Blog North Adams!

Help! NOW!! Vote being held APRIL 1st!!

2010-03-20T11:55:00.005-04:00

The state budget currently under consideration imposes dramatic cuts on libraries at all levels. It is scheduled to be voted on April 1. It is very possible that our regional system, which performs numerous essential services supporting your library, will be dismantled. The Bookmobile is already discontinued, after decades of service to smaller libraries. Interlibrary loan (borrowing from other libraries throughout the state) may be next. Many research databases which are offered free to library cardholders will have to be cut. A collaborative system of training and mutual support will be destroyed. And all this at a time when library use throughout the state has increased: In North Adams use has gone up 16% in the last two years alone!

Please write, call, email, fax and/or all of the above to our State Representative Dan Bosley protesting these dramatic cuts. Contact Rep.DanielBosley@hou.state.ma.us or (413) 663-7486.
Other people to contact include:
* House Committee Ways and Means Chair Rep.ChalresMurphy@hwm.state.ma.us
* Ways & Means Vice Chairs mailto:Rep.BarbaraL and Rep.StephenKulik@hou.state.ma.us
* Gov. Deval Patrick (888) 870-7770 or (617)725-4005 ~ Fax: (61& 727-9725

Postcards and letters may be sent to any of the above at State House, Boston, MA 02133.

Thank you!

Gardens Ahoy!

2010-03-09T13:17:00.002-05:00

With the snow melting and the sun shining bright, are you beginning to dream of gardening? The North Adams Public Library has dozens of books on the subject, from how to improve the soil, to varieties of fruits, vegetables and flowers, to composting and mulching, to harvesting and putting up for the winter. Come check out a few!

And for those of you who are dreaming of getting out on the wonderful Berkshire rivers and lakes (once they thaw), we also have books on sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and power boats.

Dreaming of camping? We have that too, whether you want to camp in the Berkshires, along the Appalachain trail, or elsewhere.

Is building a back yard swing set, shed or chicken coop in your future. We've got those, too.

So whatever your Spring dreams, we have something to help make them a reality. See you here!

2010-02-18T16:47:00.001-05:00

Two movies coming right up!

2010-02-08T19:13:00.003-05:00

This Friday is Family Movie Night at the library. Our feature? Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. The free admission includes one drink and a snack.

And then the following Wednesday, Feb. 17, is Youth Night. The movie will be the first film in the Twilight series. A free ticket, which you get at the door, will get you the movie, a drink, a snack, and a ticket for the raffle, which will relate to the theme of the evening. Dress in costume if you wish!

Both events begin at 6 p.m. in the library's third floor Community Room.

It's Twilight Time

2010-01-25T11:29:00.003-05:00

Do you enjoy the Twilight series? We'll be showing the first episode of the movie here at the library on Wednesday, February 17 at 6 p.m. Hope you'll join us.

Suggesed author

2010-01-21T10:41:00.004-05:00

One of my new favorite authors is Geraldine Brooks. First I read her historical novel March, the story of Jane Austin's Little Women's father. Civil War soldier, loving husband and father, Mr. March's experience is vivid and lively. There's a lot of good Civil War history in there, too. Highly recommended.

Following that I read her People of the Book. This story traces the history of an ancient Haggadah, introduced by the archivist hired to stabilize and prepare the book for exhibit. Through traces she finds in the binding (a dehydrated butterfly wing, piece of string, small indentation, etc) , her curiousity is aroused, and we, the readers, learn how those traces and bits actually record the history of where the book has been over the centuries and how it came to be saved during the Inquisition, when so many Jewish codexes were burned. As a Special Collections librarian, I naturally am interested in archival stories, but I think this books appeal is far wider than that, because the story is so well presented.

I look forward to reading her earlier novel, Years of Wonder. The context is the great Plague, but somehow I think I'll enjoy it anyway.

New Year, New Mayor, New Director

2010-01-04T13:38:00.002-05:00

Time to look forward rather than backward. Time to cooperate and support, rather than complain and tear down. Time for hope and action, rather than discouragement and lethargy. We only get as much out as we put in.

All rather trite sayings,perhaps, but trite often is true. May you have a productive year, actively support our new mayor's efforts, and visit the library often!

Shopping? Sharing?

2009-12-17T14:22:00.002-05:00

How do you spend your holidays? Do you get together with friends and family, or enjoy scanning the malls, or bake your heart out? Or do you prefer a little solitude, curled up by the fire with a good book?

This year library staff will have more time to spend on their favorite holiday traditions. The library will be closed all day Dec. 24, 25 and 26 to allow us time for festivities and some R&R. Due to short staffing and vacations, library staff has been working extra hard, and having those three days (plus Sunday, or course) will give us a real break!

The following weekend, the library will close at noon on New Year's Eve and be closed all day January 1. However, we will re-open with regular hours on January 2.

Hope you enjoy your holidays as much as we will!

Plan Ahead....

2009-11-16T16:38:00.001-05:00

Because this year the North Adams Public Library will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 26) AND the following Friday and Saturday, Nov. 27 and 28. We will reopen Monday morning, Nov. 30, at 9 a.m. as usual.

Book Blowout!

2009-11-06T13:21:00.003-05:00

Get real deals this Saturday, Nov. 7 from 9 to 2 at our book sale redux at Notre Dame church. Everything must go -- so you'll get even better bargains than are available at our regular book sales. The event is sponsored and run by the Friends of the North Adams Public Library

Veterans' Day

2009-11-02T16:31:00.002-05:00

Next Wednesday, November 11, is Veterans' Day, and the library will be CLOSED. Let's remember to honor all those who have served in the past, and those who are serving today. Whether or not we agree with the current military direction, these women and men have given up home and family to serve the greater good.

Annual Book Sale!

2009-10-19T12:41:00.002-04:00

The Friends of the North Adams Public Library's Annual Book Sale is this weekend. This year it is being held in the Community Room at the former Notre Dame church up E. Main St. The sale is open Thursday night, Oct. 22, from 5 to 9 and Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, from 9 to 5. Lots of goodies -- so get there early for the best selection, and return toward the end for super special deals.

October is . . .

2009-10-06T10:36:00.003-04:00

Health Month at the North Adams Public Library. Keep watching our calendar and front page for activities and events, and check out our online and print resources on the subject. The Reference Staff is available to help you find resources to answer your health-related questions.

Knitting Class / Knitting Circle

2009-09-10T11:49:00.002-04:00

The Knitting & Crochet circle is back in action! The group meets every Monday (except holidays) from 6 to 7:30 in the front parlor. Everyone is welcome, and instruction is available for beginners. Hope you'll join the fun!

Computer Classes

2009-09-03T12:38:00.005-04:00

We've just learned that our volunteer will not be offering computer classes this September and October.

If we were to approach our computer training differently, what would you want to see? Remember, these are general classes, so please do not ask for anything specific to what you do or your industry: We are seeking information about general classes that y'all would like to see.

Thanks!

Changes, changes

2009-08-06T09:32:00.003-04:00

Our current director, Marcia Gross, is retiring effective Friday, August 14. Wish her well, as we do! Meanwhile, Rick Moon will take on the Interim Director responsibilities in addition to remaining our Tech Guy. Congrats to both!!!

Congratulations, Kim DiLego!

2009-07-17T09:13:00.003-04:00

Following Marion Grillon's retirement, Kim DiLego has been appointed as Youth Services Librarian, with Kirsten Rose joining the staff as Youth Services Assistant! We're sure they'll make a great team.

Question of the Week:

2009-07-13T13:40:00.003-04:00

What three United States Presidents visited North Adams between 1880 and 1920?
(Answer next week).

Honoring Marion Grillon

2009-07-06T13:49:00.002-04:00

Our Children's Librarian, Marion Grillon, is retiring this Wednesday, July 8. Last week there were public and in-house celebrations of her service with us. If you see her around town during library hours, don't be surprised - just say "Congratulations!"

A Starship Adventure

2009-06-19T14:28:00.002-04:00

Yup -- that's the theme of this year's Summer Reading program here at the North Adams Public Library. Sign-ups begin this week, with a grand kick-off party on Saturday, June 27. We'll start at 10:00 Saturday morning with a craft project, followed around 11:00 by Gregory McAdams and his family program of magic and mayhem. Come join the fun!

Yes! It's true!!

2009-06-08T16:22:00.002-04:00

The LIPPIZAN STALLIONS are coming to North Adams at the end of August. Stay tuned for more details.

Happy Bookers Move

2009-05-28T11:20:00.003-04:00

The Happy Bookers book discussion group will move its meetings from the second Tuesday of each moth to the second Monday, beginning at 6 p.m. June 8. That evening they will discuss Truman, by David McCullough. The group welcomes new participants, and there are copies of the book in various formats at the library.

Through the grapevine

2009-05-26T10:32:00.001-04:00

The wind has whispered that the Lippizan Stallions may return to North Adams this fall. Do you think it will happen? How do you feel about that?

Muffins for Memories

2009-05-12T13:36:00.002-04:00

Remember the '50s? Or stories about them told by your family? Well, then you are invited to come to "Muffins for Memories -- The 1950s" this Thursday, May 14 at 6 to share some home-baked muffins and reminisce together. Sponsored by both the library and the North Adams Historical Society, the gathering will be held in our third floor Community Meeting Room. See you there!

Free movie nights!

2009-05-12T13:34:00.000-04:00

Our movie nights have been so popular that they have become a monthly event! This month it will be on Friday, May 15, at 6 p.m. We'll be showing "Hotel for Dogs" and hope you will join us. All adults must be accompanied by a child.

What a turnout!

2009-03-09T19:30:00.003-04:00

The line for Friday's Pajama Party started to form by 5:30, and very shortly we were full to capacity! Well-E was a big hit, along with the popcorn and juice. And nearly everyone cleaned up after themselves and put their bags and juice containers into the trash -- Thank You!

With this success under our belts, we now are considering a line-up of parties for various age groups and interests. So stay tuned to find out what is coming next.

kc

PJ Party

2009-03-05T15:23:00.002-05:00

There seems to be lots of interest in the Pajama Party at the library this Friday evening. We're going to watch Wall-E and share free popcorn and juice. Unfortunately, fire code only lets us welcome 60 people into our Community Room, so come early if you want to get a spot. Bring your pillow and blankets -- because we ask that those who can will sit and relax on the floor (there will be a few chairs around the perimeter for those of us who find it difficult to get down and then back up again). Doors open at 5:45 and close at 6 p.m. promptly (or sooner, if we meet our maximum). Don't forget to wear your (family appropriate) pajamas!

Need a good chuckle?

2009-02-20T14:09:00.001-05:00

Then come to the library on Monday, Feb. 23 at 6:00 to hear Johnnie Carrier -- columnist for The Transcript (among other things). He's always good for a laugh!

Pssssssssssssssssst!

2009-02-13T15:57:00.002-05:00

There's going to be a movie night / pajama party at the library sometime soon. . . shhhhhhh -- check back here or on the library's website where more will be posted soon . . .

Do you have a Toddler?

2009-02-05T13:15:00.003-05:00

A second Toddler Time has begun in the Children's Department of the North Adams Public. It is held Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. The Tuesday Toddler Time, also at 9:30 a.m., continues -- so now you have a choice!

Monday night knitting & crochet circle resumes

2009-01-29T11:44:00.003-05:00

Our popular drop in gathering of needle and yarn hobbyists has reconvened! Whether you are highly experienced or brand new, you will find a welcome at this informal group. See you there?

What happened to January!?!!

2009-01-29T11:43:00.002-05:00

We resolved to post more often, and here it is the end of January and we've already broken that resolution. Well . . . we're only human. We'll try harder from now on.

Happy New Year, Everyone!

2009-01-05T19:14:00.002-05:00

We resolve to update this blog more frequently! And we hope you will resolve to visit the library more often.

Bruce Harley's presentation, mentioned in our last post, was postponed until January 15 because of the weather. So if you thought you missed his insights on how to cut your energy bills, you've got another chance. That's Thursday, Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. in the library's Community Meeting Room. Free! Following the presentation, he will hold a book signing for his recently released book on the subject.

The Happy Bookers will discuss M. William Phelps' Nathan Hale next Tuesday, January 13 at 6 p.m. There's still time to read the book, and they'd love to have you join them.

Brian Isaac's photo exhibit will be on view until January 12, so if you haven't checked out the images yet, do it soon.

That's it for this time. Check back in a few days for more info about the doings here at the library.

kc

2008-12-09T14:54:00.002-05:00

Did you see that Bruce Harley is going to be here at the library this Thursday? He really knows his stuff! He's going to talk about ways we can save energy (and $$$) in our homes. I'm sure he'll have a few tips that you haven't thought of before.

So please plan to be here at 6 p.m. this Thursday, Dec. 11, up in the third floor Community Room. I think you'll be glad you came.

kw

It's been awhile...

2008-11-19T14:57:00.003-05:00

Whew! It sure has been a long time since we posted anything on this blog. Sorry about that folks. Hope you're still with us.

There's a great concert coming up next Monday, Nov. 24, here at the library. Gospel / blues singer Robin O'Herin will offer free performance beginning at 6 p.m. The concert will last an hour or a bit longer. Hope you can make it.

Just a note: The library will be closing this Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 1 p.m. so that staff can get ready for Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday!). The good news is that we will be open our regular hours that Friday and Saturday.

Best to you and yours for the holiday!
kc

Craft Circles Reconvene

2008-10-02T14:07:00.004-04:00

The library's Thursday evening "Knitting and Crochet Circle" and Monday evening "Handcrafts Circle" are starting up again for the fall/winter season. Each drop-in group meets weekly on its respective night from 6 to 7:30 in the library's Main Parlor. What a way to get inspired and motivated to work on making your holiday gifts!

The Monday group welcomes anyone whose handcraft is portable and not too messy; the Thursday group is for yarn workers. Both groups offer mutual instruction and support. Feel free to come when you can -- just bring your own project and supplies.

kc

Book Sale!

2008-09-22T14:34:00.001-04:00

Don't forget that the library's book sale is this coming Friday and Saturday, September 26 and 27! On Friday it is from 9 to 5; on Saturday from 9 to 1. This is your chance to get some great deals on those volumes you've been wanting!! Also it includes books on tape and CD, and videos.

Have you read . . .

2008-09-16T09:05:00.004-04:00

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon? What an interesting book! Of it, BookPage says, "Imagine having the capacity to calculate every prime number up to 7,057, but an utter inability to express anger, love or fear. That's the brilliant, bewildering reality for Christopher John Francis Boone, the 15-year-old narrator of Mark Haddon's whimsical first novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time."

Haddon's small volume will be the focus of the Happy Bookers book discussion on Tuesday, October 4, at 6 p.m. at the library. Copies of the book are currently available at the library. It's a quick read, and we'd love to hear your opinion!

Free Movies!

2008-07-15T09:30:00.002-04:00

Did you know that you can download nearly 300 PBS videos through our digital catalog using your library card?

And how do you reach the digital catalog? There's a link on the library homepage in the right-hand menu, about half-way down, "Electronic Books and Movies Catalog," that will take you there. Or you can go directly the the site by clicking HERE - but be sure you have your library card handy, because you'll need that to get access. Your number is right below the barcode on the back of your card. You also can download audio books from that site. Just one more service brought to you by the North Adams Public Library and the Central & Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing Network (C/WMARS)!

Happy July!

2008-07-01T10:37:00.003-04:00

It's a new month, and time to consider summer reading.

Are you planning a vacation? The library has tons of books on travel, both within the US and elsewhere. Driving? Take along a book on tape or CD.

Time at the beach or the lake? How about some light reading -- if you tell the reference staff what authors you like, they'll help you find other authors whose work you also may like.

Time for look into your family's history? The library offers free access to Ancestry.com and NEHGS databases, as well as loads of information on local folks. Did you know we have the Transcript back to 1844? Local births, marriages and deaths from c. 1781 to about 1906?

Summer time is reading time, and we've got lots to offer. Or, for those ranier days, we have hundreds of movies and dozens of topics on non-fiction DVDs. Hope you'll be in soon to check it out.
kc

Library411 : R.I.P

2008-06-17T13:46:00.003-04:00

Yes, we've discontinued our Library411 eZine. Staff time is stretched to the limit, and something had to go. Since there were only about 30 subscribers, it was decided that we would put that project on indefinite hold. For those of you who subscribed, Thank You.
kc

Reporting back

2008-05-29T09:55:00.002-04:00

There were 26 of us at last week's "Muffins for Memories" program. Marcia Sarrouf baked muffins made from recipes in a 1940s cookbook found in the library's archives, and they were far less sweet than the muffins in today's cookbooks! She also arranged for others to bake modern muffins to share. The library provided coffee and tea.

Stories abounded. Emcee Justyna Carlson read articles from the May 3, 1948 North Adams Transcript, and related stories about each article. Her stories got the group talking, and one shared memory led to the next, and on and on. Some participants were surprised by how much they could remember of those long-ago days!

Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Participants suggested we do more "Muffins for Memories" programs. Library and Historical Society personnel are considering schedule one reflecting on the 1950s in North Adams. Stay tuned for further information.

Muffins for Memories : 1940s on the Home Front

2008-05-21T14:29:00.002-04:00

Come reminisce with us, and share your stories or the stories you've been told about North Adams in the 1940s this Thursday, May 21, at 6 p.m. in the library's third floor Community Room.

Library and Historical Society staff have gathered images, stories, and other ephemera to jog our memories. These include ""Where did you do business?" (shops & government), "Do you remember?" (ads and prices), "Anything here look familiar?" (local photos that need identification), and "What was your favorite recreation?" (movies, books, etc.)

We hope you'll join us!

kc/rm

A week of vacation!

2008-04-14T19:43:00.005-04:00

Vacation is just over the horizon! What are you planning to do?

REACH is offering two great programs in the library's Children's Department during Vacation Week.

On Tuesday, April 22, "Northern Berkshire Grows" - plant some seed to nurture and watch, and they'll be planted in the library's garden when the weather gets warm enough. At the same time you can learn about Community gardening!

Then on Wednesday, April 23, "Healthy Kids on the Mooove! presents "Cowabunga Calcium. Can you guess what this will be?

Both programs will run from 11 a.m. to noon. They are free and open to everyone!

Meanwhile, I'm heading out of town for a relaxing week with friends. Let's all enjoy great vacations!

2008-04-11T12:52:00.002-04:00

The Robert Frost program last night was lots of fun -- wish more of you had been there! Which reminds me, the local Poetry Slam is coming up on April 22 at 6 p.m. here at the library in the third floor meeting room. Whether you are a poet or an appreciator, do join us -- it's sure to be a fun time. And the winner of our slam goes on to compete in the Regional Slam!

kc

Goodreads, too

2008-03-27T10:33:00.003-04:00

Librarything looks like a great way to share your book reviews and keep track of what you've read. Another good site is Goodreads , which several library patrons use as well. Please share with us which you prefer, and why.
kc

LibraryThing

2008-03-14T10:11:00.003-04:00

A couple of our fans put us as their library on LibraryThing, so we went to check it out. We set up an account, and hope you will become "friends" and share your book reviews and suggestions with us. We also are posting the book for the next Book Discussion, and you can add your reviews there as well.
Here's the link:
http://www.librarything.com/
jswidget.php?reporton=naplibrary&show=random&header=
1&num=5&covers=small&text=all&tag=alltags&css=1&style=
1&charset=&version=1"

Any other LibraryThing users out there? How do you use it? What do you think about it?

kc

We like this one!

2008-03-06T13:28:00.002-05:00

The Jane Austen Book Club, a movie based on Karen Joy Fowler's 2004 novel, is making the rounds among the library staff, and the in-house reviews have been excellent! You don't need to know a lot -- or anything! -- about Jane Austen's books to enjoy this movie. Some claim it is a "chic flick" -- but many men enjoy it as well, and Austen fans will delight in the references and parallels.

We have one copy of the book and one copy of the movie (DVD) at the library, and can order the movie from other libraries if ours is out. Give it a look and let us know what you think!

napl

Who is your favorite Sleuth?

2008-02-26T12:31:00.002-05:00

This month's Book Discussion was to talk about our favorite sleuths or investigators. Not too many folks showed up, so we thought we'd open up the question to our blogfolk: Who do you like best? Why?

We'll post ours after a few of you have posted -- we don't want to influence anyone too much ;-)

kc

Ceiling leak

2008-02-14T07:39:00.001-05:00

Materials in the vault will be unavailable until further notice, due to several leaks in the vault ceiling.

kc

Library Closed Mon., Feb. 18

2008-02-12T09:50:00.000-05:00

Hear ye, hear ye! The library will close for Presidents' Day on Monday, Feb. 18. Pick up your books and videos early, and avoid the rush!

New Chess Program for Youth

2008-02-11T08:09:00.000-05:00

Our high school intern has begun an after school chess program for teens! It meets every Wednesday through March from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the Young Adult area upstairs. Teens of all ages and chess experience are welcome. Come check it out!!

Tech Challenge: Online Genealogy

2008-01-24T13:14:00.000-05:00

We held our first session about using Ancestry.com and FirstSearch this week. We should have waited. There were several technical problems logging all 8 computers onto our licensed Ancestry site, so we really couldn't do what we had hoped. Instead, we worked with folk on FirstSearch, the LDS free website, and did some demonstrations on Ancestry.

The good news is that we have fixed the problems. Our next class should work out better. We've offered a few spots in the next class to folks attending the first class, since it was a bit of a bust, but there are several registration slots still open. We will begin taking registrations on Monday, Jan. 28 at 662-3133. The class itself will be held Tuesday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 7:30.

Yes, even librarians are not infallible ;-)
kc

Update on yarn and craft opportunities at the library

2008-01-09T18:44:00.000-05:00

Our knitting group has multiplied! Contrary to prior reports, our Monday group will continue in addition to our new Thursday group!

The Monday group will welcome all crafters whose hobby can be portable and not too messy -- the library prefers not to have glue or glitter or tiny beads or anything that can easily scatter brought in. But punch needlers, embroiderers, Temari ball makers, counted cross stichers and such are welcome to join with the Monday group.

At this time the Thursday group will stick with knitting and crochet, and hopes to grow to include everyone from beginner through advanced.

Both groups meet at 6 p.m. on their respective nights, and are to finish up by 7:45. Both meet in our main parlor.

Muppets at the library, pt 1

2008-01-02T19:23:00.000-05:00

Found this youtube video on "Love the Liberry" - hope you like it (please keep the volume down within the library).

Knitters, Unite!

2007-12-17T19:11:00.000-05:00

After the first of the year, our weekly knitting circle will switch to Thursday evenings. There is no January 3 meeting, so the new schedule will begin on the 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the library's front parlor.

Knitters of every level, from total beginners to lifelong yarnaholics, are welcome. Join the circle when you can, and don't feel bad if you cannot make it every week.

There are several experienced knitters in the circle, so if you are a beginner just bring your yarn, needles, and a simple pattern if you have one (we have several) and come at 6:00 on Thursday evenings, beginning January 10, 2008. And if you can't make it at 6, come when you can. It's over about 7:45.

kc

North Adams Public Library's blog is back!

2007-12-06T12:48:00.000-05:00

Yup. We've decided to give it another try.

So ... have you signed up for our library electronic newsletter yet? Library 411. You can do so right from the library's webpage: www.naplibrary.com. It has been coming out monthly, although now and then we may send out a special edition.

Please let us know what kinds of materials and programs you would like to see at the library. This winter we will have a series of workshops on ancestry.com, one of the major genealogy research sites. If there are other trainings you would like us to offer, just reply here or drop us a line at naplibrary at verizon dot net.

See you 'round the net!

kc

Library 411 is alive!

2007-08-31T16:28:00.000-04:00

Yes, the first edition of the North Adams Public Library's eZine was distributed August 30. We're learning as we go. Anyhoo, if you'd like to subscribe, just send an email message to news411-subscribe@naplibrary.com -

kc

We're switching!

2007-07-26T12:01:00.000-04:00

Much as we enjoy your feedback and ideas, we've decided to switch from a blog to an online library newsletter (eZine) as a way to communicate with you. We hope you will continue to send us your thoughts and ideas (naplibrary@verizon.net). If you feel the blog should continue, just let me know and we'll reconsider...

The subscription link for the eZine will appear on the library website's front page within a few days (www.naplibrary.com). This will be your vehicle for getting the inside scoop on what is happening at the library in more depth than we can put on the website, as well as book reviews, tech info, etc.

Meanwhile, thanks for sharing with us. See you at the library!

kc

eZine

2007-06-30T06:15:00.000-04:00

The library wants to start an eZine. It will be a free subscription newsletter, distributed once or twice a month, that will inform folk about what is going on at the library -- not just programs and events, but anecdotes, staff picks of favorite books, movies, or music in the collection, and information about how to use some of our services, like ebooks and downloadable videos. We want to reach out to the online community, but do not want to spam everyone who has supplied their email address as part of their library record.

The problem is that I don't know the process of creating an eZine. I gather I need some kind of subscription program -- okay, I've found that. I gather lines should be no longer than 65 characters -- okay, we can do that. But what are the mechanics beyond that? Anyone willing to help me out here?

Thanks.
kc

Genealogy Season at NAPL

2007-06-09T09:07:00.000-04:00

At this time of year we begin to get travelers from all over the country stopping in to use our resources to research their family histories. They are delighted when they find we have vital records from the beginning of Adams up through the earliest part of the 20th century for both Adams and North Adams, as well as city directories, annual reports, the North Adams Transcript from 1844 to the present, the Hoosac Valley News for its full run, and numerous indexes and other genealogical materials.

We're just setting up a computer in the Local History area dedicated to local history and family research, which will provide access to databases from the New England Historical and Genealogical Society (New England Ancestry), the Mormons / Latter Day Saints (FamilySearch), Ellis Island, Garden City and, beginning July 1, Ancestry.

If you are from the Northern Berkshires of Massachusetts, or have roots in this area, we would love to add a copy of your research to our collection, so that others may build on your work. Just bring it up to the Reference / Special Collections Department on the second floor of the library.

Last January we offered a series of classes on how to do your family research at various repositories in the Northern and Central Berkshires. We have an excellent relationship with other repositories in the county. Staff also will help individuals pursue their research. If you're interested, we'll be glad to offer more learning opportunities for seeking your ancestors. It's the second fastest growing hobby in the country!

kc

Ideas?

2007-05-10T12:42:00.000-04:00

We don't have a whole lot of special programs scheduled at the library for the next couple of months, so would like suggestions from you. Yes, we have our regular StoryTimes, Knitting Circle, Book Discussion, computer classes and Writers' Corner, and on June 19 John Root will be here to inform us about edible wild plants, but we'd like to do more.

What would you like to see offered?

Can you identify this?

2007-05-01T10:04:00.000-04:00

Our Special Collections Department is processing thousands of negatives it received from the North Adams Transcript. Many of those negatives have minimal, if any, identification, so from time to time we will post an image here and ask you to help identify the people, place or timeframe. Please help us out!

Here's the first. The envelope was labelled "Churches", and it appears that there is a nun in the center of the photo. Perhaps someone can identify at least one of these people, or even the room. The photo probably was taken sometime in the 1930s - 1950s(?)

R.I.P.?

2007-04-15T08:01:00.000-04:00

I hadn't realized how many authors are writing novels posthumously these days. The Reflective Librarian, Stephen Leary, lists V. C. Andrews, Robert Ludlum and others, points out the growing gap between deceased authors and "their works," and ponders the validity and boundaries of this practice. Is Kurt Vonnegut next? Is the public aware, or just some of us librarians and book dealers? Is the a good thing for the reading public, or something designed to mislead us and increase sales? I fear it is the latter.

Thank you, Stephen, for raising this question. I think it is Deception for Dollars, and the public has the right to know.

Snow - 1; Gardens - 0

2007-04-05T11:10:00.000-04:00

It's hard to tell when you look out the window today, but the Berkshires' gardening season is nearly here. Now, I love gardens as much as anyone, but just don't have the time (or make the priority) to do all the work needed to produce great flowers and vegetables, or keep my shrubs pruned and lawn trimmed. How about you? Do you have some tips and tricks to share?

For those of us who want to have nice gardens without as much work, the library has invited gardening book author and editor Liz Stell to share her experience with us next Tuesday, April 10 at 6:30. Liz has fabulous gardens at her Lanesborough home, and I've always wondered how she manages to produce such great results while being a very busy editor and musician. I'm going to be there to find out, and hope you will too.

And keep your tips and tricks coming!

k

Copyright???

2007-03-27T09:41:00.000-04:00

As librarians we are always interested in copyright law and its place in today's world. Recently another copyright issue has been in the news involving YouTube and the Viacom network. I know many people feel it is okay to make a copy of any materials out there as long as it's for their personnal use but if materials are copyrighted doesn't the owner have the right to the profits from their work?

How do you feel? Should copying movies or music off the web always be okay or are there times when it should be illegal? Do you think that if materials are allowed to be copied it will eventually limit the number of items being produced because the profits will not be there? Is this all moot because we can not control it anyway?

RM

More Web 2.0 -- or was that 1.0...?

2007-03-24T07:18:00.000-04:00

I'm not into cubbyholing everything, but sometimes it does help us understand things. Ah, labels, labels. I tend to see things more as a continuum, so how about helping me out a little here:

Amy said, ". . . what I think Web 2.0 means is a new way to connect with people and build community and share ideas and actually start to put the web infrastructure to good use."

This sounds really good to me. And then I think about newsgroups, listservs, and IM, which have been around for "internet eons." And wonder if they are not a part of Web 2.0 . . . or Web 1.0 -- and then my head starts to spin, and I get a little dizzy, and major confusion sets in.

So, why do we need a new name ("2.0") for something that some of us perceive as a evolution, or progression? It's not that I mind, but . . . why?

Unmoderated

2007-03-16T12:52:00.000-04:00

Yes, folks, we are now an unmoderated blog. However, we will delete posts if they are flames or use inappropriate language -- we represent a public library, after all. But we do want to hear your opinions and ideas. Come join the conversation!
k

Library 2.0? Web 2.0!

2007-03-15T11:34:00.000-04:00

What do you know about Web 2.0? I think it is running parallel to, or perhaps a little ahead of, what is being called Library 2.0 (at least by Karen Schneider, but to learn about that you should check her blog). It has something to do with wikis, and blogs and other forms of "social networking" - which I take to mean online interactivity with other humans. [Side thought: Does that then make email and IM a part of web 2.0, instead of web 1.0? and what about web 1.01 - web 1.99?]

Sounds like the place we are all heading, like it or not.

So I signed up for this "webinar" -- also a new term to me -- to learn about using web 2.0 tools in our library. I do it from the library, using a computer and either a headset/microphone or a telephone line (no, I won't be tying up the line and keeping you from reaching our fabulous staff). I'm kind of excited about it. Maybe it will be similar to the online seminars my brother participates in, where the instructor somehow passes control of everyone's computers from one particpant to another, so all can view the same thing. Gee -- isn't that just a wee bit scary!

Meanwhile, beside blogs, what are you doing with Web 2.0?

k

Electronic Books?

2007-03-04T09:55:00.000-05:00

What do you think about electronic books? In case you don't know, they are books that you can read on a computer, or download to your eBook reader (gee -- *another* electronic toy to buy!).

I like audio books on tape and CD. We are now able to provide these for download to a CD, MP3 player or other device (except iPod, for some reason), and we have lots of them available at the library. Those are fine. But personally, I can't imagine reading a novel electronically -- even using one of those cute little eBook readers that are close to the size of a book. They're harder on the eyes, use electricity (I tend toward sustainable living), and just don't feel the same.

On the other hand, I have used NetLibrary books online for reference purposes. That is handy when I'm looking for a specific piece of information from a specific source if I can't find full text of that source through normal search engines or Gale Databases, and I'm not at the library.

When I'm helping a library patron look for a book, I seldom recommend the eBooks. When I do point them out, the response generally is "no, thanks." Yet we are told they are growing in popularity, and more and more are being entered into our catalog. In a few cases we can't even find a hard copy of some recently-published non-fiction books any more -- all copies in the system are electronic!

Maybe I'm just getting old and becoming a Luddite.

If you want to see what I mean, check them out. They are being provided by our library consortium (C/WMARS). You can find them through our website at <www.naplibrary.com> by clicking the "eLibrary Catalog" in the right hand menu or just looking for them through our online catalog link in the left menu. The consortium subscribes to at least two vendors for eBooks.

Yikes!

k

YaYa Sisterhood is March's selection

2007-02-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

The Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells is the choice for the library's next Page Turners Book Discussion, which will be held March 26. Have you read the book? What do you think? If not, we'll have copies in regular print, large print, and on tape and CD here at the library. Post here and/or come on down on the 26th at 2 and share your views!

Learn how to research your family history

2006-12-21T09:02:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday evenings beginning January 16, the library will offer a series of presentations about researching your family history. In the first session, Jan. 16 at 6:30, Dawn Morin will teach how to do genealogical research, offer some of the forms most commonly used, share tips she has learned over the years, and discuss some online sources.

The following Thursday, Jan. 23, Jean Nudd of the Conte National Archives in Pittsfield will describe the resources available there. On the 30th, Kathy Reilly of the Berkshire Athenaeum will present information on the extensive resources available in that library's Local History & Genealogy Department. On Feb. 6 representatives from the North Adams Historical Society and North Adams Public Library will describe resources available locally.

If participants so desire, a fifth session may be scheduled to further pursue questions and suggest more resources.

The genealogical research series is free and open to all, but people are asked to register by calling 662-3133 so that sufficient handouts will be available.

Knitting & Crochet Circle Rolls On

2006-12-21T08:45:00.000-05:00

The Knitting and Crochet Circle that met at the library on Monday evenings at 6:30 in December will continue to meet every Monday at 6:30 beginning January 9 (except Jan. 16, which is a holiday, or any other Monday holiday). Knitters and crocheters of all ages, experience levels and gender are welcome to come every week or less frequently, as suits them. The meetings are held in the Heritage Room, which is the smaller parlor in the library.

Hey, North Adams!

2006-03-14T16:01:00.000-05:00

Anyone out there?

This is the initial blog from the North Adams Public Library in North Adams, Massachusetts (sorry, Michigan). We want to know if you blog. If blogging with us would appeal to you.

We can blog about books, movies, programs, services, what you want, what we have -- we're trying to find out what interests you. What do you like about about our (actually, your) library? What would you like to see happen here. We are YOUR library; what are the best ways we can respond to your information needs?