about grits and catfish, the flag of the South and the Civil War (not what he calls it), and road trips, Georgia football, and his family.
Darrell draws from his own experiences about growing up in Newton County, Georgia's mill village of Porterdale. He writes about everyday life in America the way it is, the way it used to be, and the way he thinks it should be. He'll make you laugh, occasionally cry, and sometimes shake your head in disbelief.
In fact, when you come see him on Monday, you'll even be able to purchase his books, which include What the Huck!, Dinner on the Grounds (a great cookbook), Grits is Groceries (my favorite), Southern is as Southern Does, Need Two and Need Four. And if you want, he'll even autograph the books for you. (Think of it this way, you will be purchasing some of the best Christmas gifts you can give; you can't give anything better than a book!)
Oh, yes! Since Darrell is a graduate of the University of Georgia and writes a syndicated column called The Dawgbone each week during football season, I bet you can even get him involved in a good discussion about those Georgia bulldogs!
Come join us! We expect to have a good time.
This project is sponsored by MCCLS and supported by the Georgia Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities and through appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Pardon me for being an old poop...
...but I want to share something with you that made a big impression on me this weekend.
I had the privilege of helping our director last Saturday as she emptied the two book drops just outside our library. I actually helped with only one because I was working on something else.
But when she came in from gathering the books from book drop #1, the pickup cart was filled to the brim! Not with only our returned library books, but with paperback books (the small size) that someone had unloaded thinking we might be able to use them. But now that I've said that, that's not what I really think they were doing.
These paperbacks were old, old, old. They were so old they were yellow. And they were bent and torn and dirty. Yep! Dirty. It's like they had come from someone's garage attic and had been up there for upteen years. And they smelled! Bad!
Since I finished what I'd been working on, I went with her to retrieve the books from book drop #2. And guess what. Yep! Same thing. Lots and lots of old books, same kind, apparently from the same person. The one I'd like to think gave us the books because they thought we might be able to use them.
So, I'm going to be an old poop and say this...please! if you don't want old, yellow, bent, torn, dirty, and smelly books, please throw them away. Because if you don't want them, we certainly can't use them.
Sometimes we get bags (plastic grocery bags) and old boxes filled with old books and inside those books are bugs. Sorry to say that, but it's true. We certainly can't give those books out to our patrons! But sometimes people drop them off anyway.
As much as we always appreciate receiving gently used books, those in good condition and clean (and smell good too), we just have to ask you not to give us those old, yellow, bent, torn, dirty, smelly books.
We appreciate your understanding. We're a library, not a garbage dump.
I had the privilege of helping our director last Saturday as she emptied the two book drops just outside our library. I actually helped with only one because I was working on something else.
But when she came in from gathering the books from book drop #1, the pickup cart was filled to the brim! Not with only our returned library books, but with paperback books (the small size) that someone had unloaded thinking we might be able to use them. But now that I've said that, that's not what I really think they were doing.
These paperbacks were old, old, old. They were so old they were yellow. And they were bent and torn and dirty. Yep! Dirty. It's like they had come from someone's garage attic and had been up there for upteen years. And they smelled! Bad!
Since I finished what I'd been working on, I went with her to retrieve the books from book drop #2. And guess what. Yep! Same thing. Lots and lots of old books, same kind, apparently from the same person. The one I'd like to think gave us the books because they thought we might be able to use them.
So, I'm going to be an old poop and say this...please! if you don't want old, yellow, bent, torn, dirty, and smelly books, please throw them away. Because if you don't want them, we certainly can't use them.
Sometimes we get bags (plastic grocery bags) and old boxes filled with old books and inside those books are bugs. Sorry to say that, but it's true. We certainly can't give those books out to our patrons! But sometimes people drop them off anyway.
As much as we always appreciate receiving gently used books, those in good condition and clean (and smell good too), we just have to ask you not to give us those old, yellow, bent, torn, dirty, smelly books.
We appreciate your understanding. We're a library, not a garbage dump.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A word from our director
I can hardly believe it. Thanksgiving is only days away and that means Christmas will be here in a flash!
My grandmother always told me that the older I got, the faster time would go. I never believed her then, but now I know she was telling the truth. There are evidences all around me that prove that fact...I have lived in Moultrie much longer than the place I call my hometown, my children are now adults, I have had the same job for 35 years, and on my next birthday, I will be...well, old enough. How did that happen?
At this time of year, I always look back over the past 11 months to see what I've accomplished. Sometimes it's hard to put my finger on a single tangible project because so many activities seem to be on-going.
But the one thing I can always count as an accomplishment is the fact that I have grown (as a human being) because of all of the wonderful and sometimes quirky people with whom I have come in contact. I hope that each of you know that I count you as one of the "wonderful" people who has influenced my life this year and made it so rich.
When Thanksgiving rolls around and I am counting my blessings, there are so many of you right at the top of the list.
Thank you for enriching my life and have a happy Thanksgiving.
Melody S. Jenkins, Director, Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System
My grandmother always told me that the older I got, the faster time would go. I never believed her then, but now I know she was telling the truth. There are evidences all around me that prove that fact...I have lived in Moultrie much longer than the place I call my hometown, my children are now adults, I have had the same job for 35 years, and on my next birthday, I will be...well, old enough. How did that happen?
At this time of year, I always look back over the past 11 months to see what I've accomplished. Sometimes it's hard to put my finger on a single tangible project because so many activities seem to be on-going.
But the one thing I can always count as an accomplishment is the fact that I have grown (as a human being) because of all of the wonderful and sometimes quirky people with whom I have come in contact. I hope that each of you know that I count you as one of the "wonderful" people who has influenced my life this year and made it so rich.
When Thanksgiving rolls around and I am counting my blessings, there are so many of you right at the top of the list.
Thank you for enriching my life and have a happy Thanksgiving.
Melody S. Jenkins, Director, Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Well, I spoke too soon!
Just when I thought I had my winter reading all set...just when I thought I'd found my series to read...well, I spoke too soon!
Today our director showed me the books she ordered with the Joanna Rosner Estate gift. Ms. Rosner's gift was to purchase only mysteries and the books have started coming in.
On our "New Books" shelves and our "7-Day-Loan" shelves are more books than I could possibly read during just one winter-sitting. I may have to extend my series reading far into the summer. And look at some of what I'll be reading.
Today our director showed me the books she ordered with the Joanna Rosner Estate gift. Ms. Rosner's gift was to purchase only mysteries and the books have started coming in.
On our "New Books" shelves and our "7-Day-Loan" shelves are more books than I could possibly read during just one winter-sitting. I may have to extend my series reading far into the summer. And look at some of what I'll be reading.
- Nancy Atherton writes the "Aunt Dimity" series. Aunt Dimity is a ghost and signs of her appear in every book. The new one on our shelf is Aunt Dimity Slays the Dragon. But, I've read all this series and will move on to another.
- Emilie Richards is the author of the "Ministry is Murder" series. We have the book A Truth for a Truth. This is a new series for me and is now on my must-read list.
- Jennifer Chiaverini writes lots of books about quilts. I've been watching her list grow over the past few years, but haven't begun any yet. The Rosner gift has purchased The Lost Quilter, Circle of Quilters, The Runaway Quilt, and The Aloha Quilt. We have lots of quilters in town who will really enjoy these books.
- Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant write the "Gourmet Girl" series, books about the doings of an executive chef. We have Cook the Books on the shelf with recipes included.
- Ellen Crosby has a series of "Wine Country Mysteries." If you're a wine-lover, these are your books. The one on our shelf is titled The Viognier Vendetta.
- The Laura Childs "Tea Shop Mysteries" I've read from first book to last. However, she also has a "Scrapbooking" series and we have her book Fiber and Brimstone.
- Gail Fraser's books were introduced to me by our director. She writes "The Lumby" series. This is another series I've followed from the first book, and now I get to read the latest, Lumby on the Air. Just checked it out! Guess what I'll be doing all weekend!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Maybe I've found my books for winter reading
For quite a while now I've been thinking about starting a series. I like reading about a person or a group of people and following them through a series of several books.
I did that with the Laura Childs "tea shop" mysteries and with Alexander McCall Smith's series about "The Number One Ladies Detective Agency." And there were a good many more series before that.
There's something comforting about reading a series. It's like going home and being on familiar ground. In the tea shop mysteries I learned all about Charleston, South Carolina, the historic sites and festivities, the little shops and restaurants, as well as a ton about the different kinds of teas. In the detective mysteries, I learned about Africa and Botswana, the customs and dress, the beauty of the land, and the politeness of the people.
Yesterday I wondered if I'd found my books for winter reading. The best way for me to be sure was to log onto the Pines Catalog and see how many of the books in this special series we have here at our library. Also, if we don't have them, can I get them through our Interlibrary Loan System.
Sure enough, after all that checking, it looks like I have a winner. I'm going to start the Fairacre series and the Thrush Green series, both by Dora Jessie Saint, best known by the pen name of Miss Read.
Saint is an English novelist, by profession a schoomistress, using a pseudonym derived from her mother's maiden name. Her series of novels centered on two fictional English villages, Fairacre and Thrush Green. The principal character in the Fairacre books, Miss Read, is an unmarried schoolteacher, a sharply severe yet compassionate observer of village life. Her books are laced with gentle humor and subtle social commentary, as well as observations about nature and the changing seasons. She retired in 1996 and in 1998 was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to literature.
Her first Fairacre book was published in 1955 with the last in 1996, understandably titled "A Peaceful Retirement." There are 20 books in this series.
The Thrush Green books first began in 1959 with the last published in 2009. There are 13 in that series.
That's a total of 33 books in both series. Don't you think I've found my books for winter reading? Maybe even into the early months of spring.
If you'd like to begin a series, why not stop by the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and talk to a few of us who like to read series about quilts, needlework, English ghosts, candlemaking, and lots of other topics. I'm sure there is someone here to help you.
(Source: Pines 2000-2010, Wikipedia Dictionary)
I did that with the Laura Childs "tea shop" mysteries and with Alexander McCall Smith's series about "The Number One Ladies Detective Agency." And there were a good many more series before that.
There's something comforting about reading a series. It's like going home and being on familiar ground. In the tea shop mysteries I learned all about Charleston, South Carolina, the historic sites and festivities, the little shops and restaurants, as well as a ton about the different kinds of teas. In the detective mysteries, I learned about Africa and Botswana, the customs and dress, the beauty of the land, and the politeness of the people.
Yesterday I wondered if I'd found my books for winter reading. The best way for me to be sure was to log onto the Pines Catalog and see how many of the books in this special series we have here at our library. Also, if we don't have them, can I get them through our Interlibrary Loan System.
Sure enough, after all that checking, it looks like I have a winner. I'm going to start the Fairacre series and the Thrush Green series, both by Dora Jessie Saint, best known by the pen name of Miss Read.
Saint is an English novelist, by profession a schoomistress, using a pseudonym derived from her mother's maiden name. Her series of novels centered on two fictional English villages, Fairacre and Thrush Green. The principal character in the Fairacre books, Miss Read, is an unmarried schoolteacher, a sharply severe yet compassionate observer of village life. Her books are laced with gentle humor and subtle social commentary, as well as observations about nature and the changing seasons. She retired in 1996 and in 1998 was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to literature.
Her first Fairacre book was published in 1955 with the last in 1996, understandably titled "A Peaceful Retirement." There are 20 books in this series.
The Thrush Green books first began in 1959 with the last published in 2009. There are 13 in that series.
That's a total of 33 books in both series. Don't you think I've found my books for winter reading? Maybe even into the early months of spring.
If you'd like to begin a series, why not stop by the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and talk to a few of us who like to read series about quilts, needlework, English ghosts, candlemaking, and lots of other topics. I'm sure there is someone here to help you.
(Source: Pines 2000-2010, Wikipedia Dictionary)
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The royal saga continues
From my television this morning, across the living room and into the kitchen, I heard the news...Prince William is engaged!!! Of course, everyone knew it would be Kate Middleton, the Prince's long-time girlfriend. Every television station carried the news. I couldn't turn to get away from it. Ah! So be it, I thought. Love is in the air and it's not even spring time.
For the next five years we will follow this young couple...through the engagement, the wedding (the BIG wedding), the honeymoon, the first child, and on and on. This is a better following than when Charles married Camilla, however. And we hope this following will be even better than when we followed William's parents, Charles and Diana.
I wondered how many of our patrons would come to the library to check out information about the First Family of England. So, I did a little checking myself.
The best books seem to be in the 942 Section, in the bookshelves right across from the adult reading area and the audio books.
You'll find lots of books about Elizabeth (all of them), Henry VIII (and his wives), George III, and The Prince of Wales (better known as Prince Charlie). You'll also find lots of books about their homes and wars and generals and history. An interesting book is titled "The Queen's House."
Then there are the books about Diana, some simply called "Diana." We all remember "The People's Princess."
Someone on the television news this morning even wondered what dear Kate will be called. They've already slammed her because she doesn't have a job (except with her parent's business...I didn't stay around to see what it was) and that she hasn't been big into charity work until recently. BUT, Charles and Camilla do like her, we've been told. That has to be half of the battle. The other half must be the grandparents and we were all told, again on television, that William and his grandparents are very close.
So, be prepared. Come check out one of the books about the Royal Family of England and bone up on the saga. Then be prepared to follow...from the comfort of your easy chair in front of the television.
For the next five years we will follow this young couple...through the engagement, the wedding (the BIG wedding), the honeymoon, the first child, and on and on. This is a better following than when Charles married Camilla, however. And we hope this following will be even better than when we followed William's parents, Charles and Diana.
I wondered how many of our patrons would come to the library to check out information about the First Family of England. So, I did a little checking myself.
The best books seem to be in the 942 Section, in the bookshelves right across from the adult reading area and the audio books.
You'll find lots of books about Elizabeth (all of them), Henry VIII (and his wives), George III, and The Prince of Wales (better known as Prince Charlie). You'll also find lots of books about their homes and wars and generals and history. An interesting book is titled "The Queen's House."
Then there are the books about Diana, some simply called "Diana." We all remember "The People's Princess."
Someone on the television news this morning even wondered what dear Kate will be called. They've already slammed her because she doesn't have a job (except with her parent's business...I didn't stay around to see what it was) and that she hasn't been big into charity work until recently. BUT, Charles and Camilla do like her, we've been told. That has to be half of the battle. The other half must be the grandparents and we were all told, again on television, that William and his grandparents are very close.
So, be prepared. Come check out one of the books about the Royal Family of England and bone up on the saga. Then be prepared to follow...from the comfort of your easy chair in front of the television.
Monday, November 8, 2010
You're invited to attend...
...our Veterans' Coffee on Friday, November 12th, from 9 to 11 a.m.
At a time when our country is still at war, we take this opportunity to honor and recognize our most important contributors to world peace...those who served the United States in all wars, especially the Veterans.
It is a time marked by parades and church services and in many places the American flag is hung at half mast.
Often a period of silence lasting two minutes is held at 11 a.m. Some schools and businesses are closed in order to mark the occasion with special assemblies or other activities.
We will be serving refreshments to the Veterans and their friends and family at our event. The refeshments will provided by the Moultrie Federated Guild, the Moultrie Junior Woman's Club, the John Benning Chapter NSDAR, the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, and the Friends of the MCCLS. Flowers will be provided by the Magnolia Garden Club.
Some of those wonderful Veterans we will be serving were interviewed this year by Beau Sherman of South Georgia Governmental Services Authority, along with members the high school's video production team Katie Moore and Matthew Lardy. The video production teacher is Samantha Hardin.
The Veterans interviewed were William J. Bell (Army, Persian Gulf), Grover Reeves (Air Force, Germany), Clem Weldon (Army, Korea), Julian R. Bowles (Army, WWII), Billy Yarbrough (Army, Vietnam) and Randall Lairsey (Army, WWII). During the program the video interviews will be shown to the public.
Mr. Sherman will also present copies of the DVDs to Ann Glass, the chairperson of the Catherine M. Bryant Veterans History Project at MCCLS, and Jack Bridwell, the representative for the Museum of Colquitt County History. These DVDs will be available in each location for the public to view.
We hope you'll make plans to join us in "Celebrating our Veterans." We'll be in the Willcoxon Auditorium. The program begins about 9 a.m. We'll look for you.
At a time when our country is still at war, we take this opportunity to honor and recognize our most important contributors to world peace...those who served the United States in all wars, especially the Veterans.
It is a time marked by parades and church services and in many places the American flag is hung at half mast.
Often a period of silence lasting two minutes is held at 11 a.m. Some schools and businesses are closed in order to mark the occasion with special assemblies or other activities.
We will be serving refreshments to the Veterans and their friends and family at our event. The refeshments will provided by the Moultrie Federated Guild, the Moultrie Junior Woman's Club, the John Benning Chapter NSDAR, the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, and the Friends of the MCCLS. Flowers will be provided by the Magnolia Garden Club.
Some of those wonderful Veterans we will be serving were interviewed this year by Beau Sherman of South Georgia Governmental Services Authority, along with members the high school's video production team Katie Moore and Matthew Lardy. The video production teacher is Samantha Hardin.
The Veterans interviewed were William J. Bell (Army, Persian Gulf), Grover Reeves (Air Force, Germany), Clem Weldon (Army, Korea), Julian R. Bowles (Army, WWII), Billy Yarbrough (Army, Vietnam) and Randall Lairsey (Army, WWII). During the program the video interviews will be shown to the public.
Mr. Sherman will also present copies of the DVDs to Ann Glass, the chairperson of the Catherine M. Bryant Veterans History Project at MCCLS, and Jack Bridwell, the representative for the Museum of Colquitt County History. These DVDs will be available in each location for the public to view.
We hope you'll make plans to join us in "Celebrating our Veterans." We'll be in the Willcoxon Auditorium. The program begins about 9 a.m. We'll look for you.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Funny titles...again!
I just finished reading one of my favorite blogs. Bill Starr has been the executive director of the Georgia Center for the Book since 2003 and he's the writer of Bill's Blog. It's not a daily writing, so catching up with his thoughts is a once-a-week thing for me. Today I read, once again, his blog about funny titles. Now that's a subject I really like.
It made me want to make my way down the long white hallway to one of my favorite places in the library...our sale books.
These are the books that, if they were mine, I could never throw away. I suppose that's why they're on the sale shelf. We couldn't throw them away either.
I started looking for funny titles in the long, low shelves. I've done this many times before. The funny titles just seem to pop out at me, like a flash of recognition, like a book that says "read me," and usually I do.
Of course, the kids' books have the funniest titles, such as:
Sparrows Don't Drop Candy Wrappers by Margaret Gabel,
Me and the Eggman by Eleanor Clymer,
Do Bananas Chew Gum? by Jamie Gilson and Hello, My Name is Scrambled Eggs, and
The Horse on the Roof by Bob Wells.
Lots of adults don't enjoy reading juvenile fiction, however. And they really don't know what they're missing.
So, there's funny titles for them also, such as:
That's Doctor Sinatra, You Little Bimbo! by G. B. Trudeau,
Feeling Kind of Temporary by Frank Edmund See,
Dude, Where's My Country? by Michael Moore,
How to be a Pregnant Father by Peter Mayle, and
Skinny Legs and All by Tom Robbins.
Of course, I can never just walk away with empty hands. I did find a book with a funny title that I took back to the office for a closer look. And it may end up on my bookshelf at home.
If you're like me, you're looking forward to the holiday season simply because it's a time of year that we seem to put forth an extra effort to make scrumptious foods, some once-a-year foods. That, of course, leads to putting on extra pounds, which in turn makes me think of having to lose those extra pounds, which in turn makes me think of New Year's resolutions. (Pay no attention to that badly written sentence!)
But with this book I selected from our book sale shelf, I'll have a head start on my resolutions. Of course, it has a funny title in a serious kind of way.
The name? Oh, it's Outsmarting the Midlife Fat Cell by Debra Waterhouse, MPH, RD. Just perfect for this time of the year.
(Source: Bill's Blog, http://www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/)
It made me want to make my way down the long white hallway to one of my favorite places in the library...our sale books.
These are the books that, if they were mine, I could never throw away. I suppose that's why they're on the sale shelf. We couldn't throw them away either.
I started looking for funny titles in the long, low shelves. I've done this many times before. The funny titles just seem to pop out at me, like a flash of recognition, like a book that says "read me," and usually I do.
Of course, the kids' books have the funniest titles, such as:
Sparrows Don't Drop Candy Wrappers by Margaret Gabel,
Me and the Eggman by Eleanor Clymer,
Do Bananas Chew Gum? by Jamie Gilson and Hello, My Name is Scrambled Eggs, and
The Horse on the Roof by Bob Wells.
Lots of adults don't enjoy reading juvenile fiction, however. And they really don't know what they're missing.
So, there's funny titles for them also, such as:
That's Doctor Sinatra, You Little Bimbo! by G. B. Trudeau,
Feeling Kind of Temporary by Frank Edmund See,
Dude, Where's My Country? by Michael Moore,
How to be a Pregnant Father by Peter Mayle, and
Skinny Legs and All by Tom Robbins.
Of course, I can never just walk away with empty hands. I did find a book with a funny title that I took back to the office for a closer look. And it may end up on my bookshelf at home.
If you're like me, you're looking forward to the holiday season simply because it's a time of year that we seem to put forth an extra effort to make scrumptious foods, some once-a-year foods. That, of course, leads to putting on extra pounds, which in turn makes me think of having to lose those extra pounds, which in turn makes me think of New Year's resolutions. (Pay no attention to that badly written sentence!)
But with this book I selected from our book sale shelf, I'll have a head start on my resolutions. Of course, it has a funny title in a serious kind of way.
The name? Oh, it's Outsmarting the Midlife Fat Cell by Debra Waterhouse, MPH, RD. Just perfect for this time of the year.
(Source: Bill's Blog, http://www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/)
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
25 books for young Georgians
Once again the Georgia Center for the Book has given us a list of great books to read. This time it's for our young Georgians. The inaugural list of "25 Books All Young Georgians Should Read" was announced on August 26th and many of the authors and illustrators on the list will participate in free public readings at libraries and schools throughout Georgia during the next two years.
Bill Starr, executive director of the center said, "We believe it's going to prove helpful in guiding youngsters to some of the finest writing available for them."
Here's a partial list of the books selected:
Picture books (the list includes)
Little Duck by the late Liz Conrad (illustrator)
14 Cows for America by Carmen Deedy (author) and Thomas Gonzalez (illustrator)
Soap, Soap, Soap - Jabn, Jabn, Jabn by Elizabeth Dulemba (author and illustrator)
The Origami Master by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer (author) and Aki Sogabe (illustrator)
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin (author) and James Dean (illustrator)
Grades K-3 (the list includes)
Mittens by Lola Schaefer
Owly (graphic novel) by Andy Runton
Grades 4-8 (the list includes)
Freedom Train by Evelyn Coleman
A Yellow Watermelon by Ted Dunagan
The Tree That Owns Itself and Other Adventure Tales From Out of the Past by Gail Karwoski and Loretta Johnson Hammer
Grades 7 and higher (the list includes)
Peaches by Jodi Lynn Anderson
I Am Rembrandt's Daughter by Lynn Cullen
The Maze Runner by James Dashner.
The Georgia Center for the Book plans to release new lists at least every three years, like they do their adult lists.
You can obtain more information about the center, its lists and honored authors by visiting http://www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/. The center is holsted by DeKalb County Public Library.
(Source: Georgial Public Library Service News, October 2010)
Bill Starr, executive director of the center said, "We believe it's going to prove helpful in guiding youngsters to some of the finest writing available for them."
Here's a partial list of the books selected:
Picture books (the list includes)
Little Duck by the late Liz Conrad (illustrator)
14 Cows for America by Carmen Deedy (author) and Thomas Gonzalez (illustrator)
Soap, Soap, Soap - Jabn, Jabn, Jabn by Elizabeth Dulemba (author and illustrator)
The Origami Master by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer (author) and Aki Sogabe (illustrator)
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin (author) and James Dean (illustrator)
Grades K-3 (the list includes)
Mittens by Lola Schaefer
Owly (graphic novel) by Andy Runton
Grades 4-8 (the list includes)
Freedom Train by Evelyn Coleman
A Yellow Watermelon by Ted Dunagan
The Tree That Owns Itself and Other Adventure Tales From Out of the Past by Gail Karwoski and Loretta Johnson Hammer
Grades 7 and higher (the list includes)
Peaches by Jodi Lynn Anderson
I Am Rembrandt's Daughter by Lynn Cullen
The Maze Runner by James Dashner.
The Georgia Center for the Book plans to release new lists at least every three years, like they do their adult lists.
You can obtain more information about the center, its lists and honored authors by visiting http://www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/. The center is holsted by DeKalb County Public Library.
(Source: Georgial Public Library Service News, October 2010)
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Well, it's November...
...and when November gets here, I start thinking about Thanksgiving.
Maybe it has something to do with the weather changing, but I doubt it. For some reason, November really makes me think about food, not weather. And food makes me think about Thanksgiving.
This year my small family in this part of the U.S. has decided not to have a traditional Thanksgiving, meaning no turkey, dressing, etc. Instead, they want to grill steaks outside on the big, shiny silver grill. Of course I had to agree. I mean, you can't buck the entire bunch. You just have to "go with the flow." Even if I am "the mother."
Then I thought, I'm going to ask everyone to bring just one dish to the meal, anything they want to bring...maybe fresh veggies to grill from my daughter-in-law, maybe oatmeal cookies from my son, maybe mashed potatoes from my other son. You get the idea. If they'll all do that, then I can bring what I want to bring. And I know exactly what I want to bring. SWEET POTATOES. So, I started my hunt for something really special.
Now, when I go hunting for something, I hunt for it in the library. And I headed for the 641.5 section here in the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. That's the cookbook section.
I found the Quick and Easy Cookbook, the American Heirloom Pork Cook Book, and the Steaks, Ribs and Chops Cookbook. That wasn't exactly what I had in mind.
I looked through the Better Homes and Gardens cook books (we have several of those), as well as the Slow Cooker Recipes (there are several of those also). I even looked in the Blue Ribbon Recipes, Paula Deen Celebrates!, and Food for Friends cook books.
And I made a note of the cook books titled Christmas in the Heartland, The Creative Christmas Kitchen, and Christmas with Southern Living. After all, you know that when Thanksgiving comes and goes, Christmas is right around the corner.
I thought I was at the end of my hunt until I saw The Plantation Cookbook. Now, if you can't find a yummy sweet potato recipe in a plantation cookbook, in the South where plantations are as plentiful as sweet potatoes, then you just might as well give up.
But sure enough, there it was!!! Sweet Potatoes in Oranges!!! Sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, eggs, light cream, allspice, cinnamon, salt, chopped pecans, sherry (just a little bit), and orange cups (made from real oranges, large oranges cut in half, pulp scooped out, edges fluted...just makes my mouth water thinking about them).
So! I have my recipe. I'm going to have my sweet potatoes. Now all I have to do is convince everyone to bring just one dish they'd like to have to our un-traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Thank you, library, for all these wonderful cookbooks and for my special 2010 (traditional) sweet potato plantation recipe. I can hardly wait!
Maybe it has something to do with the weather changing, but I doubt it. For some reason, November really makes me think about food, not weather. And food makes me think about Thanksgiving.
This year my small family in this part of the U.S. has decided not to have a traditional Thanksgiving, meaning no turkey, dressing, etc. Instead, they want to grill steaks outside on the big, shiny silver grill. Of course I had to agree. I mean, you can't buck the entire bunch. You just have to "go with the flow." Even if I am "the mother."
Then I thought, I'm going to ask everyone to bring just one dish to the meal, anything they want to bring...maybe fresh veggies to grill from my daughter-in-law, maybe oatmeal cookies from my son, maybe mashed potatoes from my other son. You get the idea. If they'll all do that, then I can bring what I want to bring. And I know exactly what I want to bring. SWEET POTATOES. So, I started my hunt for something really special.
Now, when I go hunting for something, I hunt for it in the library. And I headed for the 641.5 section here in the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. That's the cookbook section.
I found the Quick and Easy Cookbook, the American Heirloom Pork Cook Book, and the Steaks, Ribs and Chops Cookbook. That wasn't exactly what I had in mind.
I looked through the Better Homes and Gardens cook books (we have several of those), as well as the Slow Cooker Recipes (there are several of those also). I even looked in the Blue Ribbon Recipes, Paula Deen Celebrates!, and Food for Friends cook books.
And I made a note of the cook books titled Christmas in the Heartland, The Creative Christmas Kitchen, and Christmas with Southern Living. After all, you know that when Thanksgiving comes and goes, Christmas is right around the corner.
I thought I was at the end of my hunt until I saw The Plantation Cookbook. Now, if you can't find a yummy sweet potato recipe in a plantation cookbook, in the South where plantations are as plentiful as sweet potatoes, then you just might as well give up.
But sure enough, there it was!!! Sweet Potatoes in Oranges!!! Sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, eggs, light cream, allspice, cinnamon, salt, chopped pecans, sherry (just a little bit), and orange cups (made from real oranges, large oranges cut in half, pulp scooped out, edges fluted...just makes my mouth water thinking about them).
So! I have my recipe. I'm going to have my sweet potatoes. Now all I have to do is convince everyone to bring just one dish they'd like to have to our un-traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Thank you, library, for all these wonderful cookbooks and for my special 2010 (traditional) sweet potato plantation recipe. I can hardly wait!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Our memory wall is up again
At least once a year I try to put up "Our Memory Wall."
This wall is a bunch of black and white photos that we've pulled from our archives...some from when the library first opened, when the first bookmobile traveled into the county, when students from Spence Air Field studied here. It's a series of photos from time gone by.
Many people have looked at the photos and recognized a familiar face. To those people we've said, "Please, write the name of the person you recognize under their picture."
You see, we feel all these people in the photos are part of our library family. They're not only staff members, but our patrons and friends.
I guess the part I think is sad is that there are so many little children in the pictures and we may never know who they are. Once in a while someone comes in and says, "Oh, there's Dorothy's little boy...what was his name? David! That was it." When that happens, it's a good feeling. We've captured another name.
This is my invitation to you, if you live in the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library area, to come on in and look at "Our Memory Wall." See if there's someone you recognize. Or better yet, if you're of a certain age, see if you're in one of the pictures.
We're still trying to name all the people in the photos. You might be surprised who you see.
This wall is a bunch of black and white photos that we've pulled from our archives...some from when the library first opened, when the first bookmobile traveled into the county, when students from Spence Air Field studied here. It's a series of photos from time gone by.
Many people have looked at the photos and recognized a familiar face. To those people we've said, "Please, write the name of the person you recognize under their picture."
You see, we feel all these people in the photos are part of our library family. They're not only staff members, but our patrons and friends.
I guess the part I think is sad is that there are so many little children in the pictures and we may never know who they are. Once in a while someone comes in and says, "Oh, there's Dorothy's little boy...what was his name? David! That was it." When that happens, it's a good feeling. We've captured another name.
This is my invitation to you, if you live in the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library area, to come on in and look at "Our Memory Wall." See if there's someone you recognize. Or better yet, if you're of a certain age, see if you're in one of the pictures.
We're still trying to name all the people in the photos. You might be surprised who you see.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Hiding from the dragons
I just have to tell you about what happened this morning.
I took a little trip down the hallway, past the computer area and the reading area, into the Children's Library. I went there specifically to find a couple of yellow books to put on the children's display table.
It was quiet in the big room and I thought I was by myself. But I wasn't.
As I rounded the corner of the long, low bookshelf, I saw a little black-haired boy, maybe about five years old, sitting under the children's table. He sat cross-legged and was looking at a book.
"Hi," I said. "Whatcha doing?"
He didn't say anything. Apparently, I was interrupting his deep reading. But I tried again.
"Whatcha doing?"
"Hiding," he said in a whisper.
"From what?"
"Dragons," was his answer.
Now, that intrigued me. Dragons. In the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library's children's library.
"I don't see any," I said as I looked around. I decided if I sat down close to the table, close to him, maybe he'd tell me more. So, I did.
"Where are they?" I asked.
He stared at me with big eyes, like he was thinking of what to say next.
"They're in the shelves, watching us."
"OH!" I gasped. "Do I need to hide too?"
He shook his head. "No, you can't see them, so they won't get you."
Wow, I thought. This is worth writing about.
"How are you going to get out of here?" I asked.
"When my mama comes back."
"What happens then?" I wondered how long he was going to have to wait.
"She'll come get me and we'll go home." He seemed very positive about that.
"Where is she now?" I asked.
He wrinkled his little nose and said, "Doing computer stuff."
"When will she come back for you?" I had no idea how long he would have to stay under the table. What if he had to go to the bathroom?
"In a little while," he said.
"OK," I said. "Do you have enough books? Want me to bring you more?"
"No," he said.
"What are you reading now?" I asked.
For the first time he had a smile on his face. He was really cute and he surprised me when he said, "The Library Dragon."
"How do you know what that says?" I asked. "Can you read?"
Again he smiled. "I've been reading since I was three," he answered. "I've read almost all of the dragon books in the library. When are you going to get some more?"
Well, you could have knocked me over with a feather...a dragon feather, that is.
"I don't know," I answered. "I'll have to ask Miss Norma. But you take care of yourself, you hear? Those dragons won't get you, will they?"
"No," he said. "I'm hiding."
I took a little trip down the hallway, past the computer area and the reading area, into the Children's Library. I went there specifically to find a couple of yellow books to put on the children's display table.
It was quiet in the big room and I thought I was by myself. But I wasn't.
As I rounded the corner of the long, low bookshelf, I saw a little black-haired boy, maybe about five years old, sitting under the children's table. He sat cross-legged and was looking at a book.
"Hi," I said. "Whatcha doing?"
He didn't say anything. Apparently, I was interrupting his deep reading. But I tried again.
"Whatcha doing?"
"Hiding," he said in a whisper.
"From what?"
"Dragons," was his answer.
Now, that intrigued me. Dragons. In the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library's children's library.
"I don't see any," I said as I looked around. I decided if I sat down close to the table, close to him, maybe he'd tell me more. So, I did.
"Where are they?" I asked.
He stared at me with big eyes, like he was thinking of what to say next.
"They're in the shelves, watching us."
"OH!" I gasped. "Do I need to hide too?"
He shook his head. "No, you can't see them, so they won't get you."
Wow, I thought. This is worth writing about.
"How are you going to get out of here?" I asked.
"When my mama comes back."
"What happens then?" I wondered how long he was going to have to wait.
"She'll come get me and we'll go home." He seemed very positive about that.
"Where is she now?" I asked.
He wrinkled his little nose and said, "Doing computer stuff."
"When will she come back for you?" I had no idea how long he would have to stay under the table. What if he had to go to the bathroom?
"In a little while," he said.
"OK," I said. "Do you have enough books? Want me to bring you more?"
"No," he said.
"What are you reading now?" I asked.
For the first time he had a smile on his face. He was really cute and he surprised me when he said, "The Library Dragon."
"How do you know what that says?" I asked. "Can you read?"
Again he smiled. "I've been reading since I was three," he answered. "I've read almost all of the dragon books in the library. When are you going to get some more?"
Well, you could have knocked me over with a feather...a dragon feather, that is.
"I don't know," I answered. "I'll have to ask Miss Norma. But you take care of yourself, you hear? Those dragons won't get you, will they?"
"No," he said. "I'm hiding."
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Do you get offers for free things?
When I opened my email this morning, I found a friend had forwarded to me a coupon for a free Blizzard. She asked if I would print the coupon for her and go with her to get a Blizzard for her birthday.
This is the same friend that occasionally sends me coupons for free cat food.
Then in another email I received an offer for a free cup of coffee if I visited a local coffeehouse.
Another email offered me a free Halloween e-card to send to my friends.
Do you get offers for free things? Do you ever wonder how really free they are?
I sat for a good while and thought about all the free things we are offered on a daily basis. And I wondered what the connection to being really free was with all these offers.
If you read this blog fairly often, you probably realize that somehow I tie all the stuff I talk about back into our library. My brain just seems to work that way. Maybe it's because of where I am when I write the blog. Maybe I just like my job. Maybe I just like libraries.
But you know, where can you get as much free stuff as you can at the library? Think about it.
Right now, down in the wildly colorful Children's Library, there's a free children's program going on. About 30 little people and their caretakers are listening to Miss Norma's storytime.
There are free books, audio and paper, available for check-out. And stacks of free magazines to read, not only subscriptions to the library, but free magazines you can take home with you. Free DVDs and VHS movies to check out also.
Don't forget the free Internet and the free use of Dell computers, as well as free access when you bring your own laptop.
And I don't want to forget the Bookmobile, which travels to our patrons all around Colquitt County, delivering free books to those who can't make it to the library in town.
Free to me means you can use all this stuff free with just your very own library card. And even getting a library card is free. Do you know that some places charge for a library card?
When it's hot outside, we have comfortable chairs and couches and tables to work at, in the comfort of free air conditioning. When it's cold outside, you can find those same free conveniences available for your use, as well as the warmth of our heating system.
We don't even charge a fee to use our free restrooms.
And if you're in the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library, you'll find free access to Ancestry.com, the deluxe library edition, plus many more genealogy databases.
Don't forget the free use of our meeting rooms. That's right, we don't charge a single cent.
Well, if that's not enough, just remember we have free parking, not only in front of the library, but also in the parking lot adjacent to the genealogy library.
And we have all the free help you could ask for, pertaining to library stuff, of course. Just ask. We're more than delighted to give you any free information we can.
So, are you tired of hearing the word free? Just look at all the free things we are offering you.
Makes the word free, really free, sound good, doesn't it?
This is the same friend that occasionally sends me coupons for free cat food.
Then in another email I received an offer for a free cup of coffee if I visited a local coffeehouse.
Another email offered me a free Halloween e-card to send to my friends.
Do you get offers for free things? Do you ever wonder how really free they are?
I sat for a good while and thought about all the free things we are offered on a daily basis. And I wondered what the connection to being really free was with all these offers.
If you read this blog fairly often, you probably realize that somehow I tie all the stuff I talk about back into our library. My brain just seems to work that way. Maybe it's because of where I am when I write the blog. Maybe I just like my job. Maybe I just like libraries.
But you know, where can you get as much free stuff as you can at the library? Think about it.
Right now, down in the wildly colorful Children's Library, there's a free children's program going on. About 30 little people and their caretakers are listening to Miss Norma's storytime.
There are free books, audio and paper, available for check-out. And stacks of free magazines to read, not only subscriptions to the library, but free magazines you can take home with you. Free DVDs and VHS movies to check out also.
Don't forget the free Internet and the free use of Dell computers, as well as free access when you bring your own laptop.
And I don't want to forget the Bookmobile, which travels to our patrons all around Colquitt County, delivering free books to those who can't make it to the library in town.
Free to me means you can use all this stuff free with just your very own library card. And even getting a library card is free. Do you know that some places charge for a library card?
When it's hot outside, we have comfortable chairs and couches and tables to work at, in the comfort of free air conditioning. When it's cold outside, you can find those same free conveniences available for your use, as well as the warmth of our heating system.
We don't even charge a fee to use our free restrooms.
And if you're in the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library, you'll find free access to Ancestry.com, the deluxe library edition, plus many more genealogy databases.
Don't forget the free use of our meeting rooms. That's right, we don't charge a single cent.
Well, if that's not enough, just remember we have free parking, not only in front of the library, but also in the parking lot adjacent to the genealogy library.
And we have all the free help you could ask for, pertaining to library stuff, of course. Just ask. We're more than delighted to give you any free information we can.
So, are you tired of hearing the word free? Just look at all the free things we are offering you.
Makes the word free, really free, sound good, doesn't it?
Thursday, October 21, 2010
No, it's not just another day at the library
We sat in the break room this morning and talked about working at the library. About how to not take unpleasant situations so personally, about how to be more responsive to our patrons, and about how we've reached the place we're at right now.
A little earlier a patron had wanted to buy a set of medical encyclopedias and didn't have the $5 to pay until tomorrow. I told her we'd be glad to hold them for her in our processing room. A few minutes later, a staff member hauled the two heavy boxes into processing and put them on a
table.
Well, to make a long story short, the staff member and I had different ideas about how the matter should have been handled. We went our separate ways, but later found ourselves in the break room together and began to talk about what we felt was a small problem between
us.
One thing led to another and we found ourselves talking about personal faults - me and how I struggle to stay upbeat, smiling and friendly to everyone; her and how she tries to balance authority, knowledge and kindness at work while coping with the rigors of college courses. We talked about past experiences, our library patrons, and how we hope to contribute to the progress of our work
place.
Being much older than the staff member, I realize I talked more about my life experiences, about a recent conference I'd attended regarding the future of libraries, and how her youthfulness will bring fresh ideas to our library.
We must have talked for thirty minutes. It was a good talk. I learned a lot from her.
But what I really learned was that we're both doing the very best we can. I saw in her a younger me, full of ambition and struggles to make it through each day, to make it a better day every day, and give my very best to each person I come in contact with. To share a smile, a kindness, and a helpful word to all who enter the doors of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library.
But the best thing I found was a friend, a better friend, in this staff member, which made it not just another day at the library.
A little earlier a patron had wanted to buy a set of medical encyclopedias and didn't have the $5 to pay until tomorrow. I told her we'd be glad to hold them for her in our processing room. A few minutes later, a staff member hauled the two heavy boxes into processing and put them on a
table.
Well, to make a long story short, the staff member and I had different ideas about how the matter should have been handled. We went our separate ways, but later found ourselves in the break room together and began to talk about what we felt was a small problem between
us.
One thing led to another and we found ourselves talking about personal faults - me and how I struggle to stay upbeat, smiling and friendly to everyone; her and how she tries to balance authority, knowledge and kindness at work while coping with the rigors of college courses. We talked about past experiences, our library patrons, and how we hope to contribute to the progress of our work
place.
Being much older than the staff member, I realize I talked more about my life experiences, about a recent conference I'd attended regarding the future of libraries, and how her youthfulness will bring fresh ideas to our library.
We must have talked for thirty minutes. It was a good talk. I learned a lot from her.
But what I really learned was that we're both doing the very best we can. I saw in her a younger me, full of ambition and struggles to make it through each day, to make it a better day every day, and give my very best to each person I come in contact with. To share a smile, a kindness, and a helpful word to all who enter the doors of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library.
But the best thing I found was a friend, a better friend, in this staff member, which made it not just another day at the library.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Reasons to plan ahead
When I left home this morning, I saw a large blue heron perched high in the top of a old snag just across the creek from where I live. Most bird-lovers know that a snag is an old leafless tree, more than likely dead, that probably should be taken down, but gives all kinds of reasons for birds to love it.
I've also noticed that the hummingbird feeder is half full. Usually within a day after I put it up, it's empty. So, I guess the hummingbirds have flown to their wintering
grounds.
And I've already seen the V-shape formation of geese flying over head in anticipation of keeping warm in another
region.
My birdfeeder just outside the bedroom window was empty yesterday. After I filled it with nutritious yummies, I saw the cardinals quickly found the sunflower seeds. And the little doves got in a taste or two also.
In the letter from my daughter this week, she said they are getting ready to "hunker down." They live way above the Mason-Dixon Line, up there where hunker down means making sure you have plenty of firewood, filling your freezers full, and putting the snow shovels just outside your front door.
As I think about my reasons to hunker down and get ready for colder weather, I know I need to not only fill my freezer with soup, pull out my sweaters and jeans and warms socks, but put plenty of reading material on my
bookshelves.
When it gets cold here in Moultrie, I like to stay inside and cuddle up with a good book and a hot cup of tea. I can always put off house-cleaning in order to read a mystery or two. So, that means I need to start stocking up.
Maybe you should too. Be sure you have a library card so you can check out lots of books. You can even check out DVDs and videos. And if you're so inclined, you can listen to an audio book while you're doing things around the house. I've often put a CD book in the player and listened while making those big pots of soup, and packages of cornbread and muffins for my freezer.
I guess it's also time for me to start thinking about getting my car ready for winter. And decide where I'm going to put my one-and-only fern so it won't freeze.
My goodness, it's only the middle of October and here I am thinking of all these reasons to plan ahead. But it's time, you know.
I've also noticed that the hummingbird feeder is half full. Usually within a day after I put it up, it's empty. So, I guess the hummingbirds have flown to their wintering
grounds.
And I've already seen the V-shape formation of geese flying over head in anticipation of keeping warm in another
region.
My birdfeeder just outside the bedroom window was empty yesterday. After I filled it with nutritious yummies, I saw the cardinals quickly found the sunflower seeds. And the little doves got in a taste or two also.
In the letter from my daughter this week, she said they are getting ready to "hunker down." They live way above the Mason-Dixon Line, up there where hunker down means making sure you have plenty of firewood, filling your freezers full, and putting the snow shovels just outside your front door.
As I think about my reasons to hunker down and get ready for colder weather, I know I need to not only fill my freezer with soup, pull out my sweaters and jeans and warms socks, but put plenty of reading material on my
bookshelves.
When it gets cold here in Moultrie, I like to stay inside and cuddle up with a good book and a hot cup of tea. I can always put off house-cleaning in order to read a mystery or two. So, that means I need to start stocking up.
Maybe you should too. Be sure you have a library card so you can check out lots of books. You can even check out DVDs and videos. And if you're so inclined, you can listen to an audio book while you're doing things around the house. I've often put a CD book in the player and listened while making those big pots of soup, and packages of cornbread and muffins for my freezer.
I guess it's also time for me to start thinking about getting my car ready for winter. And decide where I'm going to put my one-and-only fern so it won't freeze.
My goodness, it's only the middle of October and here I am thinking of all these reasons to plan ahead. But it's time, you know.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
On this day many years ago
On this day, October 13th, quite a few years ago, my son was born. When I woke up this morning, I thought back to that time...a Friday the 13th when he was born. He weighed 7 lbs. 13 oz., was 21 inches long, and we were in Room 711. The whole thing sounded like one of those games played in the back room of a dark bar. Right?
Well, anyhow, today I woke up thinking about him. And on the way to work I remembered all the times I read to him as a child, him and his brother who was four years older.
In fact, I read to all my children when they were little, until they could read for themselves. The youngest one began reading at 4 years old. Just had to do it for himself.
And here we are in the middle of October, the Family History Month, and I'm remembering all these things I should be recording for my children. I've documented lots of things, but these little stories I haven't written down. I guess now is the time.
My last child was a boy also. When he was born he had hair like little orange duck feathers, light and floaty all over his head. I remember going to a fall bazaar at Children's Hospital and purchasing a lap quilt simply because it had little orange squares in it, orange squares the color of his hair. When he was about four months old, I would put him on the quilt in front of the television where he could watch Sesame Street and all it's colorful characters. This weekend I'm sending the quilt to him, along with the story of when and why I bought it.
Well, back to today's birthday boy. He's a man now, on his own, doing his own thing. I have to admit I'm proud of him. Not only because he's turned into such a fine young man, but because he's doing something I like...graphic design in a regional library in Florida. We have lots of things in common and his library job is just another one.
Wonder why I had to tell you all this? I suppose because it's Family History Month and October 13th was once a Friday 13th and I have a son with a birthday today.
Somehow my life has always had libraries in it. All the way from getting books to read to my children when they were little up to having a son who works in a library. It's amazing how important reading and libraries have been in my life.
And the last amazing thing...I'm here working in a library. And able to tell you about it...the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library.
I hope reading and libraries are important to you also. Especially ours.
Well, anyhow, today I woke up thinking about him. And on the way to work I remembered all the times I read to him as a child, him and his brother who was four years older.
In fact, I read to all my children when they were little, until they could read for themselves. The youngest one began reading at 4 years old. Just had to do it for himself.
And here we are in the middle of October, the Family History Month, and I'm remembering all these things I should be recording for my children. I've documented lots of things, but these little stories I haven't written down. I guess now is the time.
My last child was a boy also. When he was born he had hair like little orange duck feathers, light and floaty all over his head. I remember going to a fall bazaar at Children's Hospital and purchasing a lap quilt simply because it had little orange squares in it, orange squares the color of his hair. When he was about four months old, I would put him on the quilt in front of the television where he could watch Sesame Street and all it's colorful characters. This weekend I'm sending the quilt to him, along with the story of when and why I bought it.
Well, back to today's birthday boy. He's a man now, on his own, doing his own thing. I have to admit I'm proud of him. Not only because he's turned into such a fine young man, but because he's doing something I like...graphic design in a regional library in Florida. We have lots of things in common and his library job is just another one.
Wonder why I had to tell you all this? I suppose because it's Family History Month and October 13th was once a Friday 13th and I have a son with a birthday today.
Somehow my life has always had libraries in it. All the way from getting books to read to my children when they were little up to having a son who works in a library. It's amazing how important reading and libraries have been in my life.
And the last amazing thing...I'm here working in a library. And able to tell you about it...the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library.
I hope reading and libraries are important to you also. Especially ours.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
October is also Georgia Archives Month
This year the Society of Georgia Archivists has designated October 2010 as the month to Travel Back in Time. The purpose of Archives Month is to celebrate the value of Georgia's historical records, publicize the many ways historical records enrich our lives, and recognize those who maintain our communities' historical records.
For years now, that has been the job of the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library...to maintain our communities' history. It's an archival treasure house of historical
records.
The Travel Back in Time celebration will be publicized across the state through proclamations, posters, newspaper articles and events at various repositories. Even bloggers will be telling how to bring the past into the future.
I've felt that over the past several years people have become more interested in caring for their family history and family heirlooms.
Look at the television shows that draw attention to hidden family treasures, such as Antiques Roadshow, and family relationships, such as History Detectives and Who Do You Think You Are.
And the Internet has various websites to instruct you on how to preserve your personal documents, not only the paper but electronic kind.
Today, right here in our own library, we are interviewing and recording service members from the wars of World War II, the Korean and Viet Nam Wars.
Here in Moultrie, just a block away from our public library, the Museum of Colquitt County History is presided over by historian Jack Bridwell.
In the Odom Library, Irene Godwin is the genealogist with Ann Glass as assistant. Also our director of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System, Melody Jenkins, has written a book about Colquitt County history and is presently working on her second book of historical
pictures.
You might think you don't have a reason to preserve your family's history, but you do. Think of it this way. Somewhere down the genealogical line a child will wonder about his family, about his history. He'll even wonder who you were. Why not begin recording today, by handwriting or on your computer or by a tape recorder, those oral histories and folk tales you were once told. Maybe the little songs that your mother sang to you or when your uncle showed you how to catch a fish.
If you're not sure how to go about such documentation, please visit the Odom Library or the Museum of Colquitt County History. You'll see things that will jog a memory in your head, a memory you'll just need to record, a memory to share with future generations. Talk to Irene or Ann or Jack. Both will be more than delighted to help you figure out what to do.
After all, when you travel back in time, you never know what might unravel in your head and all those hidden treasures will appear. It's time to preserve them.
(Source: Society of Georgia Archivists, http://www.soga.org/)
For years now, that has been the job of the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library...to maintain our communities' history. It's an archival treasure house of historical
records.
The Travel Back in Time celebration will be publicized across the state through proclamations, posters, newspaper articles and events at various repositories. Even bloggers will be telling how to bring the past into the future.
I've felt that over the past several years people have become more interested in caring for their family history and family heirlooms.
Look at the television shows that draw attention to hidden family treasures, such as Antiques Roadshow, and family relationships, such as History Detectives and Who Do You Think You Are.
And the Internet has various websites to instruct you on how to preserve your personal documents, not only the paper but electronic kind.
Today, right here in our own library, we are interviewing and recording service members from the wars of World War II, the Korean and Viet Nam Wars.
Here in Moultrie, just a block away from our public library, the Museum of Colquitt County History is presided over by historian Jack Bridwell.
In the Odom Library, Irene Godwin is the genealogist with Ann Glass as assistant. Also our director of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System, Melody Jenkins, has written a book about Colquitt County history and is presently working on her second book of historical
pictures.
You might think you don't have a reason to preserve your family's history, but you do. Think of it this way. Somewhere down the genealogical line a child will wonder about his family, about his history. He'll even wonder who you were. Why not begin recording today, by handwriting or on your computer or by a tape recorder, those oral histories and folk tales you were once told. Maybe the little songs that your mother sang to you or when your uncle showed you how to catch a fish.
If you're not sure how to go about such documentation, please visit the Odom Library or the Museum of Colquitt County History. You'll see things that will jog a memory in your head, a memory you'll just need to record, a memory to share with future generations. Talk to Irene or Ann or Jack. Both will be more than delighted to help you figure out what to do.
After all, when you travel back in time, you never know what might unravel in your head and all those hidden treasures will appear. It's time to preserve them.
(Source: Society of Georgia Archivists, http://www.soga.org/)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
I just hate book sales!
Sometimes I just hate a book sale! I mean, I could spend all day looking at books that are on sale. For some reason, the word "sale" is like a magnet. Take this morning for
instance.
I had just clocked in and made my rounds to see if all our displays were filled (and they were, thanks to Keva), when I noticed our big book sale had gone down in size from five tables to only two. So, I drifted over to see what was left.
Big mistake!
The tables held mostly Juvenile Fictions, many with fascinating titles, such as: The Clay Pot Boy, The Nose Tree, Humbug Mountain, The Hat-Shaking Dance, The Hairy Horror Trick, Nutty Can't Miss, The TV Kid, and Ike & Mama and the Once-in-a-Lifetime Movie.
Of course, I had to open a few and see what they were about.
Tales from Silver Lands by Charles J. Finger, illustrated by Paul Honore', was awarded the Newbery medal on July 9, 1925. Mr. Finger learned these stories from the Indians in South America as he went from one "Silver Land" to another, far from railroads or main lines of travel. They all make fascinating tales for the older fairy tale age and grown-ups.
Since I'm a turtle-lover and saver of all those slowly trying to cross the roads, I had to look at Tales of Myrtle the Turtle by Keith Robertson, drawings by Peter Parnall. It was actually the drawing on the cover that caught my eye and the ivory-colored cover that's all crinkled like a turtle's rough skin. Robertson's imaginative eavesdropping on an illustrious turtle family has resulted in a wacky, completely untrue book about turtles, which manages to turn the tables, giving us a fresh look at the human race - and not always to our credit.
I did find a few Easy Readers for the younger children, one being Something Queer at the Library. When a couple of young girls find some weirdo has been cutting pictures of dogs out of expensive library books, they're determined to find out who's doing it because Mr. Hobart, the librarian, has trusted them with the books, and they'll be blamed unless they find the culprit. The book is by Elizabeth Levy and illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein. (I'm going to read it today, then put it back on the table.)
And I found an adult fiction by Tom Horn, The Shallow Grass, a Novel of Texas. The book is about the Texas grasslands and three generations of the Parker Family: Tom, the big wealthy rancher; Arron, his son, who lives to see oil derricks march across the grasslands; and Arron's son, Ronnie, the tragic focal point of an epic confrontation between the nobility of the grasslands and the forces bent on its destruction.
Well, now you know why I hate book sales. I get so involved in reading through them, gingerly selecting those I want to read, and hating to leave behind any that I feel I probably should have taken.
Besides, the books in our sale are so inexpensive you can buy stacks and stacks. Hardbacks are only 25 cents, paperbacks 10 cents, audios and videos 50 cents. Other books are for sale as marked, including several sets of encyclopedias.
Let's see, I'm reading today Something Queer at the Library (it's short), but buying Tales of Myrtle the Turtle and one called Ride the Pine Sapling by Beth Bland
Engel.
The day's still early. I may make another trip by the tables. You better get here and get the ones you want before all the good books are gone. Well, really, they're all good books. That's my problem!
instance.
I had just clocked in and made my rounds to see if all our displays were filled (and they were, thanks to Keva), when I noticed our big book sale had gone down in size from five tables to only two. So, I drifted over to see what was left.
Big mistake!
The tables held mostly Juvenile Fictions, many with fascinating titles, such as: The Clay Pot Boy, The Nose Tree, Humbug Mountain, The Hat-Shaking Dance, The Hairy Horror Trick, Nutty Can't Miss, The TV Kid, and Ike & Mama and the Once-in-a-Lifetime Movie.
Of course, I had to open a few and see what they were about.
Tales from Silver Lands by Charles J. Finger, illustrated by Paul Honore', was awarded the Newbery medal on July 9, 1925. Mr. Finger learned these stories from the Indians in South America as he went from one "Silver Land" to another, far from railroads or main lines of travel. They all make fascinating tales for the older fairy tale age and grown-ups.
Since I'm a turtle-lover and saver of all those slowly trying to cross the roads, I had to look at Tales of Myrtle the Turtle by Keith Robertson, drawings by Peter Parnall. It was actually the drawing on the cover that caught my eye and the ivory-colored cover that's all crinkled like a turtle's rough skin. Robertson's imaginative eavesdropping on an illustrious turtle family has resulted in a wacky, completely untrue book about turtles, which manages to turn the tables, giving us a fresh look at the human race - and not always to our credit.
I did find a few Easy Readers for the younger children, one being Something Queer at the Library. When a couple of young girls find some weirdo has been cutting pictures of dogs out of expensive library books, they're determined to find out who's doing it because Mr. Hobart, the librarian, has trusted them with the books, and they'll be blamed unless they find the culprit. The book is by Elizabeth Levy and illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein. (I'm going to read it today, then put it back on the table.)
And I found an adult fiction by Tom Horn, The Shallow Grass, a Novel of Texas. The book is about the Texas grasslands and three generations of the Parker Family: Tom, the big wealthy rancher; Arron, his son, who lives to see oil derricks march across the grasslands; and Arron's son, Ronnie, the tragic focal point of an epic confrontation between the nobility of the grasslands and the forces bent on its destruction.
Well, now you know why I hate book sales. I get so involved in reading through them, gingerly selecting those I want to read, and hating to leave behind any that I feel I probably should have taken.
Besides, the books in our sale are so inexpensive you can buy stacks and stacks. Hardbacks are only 25 cents, paperbacks 10 cents, audios and videos 50 cents. Other books are for sale as marked, including several sets of encyclopedias.
Let's see, I'm reading today Something Queer at the Library (it's short), but buying Tales of Myrtle the Turtle and one called Ride the Pine Sapling by Beth Bland
Engel.
The day's still early. I may make another trip by the tables. You better get here and get the ones you want before all the good books are gone. Well, really, they're all good books. That's my problem!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
October is also the beginning of fall
Yes, our fall season is here. It's finally cool outside. It's the first morning I've worn a sweater to work. Even my coworkers are wearing fall colors and sweaters. It's apparent we're glad the cooler season is here.
On the drive to work I noticed the trees have changed from a lively green to several darker, flat shades of green. It is the season of not only orange, but yellow and purple.
In fact, on October the first our staff decorated the lighted display cases in the main lobby with fall colors...all oranges and yellows. We filled the cases with children's yellow cars and trucks, yellow vases and pitchers, and a big yellow bear. There are also tiny orange pumpkins and a big pumpkin, even an orange New Testament, as well as a lovely basket of sunflowers, plus many more interesting items.
On our round foyer table there's a centerpiece of mums, pumpkins, leaves and berries. Our books are also in color: an orange Whiskey Sour by J. A. Konrath, yellow Lemon Meringue Pie Murder and orange Carrot Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke, and Tangerine by Marilynn Griffith, just to name a few.
In the display bookcase beside the checkout counter we placed yellow and orange books to help you "Fall into Fall reading." You'll see books such as The Grilling Season by Diane Mott Davidson (this is a great grilling season!) and The Promise of Lumby by Gail Fraser.
At our children's table "The Great Pumpkin recommends" lots of good yellow and orange books. Above the table a hairy dark spider looks down at the books through colorful fall leaves.
So, you see, we've decorated the library with all manner of fall stuff. It's really festive-looking, bright and cheery. Even warm and friendly.
Come visit us in all our fall glory. We'd love to see you.
On the drive to work I noticed the trees have changed from a lively green to several darker, flat shades of green. It is the season of not only orange, but yellow and purple.
In fact, on October the first our staff decorated the lighted display cases in the main lobby with fall colors...all oranges and yellows. We filled the cases with children's yellow cars and trucks, yellow vases and pitchers, and a big yellow bear. There are also tiny orange pumpkins and a big pumpkin, even an orange New Testament, as well as a lovely basket of sunflowers, plus many more interesting items.
On our round foyer table there's a centerpiece of mums, pumpkins, leaves and berries. Our books are also in color: an orange Whiskey Sour by J. A. Konrath, yellow Lemon Meringue Pie Murder and orange Carrot Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke, and Tangerine by Marilynn Griffith, just to name a few.
In the display bookcase beside the checkout counter we placed yellow and orange books to help you "Fall into Fall reading." You'll see books such as The Grilling Season by Diane Mott Davidson (this is a great grilling season!) and The Promise of Lumby by Gail Fraser.
At our children's table "The Great Pumpkin recommends" lots of good yellow and orange books. Above the table a hairy dark spider looks down at the books through colorful fall leaves.
So, you see, we've decorated the library with all manner of fall stuff. It's really festive-looking, bright and cheery. Even warm and friendly.
Come visit us in all our fall glory. We'd love to see you.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
What is October?
Well, let's see...here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System, October is quite a few things.
For instance, it's Family History Month, a time when we and our families should celebrate our family heritage. This means sharing information about our ancestors and commemorating their lives and accomplishments.
If you've heard of our genealogy library, the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogy Library, you know that we really celebrate families all year long.
The library was made possible by a bequest from Mrs. Odom, who was a Trustee of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and very interested in genealogy. (She was also an accomplished musician, as well as an active leader in the Georgia 4-H program.)
Her interest in genealogy led to her membership in the Huguenot Society and the United Daughters of the Confederacy. She coauthored two books: A History of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and Colquitt County Confederate Soldiers.
At her death, it was revealed that she had bequeathed the proceeds of the sale of her land and home to the library for the purpose of building a genealogy library in Moultrie. Today, the Odom Library operates on the interest from her estate. The endowment is managed by a Moultrie banking firm and the library is governed by a Board of
Trustees.
Since October is Family History Month, there are a few things you and your family can do together to make this month more special for you.
Why not "play detective" and bring your children or grandchildren to the Odom Library and trace your family tree? We have the deluxe version of Ancestry.com and our librarians are very willing to show you how it works. In our library you can make copies of your family records and find pictures of all those great-great-grands that you haven't seen before.
How about creating a family cookbook, a scrapbook of family history, or a family calendar of old photos?
Why not work together to uncover your family health history and make a copy for each person in the family? You never know when that information will come in handy.
How about taking a trip to the old family homestead, or a historical museum, or a Civil War battlefield?
Or even get the family together to create a heritage gift, maybe a Christmas ornament or a lap quilt (maybe several) from old ties from family members.
And last but not least, you could start a family
website.
There are so many things you can do to celebrate Family History Month. We're here to help you; not only the Odom Library, but the public library also. We have lots of interesting ideas....
(Source: http://www.ancestry.com/)
For instance, it's Family History Month, a time when we and our families should celebrate our family heritage. This means sharing information about our ancestors and commemorating their lives and accomplishments.
If you've heard of our genealogy library, the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogy Library, you know that we really celebrate families all year long.
The library was made possible by a bequest from Mrs. Odom, who was a Trustee of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and very interested in genealogy. (She was also an accomplished musician, as well as an active leader in the Georgia 4-H program.)
Her interest in genealogy led to her membership in the Huguenot Society and the United Daughters of the Confederacy. She coauthored two books: A History of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library and Colquitt County Confederate Soldiers.
At her death, it was revealed that she had bequeathed the proceeds of the sale of her land and home to the library for the purpose of building a genealogy library in Moultrie. Today, the Odom Library operates on the interest from her estate. The endowment is managed by a Moultrie banking firm and the library is governed by a Board of
Trustees.
Since October is Family History Month, there are a few things you and your family can do together to make this month more special for you.
Why not "play detective" and bring your children or grandchildren to the Odom Library and trace your family tree? We have the deluxe version of Ancestry.com and our librarians are very willing to show you how it works. In our library you can make copies of your family records and find pictures of all those great-great-grands that you haven't seen before.
How about creating a family cookbook, a scrapbook of family history, or a family calendar of old photos?
Why not work together to uncover your family health history and make a copy for each person in the family? You never know when that information will come in handy.
How about taking a trip to the old family homestead, or a historical museum, or a Civil War battlefield?
Or even get the family together to create a heritage gift, maybe a Christmas ornament or a lap quilt (maybe several) from old ties from family members.
And last but not least, you could start a family
website.
There are so many things you can do to celebrate Family History Month. We're here to help you; not only the Odom Library, but the public library also. We have lots of interesting ideas....
(Source: http://www.ancestry.com/)
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Interesting little tidbits about libraries
My coworker shared some interesting tidbits about libraries with me yesterday. Of course, because we work at a library, we're probably more interested in these tidbits than most people.
But you might be amazed to know:
1. Every day 300,000 Americans get job-seeking help at their public library.
2. Most public libraries provide free wireless Internet access for their users. Nearly 12,000 now offer free Wi-Fi. That's more than Starbucks (11,000), Barnes & Noble or Borders (1,300).
3. Every month business owners and employees use resources at public libraries 2.8 million times to support their small businesses.
4. Two-thirds of Americans have a library card. For many young people, the first card in their wallet is a library card.
5. There are 5,400 U.S. public libraries offering free technology classes as compared to 4,000 businesses offering computer training.
6. Every day, Americans borrow 2.1 million DVDs from libraries, and we spend $22 million for DVD rentals at outlets like Netflix and RedBox vending machines.
7. Every day, 225,000 people use library meeting rooms at a retail value of $11 million. That's $3.2 billion annually (based on 286 business days per year).
8. There are 13,000 U.S. public libraries offering career assistance as compared to the U.S. Department of Labor's 3,000 One-stop Career Centers.
9. Every year, Americans visit the library (1.4 billion) more often than we go to the movies (1.3 billion) and six times more often (218 million) than we attend live sporting events.
10. U.S. public libraries circulate as many materials every day as FedEx ships packages worldwide. FedEx shipments are 8 million; library circulation is 7.9 million.
Libraries are at the heart of our communities - a resource for people of any age to find what we need to help improve our quality of life.
Why not visit your public library this week.
(Sources: OCLC, a nonprofit library cooperative; American Library Association; Starbucks corporate communications; http://www.borders.com/; http://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/; U.S. Census Bureau; http://www.geeksquad.com/; http://www.netflix.com/; Stross, Randall; New York Times; Wall Street Journal; IMLS; http://www.mpaa.org/; FedEx.
But you might be amazed to know:
1. Every day 300,000 Americans get job-seeking help at their public library.
2. Most public libraries provide free wireless Internet access for their users. Nearly 12,000 now offer free Wi-Fi. That's more than Starbucks (11,000), Barnes & Noble or Borders (1,300).
3. Every month business owners and employees use resources at public libraries 2.8 million times to support their small businesses.
4. Two-thirds of Americans have a library card. For many young people, the first card in their wallet is a library card.
5. There are 5,400 U.S. public libraries offering free technology classes as compared to 4,000 businesses offering computer training.
6. Every day, Americans borrow 2.1 million DVDs from libraries, and we spend $22 million for DVD rentals at outlets like Netflix and RedBox vending machines.
7. Every day, 225,000 people use library meeting rooms at a retail value of $11 million. That's $3.2 billion annually (based on 286 business days per year).
8. There are 13,000 U.S. public libraries offering career assistance as compared to the U.S. Department of Labor's 3,000 One-stop Career Centers.
9. Every year, Americans visit the library (1.4 billion) more often than we go to the movies (1.3 billion) and six times more often (218 million) than we attend live sporting events.
10. U.S. public libraries circulate as many materials every day as FedEx ships packages worldwide. FedEx shipments are 8 million; library circulation is 7.9 million.
Libraries are at the heart of our communities - a resource for people of any age to find what we need to help improve our quality of life.
Why not visit your public library this week.
(Sources: OCLC, a nonprofit library cooperative; American Library Association; Starbucks corporate communications; http://www.borders.com/; http://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/; U.S. Census Bureau; http://www.geeksquad.com/; http://www.netflix.com/; Stross, Randall; New York Times; Wall Street Journal; IMLS; http://www.mpaa.org/; FedEx.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Library cards...free library cards...get them right here!
Did you get your free library card? Each year September is National Library Card Sign-up Month. So far, we've had a good run on people getting their new library cards. Did you get yours?
In July, 176 people obtained their cards. In August, it was 123. With only two days left in this month, 134 people have new library cards. Did you get yours?
Maybe you don't think a library card is very important, but it's the Smartest Card you can have in your billfold, wallet, purse, pocket, etc. Let me tell you what you get with your free library card.
You can get to know your librarian, the ultimate search engine @ your library.
Research new job opportunities or prepare your resume.
Learn about local candidates for office.
Pick up a DVD for home movie night.
Get wireless access.
Check out your favorite author's books.
Learn to navigate the Internet.
Look up all kinds of health information.
Research the purchase of a new car or your term paper.
Check your stock portfolio.
Borrow an audio book for your next road trip.
Use the library's resources to start a small business.
Get a book from the interlibrary loan system.
Trace your family tree.
Learn how to use a database or computerized catalog.
Find the latest romance or mystery paperback.
Connect with other people in the community.
Of course, there are lots of things you can do without a library card, too, such as have cards, pictures, etc. laminated.
Read a newspaper in the reading area.
Find a quiet spot, curl up with a book and enjoy.
Pick up tax forms.
Attend an author's lecture or workshop.
Attend the preschool story hour with your child.
Well, I could go on and on, but you get the idea.
So...if you don't have a library card, step right up, ladies and gentlemen. Get your free library cards right here @ the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. There's not too many things you can get for free now days. Why not take advantage of this great give-away. Get your free library card today.
In July, 176 people obtained their cards. In August, it was 123. With only two days left in this month, 134 people have new library cards. Did you get yours?
Maybe you don't think a library card is very important, but it's the Smartest Card you can have in your billfold, wallet, purse, pocket, etc. Let me tell you what you get with your free library card.
You can get to know your librarian, the ultimate search engine @ your library.
Research new job opportunities or prepare your resume.
Learn about local candidates for office.
Pick up a DVD for home movie night.
Get wireless access.
Check out your favorite author's books.
Learn to navigate the Internet.
Look up all kinds of health information.
Research the purchase of a new car or your term paper.
Check your stock portfolio.
Borrow an audio book for your next road trip.
Use the library's resources to start a small business.
Get a book from the interlibrary loan system.
Trace your family tree.
Learn how to use a database or computerized catalog.
Find the latest romance or mystery paperback.
Connect with other people in the community.
Of course, there are lots of things you can do without a library card, too, such as have cards, pictures, etc. laminated.
Read a newspaper in the reading area.
Find a quiet spot, curl up with a book and enjoy.
Pick up tax forms.
Attend an author's lecture or workshop.
Attend the preschool story hour with your child.
Well, I could go on and on, but you get the idea.
So...if you don't have a library card, step right up, ladies and gentlemen. Get your free library cards right here @ the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. There's not too many things you can get for free now days. Why not take advantage of this great give-away. Get your free library card today.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
We are celebrating the freedom to read
Once a year, every year since 1982, during the last week of September, people all over the USA celebrate the freedom to read. That last week of September is called "Banned Books Week." It was launched in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries.
From Saturday, September 25th, until Saturday, October 2nd, we are celebrating the freedom to read.
More than a thousand books have been challenged since 1982, and the challenges have occurred in every state and in hundreds of communities.
People challenge books that they say are too sexual or too violent. They object to profanity and slang, and they protest against offensive portrayals of racial or religious groups - or positive portrayals of homosexuals. Their targets range from books that explore contemporary issues and controversies to classic and beloved works of American literature.
According to the Americal Library Association, out of 460 challenges reported to the Office of Intellectual Freedom in 2009, the ten most challenged titles were:
From Saturday, September 25th, until Saturday, October 2nd, we are celebrating the freedom to read.
More than a thousand books have been challenged since 1982, and the challenges have occurred in every state and in hundreds of communities.
People challenge books that they say are too sexual or too violent. They object to profanity and slang, and they protest against offensive portrayals of racial or religious groups - or positive portrayals of homosexuals. Their targets range from books that explore contemporary issues and controversies to classic and beloved works of American literature.
According to the Americal Library Association, out of 460 challenges reported to the Office of Intellectual Freedom in 2009, the ten most challenged titles were:
- ttyl; ttfn; l8r, g8r (series) by Lauren Myracle. Reasons: nudity, sexually explicit, offensive language, drugs, and unsuited to age group.
- And Tango Makes Three by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson. Reasons: homosexuality.
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. Reasons: drugs, homosexuality, nudity, offensive language, sexually explicit, suicide, and unsuited to age group.
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Reasons: racism, offensive language, unsuited to age group. (2010 is the 50th anniversary of this classic.)
- Twilight (series) by Stephanie Meyer. Reasons: sexually explicit, religious viewpoint, unsuited to age group.
- Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger. Reasons: sexually explicit, religious viewpoint, unsuited to age group.
- My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult. Reasons: sexism, homosexuality, sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to age group, drugs, suicide, violence.
- The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big, Round Things by Carolyn Mackler. Reasons: sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to age group.
- The Color Purple by Alice Walker. Reasons: sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to age group.
- The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier. Reasons: nudity, sexually explicit, offensive language, unsuited to age group.
During "Banned Books Week," hundreds of libraries and bookstores around the country draw attention to the problem of censorship by mounting displays of challenged books and hosting a variety of events. Many activities are planned to help remind people of the importance of free speech.
If you want further information about "Banned Books Week," visit BannedBooksWeek.org, info@abffe.com or bbw@ala.org. And visit our display in the adult reading area. We even have a few of these banned books for you to check out.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
My library is a learning place...
...especially for me!
Yesterday my coworker and I talked about some statistics we read from a seminar for library workers. Some of those stats surprised me.
When the statistics from a survey taken at another library in another state were compiled, here's what they found:
That more people came to the library alone than as a couple or family.
That most people (those who didn't come to use the computers) stayed at the library for only a short period of time (many for only about ten minutes).
That the audio-visuals accounted for about one-third of the circulating items, and ages 14 to 24 were the ones drawn to the AVs.
That about two-thirds of the patrons used the library more for reading and conversations than anything else.
That about 70% of the people checked out books and about 51% checked out AVs.
Well, there were more statistics, but I won't go into them.
It's just that the longer I work here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library, the more things I learn about our patrons also.
For instance, the number of people who stop by the returned-books cart, possibly to see what other people have been reading that might be interesting to them.
The number of children who come to the Children's Library during story time from all the Pre-K schools and facilities. This is the biggest children's story time facility in
town.
The number of homeschooled children who come to the library with their mothers, who are also their teachers. Some come and sit around the tables in the reading area to work on their homework.
It surprises me how many of our books on the displays are checked out. The books must seem more appealing if they are right there in front of everyone and not on the bookshelves.
It surprises me how fast our bookmarks disappear, the ones that we make up each month for special events.
And the most recent service we are providing...the MCCLS Friends Recommendations...well, the books are just disappearing off that shelf like crazy!
We're always working on ways to keep our patrons' interest in the library. We want each person coming through our doors to like what they see, feel comfortable in finding what they want, and enjoy staying for a while (especially more than ten minutes!).
And me...well, I want my library to be a learning place for you, too. We are loaded with good stuff! Come and stay for a while, make yourself comfortable, and have a great learning experience.
Yesterday my coworker and I talked about some statistics we read from a seminar for library workers. Some of those stats surprised me.
When the statistics from a survey taken at another library in another state were compiled, here's what they found:
That more people came to the library alone than as a couple or family.
That most people (those who didn't come to use the computers) stayed at the library for only a short period of time (many for only about ten minutes).
That the audio-visuals accounted for about one-third of the circulating items, and ages 14 to 24 were the ones drawn to the AVs.
That about two-thirds of the patrons used the library more for reading and conversations than anything else.
That about 70% of the people checked out books and about 51% checked out AVs.
Well, there were more statistics, but I won't go into them.
It's just that the longer I work here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library, the more things I learn about our patrons also.
For instance, the number of people who stop by the returned-books cart, possibly to see what other people have been reading that might be interesting to them.
The number of children who come to the Children's Library during story time from all the Pre-K schools and facilities. This is the biggest children's story time facility in
town.
The number of homeschooled children who come to the library with their mothers, who are also their teachers. Some come and sit around the tables in the reading area to work on their homework.
It surprises me how many of our books on the displays are checked out. The books must seem more appealing if they are right there in front of everyone and not on the bookshelves.
It surprises me how fast our bookmarks disappear, the ones that we make up each month for special events.
And the most recent service we are providing...the MCCLS Friends Recommendations...well, the books are just disappearing off that shelf like crazy!
We're always working on ways to keep our patrons' interest in the library. We want each person coming through our doors to like what they see, feel comfortable in finding what they want, and enjoy staying for a while (especially more than ten minutes!).
And me...well, I want my library to be a learning place for you, too. We are loaded with good stuff! Come and stay for a while, make yourself comfortable, and have a great learning experience.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Even our secret weapon is a book-lover
Today I had a visit from a person I call our secret weapon. He's the fellow that comes to help whenever we call. He's Shannon, our computer expert.
So, there he was, just a-working away at my computer with me standing nearby and watching his interesting work. And while I had him as a captured audience, I asked some questions...but not about my computer.
Shannon drives two hours all over Georgia, as long as it's in a circle. Let's say that Moultrie is the center of the circle. He travels in all directions: Georgetown, Bainbridge, Quitman, Fitzgerald, Ashburn, etc. He has 20-plus libraries' computers that he services, as well as several small businesses. Shannon told me that he travels between 13 and 14 hundred (that's 1300-1400) miles every month.
"What do you do all that time you're driving?" I asked. "Do you listen to audio tapes and CDs?"
He said, "Yes!" In fact, he admitted he'd probably go crazy if he didn't listen to stories while driving. (That's different than texting or talking on your cell phone while driving.)
Shannon said lately he's listened to The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett, and to The Wee Free Men by the same author. He said he likes the little six-inch blue men because they talk with an Irish brogue like leprechauns. He must have a great imagination! But that's what listening to stories does for you.
He has some more favorite authors, other than Terry Pratchett: W.E.B. Griffin, Janet Evanovich, and Robert Jordan to name a few. His genre seems to run in the science fiction and humor areas. He said it was a librarian who turned him on to listening to Janet Evanovich. Yea for librarians!
It's nice to know that we have a secret weapon who enjoys checking out audio books and listening to them during his long travels. Guess you could call him our traveling library card. Imagine the choice of material he has because of visiting all those different libraries.
Good traveling, Shannon. And good listening also.
So, there he was, just a-working away at my computer with me standing nearby and watching his interesting work. And while I had him as a captured audience, I asked some questions...but not about my computer.
Shannon drives two hours all over Georgia, as long as it's in a circle. Let's say that Moultrie is the center of the circle. He travels in all directions: Georgetown, Bainbridge, Quitman, Fitzgerald, Ashburn, etc. He has 20-plus libraries' computers that he services, as well as several small businesses. Shannon told me that he travels between 13 and 14 hundred (that's 1300-1400) miles every month.
"What do you do all that time you're driving?" I asked. "Do you listen to audio tapes and CDs?"
He said, "Yes!" In fact, he admitted he'd probably go crazy if he didn't listen to stories while driving. (That's different than texting or talking on your cell phone while driving.)
Shannon said lately he's listened to The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett, and to The Wee Free Men by the same author. He said he likes the little six-inch blue men because they talk with an Irish brogue like leprechauns. He must have a great imagination! But that's what listening to stories does for you.
He has some more favorite authors, other than Terry Pratchett: W.E.B. Griffin, Janet Evanovich, and Robert Jordan to name a few. His genre seems to run in the science fiction and humor areas. He said it was a librarian who turned him on to listening to Janet Evanovich. Yea for librarians!
It's nice to know that we have a secret weapon who enjoys checking out audio books and listening to them during his long travels. Guess you could call him our traveling library card. Imagine the choice of material he has because of visiting all those different libraries.
Good traveling, Shannon. And good listening also.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
We're trying out a new service
If you're like me, you just hate to walk into your favorite store, no matter whether it's Winn-Dixie, Big Lots or Belk, and find everything changed around. You feel lost and sometimes a little upset, because whatever you are looking for was right there in that spot the last time you were in and now it's not there.
Well, we're trying out a new service and we want it to stay in the same spot all the time. It's a shelf in the area of the new books and 7-day-loan section. It's a shelf in the area located to the left of the front desk. You know where I mean?
Ask one of the staff at the front desk; they'll show
you.
The service is a book review shelf provided by our Friends of MCCLS. It's titled "Friends of MCCLS Recommenda-
tions." Right now there are four books on the shelf...well, there were. They seem to be going fast.
Since this year is the 50th anniversary of To Kill a Mockingbird, our Friends are recommending the book in celebration of great writing. It is a nostalgic story of a young girl growing up in a small Southern town with the help of her father and a loving community that's growing up also during the 1930s. It has become a classic.
Our Friends are also recommending Heaven by Randy Alcorn. This book encourages the reader to consider the destination of Heaven. It may challenge your imagination and answer some of your questions. It's a good book for small groups or individual study, with a study guide included.
One book that went off the shelf fast is Spoken From the Heart by Laura Welch Bush. This is a revealing account of the life of a First Lady. It's amazing the amount of influence internationally that her position commanded. Readers might be surprised to know what the First Family had to say for themselves.
The last book recommended by the MCCLS Friends is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. When I started reading this book, I was surprised that a book comprised of only letters could have such appeal (that was almost a joke!). This book's style is as intriguing as reading someone else's mail, which tempts everyone. The fiction is based on historical fact in a little known part of Great Britain during WWII. It stretches geographical knowledge and encourages reverence in memory of The Greatest Generation.
If you're interested in any of these books and they're checked out, you may reserve the book of your choice at the front desk.
We're hoping this new service is one you'll look forward to. And we promise you, it will stay in the same spot every time.
Well, we're trying out a new service and we want it to stay in the same spot all the time. It's a shelf in the area of the new books and 7-day-loan section. It's a shelf in the area located to the left of the front desk. You know where I mean?
Ask one of the staff at the front desk; they'll show
you.
The service is a book review shelf provided by our Friends of MCCLS. It's titled "Friends of MCCLS Recommenda-
tions." Right now there are four books on the shelf...well, there were. They seem to be going fast.
Since this year is the 50th anniversary of To Kill a Mockingbird, our Friends are recommending the book in celebration of great writing. It is a nostalgic story of a young girl growing up in a small Southern town with the help of her father and a loving community that's growing up also during the 1930s. It has become a classic.
Our Friends are also recommending Heaven by Randy Alcorn. This book encourages the reader to consider the destination of Heaven. It may challenge your imagination and answer some of your questions. It's a good book for small groups or individual study, with a study guide included.
One book that went off the shelf fast is Spoken From the Heart by Laura Welch Bush. This is a revealing account of the life of a First Lady. It's amazing the amount of influence internationally that her position commanded. Readers might be surprised to know what the First Family had to say for themselves.
The last book recommended by the MCCLS Friends is The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. When I started reading this book, I was surprised that a book comprised of only letters could have such appeal (that was almost a joke!). This book's style is as intriguing as reading someone else's mail, which tempts everyone. The fiction is based on historical fact in a little known part of Great Britain during WWII. It stretches geographical knowledge and encourages reverence in memory of The Greatest Generation.
If you're interested in any of these books and they're checked out, you may reserve the book of your choice at the front desk.
We're hoping this new service is one you'll look forward to. And we promise you, it will stay in the same spot every time.
Friday, September 17, 2010
We're not just about books...
No indeedy! Of course, libraries have books...all kinds of books. But we're not just about books!
Have I ever told you about our additional services? That's right...additional services.
For instance, the library has Internet computers for public use. You must have a current library card, however, to use a computer. And you must follow ALL computer rules. Document printout is available at ten-cents per page. Now, that's not a bad deal.
Microsoft Word is available for public use also. Again, printouts are available for ten-cents a page.
We have a photocopy machine available and our staff is always ready to help you make copies. The charges for black and white copies are: 8-1/2x11 is ten-cents, 11x14 is 15-cents, and 11x17 is 20-cents.
We can make color copies for you also. The charges are: 8-1/2x11 is $1, 11x14 is $1.50, and 11x17 is $2. However, no professional prints can be copied.
There's laminating services available at ten-cents per inch. Laminating is done on Friday mornings. You can leave your materials at the front desk anytime and we'll have them back to you as quick as possible.
Meeting rooms are also available for your use free of charge for educational and civic groups. We do ask that you contact us as early as possible to make the reservations. That way our cleaning-setup crew can make sure the room is ready for you.
And we do have some sound and audio visual equipment available by reservation at no charge.
Lots of people ask us about two services we do not have: Fax and notary. There is no public fax service available. Notary service is available at most local banks.
Well, we hope this helps you know that we are a full-service library. We DO look forward to serving you.
Have I ever told you about our additional services? That's right...additional services.
For instance, the library has Internet computers for public use. You must have a current library card, however, to use a computer. And you must follow ALL computer rules. Document printout is available at ten-cents per page. Now, that's not a bad deal.
Microsoft Word is available for public use also. Again, printouts are available for ten-cents a page.
We have a photocopy machine available and our staff is always ready to help you make copies. The charges for black and white copies are: 8-1/2x11 is ten-cents, 11x14 is 15-cents, and 11x17 is 20-cents.
We can make color copies for you also. The charges are: 8-1/2x11 is $1, 11x14 is $1.50, and 11x17 is $2. However, no professional prints can be copied.
There's laminating services available at ten-cents per inch. Laminating is done on Friday mornings. You can leave your materials at the front desk anytime and we'll have them back to you as quick as possible.
Meeting rooms are also available for your use free of charge for educational and civic groups. We do ask that you contact us as early as possible to make the reservations. That way our cleaning-setup crew can make sure the room is ready for you.
And we do have some sound and audio visual equipment available by reservation at no charge.
Lots of people ask us about two services we do not have: Fax and notary. There is no public fax service available. Notary service is available at most local banks.
Well, we hope this helps you know that we are a full-service library. We DO look forward to serving you.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
The little people are coming to storytime
On Tuesday this week, the little people started coming to Miss Norma's storytimes.
At 9:15 the first group came. Sixty little people from Odom Pre-K; that was three classes of 20 each.
Right after them at 10 o'clock came two classes from Culbertson Headstart. And at 11 a.m. there was the Heritage PreK group.
It's nice to see the long strings of little people come through the library, heading toward the Children's Library. They're dressed in their T-shirts of yellow, red, orange, green, etc. They're holding hands or onto a colorful rope, or they walk with their hands together behind them, or stuffed into their pockets or mouths. They're little people; they do things like that.
Most of them are in awe of this great big high-ceilinged place. For many it's their first time here. They tend to look around while walking and sometimes walk into each other. Once in a while, someone gets frightened. After all, it is a big place and there are lots of other children from other schools and childcare facilities that they don't know. Life gets scarey sometimes. They even had a ride on a big yellow
bus.
But once they're back in the Children's Library, inside the Reading Garden's white picket fence, once they're sitting on the carpet, all lined up in rows, with their teachers sitting in chairs behind them...well, let's just say the show
begins.
Once Miss Norma begins her story, she keeps them interested. There's no telling what they'll do while visiting. Sometimes they sing, sometimes they do a little dance-in-place, but always they get right into her stories.
And before they leave, they all meet the Library Mouse. He has to say goodbye to each one, often touching the tops of their heads.
I counted 19 different groups that come to the library for the storytimes. However, the storytelling isn't just here in the library. Miss Norma also has her "traveling
storyimes."
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for the rest of the month here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library you'll find little people coming for storytime.
Someday take the opportunity and stop by to watch these future library cardholders in their bright T-shirts as they do the long walk to the Children's Library. Honestly, they'll put a big smile on your face.
At 9:15 the first group came. Sixty little people from Odom Pre-K; that was three classes of 20 each.
Right after them at 10 o'clock came two classes from Culbertson Headstart. And at 11 a.m. there was the Heritage PreK group.
It's nice to see the long strings of little people come through the library, heading toward the Children's Library. They're dressed in their T-shirts of yellow, red, orange, green, etc. They're holding hands or onto a colorful rope, or they walk with their hands together behind them, or stuffed into their pockets or mouths. They're little people; they do things like that.
Most of them are in awe of this great big high-ceilinged place. For many it's their first time here. They tend to look around while walking and sometimes walk into each other. Once in a while, someone gets frightened. After all, it is a big place and there are lots of other children from other schools and childcare facilities that they don't know. Life gets scarey sometimes. They even had a ride on a big yellow
bus.
But once they're back in the Children's Library, inside the Reading Garden's white picket fence, once they're sitting on the carpet, all lined up in rows, with their teachers sitting in chairs behind them...well, let's just say the show
begins.
Once Miss Norma begins her story, she keeps them interested. There's no telling what they'll do while visiting. Sometimes they sing, sometimes they do a little dance-in-place, but always they get right into her stories.
And before they leave, they all meet the Library Mouse. He has to say goodbye to each one, often touching the tops of their heads.
I counted 19 different groups that come to the library for the storytimes. However, the storytelling isn't just here in the library. Miss Norma also has her "traveling
storyimes."
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for the rest of the month here at the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library you'll find little people coming for storytime.
Someday take the opportunity and stop by to watch these future library cardholders in their bright T-shirts as they do the long walk to the Children's Library. Honestly, they'll put a big smile on your face.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
We have NOVELIST on GALILEO
I just learned about something really exciting...well, exciting for a person who loves to read books.
If you've read all the books by your favorite author and would like to know who writes like him/her, this is a database you will enjoy and appreciate.
We have on our library's home webpage the database GALILEO. Just go to GALILEO and search for NOVELIST on the "Databases A-Z" tab. The database deals only with fiction titles.
There are recommended reading lists in eleven different genres which can be searched by reading levels. You can search by author, title, or series. There also are lists of award winning books.
Each entry lists all of the information about the book (title, author, publication date, reading level, grade level, genre and writing style) along with a synopsis and reviews.
And there are book discussion guides for many novels that would aid teachers and members of book discussion
groups.
One of the most helpful areas of the database is the "Author Read-Alikes" section. This section recommends books by other authors who have similar writing styles, themes or genres to the author you are searching. This can be very helpful when you feel you have read all of the books by a particular author and need a recommendation for some other books.
Remember, just to go our library's home page of the website and click on the GALILEO icon. You'll have a great time.
If you've read all the books by your favorite author and would like to know who writes like him/her, this is a database you will enjoy and appreciate.
We have on our library's home webpage the database GALILEO. Just go to GALILEO and search for NOVELIST on the "Databases A-Z" tab. The database deals only with fiction titles.
There are recommended reading lists in eleven different genres which can be searched by reading levels. You can search by author, title, or series. There also are lists of award winning books.
Each entry lists all of the information about the book (title, author, publication date, reading level, grade level, genre and writing style) along with a synopsis and reviews.
And there are book discussion guides for many novels that would aid teachers and members of book discussion
groups.
One of the most helpful areas of the database is the "Author Read-Alikes" section. This section recommends books by other authors who have similar writing styles, themes or genres to the author you are searching. This can be very helpful when you feel you have read all of the books by a particular author and need a recommendation for some other books.
Remember, just to go our library's home page of the website and click on the GALILEO icon. You'll have a great time.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
10 simple things
As part of National Library Card Sign-up Month, the Georgia Public Library Service came up with "10 Simple Things...you can do to help your library." Why not see if there is anything on this list you can do?
- Take a friend or relative - or even a class of youngsters - to the library. Show them what you most enjoy and offer to help them sign up for a library card of their own.
- Consider a tax-deductible gift to your library. Libraries and library systems often have memorial programs and endowments that provide opportunities to support and improve library services.
- Remember the library in your estate planning.
- Sponsor a magazine subscription for the library or donate books - either to the library or to your local Friends organization to raise money for the library.
- Volunteer your time. Opportunities could include delivering reading materials to shut-ins, helping children or teens with homework or being a reader to preschool children. Ask your library director or branch manager how you can best help.
- Nominate your library as your community's, your company's or your school's project of the year.
- Send a letter to the editor of your local newspaper expressing how important the library is to you - and to your community.
- Speak up for libraries at community groups that you belong to, such as the PTA, Chamber of Commerce, and others - even your book club! Invite your library director or branch manager to attend a meeting and talk about your library's services and its needs.
- Attend a regular meeting of the city or county commission or other local funding agency and take the opportunity to thank its members publicly for supporting the library. Or send a short note to a council member to let them know how much you use and appreciate the library.
- Develop a short "elevator speech" (just a sentence or two) that will help you quickly explain to others why libraries are more important than ever - and use it when you have an opportunity to encourage others to get involved.
The Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System thanks you in advance for doing these 10 simple things. You can help your library! (Source: Georgia Public Library Service, http://www.georgialibraries.org/)
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
We having a "red hot" September!
This is the month at Moultrie-Colquitt County Library when we have "The Hunt for Red September" going on. You're going to see "red" all around.
Our display table in the front foyer is covered with red-covered books such as:
- Jonathan Kellerman's "Bad Love"
- Terri Blackstock's "Cape Refuge" and
- Elizabeth Buchan's "Wives Behaving Badly," as well as
- books about depression glass, weight loss for men, and poems and fairy tales.
There are also red-covered audios such as:
- "High Profile" by Robert B. Parker
- "Bad Luck and Trouble" by Lee Child and
- "The Mephisto Club" by Tess Gerritsen.
The children's table has stacks of books to "Feed Your Reading Dragon" such as
- "Vulture View" by April Pulley Sayre
- "Squids Will Be Squids" by Jon Scieszka
- "Inside-Outside Dinosaurs" by Roxie Munro and
- "The Big Red Lollipop" by Rukhsana Khan.
Be sure you check out the lighted display cases. We've filled them with bright red things such as a chair, clothes, glassware, books, toys, flags, etc. All kinds of "red hot" things of interest.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
The Smartest Card...what is it?
You can get the Smartest Card at your library.
It's your own personal library card.
Why do you need one? Well...
It's your own personal library card.
Why do you need one? Well...
- Why buy when you can borrow? Your public library is a goldmine of books, magazines, movies, CDs and other great stuff.
- Make learning fun. Check out reading clubs, storyhours, movies and other free programs for kids and families.
- Free at your library. Most public libraries provide computers - and classes - for kids to use, mom and dad too.
- Keep kids reading. The more kids read, the better they do in school. Your library has something for every age and interest.
- Need homework help? Encourage your child to ask a pro - your librarian.
- Look, listen and enjoy. Borrow films and music for the whole family.
- Bring the whole family! How many places can you all enjoy together? For free!!!
- If you don't see it, ask! The library may be able to get it for you.
- It's never too late! Use the library 24/7 online.
- Remember, learning begins at home. See your library's parenting collection for tips on how you can be your child's first and best teacher.
National Library Card Sign-up Month is September. It's easy to get a your own personal card. All you need to do is come into the library and talk to one of the staff at the front desk. She will give you a form to complete. You'll need to bring a valid form of identification (driver's license, current phone bill, rent statement, etc.) that shows your mailing address. Students 17 or younger must have their parent's or guardian's signature in order to receive a card.
Sign up now. We'll be looking for you.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Why do you like the library?
I took a little walk through the library the other day and saw all the people who were visiting. It didn't take long for me to wonder what they like about our library, so I decided to take a small survey.
In the Willcoxon Auditorium two ladies were deep in discussion. I politely asked if I could intrude and ask a quick question. They politely told me yes. One lady said she liked the library because, "You allow us the space to have our meetings for the Colquitt County Retired Educators." The other lady said, "And because the library has a typewriter! And a paper cutter, too, and you let us use them." I never thought we're just about out of typewriters in this world. Two happy patrons.
In the foyer of the Odom Genealogical Library, I introduced myself to a young woman sitting on one of our three benches and asked why she liked the library. "It's quiet and easy to concentrate out here on the benches," she said. When I asked if she found it hard to concentrate in the adult reading area, she said no; she just liked it better on the foyer benches where she could see the plants in the atrium. Another happy patron.
In the genealogy library, I saw a woman who comes to the library every day to work on her genealogical projects. I knew why she liked the library.
But there was also a man sitting at a nearby table with books spread before him, the concentration line deep between his eyes. I quietly introduced myself and asked if he would tell me why he likes the library. He said, "The library." He explained he drives from Bridgeboro, about 25 miles away, only once a month. Since he didn't have the time to come more often, he spends about four or five hours each time on his research. He had a big smile. A happy
patron!
In the public library I saw a tiny woman standing at the VHS-DVD counter. When I asked her my question, she said she liked the old movies, like the classics that you can't get at the video stores. She said she homeschooled her children and the entire family liked to watch the old movies together in the evenings. She especially liked the fact that the movies were free with her library card. Ah! Another happy
patron!
As I turned to go back to the office, I noticed a woman sitting on one of the two couches in the adult reading area. She was reading a magazine. When I asked her why she liked the library, she said she liked the ladies at the circulation counter, because they were so helpful in finding her the books she wanted to read. She said she comes every day to the library, almost every week, with her boyfriend and, while he works at a computer, she sits and reads. She gave me a big smile also. Need I say "happy
patron"?
I talked with only five people. They all liked the library. They didn't just pop in and out; they stayed for a while.
Do you like the library? Do you visit often? Do you have a library card?
September is National Library Card Sign-up Month. Why not get a library card if you don't have one and let us know why you like the library.
In the Willcoxon Auditorium two ladies were deep in discussion. I politely asked if I could intrude and ask a quick question. They politely told me yes. One lady said she liked the library because, "You allow us the space to have our meetings for the Colquitt County Retired Educators." The other lady said, "And because the library has a typewriter! And a paper cutter, too, and you let us use them." I never thought we're just about out of typewriters in this world. Two happy patrons.
In the foyer of the Odom Genealogical Library, I introduced myself to a young woman sitting on one of our three benches and asked why she liked the library. "It's quiet and easy to concentrate out here on the benches," she said. When I asked if she found it hard to concentrate in the adult reading area, she said no; she just liked it better on the foyer benches where she could see the plants in the atrium. Another happy patron.
In the genealogy library, I saw a woman who comes to the library every day to work on her genealogical projects. I knew why she liked the library.
But there was also a man sitting at a nearby table with books spread before him, the concentration line deep between his eyes. I quietly introduced myself and asked if he would tell me why he likes the library. He said, "The library." He explained he drives from Bridgeboro, about 25 miles away, only once a month. Since he didn't have the time to come more often, he spends about four or five hours each time on his research. He had a big smile. A happy
patron!
In the public library I saw a tiny woman standing at the VHS-DVD counter. When I asked her my question, she said she liked the old movies, like the classics that you can't get at the video stores. She said she homeschooled her children and the entire family liked to watch the old movies together in the evenings. She especially liked the fact that the movies were free with her library card. Ah! Another happy
patron!
As I turned to go back to the office, I noticed a woman sitting on one of the two couches in the adult reading area. She was reading a magazine. When I asked her why she liked the library, she said she liked the ladies at the circulation counter, because they were so helpful in finding her the books she wanted to read. She said she comes every day to the library, almost every week, with her boyfriend and, while he works at a computer, she sits and reads. She gave me a big smile also. Need I say "happy
patron"?
I talked with only five people. They all liked the library. They didn't just pop in and out; they stayed for a while.
Do you like the library? Do you visit often? Do you have a library card?
September is National Library Card Sign-up Month. Why not get a library card if you don't have one and let us know why you like the library.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
We're going to purchase more books!
Our director gave me the most wonderful information this morning.
"I have something for your blog," she said.
She knows I'm always looking for interesting things for the blog.
"We got a letter yesterday," she continued. "It said the letter writer's late cousin was an avid reader and frequent visitor to the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. In her will she requested that the library receive a check for $1,000 to purchase all of the Ann McCaffrey P.E.R.N. series (aka Dragonriders of Pern) and any mysteries of our
choice."
My mouth dropped open. Wow! A thousand dollars! And for the Ann McCaffrey fantasy series and any mysteries of our choice!
In this economically-difficult time for libraries, a thousand dollars seems like a lot of money.
My brain immediately thought of all the wonderful little mystery series I like to read and all the spellbinding big mysteries we would like to purchase.
I saw the letter. I noticed the writer's last sentence: "Thank you for your kindness to my cousin...."
Sometimes those of us working at the library feel no one pays any attention to us, that we're just doing our jobs, people come and go and we're just doing our
jobs.
We never know when someone feels we've made their day, their life, a little more pleasant, a little more worthwhile, until someone says thank-you to us.
We're glad the writer's late cousin found the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library worthy of her contribution. I believe she knows we are sincerely thankful for her kindness.
"I have something for your blog," she said.
She knows I'm always looking for interesting things for the blog.
"We got a letter yesterday," she continued. "It said the letter writer's late cousin was an avid reader and frequent visitor to the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library. In her will she requested that the library receive a check for $1,000 to purchase all of the Ann McCaffrey P.E.R.N. series (aka Dragonriders of Pern) and any mysteries of our
choice."
My mouth dropped open. Wow! A thousand dollars! And for the Ann McCaffrey fantasy series and any mysteries of our choice!
In this economically-difficult time for libraries, a thousand dollars seems like a lot of money.
My brain immediately thought of all the wonderful little mystery series I like to read and all the spellbinding big mysteries we would like to purchase.
I saw the letter. I noticed the writer's last sentence: "Thank you for your kindness to my cousin...."
Sometimes those of us working at the library feel no one pays any attention to us, that we're just doing our jobs, people come and go and we're just doing our
jobs.
We never know when someone feels we've made their day, their life, a little more pleasant, a little more worthwhile, until someone says thank-you to us.
We're glad the writer's late cousin found the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library worthy of her contribution. I believe she knows we are sincerely thankful for her kindness.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Do you need to know how to write grants?
It's not too late! You can still register! But seating is running out....
The library will host an "Introduction to Grant Writing" presented by Dr. Anne Holt on Saturday, August 28th, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Willcoxon Auditorium.
The program will cover:
The library will host an "Introduction to Grant Writing" presented by Dr. Anne Holt on Saturday, August 28th, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Willcoxon Auditorium.
The program will cover:
- Grant writing guidelines,
- Model narrative budget,
- GEORGIA funders list,
- Writing dos and don'ts, and
- Tips on finding maching funds.
The cost is $30.00 per person payable at the door. Registration is required since space is limited. And there are now 32 signed up for the class!
You can register at the Moultrie Library or by calling 229-985-6540 or by email at mccls@mccls.org.
It's not too late. But you'd better hurry. Time is running out. And we need to make sure we have a chair for you.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
What are WE going to do about the future?
There were a good many "library people" at a meeting in Albany yesterday. The Georgia Libraries 21st Century Speaker Series, sponsored by the Georgia Public Library Service, showcased two speakers. George Needham is a library strategist, who helps libraries prepare for and create their futures. Joan Frye Williams is a library futurist and designer of innovative library services.
They asked us some tough questions, such as why should we care about 21st century libraries...and what does that phrase mean, anyway? Why should we care about customer-focused service, innovative library services, emerging technologies, and 21st century skills? How can we move forward when we have such limited resources? Who's going to lead the way?
Well, they gave us the answers to all those questions, and more.
They advised us to stop doing non-productive things. They told us that work has to change with the times; that we have to use our skills in a new way and we have to work with the needs of our community.
They told us we need to "refresh frequently," that 20% needs to look different with 80% remaining the same. We need to keep our patrons interested!
We need to develop user-defined privileges for fast readers, slow readers, homeschoolers, reference-needers, etc. We were told that one-size does not fit all and we need to look at what our patrons really require.
And we need to look at how we can make all of this more fun. Make it easy to find what we have, use the same vocabulary as our patrons, SIMPLIFY.
They told us we need to build our relationships, participate in established groups like "Facebook" and "flickr." We need to not only use simplicity, but generosity, flexibility, and urgency in order to cultivate trust.
We need to show people our passion about what our library is all about and show them that what we're doing is worth doing.
All of us"library people" came away from that meeting with a big job ahead of us...understanding the challenges we are faced with, deciding and planning on how we will meet these challenges, thinking outside of the box and envisioning the 21st century possibilities.
Don't hold your breath, because we are all on this great, big, wonderful ride! The 21st century is upon us!
(Source: http://georgialibraries.org/)
They asked us some tough questions, such as why should we care about 21st century libraries...and what does that phrase mean, anyway? Why should we care about customer-focused service, innovative library services, emerging technologies, and 21st century skills? How can we move forward when we have such limited resources? Who's going to lead the way?
Well, they gave us the answers to all those questions, and more.
They advised us to stop doing non-productive things. They told us that work has to change with the times; that we have to use our skills in a new way and we have to work with the needs of our community.
They told us we need to "refresh frequently," that 20% needs to look different with 80% remaining the same. We need to keep our patrons interested!
We need to develop user-defined privileges for fast readers, slow readers, homeschoolers, reference-needers, etc. We were told that one-size does not fit all and we need to look at what our patrons really require.
And we need to look at how we can make all of this more fun. Make it easy to find what we have, use the same vocabulary as our patrons, SIMPLIFY.
They told us we need to build our relationships, participate in established groups like "Facebook" and "flickr." We need to not only use simplicity, but generosity, flexibility, and urgency in order to cultivate trust.
We need to show people our passion about what our library is all about and show them that what we're doing is worth doing.
All of us"library people" came away from that meeting with a big job ahead of us...understanding the challenges we are faced with, deciding and planning on how we will meet these challenges, thinking outside of the box and envisioning the 21st century possibilities.
Don't hold your breath, because we are all on this great, big, wonderful ride! The 21st century is upon us!
(Source: http://georgialibraries.org/)
Thursday, August 19, 2010
We don't have B&N's problems
While reading my Yahoo! Webpage, I saw an article about Barnes & Noble's latest problem.
"The giant bookstore chain, whose superstores once struck fear into the hearts of independent booksellers everywhere, put itself up for sale this month...." This was the beginning of the article by James B. Stewart, a columnist for SmartMoney magazine, provided by The Wall Street Journal.
Stewart's hunch for the demise is "that B&N never really embraced the Internet or e-books, tied as it was to the old-fashioned world of physical books and stores." (Ow! that hurt! Kinda like Harry Potter's magic wand
shop.)
Stewart also admitted he likes "reading on the iPad, especially in bed at night and in other places where the device's back-lighting comes in handy. So far, it hasn't bothered my eyes at all, unlike the indistinct pages of the Kindle. But the Kindle is better outdoors." (My bound paper books have never given me a problem either. And I never have to worry about which book will be better
outdoors.)
Then he talked about being "confronted with a dizzying array of options," "information overload," and "being distracted by information I don't really need" with his iPad or Kindle. (I have to admit I have that problem with lovely bookstores, but it's a lovely problem I enjoy.)
Even though he said he couldn't say he missed physical books because his shelves were already groaning and he couldn't accommodate any more (ever hear about recycling and sharing in book clubs?), he did miss the bookstore he grew up with in the MidWest. (Ah! the truth is finally coming out.) And he wondered if B&N's decline could pave the way for the return of the independent bookseller. (That's something great to think about.)
He went on to talk about B&N stock and other stuff, but I got the jest of his article.
I signed with relief, knowing that we don't have B&N's problems. Now, I also know that many people think one day there will be no more libraries, no more physical (paper) books, that it will all be Internet, iPads, Kindles, etc. But you know what? I don't believe that, and I understand there are a great many others like me out there in the reading
world.
Maybe independent bookstores are slowly going out of business. Maybe. Maybe there are less books being printed and published. Maybe. And I may be one of those dinosaurs who refuse to give up my habit of reading these wonderful pieces of bound paper called a hardback or paperback book. Maybe.
After all, nothing stays the same. Changes are inevitable.
But we don't have B&N's problems. And I can't see it coming. We still have our huge book sale going on, and it's going very good! The used books are dwindling faster and faster, especially the children's hardback books. We still have lots of audios, a few children's videos, and a fair amount of juvenile fiction.
And today we have lots of free magazines: SmartMoney, Golf, Fashion, Time, Conde' Nast Portfolio, Fortune, Newsweek, Kiplinger's Personal Finance, and Women's Health Advisor from Weill Medical College of Cornell University.
Our doors are open. We are up and running. We are a giant bookstore with lots to offer and we're not going out of business.
Why not stop by and see for yourself?
(Source: Yahoo!, James B. Stewart, The Wall Street Journal)
"The giant bookstore chain, whose superstores once struck fear into the hearts of independent booksellers everywhere, put itself up for sale this month...." This was the beginning of the article by James B. Stewart, a columnist for SmartMoney magazine, provided by The Wall Street Journal.
Stewart's hunch for the demise is "that B&N never really embraced the Internet or e-books, tied as it was to the old-fashioned world of physical books and stores." (Ow! that hurt! Kinda like Harry Potter's magic wand
shop.)
Stewart also admitted he likes "reading on the iPad, especially in bed at night and in other places where the device's back-lighting comes in handy. So far, it hasn't bothered my eyes at all, unlike the indistinct pages of the Kindle. But the Kindle is better outdoors." (My bound paper books have never given me a problem either. And I never have to worry about which book will be better
outdoors.)
Then he talked about being "confronted with a dizzying array of options," "information overload," and "being distracted by information I don't really need" with his iPad or Kindle. (I have to admit I have that problem with lovely bookstores, but it's a lovely problem I enjoy.)
Even though he said he couldn't say he missed physical books because his shelves were already groaning and he couldn't accommodate any more (ever hear about recycling and sharing in book clubs?), he did miss the bookstore he grew up with in the MidWest. (Ah! the truth is finally coming out.) And he wondered if B&N's decline could pave the way for the return of the independent bookseller. (That's something great to think about.)
He went on to talk about B&N stock and other stuff, but I got the jest of his article.
I signed with relief, knowing that we don't have B&N's problems. Now, I also know that many people think one day there will be no more libraries, no more physical (paper) books, that it will all be Internet, iPads, Kindles, etc. But you know what? I don't believe that, and I understand there are a great many others like me out there in the reading
world.
Maybe independent bookstores are slowly going out of business. Maybe. Maybe there are less books being printed and published. Maybe. And I may be one of those dinosaurs who refuse to give up my habit of reading these wonderful pieces of bound paper called a hardback or paperback book. Maybe.
After all, nothing stays the same. Changes are inevitable.
But we don't have B&N's problems. And I can't see it coming. We still have our huge book sale going on, and it's going very good! The used books are dwindling faster and faster, especially the children's hardback books. We still have lots of audios, a few children's videos, and a fair amount of juvenile fiction.
And today we have lots of free magazines: SmartMoney, Golf, Fashion, Time, Conde' Nast Portfolio, Fortune, Newsweek, Kiplinger's Personal Finance, and Women's Health Advisor from Weill Medical College of Cornell University.
Our doors are open. We are up and running. We are a giant bookstore with lots to offer and we're not going out of business.
Why not stop by and see for yourself?
(Source: Yahoo!, James B. Stewart, The Wall Street Journal)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Books into movies
Four of us girlfriends went to see Eat, Pray, Love this past weekend. It's the movie most women have been waiting to see, but whether or not it fulfilled their wishes to see a good book turned into a movie, only they will know.
The movie portrays Julia Roberts in the lead, a woman some reviewers called a "conflicted" woman. If that's the case, there have probably been a great number of "conflicted" women around over the last thousands of years.
Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of the book, was one such woman; thus, her reason for writing the book.
I read the book about two years ago and found the movie just as interesting. When I watched Gilbert being interviewed by Matt Lauher the other day, she said she
was pleased with the way the movie turned out. So
was I.
But the best part of watching the movie as compared to reading the book was in getting to see all those wonderful places she visited.
We roamed the narrow streets of Italy with Julia Roberts, ate pizza with her, and drank the wine. The scenery was gorgeous. Of course, she discovered the power of nourishment and, as Gilbert said, she gained 30
pounds.
Then we sat meditation with her in the ashram's temple, went to an Indian wedding, and felt her pain as we watched her go through periods of forgiveness and forgiving. Here she discovered the power of prayer.
When she ended up in Bali, we rejoiced at the beauty of the ocean, the trees and flowers, her "house" she lived in, and the lessons she learned from a wise, little, old man. But it was in Bali she discovered love and how to conquer her fear of being hurt by loving.
If you haven't seen the movie, why not delve into the book first? Then see the movie; see if you catch the subtle changes. And then...like all good readers do, decide which one you like the best.
As for me, I love reading the books first.
The movie portrays Julia Roberts in the lead, a woman some reviewers called a "conflicted" woman. If that's the case, there have probably been a great number of "conflicted" women around over the last thousands of years.
Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of the book, was one such woman; thus, her reason for writing the book.
I read the book about two years ago and found the movie just as interesting. When I watched Gilbert being interviewed by Matt Lauher the other day, she said she
was pleased with the way the movie turned out. So
was I.
But the best part of watching the movie as compared to reading the book was in getting to see all those wonderful places she visited.
We roamed the narrow streets of Italy with Julia Roberts, ate pizza with her, and drank the wine. The scenery was gorgeous. Of course, she discovered the power of nourishment and, as Gilbert said, she gained 30
pounds.
Then we sat meditation with her in the ashram's temple, went to an Indian wedding, and felt her pain as we watched her go through periods of forgiveness and forgiving. Here she discovered the power of prayer.
When she ended up in Bali, we rejoiced at the beauty of the ocean, the trees and flowers, her "house" she lived in, and the lessons she learned from a wise, little, old man. But it was in Bali she discovered love and how to conquer her fear of being hurt by loving.
If you haven't seen the movie, why not delve into the book first? Then see the movie; see if you catch the subtle changes. And then...like all good readers do, decide which one you like the best.
As for me, I love reading the books first.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
A message from our director
School has started and along with that beginning comes more activity in the library.
As students and parents come to us seeking help and information, those of us who work here are remembering a few things.
First, the library can be a scary place if you've never been here before. But we know if you see a warm smile and a caring attitude that can go a long way towards calming those fears.
Second, we have a lot of information available in the databases that are shown on our library webpage. Be sure you check out these databases. Some of them are expensive and we're hoping enough of our patrons use them so we can continue with our subscriptions. If you have any problems or questions about them, please ask the staff to
help you.
Also, Moultrie Technical College is participating in a program called "Work Ready." This program is aimed at improving the labor force in Colquitt County and marketing our community to businesses and industries nationwide. Please read the posters in the computer area or ask the library staff about the program.
We hope everyone who enters our doors will find the information they are seeking. It's our goal to help you whether you're in school or not.
One of the most valuable cards you can carry in your purse or wallet is a library card. We hope you find your public library the most important building in our community.
As students and parents come to us seeking help and information, those of us who work here are remembering a few things.
First, the library can be a scary place if you've never been here before. But we know if you see a warm smile and a caring attitude that can go a long way towards calming those fears.
Second, we have a lot of information available in the databases that are shown on our library webpage. Be sure you check out these databases. Some of them are expensive and we're hoping enough of our patrons use them so we can continue with our subscriptions. If you have any problems or questions about them, please ask the staff to
help you.
Also, Moultrie Technical College is participating in a program called "Work Ready." This program is aimed at improving the labor force in Colquitt County and marketing our community to businesses and industries nationwide. Please read the posters in the computer area or ask the library staff about the program.
We hope everyone who enters our doors will find the information they are seeking. It's our goal to help you whether you're in school or not.
One of the most valuable cards you can carry in your purse or wallet is a library card. We hope you find your public library the most important building in our community.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
We're having a really BIG book sale
Our inventory week is over and we're now having a really BIG book sale. In fact, you can't find prices like these anywhere in town or even in the surrounding areas. So, come check us out. There are 1,000 books and the prices are: Hardbacks 25 cents, paperbacks 10 cents, audios and videos 50 cents, sets of encyclopedias for only $5, and other prices as marked.
We have a large selection of children's book to include Mary Poppins, The Magic Tears, the Tales of Myrtle the Turtle, and Freaky Friday.
There are mysteries like The Mystery of the Stuttering Parrot, The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, and The Mystery of the Eagle's Claw.
We have books about cats, dogs, elephants, rats, bears (including Paddington), birds, dragons, horses, owls, geese, as well as angels and engineers.
There are biographies of Carl Sandburg, Eleanor Roosevelt, Allan Pinkerton, Betsy Ross, and Charles M. Russell, just to name a few.
There are some series books like The Hardy Boys, The Baby-Sitters Club, and Baby-Sitters Little Sister.
There are books about baseball, basketball, and runners. There are encyclopedias, almanacs, and Guinness books. All the above books are Junior Fiction or Junior Bios...children's books.
Of course, we never forget our adult readers. For you we have books on sports, opera, gardens, as well as biographies of John McCain, Tony Randall, and Alex Hawkins to name a few.
There are books about decorating dens, apartments and every room everywhere.
There are art books about string art, illustrations, photography, and drawing.
And there are fictions by Cormac McCarthy, Pat Conroy, Andrew Greeley, Jackie Collins, Jonathan Franzen, and lots of Avalon books.
Audios are by Danielle Steel, Rex Stout, John Sandford, James Patterson, Dennis Lehane, and Ann Rivers Siddons, plus many more.
The videos are for children and the magazines are free.
Now! What more could you ask than a good book at a very, very low cost...or audio or video...to help you pass the time away during these hot summer months.
I heard someone say the other day that autumn is just around the corner. Really? Keep reading, Georgia!
We have a large selection of children's book to include Mary Poppins, The Magic Tears, the Tales of Myrtle the Turtle, and Freaky Friday.
There are mysteries like The Mystery of the Stuttering Parrot, The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, and The Mystery of the Eagle's Claw.
We have books about cats, dogs, elephants, rats, bears (including Paddington), birds, dragons, horses, owls, geese, as well as angels and engineers.
There are biographies of Carl Sandburg, Eleanor Roosevelt, Allan Pinkerton, Betsy Ross, and Charles M. Russell, just to name a few.
There are some series books like The Hardy Boys, The Baby-Sitters Club, and Baby-Sitters Little Sister.
There are books about baseball, basketball, and runners. There are encyclopedias, almanacs, and Guinness books. All the above books are Junior Fiction or Junior Bios...children's books.
Of course, we never forget our adult readers. For you we have books on sports, opera, gardens, as well as biographies of John McCain, Tony Randall, and Alex Hawkins to name a few.
There are books about decorating dens, apartments and every room everywhere.
There are art books about string art, illustrations, photography, and drawing.
And there are fictions by Cormac McCarthy, Pat Conroy, Andrew Greeley, Jackie Collins, Jonathan Franzen, and lots of Avalon books.
Audios are by Danielle Steel, Rex Stout, John Sandford, James Patterson, Dennis Lehane, and Ann Rivers Siddons, plus many more.
The videos are for children and the magazines are free.
Now! What more could you ask than a good book at a very, very low cost...or audio or video...to help you pass the time away during these hot summer months.
I heard someone say the other day that autumn is just around the corner. Really? Keep reading, Georgia!
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