Vol. 11, No 8. April 10, 2008

OFF THE SHELF
A BI-WEEKLY LIBRARY NEWSLETTER
Vol. 11, No 8. April 10, 2008



QUOTE OF THE WEEK
Again the blackbirds sings; the streams
Wake, laughing, from their winter dreams,
And tremble in the April showers
The tassels of the maple flowers.
- John Greenleaf Whittier, The Singer



STAFF DAY – April 11
Just a reminder that on Friday, April 11, the Library will be closed so the staff may participate in our annual staff day. We’ll be better than ever!



WORLD TRAVELER, ADVENTURIST, RESEARCHER, AND AUTHOR, PETER LOURIE, COMING TO READING!
Peter Lourie, author of adventure books that cover the globe, will be presenting a special evening program at the Reading Public Library on MONDAY, APRIL 14 AT 7:30 P.M. sponsored by The Friends of the Reading Public Library. Please join us for this entertaining presentation of Mr. Lourie’s travels down one of America’s great rivers, the Hudson River.
“This presentation of story-telling and slide-viewing covers the geography, ecology, history, culture and literature of the river – including the haunting story of Captain Kidd burying gold in the Hudson Highlands!”
Mr. Lourie’s 315 mile canoe journey down the Hudson River started at the river’s source at Lake Tear of the Clouds in the Adirondack Mountains all the way to New York Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The three-week adventure traversed changing landscapes from a mountain stream to a three-mile-wide tidal estuary. To the presentation, Mr. Lourie will bring his canoe, paddles, camping gear, and slides of his trip on the Hudson.
Peter Lourie is the author of 19 adventure books about his travels around the globe. These are not just quick visits. In order to write a book about a place, its history, geography, people and culture, Mr. Lourie must experience it himself. Mr. Lourie has studied early human bones with Margaret Leakey in Kenya, surveyed monkeys in the jungles of Ecuador, researched the story of Inca gold in Peru, studied the ancient Mayans in Mexico, has gone scuba diving with sharks in the Bahamas, and traveled to the jungles of Bolivia, Brazil, Panama, Peru, and Africa.
Mr. Lourie will be spending two days in Reading attending both Coolidge and Parker Middle Schools. This program is funded through a cooperative effort of The Friends of the Reading Public Library and the Coolidge and Parker Middle School Parent Teacher Organizations. The Reading Cultural Council also partially funded this program through a grant.
This event is free and open to the public. The program will be held in the Meeting Room. Refreshments will be served. A question and answer period will follow the presentation. Copies of Mr. Lourie’s books are now available to borrow at the Library. Books will also be available to purchase and have autographed at the evening program. Questions may be directed to the Information Desk by calling (781) 944-0840 or via e-mail at rdgteen@noblenet.org.


LIVEWIRES
AUTHOR RICHARD MARINICK TO SPEAK
Author Richard Marinick will appear at the Reading Public Library on Tuesday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss his recent novel, IN FOR A POUND. During a stint in prison for an armored car robbery, Richard Marinick earned two degrees from Boston University and turned his talents to writing. His first novel, BOYOS, was published to critical acclaim. Described by USA Today as “a cult classic", his writing is gritty and authentic. The author knows the mean streets of Southie and has paid the price. Fueled by his first hand experiences as a Massachusetts State Trooper, a gangster and prison inmate, his recent novel, IN FOR A POUND tells a tale of crime and betrayal in the seamy, drug-infested South Boston underworld. Marinick will have books available for purchase and for signing. This program is presented by LiveWires – Lifelong Learning in the Library. This event is free of charge, and is funded by the Reading Lions Club.



BOOK CLUB BITS
There are some very interesting books being talked about at the Library.

BIBLIOBABBLERS (Adult Book Discussion Group)
The Bibliobabblers will be reading TRUTH AND BEAUTY by Ann Patchett. The author of BEL CANTO turns to nonfiction in a moving chronicle of her decades long friendship with the critically acclaimed and recently deceased author, Lucy Grealy. What happens when the person who is your family is someone you aren’t bound to by blood? What happens when that person is not your lover, but your best friend? In her frank and startlingly intimate first work of nonfiction, TRUTH AND BEAUTY, Ann Patchett shines light on the little explored world of women’s friendships and shows us what it means to stand together. This is a tender, brutal book about loving a person we cannot save. Karyn Storti will lead the discussion of this title on Tuesday, May 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the Library Conference Room. Books are available at the Circulation Desk and new members are encouraged and welcome.

NOT-TOO-STUFFY
The Not-Too-Stuffy Book Group will meet in the Lounge at the Senior Center, 49 Pleasant Street on Thursday, April 17 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. The title for discussion is HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG by Andre Dubus. Copies of the book are available at the Senior Center or the Library. The discussion leader will be lead by our own award-winning librarian, Nancy Aberman. Please join the group!
The May 15th title will be CUSTODY by Nancy Thayer.

SLACKERS – The Book Club for People Who Don’t Want to be Committed
Check out the main floor display for the current Slacker – I FEEL BAD ABOUT MY NECK by Nora Ephron. With her disarming, intimate, completely accessible voice, and dry sense of humor, Nora Ephron shares with us her ups and downs in latest book. A candid, hilarious look at women who are getting older and dealing with the tribulations of maintenance, menopause, empty nests, and life itself. This is aging lite – but that might be the answer.




THE TEEN SPOT
Teen Crafternoon: Altered Books
Thursday April 17, 2008 from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
"Altered Books" is a form of collage art. Students will recycle a book from the Book Sale room or bring one from home, and transform it into a personalized artistic expression. Students may also work on "Artist Trading Cards (ATC)" which are smaller collage projects using the same materials.If you like to cut, punch, stamp, fold, frame, crop, emboss, tint, journal, quill, set, or sticker stuff, then this is a perfect activity for you.
Open to teens in grades 6-12. The Reading Public Library will supply a variety of papers, glues, inks, stamps, punches, markers, scissors, trimmers and MORE. No registration required - this is a free event. This event is funded by a federal LSTA grant administered through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.



CELEBRATE SPRING IN THE CHILDREN'S ROOM AT RPL
The Children's Room is planning a variety of fun events to help celebrate Spring, Earth Day, and April School Vacation Week. We hope you can join us for one of the following, or just come in to the newly carpeted Children's Room to select books, magazines, music and video materials to share as a family.

A Walk in the Town Forest
Celebrate Earth Day and Spring with a walk in the Reading Town Forest. We will be looking for plants, animals and signs of spring! More information will be handed out upon registration. Register beginning Saturday April 5 at the Children's Room Desk or call 781-942-6705. Registration preference given to Reading residents. One adult needed to chaperone each 3 children.
Wednesday April 23, 2008, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
For Children in Grades 1 to 5 with adults.
Rain date: Friday April 25, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Flower Power Hour
Children in grades K - 5 are invited to drop in the Meeting Room to create a variety of paper flowers, using Origami, tissue paper and other papers. Come make a flower or two to decorate your room or to give to a special friend for Spring!
Thursday April 24, 2008
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Meeting Room
For Grades K through 5.
No registration necessary.

"Eggbert 'n' Ice” (Postponed from the snowstorm day during February vacation)
Mad Science of Greater Boston will present a high energy demonstration that will dazzle, entertain, and leave the audience with memories that will last long beyond the performance. The show will include foggy dry ice and demonstrations of how science is used to float beach balls in the air. The audience will suggest ways to unlock the mystery of how to get "Eggbert" back in his house. Ever see scissors sizzle and shiver? Ever take a bubble shower? Come to the Library and join in the excitement!
Friday April 25, 2008
10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
Meeting Room
For ages 5 to 10.
No registration necessary.

Spring Storytimes – Registration Now in Progress!
Storytimes are some of the most important programs we offer in the Children’s Room. They are a wonderful way for your children to gain important pre-literacy skills like print and phonological awareness. The stories and songs help teach kids about patterns, rhythm, and repetition. Fingerplays encourage the use of fine motor skills, coordination and memory. But most importantly of all, storytimes are a ton of fun! Kids love visiting with Cocoa Moose and hearing great stories.

Mother Goose Lapsit Sign up
Storytime for children under 2 and their caretakers! The Lapsit groups are starting Wednesday, April 30 and running for four weeks through May 21. We have space in both the 9:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. classes. Come in or call the Children's Room at 781-942-6705 to register.

“Drop-In” Evening Storytimes
Tuesdays 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. (April 15, no Storytime 4/22 due to Spring Break) and April 29)
For ages 4 through 7.
No Registration necessary.

Contact us in the Children’s Room for more information: 781-942-6705.
Check http://www.readingpl.org/kidsstorytime.html for updates.




SUMMERTIME IS VOLUNTEEN TIME!
Volunteen Applications will be available starting Thursday, May 1. This popular summer program is open to students entering 6th through 12th grade in the Fall. Volunteens are an important part of our Teen and Children’s summer reading programs. These volunteers are responsible for assisting with summer program registration, decorating, word processing, and many other duties vital to the success of our programs. Students have the opportunity to volunteer in either the Teen Spot or the Children’s Room. The application deadline is Saturday, May 17 at 5:00 p.m. Don’t miss your chance to take part!


WEBSITE OF THE WEEK
Thinking about starting an edible garden this summer or maybe looking for some no-fail groundcover to replace that costly lawn? Check out the Better Homes & Garden gardening site. It is chock full of gardening tips and ideas.
http://www.bhg.com/gardening/




NEW BOOKS, MOVIES, AND MORE!
To see the list of library materials purchased this month, follow this link:
http://www.readingpl.org/lists.html



BOSTON BY FOOT PASS NOW AVAILABLE AT THE LIBRARY
BOSTON BY FOOT offers guided walking tours of Boston featuring its history and architecture.
http://www.bostonbyfoot.org/
We have a Monday-Wednesday-Friday pass, a Tuesday-Thursday pass, and two weekend passes. Each pass provides free admission for groups of up to four people. The passes are good from May to October only (Apparently people don't want to walk in the winter!) This great new addition has been provided by our wonderful Friends of the Library!



WHAT'S HAPPENING @ YOUR LIBRARY!
All events listed take place at the Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, unless otherwise noted.

Monday, April 14: Author visit with Peter Lourie. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served and books available for purchase. Meeting Room 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15: Drop-In Evening Storytime. For children 4-7 years of age. Free. No registration necessary. 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: The Not-Too-Stuffy Book Group for Seniors meets to discuss HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG by Andre Dubus III. Led by Deirdre Reilly, local columnist and radio show host. Copies of the book will be available at the Senior Center Book Nook or at the Library. 1:00 p.m. at the Senior Center Lounge.

Thursday, April 17: Teen Crafternoon--Scrapbooking, Cards, Altered Books & More. Do you like to cut, punch, stamp, fold, frame, crop, emboss, tint, journal, quill, set, or sticker stuff? Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to the library to explore the creative world of paper crafts. Drop in and work on a new project OR bring your own scrapbook, photos, or altered book. The Library will supply a variety of papers, glues, inks, and other supplies. Free event, no registration required. Supplies are provided with funds from the Friends of the Reading Public Library and with federal LSTA grant funds through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: Conversation Group. . Is English your second language? Improve your English by conversing with other advanced English learners or practice your writing in a relaxed, welcoming, friendly atmosphere. 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.

Friday, April 18: Infant Toddler Sing-along. with Peter Sheridan. No registration necessary. Sponsored by the Friends of the Reading Public Library. 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.

Monday, April 21: Library Closed for Patriot’s Day Holiday

Tuesday, April 22: LiveWires Presents Richard Marinick, author of BOYOS and IN FOR A POUND. Former state trooper, Big Dig laborer, member of an armed robbery gang, and prison inmate turned college graduate and writer, Richard Marinick will speak about his writing and experiences. This event is free and open to all. 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 23: Town Forest Walk for Grades 1-5 with adults. Registration begins April 5 in the Children’s Room or call 781-942-6705 to sign up for a fascinating Spring walk with librarian and naturalist Rachel Baumgartner. 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 24: Flower Power Hour for Kids. Welcome spring and get ready for May Day by creating some fantastic paper flowers using a number of different methods including origami! For grades K-5. Free, no registration necessary. 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 24: Conversation Group. (see April 17 event for details). 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.

Friday, April 25: Mad Science presents “Eggbert 'n' Ice.” Kids! Have fun during Vacation Week with Mad Science of Greater Boston. Their high energy show promises to dazzle and entertain with foggy dry ice, egg 'magic' and demonstrations of how science is used to float beach balls in the air. Ever see scissors sizzle and shiver? Ever take a bubble shower? Come have fun with science at the Library! For ages 5-10. Free. No registration necessary. 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.

Tuesday, April 29: Word of Mouth. Informal monthly discussion of what people have been reading lately 10:30 – 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29: Drop-In Evening Storytime. For children 4-7 years of age. Free. No registration necessary. 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.


*Namasté
Susan L. Beauregard
Reference/Young Adult Librarian


*Namaste is an Indian expression used as a greeting or upon parting, by putting the palms of the hands together in prayer position. It means, “I honor the Spirit in you which is also in me.”



LIBRARY HOURS
Mondays 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Wednesday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Thursdays 1 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Fridays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturdays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.