LinkWinter2008-09-re by Kalamazoo Public Library

link

Winter 2008-2009 L I B R A R Y L I N K

holiday hop

December 5, 6-8 pm, Central Visit the library for a festive Holiday Hop. Dozens of Michigan authors and musicians will sell and sign their work, including children’s and teen authors, cartoonists, historians, poets, fiction, and memoir writers. Talented library staff members and friends will display and sell art and craftwork. The Ken Morgan Jazz Unit will perform throughout the evening and the Friends of the Library Bookstore will be open on the lower level. Bring your friends and join the party!

mississippi freedom riders February 24, 6:30 pm, Central

Late in 1960, a U.S. Supreme Court ruling outlawed segregation in interstate bus terminals. On May 4, 1961, thirteen people made the first Freedom Ride to test the compliance of bus stations with the ruling. This, and subsequent rides, encountered increasingly violent resistance. Though there were Freedom Rides across the South, Jackson, Mississippi, became the campaign’s primary focus. More than 300 Riders were arrested there and convicted of breach of peace. Author and photographer Eric Etheridge came across the mug shots of

save a tree! use email In the last Link, Ann’s notes on the back page described our efforts to reduce KPL’s impact on the environment. Every day, KPL mails almost 1,000 overdue and hold notices using ink, paper, and postage. Give the library your email address and we’ll save money and resources by sending your notices by email Do you put books, movies, or CDs on hold? Use email and you’ll learn as soon as they’re ready—no more waiting for snail mail delivery! With email, you’ll also start to get a new message that warns you three days before items you’ve borrowed are due—for email users only. Help KPL go green— use email!

all 328 Riders in 2004. He was “immediately captivated by [their] faces…

Tween Teen

The police camera had caught something special… The resulting portraits were compelling and intense.” He decided to publish the mug shots and, where possible, include new photos and stories of the Riders.

contents December 2008 – February 2009

Meet Etheridge and one of the 1961 Freedom Riders who inspired his recently published book, Breach of Peace: Portraits of the 1961 Mississippi Freedom Riders. http://breachofpeace.com

books & more 2-3 @ your library 4 history & genealogy 5 friends 6 kids center tween/teen 7-8 your story 9-11 at a glance 11 director’s note 12

events

winter

books & more

Lost Boys of Sudan February 25, 6 pm, Powell Peter Ruei joined the “Lost Boys of Sudan” when he was separated from his family as a baby after war broke out in 1987. He fled to Ethiopia with a group of children, but went back to Sudan after Ethiopia and Eritrea went to war. In 1992, the UN and Red Cross took a number of orphaned children to Kenya. From there, he came to Grand Rapids in 2000. He’s now a student at Western Michigan University. Hear about his remarkable journey to the U.S.

spared from the storm A variety of New Orleans-themed programs tie to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts exhibit.

When the Levees Broke December 8, 6 pm (Acts 1 and 2), Central December 9, 6 pm (Acts 3 and 4), Central

Aerial Angels December 29, 11 am, Central Don’t miss Kalamazoo’s own high-flying circus artists, the Aerial Angels, performing feats of grace, strength, and beauty suspended between floors of the library rotunda. After the performance, the Angels will teach kids a few acrobatic moves and let them give it a try.

Campaign for Love & Forgiveness, Fetzer Institute www.loveandforgive.org

Four Conversations About Forgiveness January 29, February 5, 12, 19, 6 to 8:30 pm, Central Explore how love and forgiveness can help heal anger and grief in this four-week series of facilitated conversations. Receive a handbook with essays and home practices to encourage reflection and action. Those interested must attend the first session on January 29 in order to participate. Registration required; call 553-7913.

Spike Lee’s HBO documentary about Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath is structured in four acts, each dealing with a different aspect of the events that preceded and followed Katrina’s catastrophic passage through New Orleans.

Marie Antoinette January 12, 6 pm, Central Kirsten Dunst stars as Marie Antoinette, executed by guillotine at the age of 18, in Sophia Coppola’s post-modern take on the life of France’s iconic last queen. “Lavish imagery and a daring soundtrack set this film apart...” –Rotten Tomatoes. See Antoinette’s oversize portrait in the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts exhibit, Spared from the Storm.

poetry feast

music

Poetry Feast

Red Sea Pedestrians

January 26, 4 pm and 7 pm, Central Saginaw natives Jeff VandeZande and Ken Meisel will lead a 4 pm workshop then read from their work at 7 pm. VandeZande offers a mean ultra-short fiction workshop. Meisel is a therapist and marriage counselor which lends an interesting twist to his work.

December 10, 7 pm, Central In a warped yet beautiful blend of cultures, traditions and eras, the Pedestrians create instrument-swapping, high-energy, neoKlezmer, hypnotic songs of celebration and wonder.

book groups Discuss classics, best-sellers, and little-known gems.

Oshtemo

Second Tuesday Oshtemo, 1 pm

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold December 9

The Glass Castle

Artifactory 6

by Jeannette Walls January 13

February 22, 1:30 pm, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Celebrate things Kalamazoo in poetry! Area poets from all walks of life read works inspired by local artifacts, memories, and history. Kalamazoo Valley Museum curator Tom Dietz emcees this always intriguing event.

The Faith Club

author visits

Third Tuesday Central, 7 pm

Skeletons in the Closet

by Ranya Idliby February 10

Books @ Central

Dixieland Jazz

December 4, 6:30 pm, Central

January 14, 6 pm, Central

Hear true-crime writer Tobin T. Buhk recount riveting, real-life stories from Kent County morgue, each with a unique forensic twist, based on his work with Dr. Stephen D. Cohle, medical examiner. Buhk’s Skeletons in the Closet describes all the ways we die—murder, accidents, natural causes—and how forensic teams investigate those deaths. Books for sale and signing.

The Greater Kalamazoo Dixieland Society Jazz Band is known for its New Orleans performance style and sound. The band was formed in 1981 by pianist Dale Wells out of his love for early traditional jazz and ragtime.

Beyond Red Beans and Rice January 28, 6:30 pm, Central Writer/photographer Elsa Hahne visited 33 New Orleans kitchens to learn what real folks eat. Her appetizing photos, stories, and recipes reflect 20+ cultures. She’ll share her tasty research and sign her book, You Are Where You Eat: Stories and Recipes from the Neighborhoods of New Orleans.

Peter Mulvey February 18, 7 pm, Central Rolling Stone calls Mulvey’s lush, hushed voice “surrealistic beauty…gorgeous.” The Boston Globe says he’s “a genre-defying traditionalist.” This nationally known singer-songwriter thrills audiences and critics with his amazing guitar playing and lyrics.

Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder January 20 The Known World by Edward P. Jones February 17 A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole March 24

Classics Revisited Third Thursday Central, 7 pm

Rabbit Run by John Updike December 18

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe January 15

The Assistant by Bernard Malamud February 19

@ your library Ask a Lawyer

Resumés & Cover Letters

December 3, February 4, 6-8 pm, Powell December 11, January 8, 6-8 pm, Central January 9, February 13, 11:30 am-1 pm, Central

December 10, 6-8 pm, January 15, 2-4 pm, or February 3, 10 am-12 pm, Computer Lab

Free legal clinic for low to moderate income persons with County Bar Association volunteer lawyers. Get help with most areas of civil law, including landlord-tenant problems, civil litigation issues, divorce and family law. Call 5537920 to schedule a 20-minute appointment.

Learn how to write and format a resumé and cover letters using print and online resources. KPL’s computer trainer and a business librarian will also share proven techniques to improve your resumé. Basic Microsoft Word skills are required. To register, call 553-7862.

craft couture

nonprofit resources

Artist and crafter Jessica Aguilera

nonprofit organization.

Programs to help develop and manage the

will lead adults in three very cool

Grant Proposal Writing

crafts. Materials provided. Space limited. Registration required;

December 15, 6:30 pm, Central

call 553-7880.

Learn how to write powerful grant proposals that meet funders’ requirements. Increase your chances of being funded through strong case statements. Designed for those with a general understanding of granting sources. Registration required; email bobbel@kpl.gov or call 553-7899.

Button Up December 2, 6:30 pm, Central Make beautiful (and wearable) art by covering metal buttons with fabric.

P Is for Paper January 6, 6:30 pm, Central Use paper to craft a variety of interesting goods—from beads to wallets.

Never FELT Better February 10, 6:30 pm, Central Turn felt into beautiful works of art, from handmade brooches to bookmarks.

Small Business Research Essentials December 10, 7 pm, Central Find information to help start and manage a successful small business. Learn how to use print, reference and online resources to identify elements of a business plan, industry trends, marketing, licensing, legal business structures, and more. You will also learn about SIC codes, industry associations, risk ratios, and how to effectively navigate our databases. This free workshop is part of a series of classes organized by the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center. Call their local office at 269-387-6004 to register. Seating is limited.

Grant Seeking Tips January 13, February 17, 2:30 pm, Central Explore KPL’s grant seeking resources, including the powerful Foundation Directory Online. This introductory session includes basic requirements of various grantors, online grant searches, books, periodicals, and other resources. Registration required; email bobbel@kpl.gov or call 553-7899.

history & genealogy writing group Each session includes a presentation followed by a hands-on workshop.

Reading and Writing Methods with Karika Phillips December 10, 6 pm, Powell KVCC instructor Karika Phillips will discuss her reading, research, and the writing of her article, “Strong Women Strutting Men: A Black Woman’s Civil Rights Movement,” an historical analysis of the day-to-day lives of the women who helped to galvanize and sustain the movement.

genealogy Genealogy Lock-In January 30, 6-10 pm, Central An after hours event just for genealogists! Explore reference materials and databases, use the microfilm reader/scanner/printer and save to flash drive. Reserved parking in the library lot. Free copying and printing. Registration required; call 553-7808 beginning January 5 to register.

Intro to Genealogy February 20, 1:30-3:30 pm, Central Start compiling your family tree at this workshop in the library’s computer lab! Learn how to search Ancestry.com, Heritage Quest, and KPL’s own index to local newspapers featuring vital statistics back to 1834. Registration required; call 553-7808 beginning January 26 to register. Space limited.

Writing Your Story with Minister E. Ken Harmon January 14, 6 pm, Powell Late in 2003, Pastor Addis Moore counseled Ken Harmon to discover God’s purpose for his life. Harmon’s spiritual journey eventually led him to write about Moore’s transformative leadership at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in his recent book, Growing God’s Kingdom. Books will be available to purchase and sign.

Family Reunions with Jacque Eatmon February 11, 6 pm, Powell Jacque Eatmon will lead a Talking Circle, an interactive exercise that helps participants share their family traits, values, health, and childhood stories. Bring a valued keepsake to this session and learn a method for passing your family history to younger generations.

this old building This series offers a closer, insider’s look at

Reading Together The New York Times Book Review says of Rick Bragg, “It is hard to think of a writer who reminds us more forcefully and wonderfully of what people and families are all about.” Read one or more of Bragg’s three memoirs before he visits on April 14, 2009. With artistry, honesty, and compassion, Bragg honors his mother—a woman who went 18 years without a new dress so her sons could have school clothes. In All Over But the Shoutin,’ Bragg evokes the love and suffering that lie at the heart of every family. Bragg celebrates his mama’s daddy, Charlie Bundrum, a heroic figure whose life symbolized a people and way of life that’s disappearing. Bragg richly seasons Ava’s Man with all-but-forgotten lore and language.

intriguing historical buildings in Kalamazoo.

State Hospital Water Tower Feburary 4, 7 pm, Central A successful campaign to raise public funds restored this 1895 Gothic tower to its original splendor and saved it from the wrecking ball so it could continue to dominate the skyline above Kalamazoo from atop Oakland Drive. Kalamazoo Historic Preservation coordinator Sharon Ferraro will reveal its secrets and talk about its future.

The Prince of Frogtown closes the circle with a tale of fathers and sons. With humour, candor and compassion, Bragg alternates stories about his daddy, Charles Bragg, with insights about his developing relationship with his stepson.

www.readingtogether.us 5

friends membership application ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Student Individual Family Supporter Patron Donor Benefactor

$5 $10 $15 $25 $50 $50 $100

Name

List all included on membership.

Address City State

Zip

Phone Email

❑ Check if OK to send Friends notices via email.

Dues are tax deductible. Please send form and check, payable to Friends of the Library, to: Friends of the Library Kalamazoo Public Library 315 S. Rose St. Kalamazoo, MI 49007

store hours Wednesday 12 noon - 7 pm Thursday 10 am - 4 pm Friday 10 am - 4 pm Saturday 10 am - 4 pm Located on the lower level of the Central Library. Questions? Call 553-7820. 6

one special week Your Friends of the Library joined Friends groups around the country in celebrating National Friends of the Library Week from October 19 - 25 with prize drawings, children’s activities, and a party. During the week, the Friends thanked library staff for creating a wonderful library environment with desserts and bookstore discounts. Two lucky patrons won a free book each day of that week by entering their names in a drawing. Saturday brought a half-price sale on children’s books and a Friend-ship pin craft for kids. But the most exciting event was the reception for the Michigan Library Association at Central Library. Almost 900 MLA members attended the three-day conference, held at the Radisson. Many toured the library, enjoyed refreshments and music, and visited the Friends Bookstore. Friends staff and volunteers hosted curious librarians from across the state. All were very impressed with our beautiful store and amazed by the business we do. Many bought books, too! We sold about $130 worth of books—a fair amount for just two hours when you consider our very gently used books are very gently priced at under $2.

friends website Did you miss the Friends week events? You could have learned what was happening on our new website! Find our colorful new pages from a prominent link on KPL’s homepage— our new rainbow-themed logo. We are so pleased to share our love of libraries and books on the new site, which includes our history, board bios, gifts to the library, a volunteer spotlight, membership information, plus store news. Each week, bookstore coordinator Carol Manstrom blogs about store specials. Recent highlights included an outstanding group of World War II books donated by a retiring WMU professor. Children’s non-fiction was offered at three for $1 to the delight of teachers and parents who home-school. Check us out— www.kpl.gov/friends.

tween/teen

Winter December 2008 - February 2009

teen filmmaker fest

february 27, 7 pm, kalamazoo institute of arts One of the most anticipated events of the year returns! The 6th Annual Teen Filmmaker Festival is looking for teen-produced and directed films. Three expert judges will award prizes for best film, best animation, best experimental film, best short film (under three minutes), best technical merit, and judges’ choice. Submit films and entry forms to the Teen Services Desk at the Kalamazoo Public Library by Monday, January 26. A jury will screen every film entered and select the finalists for screening at the festival. Then, on February 27, come to the Filmmaker Festival at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts! The finalists will be screened at this special event open to movie fans of all ages. Audience members will vote for a People’s Choice award and enjoy plenty of movie snacks! Find a complete set of rules, official entry form, and tips on making your film at www.kpl.gov/teen/filmmakerfest.

hi! my name is... Stewart Fritz, the new Teen lead librarian. Allow me to introduce myselves. I grew up in Kalamazoo, and graduated from Loy Norrix back in the dark ages. I earned a BFA from U of M and worked for many years at a major video game company doing interface design for games like Mortal Kombat and NFL Blitz. I’ve also been a web designer, programmer, camp counselor, cook, and radio station DJ. I’m a big sci-fi and fantasy fan, and I love graphic novels. You might find me rummaging through our stacks for things I haven’t already read a hundred times. I occasionally can be coaxed into a game of Guitar Hero, although you’ve got to keep the difficulty setting on “Easy”. I still draw and do printmaking and I’ll listen to just about any kind of music. My favorite color is black, my favorite book this month is Dean Wareham’s Black Postcards, my favorite video game is Katamari Damacy, and my secret superhero power is the ability to hang spoons off my nose. If you’re in the Teen area stop by and say “hi!”

Central Library

Eastwood

Oshtemo

Alma Powell

Washington Square

Teen Services 315 S Rose St 553-7807

1112 Gayle Ave 553-7810

7265 W Main St 553-7980

1000 W Paterson St 553-7960

1244 Portage St 553-7970

December 4, January 8, February 5, 4-5 pm, Central Be the first to read new teen books, even before they are published! Provide feedback to publishers, meet other teen readers and make your voice heard. Special advance reader copies will be available for checkout at each meeting. Bring a friend. Prize drawings! 7

meet your match! Rock out with Guitar Hero and DDR, or play Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Mario Kart for the chance to represent Kalamazoo online against players from Ann Arbor District Library! Teens only.

J-Pop Club December 22, January 26, February 23, 3:30-5 pm, Central If you love Japanese pop culture, then you’ll love this super casual club! Enjoy the latest media (and food) straight from Japan. Anime, manga and pocky for all. Stop in at anytime during the event! Teens only.

Join T.A.B. Teen Advisory Board (T.A.B.) members help Teen Services staff plan and promote great teen programs, work on community service projects, discuss books, movies, music and web sites, have snacks, play games, and just have fun! Membership looks great on resumes, job and college applications. Teens only.

Central T.A.B. December 3, January 7, February 4, 3:30-5 pm, Central

Eastwood T.A.B. December 17, January 21, February 18, 4-5 pm, Eastwood

Gamers’ Arena

Drop Zone December 10, January 14, February 11, 4-5 pm, Eastwood December 18, January 15, February 19, 4-5 pm, Washington Square Drop in downstairs @ your library! Enjoy games, crafts, food, and fun. Take a spin on the DDR dance pads or become your very own Guitar Hero. FOOD! Tweens only.

December 26, January 23, 3-5 pm, Central Join other game loving teens for an afternoon of strategy, skill, and fun. Gamers of all levels are welcome. Choose from one of our many board, card, Wii, or PS2 games, or bring one of your own. Teens only.

T Time

December 13, 2-4 pm, Central Need a last minute holiday gift? Make one or two, or three!! Choose from many different gifts to make! We supply the materials, you supply the creativity. Gift wrap and cards will also be available.

December 30, 3-4 pm, Eastwood 6-7 pm, Oshtemo Transform a t-shirt at this one of a kind event! All materials supplied. Idea books and samples also provided. Make your own design too!

Video Game Day

Real Swords and Swordplay

Gifts 101

Featuring Smashkart Tournament December 20, 2-4:30 pm, Central Think you’ve got what it takes to go head-to-head against your fellow teen gamers? Bring your game face and your spare thumbs and prepare to

February 21, 2 pm, Central Come find out all about medieval swords and how to use them. Learn about different kinds of swords and medieval weaponry, then try your hand at some actual swordplay with real training weapons and techniques!

R = Registration required; sign up in advance at the location where the event will be held. All programs for grades 5-12, unless noted. Teen only events are for teens in grades 7-12. Tween only events are for tweens in grades 5-8. Questions? Call Teen Services 553-7807.

your stories

KPL patrons use the library in many different ways, depending on their needs and interests. Several patrons share their stories in this Link. Learn more at www.kpl.gov/your-story.

Arledge Family Saturday mornings find Jamie and Ryan Arledge and their two children—Marlaina, a second grader, and Caleb, a kindergartner—in the children’s room at the Central Library. The books, videos and books-on-CD are part of the children’s home-school experience. “We started with the picture books,” says Jamie. “As our kids have learned to read, the easy reader section has been fabulous. We watch science documentaries on animals. My daughter loves the biography section…” The Arledge children also play the summer reading game each year. “Our children know the librarians by name and the librarians know our children,” says Jamie. “Reading is so important. It’s the key to everything. I’ve loved having these resources for our kids.”

homework Librarians regularly help kids and teens, parents and teachers, find resources for lessons and school work. KPL loaned 267,780 books for kids and teens last year—10% more than the previous year.

neighborhoods Powell, and KPL’s other branches, all purchase books, movies, and music with their patrons’ interests in mind. 11% of Powell’s items are by or about African Americans.

genealogy Local History Room staff answer 600+ inquiries each month, from births, deaths, and census data to information about local events, buildings, and businesses, using databases, city directories, KPL’s own historical records, and more.

Renee Johnson

Erma Ezell Erma Ezell may hold the record for patronage of the Powell Branch Library—she’s been using its resources for more than 50 years. “I used it when my children were little. Now that I’ve retired, I’ve rediscovered it,” she says. Erma knows the staff by name and has even watched one librarian grow up in the neighborhood. “The librarians often make suggestions for me and when they have time, we talk about what we’ve read. I especially like reading the black fiction and there is a good selection to choose from.” And though Erma is long past taking her children to the programs offered there and at the Central Library, watching the librarians and staff interact with the children is something she still enjoys.

A slip of paper with the name of a father she never knew was all Renee Johnson had when she walked into a genealogy lock-in. Five years later, Renee not only knows more about her father, she’s uncovered much of her great, great grandmother’s life story and even tracked down a great aunt whom she called in California. She’s traced her heritage through Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Florida and discovered that hers is a mixture of African, American Indian, and even Scottish ancestry. Renee describes her genealogy journey as “…a twisting, turning, nerve racking adventure, but I’m hooked! When I saw the amount of the information that could be pulled up from that little slip of paper, I said ‘I can do that.’ It’s history. It’s a good story. It’s my story...”

told Marguerite Baes.ch at Western She taught library science

librarie Marguerite Baechtold knows er librarian and heads years. Today, she’s a volunte ny ma for sity ver Uni an Michig lives and ndship Village where she the library committee at Frie the time,” all says, “We brag on KPL continues to read. When she indepenFriendship Village library is it’s high praise. Although the stack holds r in many ways. An entire dent, it is KPL’s benefacto t residents s quent rotation ensure tha dozens of books on loan. Fre says, “It gets latest releases. Marguerite always have access to the service availalso makes KPL’s outreach a lot of traffic.” The library gram that ess to the books-by-mail pro able by providing easy acc receive it by t a particular book by phone, allows residents to reques nth or so, a caravan ng envelope. And every mo ppi shi d ele lab a in it rn mail and retu and coffee. Oshtemo branch for books of Village residents visits the

Sally Callahan

e—and arthritis and blindconfine you to a nursing hom When the challenges of age s Sally Callahan, a retired s can serve as a lifeline, say ook —b you it lim r the fur s nes ideo stacks at the Nazareth who oversees the audio/v st Sisters of St. Joseph nun Nursing Home in their que the sisters of the Borgess s. say Center’s library and helps ly Sal keep me alive,’” Sr. terial. “I’ve been told, ‘you ma g din rea io aud d goo for uest books by the women’s ources to research and req th She uses KPL’s online res twood. Although the Nazare reserves for pickup at Eas isfy sat favorite authors, which she to ks, it is still not enough ive collection of audio boo library has its own extens er sometimes reads three of the residents. “One sist be the reading needs of some eball season’s over, she’ll s Sr. Sally. “And once bas or four books a week,” say reading more again.”

Monica Bennett

Washington Square is Mo nica Bennett’s neighborh ood library, a place she freque nts when she can, but not as often as she’d like. A woman who loves to wa lk, health problems now lim it her. Yet she continues to enjoy KPL’s “variety of services that cater to so many community needs. ” A veracious reader, Mo nica discovered the books-bymail service through the library’s outreach servic es department two years ago. One phone call gives her direct access to KPL’s entire repertoire of boo ks, which she requests three to five at a time. She kee ps a constant vigil for new books, asking friends abo ut their latest favorites. And she says reading is a gre at source for new titles. “Newspaper articles and reviews, best-seller lists and inside jacket covers are terrific sources for books by favorite author s,” she says.

Hollins Family Like many families, KPL’s educational resources benefit the Hollins children: Edward, 20, a WMU student, and daughters Shamiel, 6, Syann, 5, and Sasha, 2. But for Sonya, a work-from-home freelance writer/ editor/writing-consultant mom, the Central Library serves as office, research center, law resource, computer lab, a place to meet clients… “I do a lot of work with self publishers, so if people want to learn more about copy rights, we get information from the Law Library. Or, we research business names for people starting businesses,” Sonya says. “I also work with people who are writing about family history or about Kalamazoo history, so we use the History Room and its resources, too.” Deeper research into specialty topics sometimes takes Sonya to the branches. Powell Library, she says, offers extensive African American history. Feature stories, press releases, editing, consulting… KPL helps Sonya with every aspect of her business. 10

outreach Many KPL patrons are homebound. To meet their needs, KPL delivered 7,500 books by mail and to 12 senior residences, like Friendship Village.

authors KPL hosts many author visits each year. Last year, 60+ authors sold and signed books for 1,200 people at the Holiday Hop. More than 150 parents, teachers, librarians, and others attend an annual day-long children’s literature seminar. This year’s event features Kadir Nelson.

your story Want to share your library story? Call 553-7879 for an interview or send a note through the website. Learn more at www.kpl.gov/your-story.

Selena Anderson Homework and research draw Genett Andersons’s children, Selena, 11, and her brother Rico, 15, to their Washington Square neighborhood library or to the Central Library downtown. But it’s the children’s authors programs that bring books alive for Selena. “She’s just so excited to meet and talk with people who’ve written books,” Genett says. “To her they’re like a star.” Genett enjoys the authors programs, too, but more often it’s the solitude and peacefulness that draws her in. The family uses the library computers when their home computer is down. They check books out regularly and are constantly amazed at the many unique opportunities they find there. “It’s a quiet place to study, to relax or to enjoy the programs the library offers,” says Genett. “The staff is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful and we really enjoy it.”

2007-08

at a glance District Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119,517 Computer Usage (Internal) . . . . . . . . . 218,056 Computer Usage (Remote) . . . . . . .15,437,298 Reference Questions Answered. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192,580 Program Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35,736 Programs Offered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,146

revenue .7%

1.0%

2.3%

2.4% 11.1%

Property Taxes

$11,334,612

State Grants

328,941

Gifts & Grants

1,539,179

Penal Fines

325,306

Investment Return

100,790

Library Fines & Fees

143,534

Other

137,623

Total Revenue

$13,909,985

81.5%

Lori Beard Lori Beard is a kid-in-a-candy-store talking about KPL. “It’s the world’s biggest free book store,” she says. Lori was a die-hard book buyer until she moved into the district. A garage sale later, she’s a regular at her neighborhood Eastwood Branch. “It has an intimate feeling,” she says. “The librarians know me by name and even suggest books.” She also loves online browsing, which lets her use her library time reading, talking books with the librarians, or picking up reserves. Lori’s signed up for a service that automatically reserves new books by her favorite authors. “But they only allow 20 favorite authors and I’ve got way more than that…” Recently she’s discovered audio books and is looking forward to an upcoming book discussion on Jane Austen. “I was spending money on books to feed my passion until I discovered the library. It opened my eyes to a whole new world.”

expenditures Salaries & Benefits 57.2%

$7,129,596

Debt Service

1,636,136

Materials

1,072,038

Building Operation & Maintenance

550,338

Purchased Services

406,841

Operating Supplies & Expenses

788,929

Automation & Equipment

247,039

Capital Outlay

500,244

Programming

140,496

Total Expenditures

$12,471,657

13.1% 8.6%

6.3% 4.4%

3.3%

4.0% 2.0%

1.1%

note

director’s

Central Library 315 S Rose St, 49007 342-9837

Friends of the Library Bookstore 315 S Rose St, 49007 553-7820

the year in review What a year of changes! Some have been very visible, others not so much. I can’t cover everything in detail here, so please visit our new website, www.kpl.gov, for more information. We celebrated three anniversaries: KPL’s 100th year as a federal documents depository; the 30th Mary Calleto Rife Children’s Literature Seminar; and Ready to Read’s tenth birthday. We continued to expand programming: almost 36,000 people attended 1,146 library events. We strengthened the library’s relationship with the Kalamazoo Public Schools. Children’s and teen librarians visited ALL KPS elementary and middle schools to promote summer programs; as a result, a record-breaking number of patrons joined the summer reading games. We continue to care for your library buildings and technology. We increased internet connection speed and devoted many hours to redesigning our website. We rearranged the Central Library’s display and seating areas, tiled stairs, and recarpeted the entire building.

Bookmobile Call 553-7991 for complete schedule. We received a subtantial bequest this year. We’re using part of it to upgrade to RFID. In preparation, we weeded and inventoried all books, movies, music, and other materials at all five locations. We also added movies and music to the Hot Picks collection.

Eastwood

We started planning for a new nonprofit support center to be funded with grants from Irving S. Gilmore Foundation and Kalamazoo Community Foundation. Look for the ONE place @ kpl to open early next year.

Alma Powell

Finally, we reaffirmed our mission, vision, and values statements. We believe Kalamazoo Public Library helps create a community where people aspire to learn, engage, and thrive. To do this, we champion reading, ignite imagination, and ensure access to information and ideas. It’s our privilege to serve you! Come visit soon.

1112 Gayle Ave, 49048 553-7810

Oshtemo 7265 W Main St, 49009 553-7980 1000 W Paterson St, 49007 553-7960

Washington Square 1244 Portage St, 49001 553-7970

Library Board Valerie Wright President Robert Paul Brown Vice President James VanderRoest Treasurer

Ann Rohrbaugh Library Director

Cheryl TenBrink Secretary Cynthia Addison Lisa A. Godfrey Trustees

Kalamazoo Public Library 315 South Rose Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Non-Profit Org. US Postage

PA I D Kalamazoo, MI Permit No. 1224

*****ECRWSS***** RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER

Credits Kalamazoo Public Library’s Community Relations Office publishes Link with support from the Friends of the Library. Contact the editor with your comments or suggestions, 553-7879 or email cro@kpl.gov.

www.kpl.gov

Winter Fun Handmade Ornaments

December 10, 6:30 pm, Washington Square Decorate special shapes with markers and craft items. For ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. December 16, 6:30 pm, Eastwood Make some cool and festive ornaments. Grades K-4.

Gingerbread Houses

December 13, 11 am, Oshtemo December 17, 6:30 pm, Washington Square Holiday time is gingerbread house-making time! Create your own masterpiece using crackers, frosting, and candies. Registration required. Call the branch library to register. Grades 2-6.

Box Decoupage

December 17, 6 pm, Powell Make decoupage gift boxes for yourself or to give away as a gift. Grades 1-6.

Make it, Take It Winter and Holiday Crafts December 18, 10 am-6 pm, Eastwood December 19, 12-5 pm, Eastwood December 20, 10 am-5 pm, Eastwood December 22, 12-6 pm, Eastwood Come make a craft or two anytime during our open hours. Grades K-5.

Holiday Cookie Decorating December 23, 3-5 pm, Powell Enjoy good company while sprinkling and frosting cookies for holiday treats. Grades 1-6.

Game Day December 26, 12-4 pm, Powell January 2, 12-4 pm, Powell Bring in friends and family to challenge them to a game of checkers, chess, scramble, or kerplunk. Family program.

Movie and Popcorn Kung Fu Panda, December 27, 2 pm, Powell First-rate movie, first-rate popcorn! Yummy! Family program, young children must be accompanied by an adult or caregiver.

Aerial Angels

December 29, 11 am, Central These high-flying circus artists will perform feats of grace, strength, and beauty suspended between floors of the library rotunda. An awesome sight!

Winter

Storytimes

December 2008 - February 2009

Preschool Storytime, 3½-5 years

December 30, 2 pm, Washington Square Decorate an edible New Year’s Hat. Eat it or keep it until January1! Family program.

Storytimes for children from birth to 5 years. Librarians consider children’s developmental stages when planning stories, fingerplays, and craft activities. Please enroll your child in the appropriate program, and bring only the child who is registered to each session. An adult caregiver must accompany babies and toddlers up to 3½ years. Questions? Talk to your children’s librarian.

December 4, 11, 18, 10:30 am, Eastwood January 5, 12, 19, 26, 10 am, Central February 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30 am, Washington Square This first “on your own” storytime for preschoolers includes stories, crafts, fingerplays, and other fun activities.

From the Heart

Baby Storytime I, birth-walking

Family Storytime

February 2, 3 & 4, 10 am-8 pm, Central February 2, 2-8 pm, Oshtemo February 3, 12-5 pm, Oshtemo February 7, 2-4 pm, Powell February 9 & 10, 4-6 pm, Powell February 9 & 11, 12-6 pm, Eastwood February 10, 1-8 pm, Eastwood February 9 & 10, 1-5:30 pm, Washington Square February 11, 1-7:30 pm, Washington Square Spread a little joy. Help us make Valentines for residents of local nursing homes.

December 5, 12, 19, 10:15 am, Washington Square January 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:15 am, Oshtemo February 5, 12, 19, 26, 10 am, Eastwood Storytime for the youngest library patron! 15-30 minutes of rhymes, songs, and books followed by a chance to talk and bond with other caregivers.

December 3, 10, 17, 10:30 am, Oshtemo January 7, 14, 21, 28, 10 am, Eastwood February 2, 9, 16, 23, 10 am, Central Storytime for the whole family! If program is at noon, feel free to bring your own brownbag lunch and a beverage, and we will entertain you while you eat!

Baby Storytime II, walking-2 years

Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends

Yummy New Year’s Hats

The Tooth Fairy Has Landed

February 4, 6:30 pm, Washington Square Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month. Enjoy tooth fairy stories and learn about customs around the world. Bring your “toothless smile”! Grades K-2.

Music and Make Believe (M&Ms)

February 10 & 11, 9:30 & 10:30 am, Central February 12, 10:30 am, Washington Square Based on Jan Brett’s book Berlioz the Bear, M&Ms features a storytime, a craft, and a child-friendly performance by the KSO’s string quartet. Ages 4-6 years. Groups welcome. Registration required. Call the participating library to register.

December 5, 12, 19, 11 am, Washington Square January 8, 15, 22, 29, 11 am, Oshtemo February 5, 12, 19, 26, 10:45 am, Eastwood 15-30 minutes of rhymes, songs, and books that give your little one a chance to try the newly learned skills of walking, clapping, jumping, and dancing.

Toddler Storytime, 2-3½ years

January 22, 6:30 pm, Central February 25, 6:30 pm, Central A storytime for the whole family, complete with celebrity readers, musical guests, and zany crafts. Expect the unexpected when Mr. Steve gets a little help from his friends.

December 1, 8, 15, 22, 10 am, Central January 9, 16, 23, 30, 10:30 am, Washington Square February 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:30 am, Oshtemo Toddlers and caregivers will enjoy this lap-sit of stories, songs, and a simple craft.

The New & Old Like all of Central Library, the Children’s Room sports brand new carpeting. Bright, bold blocks of color echo the service desk and delight the eye. New seating groups encourage children and families to browse the wide variety of magazines. New displays feature the newest books and the growing collection of Libros en Español. Less than 20 years ago, the Children’s Room was a utilitarian space with linoleum floors and beige walls. Early in 1990, KPL received a grant from the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation to transform the room. With that gift, the library commissioned several artists to spark our imaginations with original artwork. Author/illustrator David Small painted a pillar with nursery rhyme characters. Artist Dee Durkee sculpted Jack and his beanstalk. Architect Michael Dunn designed the castle entrance to the Story Room. Jamie Rife created three vibrant stained glass windows. Storybook characters surround the pillar painted by Barbara Thiery Buysee.

Locations Central Library Children’s Room 315 S Rose St 553-7804

Alma Powell 1000 W Paterson St 553-7960

Framed artwork hangs throughout the room, from the newest paper painting by Denise Fleming in 2005 to the “picture-letter” created in 1881 by a young Lucy Fitch who later wrote and illustrated 24 very popular books about twins.

Eastwood

Oshtemo

Learn more about the Children’s Room art, including the Alice in Wonderland murals by Conrad Kaufman, at www.kpl.gov/kids.

1112 Gayle Ave 553-7810

7265 W Main St 553-7980

Washington Square 1244 Portage St 553-7970

African Storytellers February 18, 6 pm, Powell WMU student Peter Ruei became a “Lost Boy of Sudan” as a baby when he was separated from his family after war broke out in 1987. Peter and other students from Africa will share stories heard around camp fires about overcoming life’s obstacles and taking advantage of opportunities, like The Kalamazoo Promise.

Registration required. Registration begins 30 days before program. Please call the library location to register.

www.kpl.gov

TUESDAY

MONDAY R

Toddler Storytime 10 am, CEN, 2-3½ yrs

Wednesday 2

Thursday 3

Family Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, family

December

Toddler Storytime 10 am, CEN, 2-3½ yrs

9 R

Toddler Storytime 10 am, CEN, 2-3½ yrs

Handmade Ornaments 6:30 pm, EAS, gr K-4

16 R R

Toddler Storytime 22 10 am, CEN, 2-3½ yrs Make It, Take It Crafts 12 noon-6 pm, EAS, gr K-5

Aerial Angels 11 am, CEN, family

Holiday Cookie Decorating 3-5 pm, POW, gr 1-6

Yummy New Year’s Hats 2 pm, WSQ, family

Family Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, family Box Decoupage 6 pm, POW, gr 1-6 Gingerbread Houses 6:30 pm, WSQ, gr 2-6

Preschool Storytime 11 10:30 am, EAS, 3½-5 yrs

Make It 18 Take It Crafts 10 am-6 pm, EAS, gr K-5 Preschool Storytime 10:30 am, EAS, 3½-5 yrs

Library Closed

Preschool Storytime 10:30 am, EAS, 3½-5 yrs

Family Storytime 10 10:30 am, OSH, family Handmade Ornaments 6:30 pm, WSQ, 3-5 yrs

Friday

Saturday

Baby Storytime I 10:15 am, WSQ, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 11 am, WSQ, walking-2 yrs

Baby Storytime I 19 10:15 am, WSQ, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 11 am, WSQ, walking-2 yrs Make It, Take It Crafts 12 noon-5 pm, EAS, gr K-5 Game Day 12 noon-4 pm, POW, family

Gingerbread Houses 11 am, OSH, gr 2-6

Make It, 20 Take It Crafts 10 am-5 pm, EAS, gr K-5

Movie & Popcorn Kung Fu Panda 2 pm, POW, family

Library Closed

31 Library Closes at 5 pm

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

January R

Family Storytime 10 am, EAS, family

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs

Family Storytime 10 am, EAS, family

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs

Library Closed

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs

Game Day 12 noon-4 pm, POW, family

Saturday

Family Storytime 10 am, EAS, family

Baby Storytime I 10:15 am, OSH, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 11 am, OSH, walking-2 yrs

Baby Storytime I 22 10:15 am, OSH, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 11 am, OSH, walking-2 yrs Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends 6:30 pm, CEN, family Baby Storytime I 10:15 am, OSH, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 11 am, OSH, walking-2 yrs

Toddler Storytime 9 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

16 Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

Toddler Storytime 23 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

Toddler Storytime 30 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

Key to Locations CEN EAS OSH POW WSQ

Central Eastwood Oshtemo Alma Powell Washington Square

R Registration Required

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

February Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family From the Heart 10 am-8 pm, CEN 2-8 pm, OSH

Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family From the Heart 12 noon-5:30 pm, WSQ 12 noon-6 pm, EAS 4-6 pm, POW

Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family

From the Heart 10 am-8 pm, CEN 12 noon-5 pm, OSH

3 R R

10 M&Ms 9:30 and 10:30 am, CEN, 4-6 yrs From the Heart 1-5:30 pm, WSQ 1-8 pm, EAS 4-6 pm, POW

4 From the Heart 10 am-8 pm, CEN Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs Tooth Fairy Has Landed 6:30 pm, WSQ, gr K-2 11 M&Ms 9:30 and 10:30 am, CEN, 4-6 yrs Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs From the Heart 10 am-6 pm, EAS 1-7:30 pm, WSQ 18 Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs African Storytellers 6 pm, POW, family

Toddler Storytime 25 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends 6:30 pm, CEN, family

Baby Storytime I 10 am, EAS, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 10:45 am, EAS, walking-2 yrs

12 Baby Storytime I 10 am, EAS, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 10:45 am, EAS, walking-2 yrs M&Ms 10:30 am, WSQ, 4-6 yrs

Preschool Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

Baby Storytime I 10 am, EAS, birth-walking Baby Storytime II 10:45 am, EAS, walking-2 yrs

Preschool 20 Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

Preschool Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

From the Heart 2-4 pm, POW