Meinders Library is pleased to welcome Lester Landgren back to the library to teach a digital photography editing class! Chances are, if you have a digital camera, you’ve got digital photographs saved on your computer that you haven’t done anything with.
This class can help you with those! Picasa is a free software that can be downloaded from the internet and it is capable of doing everything that Photoshop can, without spending all that money. Lester will help class participants learn how to utilize this resource to its best advantage.
Once photographs are edited, they can be used for all manner of projects, including on-line scrapbooking and special collages. Come and learn how to make those pictures look spectacular, just in time to take more at Christmas!
Class dates are as follows:
December 15, 16, and 17 at 6:30 PM
December 19 at 1:30 PM
Please call Meinders Library at 825-6714 to reserve a spot! Space is limited to the first 10 people who sign up for each class.
If you are interested in the computer class, or if you have a book to reserve of renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Meinders Library is open Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Library is located at 1401 7th Street, Southwest, on the south side of the High School.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Holiday Crafts at the Library! 12-12-09
I don’t know about you, but I always get the urge to do crafty things around the holidays, either to give to people or to display in my own house. Bring the kids down to the Library on Saturday, December 12 between 12:30 and 4 PM and we’ll have all sorts of things for them to do to get their hands busy.
We’ll have three different kinds of ornaments that the kids will be able to make and take home: a popsicle stick reindeer, a painted puzzle piece, and a tissue paper/stained glass creation. We will also have white paper and scissors for snowflakes and holiday coloring sheets.
In addition to the crafts kids can take home, we’ll also be making paper chains to decorate the library, ornaments for the library tree, and a hand-print Christmas tree for the library’s front window. Come help us get in the holiday spirit!
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714. We look forward to seeing you there!!
We’ll have three different kinds of ornaments that the kids will be able to make and take home: a popsicle stick reindeer, a painted puzzle piece, and a tissue paper/stained glass creation. We will also have white paper and scissors for snowflakes and holiday coloring sheets.
In addition to the crafts kids can take home, we’ll also be making paper chains to decorate the library, ornaments for the library tree, and a hand-print Christmas tree for the library’s front window. Come help us get in the holiday spirit!
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714. We look forward to seeing you there!!
A New Purse Can Help A Child Learn To Read! 12-06-09
Miss’ Purse-n-ality (Melissa Scotting) will be hosting a special purse party at her home on Sunday, December 6th, from 1-3 PM. This party is just in time for Christmas and is the perfect place to find just the right gift for any ladies on your list. The party will be held at 905 9th Avenue Southwest, Pipestone. Bring a friend and have a great time!
25% of the proceeds from the party will go to Meinders Library to help fund our new program, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. The program is a reading program open to children from birth until 5 years of age. It is designed to promote awareness of the critical importance of literacy skills in children even before they reach school. The program will also help parents realize and participate in the acquisition of these skills as they step into their irreplaceable role as their child’s first teacher. The ultimate goal is to encourage parents to reach to their children from birth until they begin attending school, and beyond. Once children are exposed to books, they tend to develop a life-long love of reading and that same exposure will help them enter into school ready and willing to learn.
When a child is registered, they receive a book bag (colored canvas and paintable!), a bookmark, a colored pencil, a bound reading log, and a special sticker. For every twenty books recorded in the reading log, participants may go to the library to have their log stamped and receive another sticker. Once 500 books have been read, the child receives a paperback book. Each year, during Children’s Book Week in May, a party will be held to celebrate those children who reached 1000 books during the previous year. At the celebration, each child who completed the program will get a certificate and a paperback book. The children must complete the program before they start kindergarten.
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714. We look forward to seeing you at the party!!
25% of the proceeds from the party will go to Meinders Library to help fund our new program, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. The program is a reading program open to children from birth until 5 years of age. It is designed to promote awareness of the critical importance of literacy skills in children even before they reach school. The program will also help parents realize and participate in the acquisition of these skills as they step into their irreplaceable role as their child’s first teacher. The ultimate goal is to encourage parents to reach to their children from birth until they begin attending school, and beyond. Once children are exposed to books, they tend to develop a life-long love of reading and that same exposure will help them enter into school ready and willing to learn.
When a child is registered, they receive a book bag (colored canvas and paintable!), a bookmark, a colored pencil, a bound reading log, and a special sticker. For every twenty books recorded in the reading log, participants may go to the library to have their log stamped and receive another sticker. Once 500 books have been read, the child receives a paperback book. Each year, during Children’s Book Week in May, a party will be held to celebrate those children who reached 1000 books during the previous year. At the celebration, each child who completed the program will get a certificate and a paperback book. The children must complete the program before they start kindergarten.
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714. We look forward to seeing you at the party!!
Christmas Happenings 12-02-09
Can you believe it’s already December? It doesn’t seem as if it’s that late in the year, much less almost Christmas. Now is the time when calendars seem to fill without even trying, with holiday parties, shopping trips, family gatherings, and all sorts of other things.
Meinders Community Library would like to put a few more things onto your calendar. No, really! We can help with the shopping, the urge to do something crafty, and the need to do something with all those holiday photos!
December 6 (1:00 – 3:00 PM): Purse Party for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
Miss’ Purse-n-ality (Melissa Scotting) will be hosting a purse party at her home on December 6th from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. 25% of the proceeds will go towards Meinders Library to help us start our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program to encourage children from birth to 5 years of age to read! Not only is buying a purse for yourself or a friend a perfect Christmas gift, but part of the money will go to fund early literacy for children. How can you go wrong?? The party will be held at 905 9th Avenue SW in Pipestone and promises to be a lot of fun. Bring a friend, buy a purse, and help a child learn to love to read!
December 12 (12:30 – 4:00 PM): Holiday Craft Day
I don’t know about you, but I always get the urge to do crafty things around Christmas, either to give to people or to display in my own house. Bring the kids down to the Library on December 12 and we’ll have all sorts of things for them to do to get their hands busy. The kids will be able to make three different ornaments to take home, cut snowflakes, color holiday pictures, and help decorate the library with paper chains and a handprint Christmas tree! It’s going to be a LOT of fun and we hope to see you there!
December 15(6:30),16(6:30),17(6:30),19(1:30): Digital Photograph Editing class (Picasa)
I have oodles of holiday pictures that I have done nothing with. I keep saying I’m going to scrapbook them, but I never do. I have tons saved on my computer as well, just sitting there and waiting. Lester Landgren plans to help us with this problem. Picasa is a free photo editing software that can do almost everything that Photoshop can do and doesn’t cost a dime. It can take out redeye, change tints, and do all sorts of artsy types of things that can get you ready for digital scrapbooking, not to mention fix up all those photos your four-year-old took when she got ahold of the camera. Not that that’s ever happened to me… Call to reserve your spot today!
December 28,29,30 : PAFL Book Sale!
It’s that time of year again! Pipestone Area Friends of the Library (PAFL) will be holding their annual book sale at the Library. Come and browse through a bountiful selection of hardcover and paperback books, VHS tapes, and books on cassette to find some perfect winter reading material. Stop by and check it out!!
Holiday Hours
Meinders Library will have slightly different hours around the holidays. We will be closed on December 24th and 25th, as well as January 1st. We will be open on New Year’s Eve, but we will close at 5:00 PM to allow the staff time to get home for those parties (or time to get home before everyone ELSE goes to parties, as the case may be). We will be open both the Saturday after Christmas and the Saturday after New Years Day. We might be tired, but we’ll be here.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Meinders Community Library is located at 1401 7th Street SW, on the south side of the high school.
Meinders Community Library would like to put a few more things onto your calendar. No, really! We can help with the shopping, the urge to do something crafty, and the need to do something with all those holiday photos!
December 6 (1:00 – 3:00 PM): Purse Party for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
Miss’ Purse-n-ality (Melissa Scotting) will be hosting a purse party at her home on December 6th from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. 25% of the proceeds will go towards Meinders Library to help us start our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program to encourage children from birth to 5 years of age to read! Not only is buying a purse for yourself or a friend a perfect Christmas gift, but part of the money will go to fund early literacy for children. How can you go wrong?? The party will be held at 905 9th Avenue SW in Pipestone and promises to be a lot of fun. Bring a friend, buy a purse, and help a child learn to love to read!
December 12 (12:30 – 4:00 PM): Holiday Craft Day
I don’t know about you, but I always get the urge to do crafty things around Christmas, either to give to people or to display in my own house. Bring the kids down to the Library on December 12 and we’ll have all sorts of things for them to do to get their hands busy. The kids will be able to make three different ornaments to take home, cut snowflakes, color holiday pictures, and help decorate the library with paper chains and a handprint Christmas tree! It’s going to be a LOT of fun and we hope to see you there!
December 15(6:30),16(6:30),17(6:30),19(1:30): Digital Photograph Editing class (Picasa)
I have oodles of holiday pictures that I have done nothing with. I keep saying I’m going to scrapbook them, but I never do. I have tons saved on my computer as well, just sitting there and waiting. Lester Landgren plans to help us with this problem. Picasa is a free photo editing software that can do almost everything that Photoshop can do and doesn’t cost a dime. It can take out redeye, change tints, and do all sorts of artsy types of things that can get you ready for digital scrapbooking, not to mention fix up all those photos your four-year-old took when she got ahold of the camera. Not that that’s ever happened to me… Call to reserve your spot today!
December 28,29,30 : PAFL Book Sale!
It’s that time of year again! Pipestone Area Friends of the Library (PAFL) will be holding their annual book sale at the Library. Come and browse through a bountiful selection of hardcover and paperback books, VHS tapes, and books on cassette to find some perfect winter reading material. Stop by and check it out!!
Holiday Hours
Meinders Library will have slightly different hours around the holidays. We will be closed on December 24th and 25th, as well as January 1st. We will be open on New Year’s Eve, but we will close at 5:00 PM to allow the staff time to get home for those parties (or time to get home before everyone ELSE goes to parties, as the case may be). We will be open both the Saturday after Christmas and the Saturday after New Years Day. We might be tired, but we’ll be here.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Meinders Community Library is located at 1401 7th Street SW, on the south side of the high school.
Veteran's Day 11-11-09
I come from a line of veterans. My grandfather, from Worthington, Minnesota, served in India during World War II as a veterinarian. My father was a Marine, and though he didn’t serve during a war, he did his patriotic duty. My husband was in the Army and served in Germany, then Iraq for Operation Desert Storm. His parents, in turn, were both in the Air Force and met each other in the service. Veterans Day is a day when we should recognize and celebrate the bravery and sacrifice that soldiers from all branches of the military have made for us. Our soldiers come in all ages, in both sexes, all religions, and all colors. They fought to keep our country free and democratic – to make us what we are today. Make sure to thank them.
On November 15th, the History Channel will be airing never-before-seen footage of World War II. The footage has been digitally remastered in high definition and will give a view of the war that is far more real than much of what we’ve seen before. Check your local paper for listings on the time.
The library has several movies out that have been critically acclaimed for showing how it was for soldiers. If they interest you, come in and check them out.
Band of Brothers (Vietnam)
This series originally aired on HBO and was hailed as one of the best war series ever made. It was produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg and the library has the complete, 10-part set. There is also a disc that includes a documentary on the Easy Company and several other special features.
Invisible Enemy (Vietnam)
Part of a series called American Honor, produced by ABC News, The Learning Channel, and sponsored by the American Legion.
The War (World War II – Ken Burns)
A quarter of this film centers on the community of Luverne, Minnesota, where the movie was originally screened. This set contains all seven parts of the documentary, as well as numerous special features. It lasts for 15 hours and took six years of work. The object of the documentary was to show how to war affected those left at home and Burns uses four different towns in the United States to paint a picture of life during those years.
Flags of Our Fathers (World War II – Clint Eastwood)
This movie, directed by Academy Award Winner Clint Eastwood and nominated for Oscars itself, show the American side of the Battle of Iwo Jima.
And if you don’t feel like watching a movie or the television, the library has a huge selection of books, both fiction and non-fiction, depicting the wars this country has fought. I don’t have space to list them all, but here are two that may spark interest.
The Dardanelles Disaster by Dan Van Der Vat (World War I)
In 1915, the British Navy failed to capture Constantinople and through there, a sea route to Russia. Van Der Vat is a naval military historian who writes that this failure not only prolonged the war, but led to the Russian Revolution and contributed to the destabilization in the Middle East. The book is fascinating and enlightening and a must read for any military historian and others interested.
Soul Survivor by Bruce and Andrea Leininger(World War II – and the Present)
This book might be a bit beyond what would normally be considered war-related, but you’ll have to bear with me. About a year ago, a young man appeared on Oprah with his parents, who had a very odd story to tell. That story is chronicled in this book and gives rise to questions of reincarnation. Was James Leininger a reincarnated World War II pilot? As a toddler, James would say and do things that led his parents to an incredible discovery.
To all the veterans reading this article, I salute you. My salute may not be as crisp as my husband’s, my father’s, or my grandfather’s, but I salute you just the same. From infantryman to general, thank you for serving our country. We would not be the America we are today without you.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
On November 15th, the History Channel will be airing never-before-seen footage of World War II. The footage has been digitally remastered in high definition and will give a view of the war that is far more real than much of what we’ve seen before. Check your local paper for listings on the time.
The library has several movies out that have been critically acclaimed for showing how it was for soldiers. If they interest you, come in and check them out.
Band of Brothers (Vietnam)
This series originally aired on HBO and was hailed as one of the best war series ever made. It was produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg and the library has the complete, 10-part set. There is also a disc that includes a documentary on the Easy Company and several other special features.
Invisible Enemy (Vietnam)
Part of a series called American Honor, produced by ABC News, The Learning Channel, and sponsored by the American Legion.
The War (World War II – Ken Burns)
A quarter of this film centers on the community of Luverne, Minnesota, where the movie was originally screened. This set contains all seven parts of the documentary, as well as numerous special features. It lasts for 15 hours and took six years of work. The object of the documentary was to show how to war affected those left at home and Burns uses four different towns in the United States to paint a picture of life during those years.
Flags of Our Fathers (World War II – Clint Eastwood)
This movie, directed by Academy Award Winner Clint Eastwood and nominated for Oscars itself, show the American side of the Battle of Iwo Jima.
And if you don’t feel like watching a movie or the television, the library has a huge selection of books, both fiction and non-fiction, depicting the wars this country has fought. I don’t have space to list them all, but here are two that may spark interest.
The Dardanelles Disaster by Dan Van Der Vat (World War I)
In 1915, the British Navy failed to capture Constantinople and through there, a sea route to Russia. Van Der Vat is a naval military historian who writes that this failure not only prolonged the war, but led to the Russian Revolution and contributed to the destabilization in the Middle East. The book is fascinating and enlightening and a must read for any military historian and others interested.
Soul Survivor by Bruce and Andrea Leininger(World War II – and the Present)
This book might be a bit beyond what would normally be considered war-related, but you’ll have to bear with me. About a year ago, a young man appeared on Oprah with his parents, who had a very odd story to tell. That story is chronicled in this book and gives rise to questions of reincarnation. Was James Leininger a reincarnated World War II pilot? As a toddler, James would say and do things that led his parents to an incredible discovery.
To all the veterans reading this article, I salute you. My salute may not be as crisp as my husband’s, my father’s, or my grandfather’s, but I salute you just the same. From infantryman to general, thank you for serving our country. We would not be the America we are today without you.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Tis the Season, 11/11/09
Making Christmas lists has always been a painful procedure for me – not only gifts I want for myself, but gifts I want to give to other people. My mother has given up on me and just sends me a catalogue, telling me to circle what I want and then mail it back. I struggle every year over what to buy for my husband, hoping to get just the right thing (it hasn’t happened yet).
So in light of that time of year, I thought I would list a few books that could probably be put on a Christmas list for yourself or for someone you know. A lot of popular authors released books in November and the list I’ve included here is by no means complete. Stop in to the library for a listing of the books we ordered this month. Here are just a few:
Ford County by John Grisham
Seven short stories, set around seven different characters, makes this an unusual book from Grisham. Set in the same area as A Time To Kill, these stories will entertain you and some of them will make you laugh out loud. A definite must for followers of the author.
I, Alex Cross by James Patterson
An edge-of-your-seat thriller is delivered yet again from Patterson. Alex is pulled from a family gathering to learn that another relative has been brutally murdered. The quest to catch the killer will lead him into a seedy underbelly of secrets, where your credentials can get you anything you want, and there are some that will do anything to keep their fantasies a secret. The revelation the evidence points to could change everything…
Kindred in Death by J.D. Robb
Coming home from vacation, the new Captain of the NYPSD and his wife are looking forward to spending quality time with their daughter, who stayed at home. They return to find her brutally murdered and Eve Dallas is called in to solve the crime. The evidence points them in one direction, but the killer is using all sorts of tricks to throw them off the trail. To start the Dallas stories at the beginning, read Naked in Death.
The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
Harrison Shepherd is American born, but raised by housekeepers in Mexico. His journey back and forth across the border brings him into contact with Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Lev Trotsky and dozens of other vivid characters as he throws his lot in with art, revolution, and politics. Kingsolver does an excellent job showing how one’s life can be formed and altered by public opinion and her settings and characters are rich and engaging.
Pirate Latitudes by Michael Crichton
The year is 1665. The place is Port Royal, Jamaica. From the storyteller who brought us Jurassic Park comes a swashbuckling story of treasure, piracy, and adventure. A ragtag group of English ruffians, led by a notorious pirate, learn of gold contained within a Spanish galleon and can’t resist the lure, though the capture of such a ship seems impossible.
The Scarpetta Factor by Patricia Cornwell
Kay Scarpetta has been asked to host a television series in the midst of all the other strange things going on in her life. Someone leaves a possible bomb at the front desk of her building, she’s receiving strange phone calls, and suddenly finds herself sucked into a situation that involves a famous actor and a missing millionaires. Don’t miss this one, though if you need to start at the beginning, start with Postmortem.
Shades of Blue by Karen Kingsbury
Life doesn’t always play out like a fairy tale, even if it seems like it’s going to. Brad Cutler believe he has everything he wants – a perfect fiancé, a perfect job, a perfect life – until memories begin to haunt him and he realizes there’s an old love he needs to make amends to. Turning to God for help, Brad struggles to regain the fairy tale he so desperately wants.
206 Bones by Kathy Reichs
If you enjoy the Bones series on FOX, you really should be reading the books the series was based on. While the television series is only loosely based on the book series, the books are fabulous. This installment finds Dr. Brennan not only trapped in a tomb, but fighting to save her reputation after an alleged botched autopsy. If you haven’t been reading the series but would like to start, the first book is called Deja Dead.
Under the Dome by Stephen King
What would you do if the town of Pipestone was entirely sealed off from the world by an invisible forcefield? What if your family was at home and you were running errands in Marshall? King explores this scenario with the fictional town of Chester’s Mill, Maine. What happens to the people of a town when they are suddenly and very completely on their own?
We also have six new DVDs, four new audio books, and several non-fiction and largeprint selections, but you’ll have to come in and browse for yourself to get those titles. Yes, that’s my shameless way of getting you into the library.
And if books are just not your thing, then I must admit I’m at a loss. Having purchased everything from hockey lessons to specialty wine corks for Christmas gifts, I have a tendency to be a little wacky. Just hope I won’t be your secret Santa.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
So in light of that time of year, I thought I would list a few books that could probably be put on a Christmas list for yourself or for someone you know. A lot of popular authors released books in November and the list I’ve included here is by no means complete. Stop in to the library for a listing of the books we ordered this month. Here are just a few:
Ford County by John Grisham
Seven short stories, set around seven different characters, makes this an unusual book from Grisham. Set in the same area as A Time To Kill, these stories will entertain you and some of them will make you laugh out loud. A definite must for followers of the author.
I, Alex Cross by James Patterson
An edge-of-your-seat thriller is delivered yet again from Patterson. Alex is pulled from a family gathering to learn that another relative has been brutally murdered. The quest to catch the killer will lead him into a seedy underbelly of secrets, where your credentials can get you anything you want, and there are some that will do anything to keep their fantasies a secret. The revelation the evidence points to could change everything…
Kindred in Death by J.D. Robb
Coming home from vacation, the new Captain of the NYPSD and his wife are looking forward to spending quality time with their daughter, who stayed at home. They return to find her brutally murdered and Eve Dallas is called in to solve the crime. The evidence points them in one direction, but the killer is using all sorts of tricks to throw them off the trail. To start the Dallas stories at the beginning, read Naked in Death.
The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
Harrison Shepherd is American born, but raised by housekeepers in Mexico. His journey back and forth across the border brings him into contact with Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Lev Trotsky and dozens of other vivid characters as he throws his lot in with art, revolution, and politics. Kingsolver does an excellent job showing how one’s life can be formed and altered by public opinion and her settings and characters are rich and engaging.
Pirate Latitudes by Michael Crichton
The year is 1665. The place is Port Royal, Jamaica. From the storyteller who brought us Jurassic Park comes a swashbuckling story of treasure, piracy, and adventure. A ragtag group of English ruffians, led by a notorious pirate, learn of gold contained within a Spanish galleon and can’t resist the lure, though the capture of such a ship seems impossible.
The Scarpetta Factor by Patricia Cornwell
Kay Scarpetta has been asked to host a television series in the midst of all the other strange things going on in her life. Someone leaves a possible bomb at the front desk of her building, she’s receiving strange phone calls, and suddenly finds herself sucked into a situation that involves a famous actor and a missing millionaires. Don’t miss this one, though if you need to start at the beginning, start with Postmortem.
Shades of Blue by Karen Kingsbury
Life doesn’t always play out like a fairy tale, even if it seems like it’s going to. Brad Cutler believe he has everything he wants – a perfect fiancé, a perfect job, a perfect life – until memories begin to haunt him and he realizes there’s an old love he needs to make amends to. Turning to God for help, Brad struggles to regain the fairy tale he so desperately wants.
206 Bones by Kathy Reichs
If you enjoy the Bones series on FOX, you really should be reading the books the series was based on. While the television series is only loosely based on the book series, the books are fabulous. This installment finds Dr. Brennan not only trapped in a tomb, but fighting to save her reputation after an alleged botched autopsy. If you haven’t been reading the series but would like to start, the first book is called Deja Dead.
Under the Dome by Stephen King
What would you do if the town of Pipestone was entirely sealed off from the world by an invisible forcefield? What if your family was at home and you were running errands in Marshall? King explores this scenario with the fictional town of Chester’s Mill, Maine. What happens to the people of a town when they are suddenly and very completely on their own?
We also have six new DVDs, four new audio books, and several non-fiction and largeprint selections, but you’ll have to come in and browse for yourself to get those titles. Yes, that’s my shameless way of getting you into the library.
And if books are just not your thing, then I must admit I’m at a loss. Having purchased everything from hockey lessons to specialty wine corks for Christmas gifts, I have a tendency to be a little wacky. Just hope I won’t be your secret Santa.
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
National Game Day @ Your Library!
Meinders Library will join hundreds of libraries throughout the country on November 14, 2009, to celebrate the second annual National Game Day @ your Library! Like so many other libraries across the country, Meinders Library will offer special gaming opportunities for the whole family.
Meinders Library will have board games available from 10 AM until 1 PM on the center tables for anyone interested to play. While we have not gotten enough money yet to purchase our Wii, the computers will be available for games all day. Anyone who has a game they would like to bring in and share is more than welcome!
National Gaming Day @ your library is a national initiative supported by the American Library Association, and 2009 sponsors Hasbro, Top Trumps and Wizards of the Coast. For more information on National Gaming Day please visit www.ala.org.
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions about the gaming event or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714.
Meinders Library will have board games available from 10 AM until 1 PM on the center tables for anyone interested to play. While we have not gotten enough money yet to purchase our Wii, the computers will be available for games all day. Anyone who has a game they would like to bring in and share is more than welcome!
National Gaming Day @ your library is a national initiative supported by the American Library Association, and 2009 sponsors Hasbro, Top Trumps and Wizards of the Coast. For more information on National Gaming Day please visit www.ala.org.
Meinders Library is open from 10 – 8, Monday through Thursday, and 10-5 Friday and Saturday. If you have any questions about the gaming event or if you would like to reserve or renew a book, please contact the library at (507) 825-6714.
Friday, October 23, 2009
All Hallows Eve, 10-27-09
How many of you have costumes already for Halloween? Did your kids change their minds about 100 times before deciding on the costume they originally wanted and can you find it in time? Are you dressing up and taking them out for a round of trick-or-treating? All these questions are flashing through the minds of millions of Americans the closer we get to Halloween. But does anybody really wonder where we got the holiday in the first place?
The Gaelic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) is the holiday that Halloween first received its inspiration from. The Gaels believed that during this night, the barrier between the real world and the spirit world became thin and ghosts could wander around as they pleased. Families took the time to honor their dead at this time of year and it was often thought of as the Gaelic New Year, when the next year would begin.
So why do our children dress up and run around like princesses and monsters? Not all the spirits who could pass between the worlds were harmless family ancestors. Some of the spirits were evil and costumes were a way of warding them off. If a person disguised themselves as a harmful spirit, they believed the actual harmful spirits would leave them alone! The entire idea behind trick-or-treating is that the children are dressed as the harmful spirits and the candy works as a balm to keep them pacified and to prevent them from playing tricks on you or on your house. Don’t ask me how dressing up like a harmful spirit translates into princess costumes. I haven’t figured that one out yet.
And the pumpkins? Why do millions of people every year spend hours digging out the squishy guts of gourds and trying to make them look scary? Well, it’s better than an enemy’s head, isn’t it? The Celts believed that the wisdom and the spirit resided in the head of their enemies and, since they were headhunters, they would hang those heads on their door lintels, to keep the wisdom near their house. They would also carve faces into turnips and rutabagas to make lanterns to keep evil spirits away. In the new world, pumpkins were readily available, not to mention larger and easier to carve, so the pumpkin got the job of being a lantern for the protection of the home.
Halloween is not necessarily an evil holiday, or really terribly scary, but Hollywood and literature have certainly made it into one. New horror films typically come out in October, we’ve got haunted houses and witches, black cats and vampires, all of which are not traditionally associated with the original holiday itself. Of course, now that we consider them part of the season, they will never be easily parted. Besides, there’s something about watching a scary movie on Halloween that really appeals to most people and I, personally, think it’s too bad we haven’t got a haunted house in Pipestone.
So I’ll probably see you on Halloween night, trick-or-treating. My children will be Tigger and the Little Mermaid and I will be dressed as, well, a mom. Come on, did you really think I’d say something more exciting?
Stop by Meinders Library for a party on October 31st, from 2-4 PM. We will have goody bags for the kids, mini pumpkins and gourds to paint, and bookmarks to color and stamp. Stories will be read every fifteen minutes and the activities will be self-directed. We hope to see you there!!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
The Gaelic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) is the holiday that Halloween first received its inspiration from. The Gaels believed that during this night, the barrier between the real world and the spirit world became thin and ghosts could wander around as they pleased. Families took the time to honor their dead at this time of year and it was often thought of as the Gaelic New Year, when the next year would begin.
So why do our children dress up and run around like princesses and monsters? Not all the spirits who could pass between the worlds were harmless family ancestors. Some of the spirits were evil and costumes were a way of warding them off. If a person disguised themselves as a harmful spirit, they believed the actual harmful spirits would leave them alone! The entire idea behind trick-or-treating is that the children are dressed as the harmful spirits and the candy works as a balm to keep them pacified and to prevent them from playing tricks on you or on your house. Don’t ask me how dressing up like a harmful spirit translates into princess costumes. I haven’t figured that one out yet.
And the pumpkins? Why do millions of people every year spend hours digging out the squishy guts of gourds and trying to make them look scary? Well, it’s better than an enemy’s head, isn’t it? The Celts believed that the wisdom and the spirit resided in the head of their enemies and, since they were headhunters, they would hang those heads on their door lintels, to keep the wisdom near their house. They would also carve faces into turnips and rutabagas to make lanterns to keep evil spirits away. In the new world, pumpkins were readily available, not to mention larger and easier to carve, so the pumpkin got the job of being a lantern for the protection of the home.
Halloween is not necessarily an evil holiday, or really terribly scary, but Hollywood and literature have certainly made it into one. New horror films typically come out in October, we’ve got haunted houses and witches, black cats and vampires, all of which are not traditionally associated with the original holiday itself. Of course, now that we consider them part of the season, they will never be easily parted. Besides, there’s something about watching a scary movie on Halloween that really appeals to most people and I, personally, think it’s too bad we haven’t got a haunted house in Pipestone.
So I’ll probably see you on Halloween night, trick-or-treating. My children will be Tigger and the Little Mermaid and I will be dressed as, well, a mom. Come on, did you really think I’d say something more exciting?
Stop by Meinders Library for a party on October 31st, from 2-4 PM. We will have goody bags for the kids, mini pumpkins and gourds to paint, and bookmarks to color and stamp. Stories will be read every fifteen minutes and the activities will be self-directed. We hope to see you there!!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
New Young Adult Section 10-14-09
Teenagers are often an underserved minority in the library world. Most of them don’t want to spend a lot of time somewhere they have to be quiet, and even more of them are so involved with school and extra-curricular activities that reading for pleasure is an alien concept. But for those who still love the idea of a good book, there are plenty to read!
Meinders Library has a new section, geared specifically towards teenagers (9-12 grade) and the fiction they would enjoy. If you can get your teenager, or any teenager, into the library, tell them to ask for the Young Adult section and we will find them something they simply *have* to check out. The books reviewed in this column are all excellent books, geared toward the teenage reader (though I must admit to wanting to read several of them myself).
The Book Thief, by Marcus Zusak
This book received a star review by the School Library Journal and centers around a girl named Liesel during the 1930s and 40s. Liesel steals books, though she begins before she even knows how to read, and those books become her refuge. The book is actually narrated by Death, an is a striking, original story that chronicles Liesel and her friends and their stolen books.
Thirteen Reasons Why, by Jay Asher
A relatively heavy book that begins with Clay Jenson receiving a series of cassette tapes from a classmate who has committed suicide. 12 others also receive cassette tapes, detailed the reasons behind the self-inflicted death of Hannah Baker, who is not held blameless in the events that unfold. Though the book is rather serious, mystery readers will adore it and the book has an important message about the consequences of how we treat each other.
Uglies, by Scott Westerfeld
At 16, everyone in Westerfeld’s visionary story receives a surgical operation that conforms them all to an ideal standard of perfection. Before 16, the children are referred to as “uglies” and they dream of the time they can become as “pretty” as everyone else. Tally Youngblood gets caught up in trying to find some rebel “uglies” for the Department of Special Circumstances – if she finds them and betrays them, she can have her operation. Will Tally have a change of heart?
Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins
This book received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly. In a society obsessed with reality television, this book really hits home. Following an apocalypse, a country similar to the United States demands that two kids be taken from each territory for a fight to the death, televised. Katniss and Peeta, both from what was once Appalachia, struggle to win the competition but also fight to keep their humanity in a game that strips humanity away. The book is intense and filled with meaning, for any who read it.
The Forest of Hands and Teeth, by Carrie Ryan
Mary is trapped in her village, surrounded by a chain-link fence – and beyond that chain-link fence is a forest filled with zombies that will eat any villager who dares to step outside. The zombies came into existence over 100 years ago, during a period of history called the Return, and the cities and wonderful technology were completely wiped out. No Mary lives in a restrictive society, controlled entirely by a faction called the Sisterhood. Is there such a thing as an ‘ocean?’ Is there a way out through the forest? Mary intends to find out.
Graceling, by Kristin Cashore
Katsa is a warrior girl, with one blue eye and one green eye marking her as a Graceling – a person born with a particular Grace. In Katsa’s case, her Grace is fighting and there is no one who can beat her. Despite her power, Katsa is forced to serve as a henchman though she manages to form a secret society with others who believe in truth and justice. Filled with fantasy and a little romance, this book is sure to win the hearts of fantasy lovers everywhere.
Also, Teen Read Week is coming up from October 18 – 24! Stop in with a teenager for a prize and a book!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Meinders Library has a new section, geared specifically towards teenagers (9-12 grade) and the fiction they would enjoy. If you can get your teenager, or any teenager, into the library, tell them to ask for the Young Adult section and we will find them something they simply *have* to check out. The books reviewed in this column are all excellent books, geared toward the teenage reader (though I must admit to wanting to read several of them myself).
The Book Thief, by Marcus Zusak
This book received a star review by the School Library Journal and centers around a girl named Liesel during the 1930s and 40s. Liesel steals books, though she begins before she even knows how to read, and those books become her refuge. The book is actually narrated by Death, an is a striking, original story that chronicles Liesel and her friends and their stolen books.
Thirteen Reasons Why, by Jay Asher
A relatively heavy book that begins with Clay Jenson receiving a series of cassette tapes from a classmate who has committed suicide. 12 others also receive cassette tapes, detailed the reasons behind the self-inflicted death of Hannah Baker, who is not held blameless in the events that unfold. Though the book is rather serious, mystery readers will adore it and the book has an important message about the consequences of how we treat each other.
Uglies, by Scott Westerfeld
At 16, everyone in Westerfeld’s visionary story receives a surgical operation that conforms them all to an ideal standard of perfection. Before 16, the children are referred to as “uglies” and they dream of the time they can become as “pretty” as everyone else. Tally Youngblood gets caught up in trying to find some rebel “uglies” for the Department of Special Circumstances – if she finds them and betrays them, she can have her operation. Will Tally have a change of heart?
Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins
This book received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly. In a society obsessed with reality television, this book really hits home. Following an apocalypse, a country similar to the United States demands that two kids be taken from each territory for a fight to the death, televised. Katniss and Peeta, both from what was once Appalachia, struggle to win the competition but also fight to keep their humanity in a game that strips humanity away. The book is intense and filled with meaning, for any who read it.
The Forest of Hands and Teeth, by Carrie Ryan
Mary is trapped in her village, surrounded by a chain-link fence – and beyond that chain-link fence is a forest filled with zombies that will eat any villager who dares to step outside. The zombies came into existence over 100 years ago, during a period of history called the Return, and the cities and wonderful technology were completely wiped out. No Mary lives in a restrictive society, controlled entirely by a faction called the Sisterhood. Is there such a thing as an ‘ocean?’ Is there a way out through the forest? Mary intends to find out.
Graceling, by Kristin Cashore
Katsa is a warrior girl, with one blue eye and one green eye marking her as a Graceling – a person born with a particular Grace. In Katsa’s case, her Grace is fighting and there is no one who can beat her. Despite her power, Katsa is forced to serve as a henchman though she manages to form a secret society with others who believe in truth and justice. Filled with fantasy and a little romance, this book is sure to win the hearts of fantasy lovers everywhere.
Also, Teen Read Week is coming up from October 18 – 24! Stop in with a teenager for a prize and a book!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
09-26-09 Chad Lewis - Haunted Locations
So today we had an author talk, co-sponsored with the Historical Society, by Chad Lewis, who co-authored the Minnesota Road Guide to Haunted Locations.
Our plan was to hold the talk at the Calumet Inn, which is featured in the book for being haunted. So we ordered cookies and coffee for 35-40 people, figuring that was a good number and would probably be more than we would actually have.
We were WRONG!! After re-setting chairs and moving tables to try and make room for all the people that were arriving, Mayor Ness finally suggested we move it to the Performing Art center, since the fire marshall would KILL us for cramming so many people in there. So at 2:01, we moved across the street and re-set-up, getting all of Chad's books set out in the lobby and getting him ready for his talk.
The talk was fantastic and I am so glad I went ahead and booked him, even though at the time we thought we would end up paying his entire honorarium ourselves. We ended up getting sponsored by Legacy Funds, since we were working with the Historical Society, and so we only ended up spending a little money for cookies.
And there were, at final count, 95 people in attendance. 95!! It was a great day for an author talk and I had no idea so many people in Pipestone were interested in ghosts!
Our plan was to hold the talk at the Calumet Inn, which is featured in the book for being haunted. So we ordered cookies and coffee for 35-40 people, figuring that was a good number and would probably be more than we would actually have.
We were WRONG!! After re-setting chairs and moving tables to try and make room for all the people that were arriving, Mayor Ness finally suggested we move it to the Performing Art center, since the fire marshall would KILL us for cramming so many people in there. So at 2:01, we moved across the street and re-set-up, getting all of Chad's books set out in the lobby and getting him ready for his talk.
The talk was fantastic and I am so glad I went ahead and booked him, even though at the time we thought we would end up paying his entire honorarium ourselves. We ended up getting sponsored by Legacy Funds, since we were working with the Historical Society, and so we only ended up spending a little money for cookies.
And there were, at final count, 95 people in attendance. 95!! It was a great day for an author talk and I had no idea so many people in Pipestone were interested in ghosts!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Banned Books Week 09-30-09
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
The above is the text of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, allowing for freedom of the press. Freedom of the press not only includes things that are printed in newspapers, but also books which, as I’m sure you’re all aware, are apt to occasionally contain objectionable material.
This week, September 28th until October 3rd, is National Banned Books Week. In honor of those books that have had their struggles, Meinders has lists available for the public of the top 100 most challenged books from 1900 until the present. You would be surprised what books are on there and, even more surprising, most of them you would consider a classic. In fact, most of them you probably read in high school or your student is reading now. For example, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee has been challenged, as have Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway and James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl. The list is extensive enough that I won’t go into more specifics, but we will have many of the books on display at the library.
Censor: to examine in order to suppress or delete anything considered objectionable.
“Censorship reflects a society’s lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime…” Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart
Ban: to prohibit the use, performance, or distribution of materials.
As you can see from the definitions, censorship is deletion of parts of certain parts of a book, while banning gets rid of the book entirely. It’s really up in the air which is worse, considering if you use a censorship sort of approach, you still have the book, though the content is changed, sometimes dramatically. Banning would remove the book entirely from the collection, though it wouldn’t delete pieces of the work itself. Interestingly enough, the first definition of the word ‘ban’ in the dictionary is ‘curse,’ which is fitting.
Let me give you an example of how I think. I, personally, cannot stand Howard Stern. I will change the station if I hear him on the radio. But that doesn’t mean he should get booted from the air. Some people (I know several) enjoy listening to him and it is not fair of me to tell them not to, simply because I don’t like the material. The same goes for books. There are some books that I would never read, because they offend me. But far be it from me to prevent others from reading them. I make sure to order at least one book a month that I don’t agree with, just to make sure I’m not censoring the library with my own bias.
“Restriction of free thought and free speech is the most dangerous of all subversions. It is the one un-American act that could most easily defeat us.” – Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas
We celebrate America because of the freedom it gives us: the freedom to state our opinions and the freedom to write them down and distribute them. That doesn’t mean we all have to agree, that simply means we have the given right to put our words out in public without getting arrested. Stop in and check out a challenged book today!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
The above is the text of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, allowing for freedom of the press. Freedom of the press not only includes things that are printed in newspapers, but also books which, as I’m sure you’re all aware, are apt to occasionally contain objectionable material.
This week, September 28th until October 3rd, is National Banned Books Week. In honor of those books that have had their struggles, Meinders has lists available for the public of the top 100 most challenged books from 1900 until the present. You would be surprised what books are on there and, even more surprising, most of them you would consider a classic. In fact, most of them you probably read in high school or your student is reading now. For example, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee has been challenged, as have Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway and James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl. The list is extensive enough that I won’t go into more specifics, but we will have many of the books on display at the library.
Censor: to examine in order to suppress or delete anything considered objectionable.
“Censorship reflects a society’s lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime…” Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart
Ban: to prohibit the use, performance, or distribution of materials.
As you can see from the definitions, censorship is deletion of parts of certain parts of a book, while banning gets rid of the book entirely. It’s really up in the air which is worse, considering if you use a censorship sort of approach, you still have the book, though the content is changed, sometimes dramatically. Banning would remove the book entirely from the collection, though it wouldn’t delete pieces of the work itself. Interestingly enough, the first definition of the word ‘ban’ in the dictionary is ‘curse,’ which is fitting.
Let me give you an example of how I think. I, personally, cannot stand Howard Stern. I will change the station if I hear him on the radio. But that doesn’t mean he should get booted from the air. Some people (I know several) enjoy listening to him and it is not fair of me to tell them not to, simply because I don’t like the material. The same goes for books. There are some books that I would never read, because they offend me. But far be it from me to prevent others from reading them. I make sure to order at least one book a month that I don’t agree with, just to make sure I’m not censoring the library with my own bias.
“Restriction of free thought and free speech is the most dangerous of all subversions. It is the one un-American act that could most easily defeat us.” – Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas
We celebrate America because of the freedom it gives us: the freedom to state our opinions and the freedom to write them down and distribute them. That doesn’t mean we all have to agree, that simply means we have the given right to put our words out in public without getting arrested. Stop in and check out a challenged book today!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. The hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Preservation is Key 09-14-09
It’s that time of year, when a Midwestern farmwife’s fancy turns to thoughts of…canning. Okay, so you don’t have to be a farmwife to can, since I know plenty of people who do not live on farms who participate – including myself. And it’s definitely that time of year.
The tomatoes might not have been very good, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other things to toss into jars to save for posterity, or next year, whichever comes first. Peaches, cherries, beets, carrots, peas, beans – I could keep going. The point is, the library has some great resources for home preservers, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
Jam It, Pickle It, Cure It and Other Cooking Projects by Karen Solomon has some GREAT ideas for things to do with your produce or projects just to do in your spare time (face it, we’ll have some once it snows). The projects and recipes in her book are marvelously intriguing and the book is designed to help you make the basic things you need in your kitchen at home, such as mustard, crackers, cheese, etc. In her acknowledgements, she states quite clearly that it shouldn’t be hard to find home-made kitchen staples, such as shortening, and the book is designed to remedy that. She also includes recipes for bacon, pasta dough, marshmallows, and several kinds of popsicles and drinks.
The Complete Book of Preserving by Marye Cameron-Smith is an older book (1976) but contains some great resources for preserving foods, including a detailed chart for freezing foods in a home deep freezer. There are instructions for preserving meat, drying herbs, smoking fish, and an array of recipes for chutneys, jams, and candied fruits and flowers. It’s an excellent book!
How to Dry Foods by Deanna DeLong centers completely around drying food, as the title states. She includes instructions for sun drying, room drying, stove-top and convection oven drying, so it’s not necessary to purchase any special equipment. There are very detailed instructions in this book for drying different fruits, herbs, and vegetables, as well as a section on meats and jerkies. There are also some great recipes, to help you USE your dried food.
Perfect Preserves: Provisions from the Kitchen Garden by Nora Carey is a book that is strictly devoted to the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers one can grow in your own backyard. There is also a section on different kinds of preserving, including bottling, sweetening, pickling, and freezing. Some of the fruits and vegetables might not grow well in Minnesota, but if you feel experimental, that’s what the grocery store is for! Personally, the part about fruit-scented sugars was absolutely fascinating. I had no idea you could make those. And, of course, in the back there are recipes for pastry dough and sponge cake, because how do you have strawberry shortcake without the cake?
We’ve got plenty of other books on kitchen projects, from canning and preserving to cooking French and Asian cuisine! If you feel like trying a new recipe for cucumbers or learning how to make Pei King Duck, now is your opportunity! Stop in and check a cookbook out today!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
The tomatoes might not have been very good, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other things to toss into jars to save for posterity, or next year, whichever comes first. Peaches, cherries, beets, carrots, peas, beans – I could keep going. The point is, the library has some great resources for home preservers, whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
Jam It, Pickle It, Cure It and Other Cooking Projects by Karen Solomon has some GREAT ideas for things to do with your produce or projects just to do in your spare time (face it, we’ll have some once it snows). The projects and recipes in her book are marvelously intriguing and the book is designed to help you make the basic things you need in your kitchen at home, such as mustard, crackers, cheese, etc. In her acknowledgements, she states quite clearly that it shouldn’t be hard to find home-made kitchen staples, such as shortening, and the book is designed to remedy that. She also includes recipes for bacon, pasta dough, marshmallows, and several kinds of popsicles and drinks.
The Complete Book of Preserving by Marye Cameron-Smith is an older book (1976) but contains some great resources for preserving foods, including a detailed chart for freezing foods in a home deep freezer. There are instructions for preserving meat, drying herbs, smoking fish, and an array of recipes for chutneys, jams, and candied fruits and flowers. It’s an excellent book!
How to Dry Foods by Deanna DeLong centers completely around drying food, as the title states. She includes instructions for sun drying, room drying, stove-top and convection oven drying, so it’s not necessary to purchase any special equipment. There are very detailed instructions in this book for drying different fruits, herbs, and vegetables, as well as a section on meats and jerkies. There are also some great recipes, to help you USE your dried food.
Perfect Preserves: Provisions from the Kitchen Garden by Nora Carey is a book that is strictly devoted to the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers one can grow in your own backyard. There is also a section on different kinds of preserving, including bottling, sweetening, pickling, and freezing. Some of the fruits and vegetables might not grow well in Minnesota, but if you feel experimental, that’s what the grocery store is for! Personally, the part about fruit-scented sugars was absolutely fascinating. I had no idea you could make those. And, of course, in the back there are recipes for pastry dough and sponge cake, because how do you have strawberry shortcake without the cake?
We’ve got plenty of other books on kitchen projects, from canning and preserving to cooking French and Asian cuisine! If you feel like trying a new recipe for cucumbers or learning how to make Pei King Duck, now is your opportunity! Stop in and check a cookbook out today!
If you have any questions, or have a book to reserve or renew, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Back To School - Sept 2, 2009
I’m not quite sure where the summer has gone. If I really think about it, I suppose I can remember as far back as July. In my opinion, the weather has a lot to do with it, seeing as how it was cold enough these past few months that my electric bills are at an all-time low. Mind you, I like the cold and I’m not complaining, but when it never really got hot, it’s hard to imagine that we even had a summer.
Judging by the calendar, we did, and it’s almost time for the kids to go back to school. That means everyone is racing around, buying new clothes, shoes that fit, backpacks, school supplies, and everything else needed to send the kids back to their classes.
But there is something that is often overlooked. Sometimes, teachers have reading lists, either for the upcoming year or suggestions for summer. We’ve seen a lot of kids from the AP English class in this summer to get books from their list that their teacher actually requires for summer reading. But all the kids could do with either some brush-up reading or some mind-expanding nourishment.
Having trouble getting a kid to read during the summer? I’ve got suggestions. Granted, I know this is late, but some of these tricks might work during the school year as well. Find something they really like to read, that’s the first clue. For the AP kids, the list was really long. It wasn’t hard to find a book to fit most tastes on that list, which was great. The boys who loved adventure got Lord of the Flies, the girls who loved romance ended up with some Jane Austin. For younger kids, going with a sport or an animal they love is almost always a surefire way to get them to at least read *something* even if it does have a lot of pictures.
Have a reading time during the day. I would suggest before dinner. I know, my kids are too young to spend time reading before dinner, as most of you know, but *I* try to get some reading done before dinner, even if it’s only 15 minutes. And 15 minutes might be the max your kids can sit still. That’s okay! 15 minutes is better than 0 minutes any day!
You could also try reading with them. With the older kids and teenagers, sometimes it’s fun to read what they’re reading (we’ve got several copies of Lord of the Flies, by the way…) and then, perhaps, you can get some discussion going about what they like about the book. If you’ve read it, too, you’ll understand where they’re coming from, which might make them feel as if they haven’t wasted their time.
But it’s not just kids who go back to school. Recently, we had an internet class here at the library and it was very well received by those who attended. However, it also brought to our attention the fact that there are many members of the community who don’t know how to use a computer at all! By that, I mean they aren’t sure how to use the keyboard, the mouse, or even really how to turn it on. If you fit into this category, you’re in luck!
Our next computer class will be beginning computing, which will teach people who are not even remotely familiar with computers the basics: how to turn on the computer and the monitor, how to use the keyboard, and how to use the mouse. Once again, Lester and Collene Landgren will be teaching the class and it will be offered the third week in September! Keep your eyes on the paper for the exact dates and times.
If you are interested in the computer class, or if you have a book to reserve of renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Our next open Saturday will be September 12th – summer’s almost over!
Judging by the calendar, we did, and it’s almost time for the kids to go back to school. That means everyone is racing around, buying new clothes, shoes that fit, backpacks, school supplies, and everything else needed to send the kids back to their classes.
But there is something that is often overlooked. Sometimes, teachers have reading lists, either for the upcoming year or suggestions for summer. We’ve seen a lot of kids from the AP English class in this summer to get books from their list that their teacher actually requires for summer reading. But all the kids could do with either some brush-up reading or some mind-expanding nourishment.
Having trouble getting a kid to read during the summer? I’ve got suggestions. Granted, I know this is late, but some of these tricks might work during the school year as well. Find something they really like to read, that’s the first clue. For the AP kids, the list was really long. It wasn’t hard to find a book to fit most tastes on that list, which was great. The boys who loved adventure got Lord of the Flies, the girls who loved romance ended up with some Jane Austin. For younger kids, going with a sport or an animal they love is almost always a surefire way to get them to at least read *something* even if it does have a lot of pictures.
Have a reading time during the day. I would suggest before dinner. I know, my kids are too young to spend time reading before dinner, as most of you know, but *I* try to get some reading done before dinner, even if it’s only 15 minutes. And 15 minutes might be the max your kids can sit still. That’s okay! 15 minutes is better than 0 minutes any day!
You could also try reading with them. With the older kids and teenagers, sometimes it’s fun to read what they’re reading (we’ve got several copies of Lord of the Flies, by the way…) and then, perhaps, you can get some discussion going about what they like about the book. If you’ve read it, too, you’ll understand where they’re coming from, which might make them feel as if they haven’t wasted their time.
But it’s not just kids who go back to school. Recently, we had an internet class here at the library and it was very well received by those who attended. However, it also brought to our attention the fact that there are many members of the community who don’t know how to use a computer at all! By that, I mean they aren’t sure how to use the keyboard, the mouse, or even really how to turn it on. If you fit into this category, you’re in luck!
Our next computer class will be beginning computing, which will teach people who are not even remotely familiar with computers the basics: how to turn on the computer and the monitor, how to use the keyboard, and how to use the mouse. Once again, Lester and Collene Landgren will be teaching the class and it will be offered the third week in September! Keep your eyes on the paper for the exact dates and times.
If you are interested in the computer class, or if you have a book to reserve of renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Our next open Saturday will be September 12th – summer’s almost over!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
The Internet Can Be Your Friend 08-11-09
Like most of the children in my generation, I didn’t have a personal computer until I was almost 10. It was an Apple II GS and I was so excited because I could play Frogger! Granted, it was in gold on a black screen – no other colors – but it was still a game and it was terribly luxurious.
I can hear some of you laughing at me – those of you who had email as children and those of you that never had a computer growing up at all and may not have encountered a personal one until well into adulthood. Well, this article is for that latter group, the people who don’t have a lot of familiarity with the internet and aren’t sure they should even try.
My vote is try. I have discovered in the past few years that the internet is a marvelous thing. It can keep you connected to family, help you order things that you can’t get around home, and help you find information quickly and relatively easily.
For those of you that haven’t seen the press release yet, Meinders Library is going to have four classes to get people used to the internet. The dates are as follows:
August 18 at 7:00 PM
August 19 at 7:00 PM
August 20 at 10:30 AM
August 21 at 1:30 PM
The class is free and you only need to sign up for one session, since all four sessions will be the same. Of course, if you WANT to attend more than one, you are more than welcome to do so, but the class will fill up at 15 people.
Things that will be covered in the class:
Email: I’m not exactly sure how I got along without email. On a good day, it’s almost instantaneous, and I can send and receive several rounds of messages per day, as opposed to having to wait the two or three days it takes for a letter to get anywhere. I can keep up with my family and I can email an entire list of people at once and only have to type the message one time! In the class, everyone will be able to sign up for a free email account using an internet provider such as gmail, yahoo, or hotmail.
Searching: It is absolutely amazing what you can find on the internet. Not only can get directions printed from your house to anywhere in the United States with just a few clicks of the mouse, but you can find things that are simply not available in this area. For instance, my daughter is allergic to strawberries, but she loves gummy vitamins. I can get them, but they pretty much only come in the mixed berry variety. That wouldn’t be a problem, except for the strawberry allergy. Online, I have found watermelon gummy vitamins and I can order those for her. I can order special diapers for my son and instant coffee (my favorite brand) for myself. I can even make sure my husband has tickets for the Buffalo Bills night practice in Buffalo, NY. And don’t even get me started on Ebay…
It’s not just shopping that the internet is good for, either. Questions can be answered in a huge variety of ways, ranging from what actor stared in that movie, to the diameter of the sun, to the scientific name for the cockroach – you can find the answer to almost any question just by using a Search engine.
Library Catalogue: Did you know that you can search the library catalogue and place holds on line? Not only that, but you can search all of the libraries in Minnesota and have a book sent here, to Pipestone, just for you. We will cover how to do this and everything above in this class.
There are so many other ways to utilize the internet, but we will be starting with the basics. If there is enough interest, we may do an advanced class to cover more things that are available. Also, if the classes fill up, expect another round in the future.
If you would like to sign up for the class, or if you have a book to reserve of renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Our next open Saturday will be September 12th – summer’s almost over!
I can hear some of you laughing at me – those of you who had email as children and those of you that never had a computer growing up at all and may not have encountered a personal one until well into adulthood. Well, this article is for that latter group, the people who don’t have a lot of familiarity with the internet and aren’t sure they should even try.
My vote is try. I have discovered in the past few years that the internet is a marvelous thing. It can keep you connected to family, help you order things that you can’t get around home, and help you find information quickly and relatively easily.
For those of you that haven’t seen the press release yet, Meinders Library is going to have four classes to get people used to the internet. The dates are as follows:
August 18 at 7:00 PM
August 19 at 7:00 PM
August 20 at 10:30 AM
August 21 at 1:30 PM
The class is free and you only need to sign up for one session, since all four sessions will be the same. Of course, if you WANT to attend more than one, you are more than welcome to do so, but the class will fill up at 15 people.
Things that will be covered in the class:
Email: I’m not exactly sure how I got along without email. On a good day, it’s almost instantaneous, and I can send and receive several rounds of messages per day, as opposed to having to wait the two or three days it takes for a letter to get anywhere. I can keep up with my family and I can email an entire list of people at once and only have to type the message one time! In the class, everyone will be able to sign up for a free email account using an internet provider such as gmail, yahoo, or hotmail.
Searching: It is absolutely amazing what you can find on the internet. Not only can get directions printed from your house to anywhere in the United States with just a few clicks of the mouse, but you can find things that are simply not available in this area. For instance, my daughter is allergic to strawberries, but she loves gummy vitamins. I can get them, but they pretty much only come in the mixed berry variety. That wouldn’t be a problem, except for the strawberry allergy. Online, I have found watermelon gummy vitamins and I can order those for her. I can order special diapers for my son and instant coffee (my favorite brand) for myself. I can even make sure my husband has tickets for the Buffalo Bills night practice in Buffalo, NY. And don’t even get me started on Ebay…
It’s not just shopping that the internet is good for, either. Questions can be answered in a huge variety of ways, ranging from what actor stared in that movie, to the diameter of the sun, to the scientific name for the cockroach – you can find the answer to almost any question just by using a Search engine.
Library Catalogue: Did you know that you can search the library catalogue and place holds on line? Not only that, but you can search all of the libraries in Minnesota and have a book sent here, to Pipestone, just for you. We will cover how to do this and everything above in this class.
There are so many other ways to utilize the internet, but we will be starting with the basics. If there is enough interest, we may do an advanced class to cover more things that are available. Also, if the classes fill up, expect another round in the future.
If you would like to sign up for the class, or if you have a book to reserve of renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Our next open Saturday will be September 12th – summer’s almost over!
Friday, July 24, 2009
July 25, A Week at the Lake
I would place a bet that, if you asked ten Minnesotans what they were doing this summer, at least eight of them would say “Going to the lake.” Which lake? It really doesn’t matter, since we have over eleven thousand of them in the state. I have to admit that I am one of those eight. I have been going to the lake since I was a baby and while I spend a lot of my time fishing, there are still moments that can be captured for reading.
If you are among the two Minnesotans asked who does not go to the lake, perhaps reading about lakes (or lake-related stories…sort of) will get you in the north country mood.
Lake Woebegone Summer, 1956 Garrison Keillor
If you enjoy listening to Prairie Home Companion on NPR on Saturday nights, you should definitely give this book a try. Gifted humorist Keillor spins tales of the fictitious town of Lake Woebegone, a place where all of the stereotypes you’ve grown to love live and thrive. This story centers around a boy named Gary, who is just coming of age, and his Underwood typewriter. It’s funny, it’s very readable, and it’ll transport you back to growing up in rural Minnesota.
The Lake, the River, and the Other Lake Steve Amick
Okay, so not a Minnesota lake book. Michigan is the setting for this social comedy about a small town that is experiencing rather severe growing pains. The regular locals, who have lived in Weneshkeen their whole lives, come into conflict with ritzy rich folk coming for the summer, with migrant cherry pickers, and with men who make their living off the river. Several stories combine into one, examining how unlikely friendships can be forged in the most interesting of places.
Summer at Willow Lake Susan Wiggs
This one is for all the romance fans out there. Again, not Minnesota, but a story like this could happen anywhere. A young woman moves from her trendy New York home to an old resort camp, once owned by her family, to revamp a cabin for her grandparents, who want to spend one more summer filled with family memories. Since the camp is a mess, the woman has to hire a contractor to assist with the renovations and you can guess what happens next…
The Lake House James Patterson
This book is for anyone who has ever read the Maximum Ride series, or for anyone who likes their adventure novels with a little bit of a twist. This book is part of the story of six children who have had to fight to live normal lives since they were first released from the hospital. They live with different families now, but must come back together to keep themselves safe. The only place they have ever felt really safe is at the building they call the Lake House. The catch? These kids have wings…
Lake News Barbara Delinsky
Romantic New Hampshire, in the town of Lake Henry. Singer Lily Blake is escaping from a terrible picture the media has painted of her, though coming back to her hometown is no picnic either. She finds herself forming a friendship with the editor of the local paper, who used to be a bigwig in the newspaper industry himself until his career was abruptly ended. At first, the journalist only sees Lily as a subject for a future book, though that changes the more time they spend together. This book is a touching story that examines family relationships and the relationships of people living within a small community. And the conclusion is very satisfying.
The Lake Superior Images Craig Blacklock
This book is not a novel, nor is it something you can easily carry with you on vacation, but it certainly is beautiful. The images of Lake Superior were taken by Craig Blacklock and were first exhibited at the tweed Museum of Art in Duluth, Minnesota, August 22, 1993. Having picked up this book on a whim, I think I spent about two hours looking through it at home. The images are stunning and well worth turning the pages. If you can’t make it to a lake this summer, this book will satify all your lake-viewing needs.
Though summer is halfway over, August is the time for most vacations, before school starts again and once most summer programs have come to an end. Here at Meinders Library, our Summer Reading Program ends on July 30th, so if you haven’t had a chance to come and participate yet, you can at least join us for the last day, which will be a great celebration involving cupcakes and marshmallow sculptures. We look forward to seeing you there!
Have a safe and happy August and we wish you joy in all your travels!
If you have any questions, or you have a book you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
If you are among the two Minnesotans asked who does not go to the lake, perhaps reading about lakes (or lake-related stories…sort of) will get you in the north country mood.
Lake Woebegone Summer, 1956 Garrison Keillor
If you enjoy listening to Prairie Home Companion on NPR on Saturday nights, you should definitely give this book a try. Gifted humorist Keillor spins tales of the fictitious town of Lake Woebegone, a place where all of the stereotypes you’ve grown to love live and thrive. This story centers around a boy named Gary, who is just coming of age, and his Underwood typewriter. It’s funny, it’s very readable, and it’ll transport you back to growing up in rural Minnesota.
The Lake, the River, and the Other Lake Steve Amick
Okay, so not a Minnesota lake book. Michigan is the setting for this social comedy about a small town that is experiencing rather severe growing pains. The regular locals, who have lived in Weneshkeen their whole lives, come into conflict with ritzy rich folk coming for the summer, with migrant cherry pickers, and with men who make their living off the river. Several stories combine into one, examining how unlikely friendships can be forged in the most interesting of places.
Summer at Willow Lake Susan Wiggs
This one is for all the romance fans out there. Again, not Minnesota, but a story like this could happen anywhere. A young woman moves from her trendy New York home to an old resort camp, once owned by her family, to revamp a cabin for her grandparents, who want to spend one more summer filled with family memories. Since the camp is a mess, the woman has to hire a contractor to assist with the renovations and you can guess what happens next…
The Lake House James Patterson
This book is for anyone who has ever read the Maximum Ride series, or for anyone who likes their adventure novels with a little bit of a twist. This book is part of the story of six children who have had to fight to live normal lives since they were first released from the hospital. They live with different families now, but must come back together to keep themselves safe. The only place they have ever felt really safe is at the building they call the Lake House. The catch? These kids have wings…
Lake News Barbara Delinsky
Romantic New Hampshire, in the town of Lake Henry. Singer Lily Blake is escaping from a terrible picture the media has painted of her, though coming back to her hometown is no picnic either. She finds herself forming a friendship with the editor of the local paper, who used to be a bigwig in the newspaper industry himself until his career was abruptly ended. At first, the journalist only sees Lily as a subject for a future book, though that changes the more time they spend together. This book is a touching story that examines family relationships and the relationships of people living within a small community. And the conclusion is very satisfying.
The Lake Superior Images Craig Blacklock
This book is not a novel, nor is it something you can easily carry with you on vacation, but it certainly is beautiful. The images of Lake Superior were taken by Craig Blacklock and were first exhibited at the tweed Museum of Art in Duluth, Minnesota, August 22, 1993. Having picked up this book on a whim, I think I spent about two hours looking through it at home. The images are stunning and well worth turning the pages. If you can’t make it to a lake this summer, this book will satify all your lake-viewing needs.
Though summer is halfway over, August is the time for most vacations, before school starts again and once most summer programs have come to an end. Here at Meinders Library, our Summer Reading Program ends on July 30th, so if you haven’t had a chance to come and participate yet, you can at least join us for the last day, which will be a great celebration involving cupcakes and marshmallow sculptures. We look forward to seeing you there!
Have a safe and happy August and we wish you joy in all your travels!
If you have any questions, or you have a book you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
June 25, New Bestsellers!
I know that summertime is not the usual time for reading, with all the gardening that needs to be done, the serious playing that must be accomplished, and various projects that can only be done while the sun is shining. However, I feel I must remind you, that it is one of the greatest pleasures in the world to sit outside in the sun with a glass of tea or lemonade and read a good book.
And in honor of the sunshine readers, here are some new bestselling releases currently in the library!
The Scarecrow, Michael Connelly
Budget cuts are the very beginning of this story, forcing newspaperman Jack McEvoy out of his job. As he works on a story detailed the ‘murder’ of his career, he studies a young drug dealer and discovers the confession is probably a lie. Now, instead of writing a story about himself, he’s writing to get an innocent out of jail.
Roadside Crosses, Jeffrey Deaver
California Bureau of Investigations agent Kathryn Dance is the star of this novel by Deaver, the third in the series. The story centers around a killer who uses social network blogging sites to pick his victims and is full of the twists and turns that Deaver fans look forward to. The plot will leave even the sharpest mind reeling. If you’d like to start at the beginning of Kathryn’s story, check out The Blue Nowhere.
Relentless, Dean Koontz
Never cross a book critic! Cubby Greenwich learns this the hard way in this new thriller by Koontz. The author, Cubby, tries to ignore a terrible review by a premier critic, but when he meets the critic in a restaurant, he can’t keep his mouth shut. His comments start a struggle with a sociopath that no reader will forget any time soon!
Gone Tomorrow, Lee Child
Jack Reacher has a decision to make in very little time. He makes it and triggers a series of events that land him in one of the tensest cases he’s had yet. Hairpin turns make this novel a real page-turner and a drool-worthy addition to the Reacher novels. If you haven’t read a Reacher book yet, start with Killing Floor.
Finger Lickin’ Fifteen, Janet Evanovich – Release June 23, 2009
The fifteenth book in the Stephanie Plum series, this book centers around Lula, Stephanie’s wheelman. And in Evanovich’s own words, “it all gets complicated after that. We're talking about barbecue gone bad, cross-dressing firemen, dancing hot dogs, etc.” This series is incredibly popular and if you haven’t read any of them yet, I recommend you start off with number one, One for the Money. Come in and see us, we can get you started!
Loitering with Intent, Stuart Woods
Stone Barrington gets to travel to Florida in this installment of Woods’ long-running series. The cop turned lawyer is looking for a young man who needs to sign some papers to sell a family business, but the young man has no wish to be found, much less put his name on anything. The book has romance and drama and will have any Woods reader excited for the next book! If you feel like starting at the beginning, try reading New York Dead.
And, of course, bestsellers don’t always have to be books! We’ve gotten nearly 20 new DVDs this month at the library, including a few new releases, and they are now available for checkout! DVDs are, of course, good for those rainy nights when it’s too wet to go outside or you’re too tired to do anything else. DVD checkouts are good for a week.
Gran Torino (R), Clint Eastwood
A Korean War veteran is forced to deal with his prejudices as he fights to defend himself and his neighbors, Hmoung immigrants, again a local gang. Clint Eastwood both directs and star in the movie, which has received star reviews by critics and movie-goers alike.
Wall-E (G), Pixar Studios
A sweet story of a robot who continues to clean up the earth, even though all of the people have left the desiccated planet. When the humans still alive in the galaxy send a probe robot named E.V.E. to see if earth is still habitable, Wall-E falls in love and ends up travelling to the stars and ultimately, bringing the humans back to Earth.
The Dark Knight (PG-13), Christopher Nolan
The sequel to Batman Beyond, the Dark Knight received critical acclaim and several Oscar nominations. Starring Christian Bale as Batman and the late Heath Ledger as the Joker, the movie is sure to please action and superhero fans alike.
If you have any questions, or you have a book or DVD you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are no longer open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
And in honor of the sunshine readers, here are some new bestselling releases currently in the library!
The Scarecrow, Michael Connelly
Budget cuts are the very beginning of this story, forcing newspaperman Jack McEvoy out of his job. As he works on a story detailed the ‘murder’ of his career, he studies a young drug dealer and discovers the confession is probably a lie. Now, instead of writing a story about himself, he’s writing to get an innocent out of jail.
Roadside Crosses, Jeffrey Deaver
California Bureau of Investigations agent Kathryn Dance is the star of this novel by Deaver, the third in the series. The story centers around a killer who uses social network blogging sites to pick his victims and is full of the twists and turns that Deaver fans look forward to. The plot will leave even the sharpest mind reeling. If you’d like to start at the beginning of Kathryn’s story, check out The Blue Nowhere.
Relentless, Dean Koontz
Never cross a book critic! Cubby Greenwich learns this the hard way in this new thriller by Koontz. The author, Cubby, tries to ignore a terrible review by a premier critic, but when he meets the critic in a restaurant, he can’t keep his mouth shut. His comments start a struggle with a sociopath that no reader will forget any time soon!
Gone Tomorrow, Lee Child
Jack Reacher has a decision to make in very little time. He makes it and triggers a series of events that land him in one of the tensest cases he’s had yet. Hairpin turns make this novel a real page-turner and a drool-worthy addition to the Reacher novels. If you haven’t read a Reacher book yet, start with Killing Floor.
Finger Lickin’ Fifteen, Janet Evanovich – Release June 23, 2009
The fifteenth book in the Stephanie Plum series, this book centers around Lula, Stephanie’s wheelman. And in Evanovich’s own words, “it all gets complicated after that. We're talking about barbecue gone bad, cross-dressing firemen, dancing hot dogs, etc.” This series is incredibly popular and if you haven’t read any of them yet, I recommend you start off with number one, One for the Money. Come in and see us, we can get you started!
Loitering with Intent, Stuart Woods
Stone Barrington gets to travel to Florida in this installment of Woods’ long-running series. The cop turned lawyer is looking for a young man who needs to sign some papers to sell a family business, but the young man has no wish to be found, much less put his name on anything. The book has romance and drama and will have any Woods reader excited for the next book! If you feel like starting at the beginning, try reading New York Dead.
And, of course, bestsellers don’t always have to be books! We’ve gotten nearly 20 new DVDs this month at the library, including a few new releases, and they are now available for checkout! DVDs are, of course, good for those rainy nights when it’s too wet to go outside or you’re too tired to do anything else. DVD checkouts are good for a week.
Gran Torino (R), Clint Eastwood
A Korean War veteran is forced to deal with his prejudices as he fights to defend himself and his neighbors, Hmoung immigrants, again a local gang. Clint Eastwood both directs and star in the movie, which has received star reviews by critics and movie-goers alike.
Wall-E (G), Pixar Studios
A sweet story of a robot who continues to clean up the earth, even though all of the people have left the desiccated planet. When the humans still alive in the galaxy send a probe robot named E.V.E. to see if earth is still habitable, Wall-E falls in love and ends up travelling to the stars and ultimately, bringing the humans back to Earth.
The Dark Knight (PG-13), Christopher Nolan
The sequel to Batman Beyond, the Dark Knight received critical acclaim and several Oscar nominations. Starring Christian Bale as Batman and the late Heath Ledger as the Joker, the movie is sure to please action and superhero fans alike.
If you have any questions, or you have a book or DVD you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are no longer open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Floating Along!
Meinders Library had a float in the Water Tower Festival Parade here in Pipestone. The theme of the parade was Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales so how could we not?
Jim and Pat Adams helped me to paint two water heater boxes and two range boxes grey. I then used a darker grey to paint 'stones' onto the boxes, so they would look like castle towers. Maria Korthals helped to put the boxes on the flatbed trailer, loaned by Maurice Bickford, and we hung flower garlands between them to make ourselves a fairy tale castle.
To make the float complete, we asked some of our storytime girls to wear princess costumes and ride the float! They all had silver princess wands and glittery rings and were between the ages of three and ten or so: we had two snow whites, a sleeping beauty, a cinderella, a pochahontas, and several other princesses who had a blast being the center of attention!
And, of course, there had to be books involved. I borrowed a speaker from the school and a headset from Mike Solma so I could read fairy tales from the float as we followed the route. Poeple said they could hear me and everyone really liked our float.
We didn't win, but we had so much fun it doesn't matter. Maybe we'll try again next year!
Jim and Pat Adams helped me to paint two water heater boxes and two range boxes grey. I then used a darker grey to paint 'stones' onto the boxes, so they would look like castle towers. Maria Korthals helped to put the boxes on the flatbed trailer, loaned by Maurice Bickford, and we hung flower garlands between them to make ourselves a fairy tale castle.
To make the float complete, we asked some of our storytime girls to wear princess costumes and ride the float! They all had silver princess wands and glittery rings and were between the ages of three and ten or so: we had two snow whites, a sleeping beauty, a cinderella, a pochahontas, and several other princesses who had a blast being the center of attention!
And, of course, there had to be books involved. I borrowed a speaker from the school and a headset from Mike Solma so I could read fairy tales from the float as we followed the route. Poeple said they could hear me and everyone really liked our float.
We didn't win, but we had so much fun it doesn't matter. Maybe we'll try again next year!
Summer Reading Update
Summer Reading Program is in full swing and is going great! We've had between 70 and 100 kids each week and they are so excited when they're here! Prizes have been flying out the door, as have the books, and we are so happy to be providing this service.
Our first week involved making pizzas from construction paper and crayons, which was a lot of fun. The variety of the pizzas was staggering.
Week two was a project that involved colors, a paintbrush color wheel that could be hung on a wall. It was a fabulous project.
Week three found all the kids outside the Superintendent's Office painting the sidewalk with home-made sidewalk paint. The art was amazing and we were very sad it rained a day later and washed the masterpieces away.
Our first week involved making pizzas from construction paper and crayons, which was a lot of fun. The variety of the pizzas was staggering.
Week two was a project that involved colors, a paintbrush color wheel that could be hung on a wall. It was a fabulous project.
Week three found all the kids outside the Superintendent's Office painting the sidewalk with home-made sidewalk paint. The art was amazing and we were very sad it rained a day later and washed the masterpieces away.
Summer Cleaning
Okay, so I’m one season too late. Most people get their cleaning done in the spring, but the library had to wait until school was out to begin a few reorganization projects that were sorely needed.
Most people now have DVD players and very few still have a VCR. I do, but only because the DVD and the VCR are the same machine. Our VHS section was completely full and many of the movies had not been checked out for a very long time. Any VHS tape that had not been checked out since 2006 has been weeded from the collection. What’s weeding, you ask? It’s just like a garden: you get rid of things you’d rather not have. And if no one has checked it out in three years, it is highly unlikely it will ever be checked out again. So keep an eye on the next book sale. If you’re interested in VHS tapes, there will be quite a few!
We also weeded our books on cassette section. Cassettes, like VHS tapes, are becoming an old technology and once again, our section was enormous. Following the same rules as the VHS, we have taken anything that has not been checked out since 2006 off of our shelves. Once they are removed from the catalogue, they will go onto the book sale for December.
Magazines were another area where we had too many copies taking up too much space. Most back issues of popular magazines can be found on-line, so keeping five years of each issue was becoming obsolete. Because of that, we now only have the last three years of our magazines. If you need help finding older issues, please let a librarian know so we can assist you.
In other news, we received a grant from Sioux Valley Energy to begin yet another project! We were given $1500 to improve our juvenile non-fiction section and Heather can hardly contain herself. She has chosen several series of books that will be a great asset to the library and that contain current information that will be useful for the kids who read them. The books have not arrived yet, but they should be here by August. Thank you, Sioux Valley Energy!
We also received $300 from the Pipestone Kiwanis to replace some damaged books that were classics. It’s always hard to get rid of a book, but when the book is worn and ragged, it’s definitely time to replace it. Who wants to check out a book that is falling apart? Thank you, Kiwanis!
We have also changed the theme of the children’s library from a jungle/forest theme to a castle theme, so be prepared to see some construction coming soon. Anyone who feels like painting stones or making a few banners for the walls, please let us know!
If you have any questions, or you have a book you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are not open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
06-01-09 Summer Reading Program!
It is once again time for Summer Reading at Meinders Library! This year’s theme is Be Creative At Your Library, which has a lot of potential. We have so many exciting activities, ranging from paper masks and murals, to home-made sidewalk chalk and musical instruments. Our guest presenter this year is Ramona Larson and I’ve never participated in her activities, but she says we have to wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothes, so I bet it will be fun! Meetings for Summer Reading Program will be Thursdays at 2:00 PM, starting June 11. Come in and sign up!
Regular Summer Reading Program is for kids from 5 to 12, but this year we will also be having a Teen Summer Reading Program for older kids, from 12 to 18. The activities for the teen group include redesigning book covers, making movie posters, and watching a few books-become-movies, like Twilight and Inkheart. It promises to be very exciting and what teenager doesn’t need something to do during the summer? Meetings for the Teen group will be Fridays at 2:00 PM, staring June 12th. Come in and get signed up!
Both Summer Programs end at the end of July, with July 30th being the last day for the younger kids and July 31st for the teens.
We are looking for volunteers to help with both reading programs, for those adults out there who need things to do during the summer. We’d like to get a few adults to come in and help with each activity, since we frequently have 50+ kids attending. You don’t need to attend every week and if you only have time for once, we would be glad to have you. If you are interested, give the library a call at 825-6714 or stop on by and fill out a volunteer sheet. We would really appreciate it!
Summer Reading Program is always a very exciting time in the library. Seeing happy faces on happy kids makes all the planning worthwhile and we are so looking forward to the program!
If you have any questions about Summer Reading Program, or you have a book you need to reserve or renew, give us a call at 507-825-6714. Summer hours for Meinders Library are Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We are no longer open on Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
5-14-09 Article in the Pipestone County Star
Sacrifice By a Few Leads to Continued Service for All: Written by Kyle Kuphal
Rather than cut services or jobs, the director and the administrative staff of the Plum Creek Library System (PCLS), which provides interlibrary services to 25 libraries in a nine county region of southwestern Minnesota including Pipestone, voluntarily sacrificed money from their own pockets to continue operating as usual.
A projected five-to-six percent operating deficit drove the PCLS’s decision. With an annual budget of roughly $690,000 in state library funding, the deficit of roughly $40,000 could have resulted in fewer services to area libraries, a reduction to half-time hours for one or two staff members or even a layoff.
However, PCLS employees and director Mark Ranum began discussing alternatives in November and by January had reached an agreement whereby every administrative employee would cut one workday per month to help reduce operating expenses.“It’s really tremendous how the employees came together at Plum Creek,” Ranum said. “The employees solved the problem with that sacrifice.”
Ranum, in order to show leadership, decided to go one step further. He voluntarily gave up his position as director and continues to fulfill the same duties as a consultant. That decision cost him roughly $28,000 in salary and compensation.“I still have a great job,” Ranum said. “I’m as committed as the people that work for me to keep good library service in the state.”
It is the people that work for him, he said, that deserve the credit. By spreading the impact of the projected deficit among the entire staff, they were able to keep everyone’s job safe and continue to provide the services local libraries have come to expect. It also led to PCLS projecting a small surplus rather than a deficit for this fiscal year, which ends June 30.
PCLS Office Administrator Chris Lang said she speaks for all the staff at PCLS when she says they are a dedicated bunch. The main concern of the staff, he said, is to provide member libraries with the support necessary to provide quality service to library patrons in the nine-county region covered by PCLS.“We will continue to be creative and financially savvy as we strive to provide patrons of southwest Minnesota with the excellent library service they’ve come to expect and enjoy,” Lang said.
“They’ve done a great job,” said Stephanie Hall, director of Meinders Community Library in Pipestone. “It tells me that the libraries are the most important part.”
Meinders Community Library, she said, has not felt the pinch of the poor economy and budget cuts as has PCLS. That is due in part to the unique relationship between the Meinders Community Library and PAS High School. Because the library also serves as the high school library it receives funding from the city, county and school district, which has helped prevent budget shortfalls.
“It hasn’t affected us nearly as much as the Plum Creek Library System,” Hall said.About one third of the libraries in the nine-county system have had to make budget cuts. Ranum said he expects that will be the case for the next few years. In a way, it is a bit of a Catch-22 because typically, when the economy takes a downturn, people tend to turn to the local library for entertainment and information. “Consumer information becomes a more valuable commodity,” Ranum said. “People want to continue to live the life they live, but at a cheaper cost.”
Hall said she too expects library use to increase because libraries offer the goods and services that in good times are taken for granted, but in difficult times are considered luxuries. Already she has heard library patrons say they turned off their cable or Internet to save money. Fortunately, they have the local library to fill those needs.
“We are in the business of taking care of the needs of the community and Plum Creek is definitely doing that too,” Hall said. “They keep us all connected. I think it would be very difficult to be a library on your own without that support.”
All citizens need to stay connected, she said, is a library card — and that’s free.
5-18-09 Boardgames at the Library
One of my favorite memories as a child was sitting down with my family to play Trivial Pursuit. Sure, my father always beat me and my mother seemed to know every literature answer in the whole game, but it was still a really fun way to bond with my parents, more so when I got an answer right (My father can still beat me, by the way, 30 years later - darnit).
I know you can buy Trivial Pursuit at Toys-R-Us, but with the recent economic situation, wouldn’t it be nice if you could check it out at the library? Especially if you think you might not play it enough to warrant purchasing it.
I would love to have a small selection of board games that patrons could come in and check out to take home for a game night. It would also be nice to have some games on hand for when it gets colder and we hold game nights here at the library, perhaps even a championship if we’ve got more than one copy for people to play at a time.
Take a look in your closet – you know, the one you put stuff in when you want to forget about it. Are there any games in there? Do they have all their pieces? If so, I would like to encourage you to donate them to Meinders Library so we can put them out on our shelves to be checked out. Good games should never just collect dust in a closet, they were meant to be played!
Also, when you have a chance, come in and check out our new books, both fiction and non-fiction. We’ve got some really great titles in right now and I’d like to encourage everyone to try reading something they normally wouldn’t pick up. I tried that recently and it turned out to be a great experience! For those of you who don’t know, I am an avid fantasy reader (weirdo!) and I rarely, if ever, will choose anything else, much less fiction geared specifically towards women. If it doesn’t have swords and dragons, I usually won’t read it. Maybe I’m just growing up (heaven forfend), but I read Confessions of a Shopaholic and I really liked it! In fact, I plan on reading the rest of the series. If it worked for me, it will work for you! So stop by and try something a little different.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you would like to place a book on hold or have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714.
I know you can buy Trivial Pursuit at Toys-R-Us, but with the recent economic situation, wouldn’t it be nice if you could check it out at the library? Especially if you think you might not play it enough to warrant purchasing it.
I would love to have a small selection of board games that patrons could come in and check out to take home for a game night. It would also be nice to have some games on hand for when it gets colder and we hold game nights here at the library, perhaps even a championship if we’ve got more than one copy for people to play at a time.
Take a look in your closet – you know, the one you put stuff in when you want to forget about it. Are there any games in there? Do they have all their pieces? If so, I would like to encourage you to donate them to Meinders Library so we can put them out on our shelves to be checked out. Good games should never just collect dust in a closet, they were meant to be played!
Also, when you have a chance, come in and check out our new books, both fiction and non-fiction. We’ve got some really great titles in right now and I’d like to encourage everyone to try reading something they normally wouldn’t pick up. I tried that recently and it turned out to be a great experience! For those of you who don’t know, I am an avid fantasy reader (weirdo!) and I rarely, if ever, will choose anything else, much less fiction geared specifically towards women. If it doesn’t have swords and dragons, I usually won’t read it. Maybe I’m just growing up (heaven forfend), but I read Confessions of a Shopaholic and I really liked it! In fact, I plan on reading the rest of the series. If it worked for me, it will work for you! So stop by and try something a little different.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you would like to place a book on hold or have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714.
5-4-09 Adopt a Book For Children's Book Week!
One of my favorite times here at the library is story time. Though I am not the reader (usually), I love to hear the small voices raised in appreciation or participation in the story. There are few things better than that sort of noise. Encouraging children to read is one of the major missions of a library, or at least it should be. And believe it or not, there’s a week of the year that specifically exists to support that endeavor.
Children’s Book Week was started in 1919, with Children’s Book Council coming onto the scene in 1944. Since then, the Council has administered the celebration week and chosen the dates. Traditionally, Children’s Book Week has been the week before Thanksgiving, but the dates were changed in 2008 and now, the celebration takes place in May, which is just around the corner!
The Children’s Book Council encourages libraries and bookstores, as well as parents, to show children how beautiful the written word can be by introducing them to new books and new worlds, beyond what they can experience here at home.
Children’s Book Week for 2009 will be May 11- 17 and to celebrate, Meinders Library is having a Book Adoption Fair from May 5 until May 22. Over 100 children’s and young adult books will be on hand for adoption at the library during those three weeks.
Adopting a Book? How do you do that? Any private person or business is welcome to come in to the library and select a book that they enjoy or that speaks to them in some way. (My personal favorite – Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!) Each book will have a sheet inside with the price. Once that price is paid, a bookplate will be placed in the book before it is put on the shelves, indicating who purchased it.
This idea is great for birthdays, memorials, or just plain fun! We will have single books on hand, and series books (three to five in a group) that families can adopt – one for each member – which is a fun idea for a Book Week present! And come on, who doesn’t need an excuse to buy presents, much less to buy books!?
Come in and visit us, even if you don’t feel like adopting, and treat yourself to a good spring read. We’ve got new books coming in every day, both for children and for adults, and we can find something for any sort of reader, from the serious mystery fan, to a non-fiction sort of person. We’ve got the perfect book for you!
Remember, if you don’t see it on the shelf but you simply have to read it, please let a staff member know so we can get it for you through our interlibrary loan.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you would like to place a book on hold or have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714.
Children’s Book Week was started in 1919, with Children’s Book Council coming onto the scene in 1944. Since then, the Council has administered the celebration week and chosen the dates. Traditionally, Children’s Book Week has been the week before Thanksgiving, but the dates were changed in 2008 and now, the celebration takes place in May, which is just around the corner!
The Children’s Book Council encourages libraries and bookstores, as well as parents, to show children how beautiful the written word can be by introducing them to new books and new worlds, beyond what they can experience here at home.
Children’s Book Week for 2009 will be May 11- 17 and to celebrate, Meinders Library is having a Book Adoption Fair from May 5 until May 22. Over 100 children’s and young adult books will be on hand for adoption at the library during those three weeks.
Adopting a Book? How do you do that? Any private person or business is welcome to come in to the library and select a book that they enjoy or that speaks to them in some way. (My personal favorite – Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!) Each book will have a sheet inside with the price. Once that price is paid, a bookplate will be placed in the book before it is put on the shelves, indicating who purchased it.
This idea is great for birthdays, memorials, or just plain fun! We will have single books on hand, and series books (three to five in a group) that families can adopt – one for each member – which is a fun idea for a Book Week present! And come on, who doesn’t need an excuse to buy presents, much less to buy books!?
Come in and visit us, even if you don’t feel like adopting, and treat yourself to a good spring read. We’ve got new books coming in every day, both for children and for adults, and we can find something for any sort of reader, from the serious mystery fan, to a non-fiction sort of person. We’ve got the perfect book for you!
Remember, if you don’t see it on the shelf but you simply have to read it, please let a staff member know so we can get it for you through our interlibrary loan.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you would like to place a book on hold or have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714.
4-20-09 Baby's First Book
I think everyone with children treasures the time spent reading stories before bed, but did you know that babies love to hear stories, too? Of course, babies love eating books, too, but science has proven that interacting with books, even with their mouths, is very important for developing reading skills later on.
The library is working on a new program called Baby’s First Book. With the help of the local hospital and through word of mouth, flyers will be handed out to new families asking them to come to the library, where they will receive a free book and a library card, if they don’t already have one. The book will be a simple board book, ideal for new babies. The only catch to the deal is families need to bring along proof that they live inside Pipestone County.
I first started reading to my daughter when she came home from the hospital, and I remember thinking that there was no way she was learning a darn thing. All she wanted to do was chew on the book and stare at the pictures, she wasn’t listening. But I realize now that she was, and those first stories helped her really come to love books. Now, we have to have at least two stories before bed and both books have to sleep in the bed with her. In fact, many is the time I’ve gone in after she’s asleep for awhile and the book is open and across her chest from where she was looking at pictures on her own.
Judith Shickedanz was the first to describe the behavior of infants when experiencing a book:
Book Handling behavior is related to how a child interacts physically with a book, either turning the pages or chewing on it.
Looking and Recognizing behaviors are important because an infant learns to focus on something, to laugh at a picture they like, and to form recognition skills.
Infants learn that books are exciting if they are exposed to them early, which leads to a love of books and stories later in life (even if it doesn’t last to adulthood). If children learn that books are fun, they will be more likely to enjoy learning to read as they grow older.
Infants (0-6 months) enjoy books with very simple, large pictures or designs with bright colors. Stiff cardboard books work well, or books that fold and can be propped up in a crib for easy viewing. Cloth and vinyl books are great, too, especially if they can go in the bath or get washed.
It’s easy to get an infant involved in a book! Using voices to portray characters or different words will engage the infant with you and keep them excited about this time with their caregivers. Pointing out the words and the pictures helps the infant to learn focus, and helping them to turn pages (once they’re a little older than newborn, of course) will help get them even more involved.
Help us raise a new generation of readers! If you or someone you know is a new mother or father, send them to the library for their free Baby’s First Book!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM (while school is in session). If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (507) 825-6714.
4-06-09 New Children's Books
Now most of you know we don’t just have adult books at the public library, we’ve got children’s books, too. And some of the new children’s books we’ve gotten in lately are fabulous!
If You Give A Cat A Cupcake, by Laura Numeroff
This beautifully drawn book tells all wary readers of the consequences of giving delicious small cakes to felines. If you enjoyed If You Take A Mouse To School and If You Give A Pig A Pancake will love this new book in the series!
Melvin Might? By David Shannon, Loren Long, and David Gordon
Poor cement mixer Melvin – he can’t stop worrying about things that might go wrong. But when his friend Rita the Ambulance is in trouble, he has to stop worrying and save her! Any truck lover is sure to enjoy!
First the Egg, by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
This book is the 2007 Caldecott Winner! It doesn’t answer the question of which came first, but it uses very bright colors to show that very small things can become much larger things, such as an egg becoming a chicken, and a word becoming a story. Beautiful colors, simple story, and very entertaining.
Listen to the Wind: The story of Dr. Greg and Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson and Susan Roth
There once was a man named Greg, who was climbing mountains and got lost. He was very sick when he got to the village of Korphe in Pakistan and the villagers nursed him back to health. When he asked their wise man what he could do for them in return, the wise man told him to “Listen to the wind.” Greg could only hear the voices of the children, and he realized the best way to repay them would be to build a school. This book is told with beautiful collage pictures and tells the story in a simple, heartfelt way that children will understand.
We’re also thinking of redecorating the children’s area to make it more exciting. If you have any giant cardboard tubes, or access to some (we’re talking a foot in diameter or so), please let us know! They would make great tree trunks! We’re also looking for vines, branches, leaves, and stuffed animals if you have any of those things just lying around. Also, if you have extra time and/or artistic talent, please consider giving us a hand as we try and turn a section of the library into a forest for reading exploration, complete with trees, animals, and a mural or two.
If you are doing any spring cleaning and have any children’s books, movies, music, or even games you would like to donate, please bring them by! If we don’t put them straight into our collection, they can be used for our book sale.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
If You Give A Cat A Cupcake, by Laura Numeroff
This beautifully drawn book tells all wary readers of the consequences of giving delicious small cakes to felines. If you enjoyed If You Take A Mouse To School and If You Give A Pig A Pancake will love this new book in the series!
Melvin Might? By David Shannon, Loren Long, and David Gordon
Poor cement mixer Melvin – he can’t stop worrying about things that might go wrong. But when his friend Rita the Ambulance is in trouble, he has to stop worrying and save her! Any truck lover is sure to enjoy!
First the Egg, by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
This book is the 2007 Caldecott Winner! It doesn’t answer the question of which came first, but it uses very bright colors to show that very small things can become much larger things, such as an egg becoming a chicken, and a word becoming a story. Beautiful colors, simple story, and very entertaining.
Listen to the Wind: The story of Dr. Greg and Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson and Susan Roth
There once was a man named Greg, who was climbing mountains and got lost. He was very sick when he got to the village of Korphe in Pakistan and the villagers nursed him back to health. When he asked their wise man what he could do for them in return, the wise man told him to “Listen to the wind.” Greg could only hear the voices of the children, and he realized the best way to repay them would be to build a school. This book is told with beautiful collage pictures and tells the story in a simple, heartfelt way that children will understand.
We’re also thinking of redecorating the children’s area to make it more exciting. If you have any giant cardboard tubes, or access to some (we’re talking a foot in diameter or so), please let us know! They would make great tree trunks! We’re also looking for vines, branches, leaves, and stuffed animals if you have any of those things just lying around. Also, if you have extra time and/or artistic talent, please consider giving us a hand as we try and turn a section of the library into a forest for reading exploration, complete with trees, animals, and a mural or two.
If you are doing any spring cleaning and have any children’s books, movies, music, or even games you would like to donate, please bring them by! If we don’t put them straight into our collection, they can be used for our book sale.
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
3-23-09 Branching Out!
It’s almost spring. It might not feel like it yet, but its in the air and will be here before we know it. In honor of the coming season, perhaps its time to take a look at what you’re reading and perhaps try something new! If you’re anything like me, you stick to the old tried and true and rarely decide to venture outside your comfort zone. Recently, my husband and my mother have convinced me that non-fiction is really not all that bad and I should try a few. And the ones I read, I really enjoyed! Now it takes me even longer at the bookstore, but I’m far more likely to find something I enjoy.
A month ago, the column was on science fiction and fantasy novels but this column will be concentrating on a few subjects that you have probably never even thought of reading. Well, perhaps its time you did!
Some of the books you might want to take a look at are:
Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street by Michael Davis
Sesame Street began airing on November 10, 1969, and since then has touched millions of children. This is the story BEHIND the amazing show, of the people involved, and the sometimes crazy things that happened during production. Sesame Street has taught so many over the years, and not just their ABCs. The show taught cooperation, creativity, self-respect, and tolerance to several generations and it continues to touch children today.
Riding Dirty on I-95 by Nikki Turner
Whether you like it or not, hip-hop culture is fast becoming more popular day by day and has become integrated into the lives of American youth. This book centers around a young woman’s difficult upbringing, involving the murder of her father, the neglect of her mother, and years in foster care. Those formative occurrences led her to become a drug runner in the inner city, though eventually she fought her way free to a better life. The book is gritty and vivid, a testament to unbroken spirits.
True to the Game by Teri Woods
Another popular hip-hop author, Woods has written a vicious love story, involving a girl from the projects and a millionaire drug dealer. The plot of the book comes from the struggle of holding on to ill-gotten gains: the drugs, the man, the car, and the house. And both partners learn there’s a price to the game they’re playing. Once you’re in, you stay. There’s no way out.
Too Fat to Fish by Artie Lange
If you are a fan of the Howard Stern show, you know exactly who Artie Lange is. If you don’t listen to the show, you still might enjoy this book. Lange became a permanent member of Stern’s program in 2001 and has continued to delight the audience with his humor. Using material gleaned from his own life, from his weight struggles to issues with his mother, Lange turns everyday happenings into comedic genius. He has worked as a cab-driver, a longshoreman, and he has toured with the USO and he uses all of his experiences to write a laugh-out-loud narrative.
Behind the Yellow Tape: On the Road with Some of American’s Hardest Working Crime Scene Investigators by Jarrett Hallcox
If you enjoy CSI or other crime drama shows that involve forensic investigation, you will enjoy this book. Eight stories of true crimes with gripping text and photographs show what life and work are really like in crime scene investigations. The crimes range from Puget Sound to the Alamo and are sure to grip tight to any avid crime reader.
Kosher Sutra: 8 Sacred Secrets for Reigniting Desire and Restoring Passion for Life by Rabbi Shmuley Boteach
A Rabbi wrote a sex book? That was my first thought when I ordered this, but after reading inside the cover, I think Rabbi Boteach is on to something. Also the counselor on a successful show on TLC (Shalom in the Home), Rabbi Boteach investigates how advertising and the rest of the media have so inundated us with sex that we’ve become over-exposed, leading to lack of mystery and boredom within our intimate relationships. The style is easy to read and engaging, very friendly and frank, and the stories of real-life couples and their struggles will be informative for any reader.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been chomping at the bit to read. Just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
A month ago, the column was on science fiction and fantasy novels but this column will be concentrating on a few subjects that you have probably never even thought of reading. Well, perhaps its time you did!
Some of the books you might want to take a look at are:
Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street by Michael Davis
Sesame Street began airing on November 10, 1969, and since then has touched millions of children. This is the story BEHIND the amazing show, of the people involved, and the sometimes crazy things that happened during production. Sesame Street has taught so many over the years, and not just their ABCs. The show taught cooperation, creativity, self-respect, and tolerance to several generations and it continues to touch children today.
Riding Dirty on I-95 by Nikki Turner
Whether you like it or not, hip-hop culture is fast becoming more popular day by day and has become integrated into the lives of American youth. This book centers around a young woman’s difficult upbringing, involving the murder of her father, the neglect of her mother, and years in foster care. Those formative occurrences led her to become a drug runner in the inner city, though eventually she fought her way free to a better life. The book is gritty and vivid, a testament to unbroken spirits.
True to the Game by Teri Woods
Another popular hip-hop author, Woods has written a vicious love story, involving a girl from the projects and a millionaire drug dealer. The plot of the book comes from the struggle of holding on to ill-gotten gains: the drugs, the man, the car, and the house. And both partners learn there’s a price to the game they’re playing. Once you’re in, you stay. There’s no way out.
Too Fat to Fish by Artie Lange
If you are a fan of the Howard Stern show, you know exactly who Artie Lange is. If you don’t listen to the show, you still might enjoy this book. Lange became a permanent member of Stern’s program in 2001 and has continued to delight the audience with his humor. Using material gleaned from his own life, from his weight struggles to issues with his mother, Lange turns everyday happenings into comedic genius. He has worked as a cab-driver, a longshoreman, and he has toured with the USO and he uses all of his experiences to write a laugh-out-loud narrative.
Behind the Yellow Tape: On the Road with Some of American’s Hardest Working Crime Scene Investigators by Jarrett Hallcox
If you enjoy CSI or other crime drama shows that involve forensic investigation, you will enjoy this book. Eight stories of true crimes with gripping text and photographs show what life and work are really like in crime scene investigations. The crimes range from Puget Sound to the Alamo and are sure to grip tight to any avid crime reader.
Kosher Sutra: 8 Sacred Secrets for Reigniting Desire and Restoring Passion for Life by Rabbi Shmuley Boteach
A Rabbi wrote a sex book? That was my first thought when I ordered this, but after reading inside the cover, I think Rabbi Boteach is on to something. Also the counselor on a successful show on TLC (Shalom in the Home), Rabbi Boteach investigates how advertising and the rest of the media have so inundated us with sex that we’ve become over-exposed, leading to lack of mystery and boredom within our intimate relationships. The style is easy to read and engaging, very friendly and frank, and the stories of real-life couples and their struggles will be informative for any reader.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been chomping at the bit to read. Just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
3-10-09 Children's Library
A lot of people think that libraries are places to be quiet and stodgy, where you go to get a book but can’t really have any fun. That is NOT true at Meinders Library! We have a wonderful children’s section, with all sorts of materials ranging from audio books and video tapes to the latest graphic novels and manga from Japan. And don’t forget the classics, such as the American Girl series, or the Boxcar children!
Meinders Library also has a story-time program:
Wednesday at 10:30 is Preschool Story time, for ages 3-5.
Thursday at 10:30 is Infant Story time, for our very small patrons under 1 year of age.
Thursday at 11:30 is Toddler Story time, for children from 12 to 36 months.
Please bring your children down if you are looking for something to do! We have a coloring table, games to play, CDs to listen to and, occasionally, we put in the movies and let the kids choose from an assortment of brightly colored cushions so they can gather on the floor.
We also have children’s activities that we publicize either in the paper or with flyers out at the library. In December, we had a movie day where we showed the movie Horton Hears a Who with Jim Carrey on a large screen we borrowed from the school. We even made popcorn! In the future, we are planning more movie days and other exciting things that children and their families can come and experience here at the library.
And while its true that libraries are supposed to be quiet, no one seems to mind the laughter of small children, or the inquisitive question (and occasional tantrums) that occur. A library is a safe, exciting place to learn and we here at Meinders firmly believe that.
Meinders Library also has a story-time program:
Wednesday at 10:30 is Preschool Story time, for ages 3-5.
Thursday at 10:30 is Infant Story time, for our very small patrons under 1 year of age.
Thursday at 11:30 is Toddler Story time, for children from 12 to 36 months.
Please bring your children down if you are looking for something to do! We have a coloring table, games to play, CDs to listen to and, occasionally, we put in the movies and let the kids choose from an assortment of brightly colored cushions so they can gather on the floor.
We also have children’s activities that we publicize either in the paper or with flyers out at the library. In December, we had a movie day where we showed the movie Horton Hears a Who with Jim Carrey on a large screen we borrowed from the school. We even made popcorn! In the future, we are planning more movie days and other exciting things that children and their families can come and experience here at the library.
And while its true that libraries are supposed to be quiet, no one seems to mind the laughter of small children, or the inquisitive question (and occasional tantrums) that occur. A library is a safe, exciting place to learn and we here at Meinders firmly believe that.
2-23-09 Upcoming Events
Dennis Weidemann – This Water Goes North
February 28th, 2009 at 2:00 PM
In the summer of 1979, Dennis and three friends canoed their way from Fergus Falls, MN to Hudson Bay, a journey of 1400 miles. They had leaky tents, very little experience, and old canoes and the trip took more than two months.
Come hear Dennis talk about his experience, complete with a stunning slide show. He will also have copies of his book to sell and sign for those who are interested.
Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday!
March 7th, 2009 at 3:00 PM
“No, No, Sam I am. I do not like Green Eggs and Ham!” Everyone knows that famous line from a very famous book. Dr. Seuss’ birthday is March 2nd so join us in our celebration of this fantastic children’s author! We will have several Pipestone “Celebrities” reading Dr. Seuss books (including the Mayor and the Sherriff), special coloring activities, and, of course, we will have treats. Come one, come all, and enjoy some of your favorite books!
Bruce Weigel – Native American Flute and Story-telling
March 14th, 2009 at 2:00 PM
Bruce is a local flute player and looks forward to sharing his music and stories at the library. Self-taught and inspired by nature, he uses his music to inspire peace and a sense of connectedness to those listening. He spends time at the Pipestone National Monument nearly every day and enjoys teaching classes on flute-playing, making dream-catchers, and meditation.
And keep this in the back of your mind for something to do in April: The Plum Creek Library System owns a Wii and Meinders Library has reserved it for the middle two weeks in April. We will be hosting a few gaming nights for kids, teens, and adults during those weeks. Dates will be publicized later, so keep watching!
Just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
February 28th, 2009 at 2:00 PM
In the summer of 1979, Dennis and three friends canoed their way from Fergus Falls, MN to Hudson Bay, a journey of 1400 miles. They had leaky tents, very little experience, and old canoes and the trip took more than two months.
Come hear Dennis talk about his experience, complete with a stunning slide show. He will also have copies of his book to sell and sign for those who are interested.
Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday!
March 7th, 2009 at 3:00 PM
“No, No, Sam I am. I do not like Green Eggs and Ham!” Everyone knows that famous line from a very famous book. Dr. Seuss’ birthday is March 2nd so join us in our celebration of this fantastic children’s author! We will have several Pipestone “Celebrities” reading Dr. Seuss books (including the Mayor and the Sherriff), special coloring activities, and, of course, we will have treats. Come one, come all, and enjoy some of your favorite books!
Bruce Weigel – Native American Flute and Story-telling
March 14th, 2009 at 2:00 PM
Bruce is a local flute player and looks forward to sharing his music and stories at the library. Self-taught and inspired by nature, he uses his music to inspire peace and a sense of connectedness to those listening. He spends time at the Pipestone National Monument nearly every day and enjoys teaching classes on flute-playing, making dream-catchers, and meditation.
And keep this in the back of your mind for something to do in April: The Plum Creek Library System owns a Wii and Meinders Library has reserved it for the middle two weeks in April. We will be hosting a few gaming nights for kids, teens, and adults during those weeks. Dates will be publicized later, so keep watching!
Just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
2-16-09 Library Column - The Oscar Edition
It’s that time of year, when an actor’s fancy turns to thoughts of golden statues. The 81st Annual Academy Awards will be held on February 22nd at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles. Hugh Jackman will be hosting and the full awards list can be found on-line. It’s a night of parties and excitement, where those who watch from home sit around the television holding their breath as they wait for the winners to be announced.
Okay, not everyone watches with that amount of fervor and attention. I’m lucky to see a few acceptance speeches while I try and keep my toddler occupied, but I’ve always enjoyed it.
You might say “Wait, what is the Librarian doing writing about the Oscars? Aren’t those movies?” You are completely right. They don’t have an awards show for books and if they did, I suspect it would be rather boring. However, Meinders Library does have a video section, both VHS and DVD. It’s not as extensive as we’d like it to be, so we’re asking you to take a look at your video library and see if there are any movies you would like to donate to us.
Below is a list of movies that the Library would love to have in our collection. Some of them are past Oscar Winners from 2006 and 2007. A few on the list have not yet been released. All of them were popular and we are hoping at some point to have copies that we can check out to those who didn’t manage to see them in the theater.
Appaloosa (2008)
Australia (2008)
Bolt (animated) (2008)
Burn After Reading (2008)
Changeling (2008)
Doubt (2008)
Eagle Eye (2008)
Flash of Genius (2008)
High School Musical (there’s 3) any
Igor (animated) (2008)
John Adams (HBO series) (2008)
Madagascar 2 (animated) (2008)
Miracle at St. Anna (2008)
Nights in Rodanthe (2008)
No Reservations (2007)
Quantum of Solace (James Bond) (2008)
Seven Pounds (2008)
Swing Vote (2008)
The Dark Knight (Batman) (2008)
Twilight (2008)
Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)
W. (2008)
Wall-E (animated) (2008)
Babel (2007)
The Departed (2007)
The Queen (2007)
Little Miss Sunshine (2007)
Letters from Iwo Jima (2007)
Capote (2006)
Good Night and Good Luck (2006)
Munich (2006)
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Revolutionary Road (2008)
The Reader (2008)
Milk (2008)
Frost/Nixon (2008)
We are not limited to the above movies. If you find something not on the list, we certainly won’t turn you down! If you decide you would like to donate one of the above movies, we will be happy to label the movie with the name of who donated it to give you credit where credit is due.
Come in and check out a movie, or something that you have been dying to read. And just as a reminder, if you know a movie has been released, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place a hold on a movie or a book, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
2-10-09 Science Fiction
So I’ve noticed that Pipestone has a very particular set of readers. Our most popular topics are mysteries/crime dramas and Christian Inspiration. Now, don’t get me wrong. There’s not a problem with those particular subjects, but what about some other subjects that get overlooked, such as science fiction and fantasy novels.
Science fiction and Fantasy? I can almost hear you telling me I must be kidding. But some of the science fiction and fantasy authors write a really good dramatic story, often involving mysteries and plenty of angst, perhaps even a moral.
The newest books in the genre on our shelves right now include:
A Feast for Crows by George R.R. Martin
This book is the fourth in a wonderful series (A Song of Ice and Fire) rife with political intrigue. Told from the point of view of several different main characters, Martin manages to keep a coherent story even with action happening in many different places. Fans of a good mystery or drama will love the series and the author, who is not afraid to make terrible things happen to some of his characters. This is not a good-triumphs-over-evil type of fantasy, but a very human story, with all its twists and turns.
The Resurrectionist by Jack O’Connell
This story is science fiction, yes, but the underlying plot is that of a suspense-thriller with very gothic leanings. It centers around a pharmacist from Ohio who brings his comatose son to a clinic that promises assistance. Doctors there claim to have “resurrected” children like Danny before, though the actual reality is far more sinister. Taking place in two different worlds, this tale is sure to captivate any mystery fan and bring deep meaning to the reconnection of a father and a son.
Black Ships by Jo Graham
A completely new retelling of the Aeneid, by Virgil. Ships with black sails left the sacked city of Troy on an epic quest and this novel tells that saga from the point of a view of a young oracle in service to the Lady of the Dead. This book is brilliantly written and a very compelling story, and any fan of dramatic tales will not be able to put it down.
Swallowing Darkness by Laurell K. Hamilton
This is Book 7 of the Merry Gentry series, all of which are available through interlibrary loan. Merry Gentry is an American citizen, but she is also half-Faerie and is in line to rule as the Queen of the Unseelie Faerie court, if only she can have children before her cousin does. In this installment, Merry is pregnant and struggling to stay alive long enough for her children to be born so she can claim the crown for herself. Of course, if her cousin has anything to say about it, that won’t happen. American politics have nothing on the Faery Court! And fan of a good thriller will enjoy this book, though beware that some of the adult interactions are explicit.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been dying to read. When it’s cold outside, it’s always good to have a nice book to curl up with. And just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
Science fiction and Fantasy? I can almost hear you telling me I must be kidding. But some of the science fiction and fantasy authors write a really good dramatic story, often involving mysteries and plenty of angst, perhaps even a moral.
The newest books in the genre on our shelves right now include:
A Feast for Crows by George R.R. Martin
This book is the fourth in a wonderful series (A Song of Ice and Fire) rife with political intrigue. Told from the point of view of several different main characters, Martin manages to keep a coherent story even with action happening in many different places. Fans of a good mystery or drama will love the series and the author, who is not afraid to make terrible things happen to some of his characters. This is not a good-triumphs-over-evil type of fantasy, but a very human story, with all its twists and turns.
The Resurrectionist by Jack O’Connell
This story is science fiction, yes, but the underlying plot is that of a suspense-thriller with very gothic leanings. It centers around a pharmacist from Ohio who brings his comatose son to a clinic that promises assistance. Doctors there claim to have “resurrected” children like Danny before, though the actual reality is far more sinister. Taking place in two different worlds, this tale is sure to captivate any mystery fan and bring deep meaning to the reconnection of a father and a son.
Black Ships by Jo Graham
A completely new retelling of the Aeneid, by Virgil. Ships with black sails left the sacked city of Troy on an epic quest and this novel tells that saga from the point of a view of a young oracle in service to the Lady of the Dead. This book is brilliantly written and a very compelling story, and any fan of dramatic tales will not be able to put it down.
Swallowing Darkness by Laurell K. Hamilton
This is Book 7 of the Merry Gentry series, all of which are available through interlibrary loan. Merry Gentry is an American citizen, but she is also half-Faerie and is in line to rule as the Queen of the Unseelie Faerie court, if only she can have children before her cousin does. In this installment, Merry is pregnant and struggling to stay alive long enough for her children to be born so she can claim the crown for herself. Of course, if her cousin has anything to say about it, that won’t happen. American politics have nothing on the Faery Court! And fan of a good thriller will enjoy this book, though beware that some of the adult interactions are explicit.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been dying to read. When it’s cold outside, it’s always good to have a nice book to curl up with. And just as a reminder, if you know a book has come out, but you don’t see it on our shelves, let us know! We can get it for you through interlibrary loan, or we can place a Hold for you so you’ll be on the list. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinders Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
1-26-09 Escape to Book Island, Adult Winter Reading Program
Meinders Community Library and the Plum Creek Library System are once again having their adult Winter Reading Program. When we’ve got subzero temperatures outside, there are few better things to do than curl up on the couch with a book and have we got books for you!
The Winter Reading Program is open to anyone 16 years and older and here’s how you can participate: stop by Meinders Library and pick up a log form and a book! For every book read, the reader fills out an entry form to our weekly drawing and when the log form is full of twelve books, the reader receives a nifty prize. The prizes this year are nice six-pack coolers (for the weekly drawings) and your choice of the following for a full log form: a mug, a keychain pen, a tire gauge, or a giant chocolate bar.
We’ve got books for all sorts of readers, from those who want something serious to make them think, to those who use it for escape and only want to read fluff. You have from January 1st until March 31st to fill in your log form with twelve books to win a prize, but you only need to get one book finished to be entered in the weekly drawing or the grand drawing at the end of the program. So come in and give it a try!
And make sure to tell your friends! The more people that sign up, the more chance we have at receiving the Champion Readers Traveling Trophy and $500.00 to help us with new books for our patrons.
Meinders Community Library is open from 10 – 8 Monday through Thursday, and from 10 – 5 Friday and Saturday. We look forward to seeing you!
The Winter Reading Program is open to anyone 16 years and older and here’s how you can participate: stop by Meinders Library and pick up a log form and a book! For every book read, the reader fills out an entry form to our weekly drawing and when the log form is full of twelve books, the reader receives a nifty prize. The prizes this year are nice six-pack coolers (for the weekly drawings) and your choice of the following for a full log form: a mug, a keychain pen, a tire gauge, or a giant chocolate bar.
We’ve got books for all sorts of readers, from those who want something serious to make them think, to those who use it for escape and only want to read fluff. You have from January 1st until March 31st to fill in your log form with twelve books to win a prize, but you only need to get one book finished to be entered in the weekly drawing or the grand drawing at the end of the program. So come in and give it a try!
And make sure to tell your friends! The more people that sign up, the more chance we have at receiving the Champion Readers Traveling Trophy and $500.00 to help us with new books for our patrons.
Meinders Community Library is open from 10 – 8 Monday through Thursday, and from 10 – 5 Friday and Saturday. We look forward to seeing you!
1-12-09 Westlaw Database
We have many amazing resources at the library, but one of the least used would have to be the Westlaw legal database. Both Meinders and the law library in the Pipestone County Courthouse have subscriptions to the database with the package Minnesota PRO plus.
The Minnesota PRO plus package provides researchers with access to MN case law, statutes, court rules and orders, administrative code, attorney general opinions, and law reviews and journals. It also provides access to federal materials for the Eighth Circuit Court of appeals, and U.S. District Court decisions for Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, as well as the United States Code Annotated (USCA), the unannotated United States Code (USC), United States public Laws, federal court rules and orders, and U.S. Code Congressional & Administrative News.
While the database can be difficult to use for someone who does not have legal training, there is a tutorial website available as well as an instruction manual. The website needs an email address to log into, but it provides a list of topics and lessons as well as the time it takes to complete each lesson. Some patrons might find this easier than the wordiness of the manual.
In addition to the database, there are many useful websites that a librarian could direct you to for legal information. Please keep in mind that a librarian is legally prevented from giving any legal advice by Minnesota Statute 481.02, but we can certainly point you in the right direction and provide you with the information you need to find what you are looking for.
The Westlaw database is available free to the public on a first come, first serve basis during regular library hours. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714 or stop by during our business hours. Meinders Library is open Monday-Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We look forward to seeing you!
The Minnesota PRO plus package provides researchers with access to MN case law, statutes, court rules and orders, administrative code, attorney general opinions, and law reviews and journals. It also provides access to federal materials for the Eighth Circuit Court of appeals, and U.S. District Court decisions for Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, as well as the United States Code Annotated (USCA), the unannotated United States Code (USC), United States public Laws, federal court rules and orders, and U.S. Code Congressional & Administrative News.
While the database can be difficult to use for someone who does not have legal training, there is a tutorial website available as well as an instruction manual. The website needs an email address to log into, but it provides a list of topics and lessons as well as the time it takes to complete each lesson. Some patrons might find this easier than the wordiness of the manual.
In addition to the database, there are many useful websites that a librarian could direct you to for legal information. Please keep in mind that a librarian is legally prevented from giving any legal advice by Minnesota Statute 481.02, but we can certainly point you in the right direction and provide you with the information you need to find what you are looking for.
The Westlaw database is available free to the public on a first come, first serve basis during regular library hours. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 825-6714 or stop by during our business hours. Meinders Library is open Monday-Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. We look forward to seeing you!
12-29-08
It’s been a few months since new books have been ordered for Meinder’s Library, but we are getting back on track quickly! For all you avid readers, keep your eyes glued to our shelves for all the new books that publishers are releasing now. And remember, if we don’t have it in our collections, we can get it in a few days through our fantastic Inter-Library Loan.
The newest books on our shelves right now include:
Against Medical Advice: A True Story by James Patterson
Cory Friedman woke up one morning when he was five years old with the uncontrollable urge to twitch his neck. From that day forward his life became a hell of irrepressible tics and involuntary utterances, and Cory embarked on an excruciating journey from specialist to specialist to discover the cause of his disease.
Black Ops, by W.E.B. Griffin
The much anticipated fifth book of the presidential agent series. Lt. Col. Charley Castillo tracks down the terrorists who murdered an American diplomat in Beunos Aires. His questions lead him to Russian spies, who give information on an Iranian bioweapons factory in the Congo. Griffin fans will be very pleased with the book.
Bodies Left Behind, by Jeffery Deaver
An aborted 911 call leads a police officer to a secluded vacation home, where a murder is doscovered and a game begins between the murderers and the officer that leads to several jaw-dropping plot twists. Fans of high energy books will love this story!
Brass Verdict, by Michael Connelly
This is Michael Connelly’s 20th book and his most intricate. LA Lawyer Mickey Haller makes another appearance, working alongside LAPD Detective Harry Bosch. Readers will delight in the interaction between the two and the beautifully executed plot (no pun intended…)
Dewey the Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World, by Vicky Myron and Bret Witter
Spencer, Iowa, is the setting for this story about a kitten who gets put into the after-hours book drop at the library. Told by the library director, Myron, the story is beautiful and heart-warming, about a cat who brought a community together by just being himself.
A Mercy, by Toni Morrison
This latest story from Morrison is set in the late 1600s, a story of pain and desperation brought about by the conditions of slavery. The daughter of a slave is given to a farmer as payment and the echoes of the decision are far-reaching. The farmer’s wife suffers miscarriage after miscarriage and strugles with her faith, a Native American servant craves the love of a family to replace the one she’s lost. When Jacob falls ill, each of these women suffer and their ways of life are threatenened. The story is poignant and powerful, in brilliant Morrison fashion.
YOU Being Beautiful, by Michael F. Roizen and Dr. Mehmet C. Oz
This book is the follow-up to YOU: Staying Young and includes tips for acheiving inner and outer beauty. They give advice on personal care, diet, exercise, cosmetic enhancements, and how to deal with stress. The book is entertaining as well as fulfilling. Readers will enjoy the humor and treasure the advice.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been dying to read. January marks the start of a New Year and if you need a resolution, reading more is always a good one! We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinder’s Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
The newest books on our shelves right now include:
Against Medical Advice: A True Story by James Patterson
Cory Friedman woke up one morning when he was five years old with the uncontrollable urge to twitch his neck. From that day forward his life became a hell of irrepressible tics and involuntary utterances, and Cory embarked on an excruciating journey from specialist to specialist to discover the cause of his disease.
Black Ops, by W.E.B. Griffin
The much anticipated fifth book of the presidential agent series. Lt. Col. Charley Castillo tracks down the terrorists who murdered an American diplomat in Beunos Aires. His questions lead him to Russian spies, who give information on an Iranian bioweapons factory in the Congo. Griffin fans will be very pleased with the book.
Bodies Left Behind, by Jeffery Deaver
An aborted 911 call leads a police officer to a secluded vacation home, where a murder is doscovered and a game begins between the murderers and the officer that leads to several jaw-dropping plot twists. Fans of high energy books will love this story!
Brass Verdict, by Michael Connelly
This is Michael Connelly’s 20th book and his most intricate. LA Lawyer Mickey Haller makes another appearance, working alongside LAPD Detective Harry Bosch. Readers will delight in the interaction between the two and the beautifully executed plot (no pun intended…)
Dewey the Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World, by Vicky Myron and Bret Witter
Spencer, Iowa, is the setting for this story about a kitten who gets put into the after-hours book drop at the library. Told by the library director, Myron, the story is beautiful and heart-warming, about a cat who brought a community together by just being himself.
A Mercy, by Toni Morrison
This latest story from Morrison is set in the late 1600s, a story of pain and desperation brought about by the conditions of slavery. The daughter of a slave is given to a farmer as payment and the echoes of the decision are far-reaching. The farmer’s wife suffers miscarriage after miscarriage and strugles with her faith, a Native American servant craves the love of a family to replace the one she’s lost. When Jacob falls ill, each of these women suffer and their ways of life are threatenened. The story is poignant and powerful, in brilliant Morrison fashion.
YOU Being Beautiful, by Michael F. Roizen and Dr. Mehmet C. Oz
This book is the follow-up to YOU: Staying Young and includes tips for acheiving inner and outer beauty. They give advice on personal care, diet, exercise, cosmetic enhancements, and how to deal with stress. The book is entertaining as well as fulfilling. Readers will enjoy the humor and treasure the advice.
Come in and check out one of these books, or something else that you have been dying to read. January marks the start of a New Year and if you need a resolution, reading more is always a good one! We look forward to seeing you soon!
Meinder’s Community Library is open Monday – Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want to place one of these books on hold, please don’t hesitate to call us at 825-6714.
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