LinkWinter2009-10 by Kalamazoo Public Library

link

Winter 2009-2010 L I B R A R Y L I N K

top of the bottom

john wesley harding / wesley stace February 17 and 18, 7 pm, Central In an interview by FLYP, the multimedia online magazine, Wesley Stace (aka John Wesley Harding) says he’s in a small ghetto of literary singersongwriters. A storyteller at heart, Stace channels his talent in both solitary novel writing and collaborative music making. Stace’s acclaimed first novel, Misfortune, has been released around the world and optioned for a film. Booklist Editor’s Choice selected his second novel, By George, a 2007 book of the year. His third, Charles Jessold, Considered as a Murderer, comes out late 2010. He’ll talk about his writings on February 18. As John Wesley Harding, Stace has released 15 albums, ranging from traditional folk to pop. His most recent release, Who Was Changed and Who Was Dead, was a critical smash, garnering considerable airplay. NPR’s Song of the Day featured “Top of the Bottom” from that album in April. He’ll perform on February 17. Harding has been called the British Bob Dylan and compared to Elvis Costello. Rolling Stone Magazine hailed Harding as, “a literate and ironic neo-folkie with enough bile to win over a younger, hipper audience not attuned to folk music.” His best known work includes “I’m Wrong About Everything,” featured on the High Fidelity soundtrack.

reading together What if the entire community read and discussed the same book at the same time? To find out, join thousands of people throughout Kalamazoo County in reading David Guterson’s New York Times best-seller Snow Falling on Cedars, the book selected for Reading Together’s eighth year. Reading Together invites people of all ages, from all walks of life, to read and then discuss issues raised by a single book. Book discussions and many special events will be offered in March and April 2010. Guterson will visit Kalamazoo on March 17. Kalamazoo Public Library leads Reading Together, a collaboration of libraries, schools, social service agencies, businesses, the media, governments, and a wide variety of organizations throughout Kalamazoo County. Learn more at www.readingtogether.us.

genealogy KPL’s Local History Room offers an Intro to Genealogy and an after-hours Genealogy Lock-In several times a year. Find more information, get upcoming dates, or register online, www.kpl.gov/ local-history/events. Give Local History staff your email address to receive event announcements. If you’re into genealogy or local history, check KPL’s new online Community Events Calendar. Now, there’s one place to look for local meetings and even some regional happenings. Add your own events, too! Visit www.kpl.gov/localhistory/community-events. Browse the Local History blog for the latest genealogy or local history news and more: www.kpl.gov/local-history/blog.

contents books & more @ your library kids tween/teen annual report director’s note

2-3 4 center 5-6 7 8

events

winter

books & more

author visits Books for sale and signing at all author visits.

Kristina Riggle February 3, 7 pm, Central

Savvy Holiday Shopping Learn About Etsy! December 2, 6:30 pm, Central Learn how artists and crafters from around the world use Etsy, an online marketplace, to sell their wares—from jewelry to clothes to soap. Jessica Aguilera will help you set up an Etsy shop.

craft couture Artist and crafter Jessica Aguilera will lead adults in these very cool crafts. Registration required; call 553-7880.

Tree-rific Stockings December 17, 6:30 pm, Central Create one-of-a-kind stockings with a pine tree theme.

Wonderland Wreath January 19, 6:30 pm, Central Make a winter wonderland wreath to welcome holiday visitors.

Tile Style February 16, 6:30 pm, Central Design unique jewelry charms using Scrabble tiles.

Begins November 27, Friends Bookstore, Central, Lower Level Why spend more? The Friends Bookstore has the best prices on gently-used books, music, and movies. The annual Gift Book Sale features hundreds of popular books in pristine condition and collectibles, including this very special item—Where’s the Rest of Me, Ronald’s Reagan’s autobiography, signed by Reagan. Shop early for the best selection!

Best of 2009 December 3, 6:30 pm, Central What were the best books, movies, and music in 2009? Hear a group of KPL librarians tell you their favorite adult novels and nonfiction, teen and children’s books, DVDs and CDs— and share your favorites, too. A selection of books, DVDs, and CDs will be available to help you shop for the perfect holiday gifts.

Four Conversations About Forgiveness February 3, 10, 17, 24, 6 pm, Washington Square 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. Participants must attend the first session on February 3. Registration required; email drsmediate@hotmail.com or call 552-3434.

Booklist described Kristina Riggle’s delightful debut, Real Life and Liars, as “a moving and accomplished first novel about a dysfunctional family coming to terms with change.” Publishers Weekly praises her fun, quirky characters in this humorous and humane story. Riggle has published short stories in Espresso Fiction, Cimarron Review, Literary Mama, and elsewhere. She is a freelance writer for The Grand Rapids Press.

Josh Becker February 25, 7 pm, Central Director and writer Josh Becker has written and directed four critically admired independent films, Thou Shalt Not Kill...Except, Lunatics: A Love Story, Running Time, and If I Had a Hammer, and numerous TV episodes, many for ‘90s pop-culture milestone Xena: Warrior Princess. His TV movie Alien Apocalypse was Sci Fi Network’s highest-rated original movie ever. His books include The Complete Guide to Low-Budget Feature Filmmaking and Rushes. His third, Going Hollywood, is forthcoming from Point Blank Press.

concerts

eat local kalamazoo

book groups

Arrive early to ensure a seat. Our concerts

Programs co-sponsored with Fair Food Matters.

Discuss classics, best-sellers,

fill the house!

Lloyd & The Fellas December 16, 7 pm, Central Lloyd & the Fellas met at folk festivals, in sister circles, and among Michigan gardens, assembling live in February ‘09. The Fellas are a fun time: great for little ones, young hip things, middlers and elders alike. They journey through varied sounds: jumpy banjo-y joyful songs; tunes for healing; aching songs that swell with unhurried intensity.

Fun, Frugal, Healthy Cooking January 27, 7 pm, Central Has the economy caused you to look a little more closely at your grocery budget? Learn how to make three meals with vast potential for improvisation. This program comes packed with recipes, food facts, cooking tips, and samples from Elizabeth Forest, People’s Food Co-op’s queen of fast, nutritionally-packed, delicious, family-friendly foods.

Soil: The Web of Life February 4, 7 pm, Central In this illustrated presentation about the living soil under our feet, learn some practical ways to promote soil health and provide better food for ourselves, as well as for the creatures who make our gardens—and lives—possible. Presented by Tom Small, co-founder of the Kalamazoo Chapter of Wild Ones—Native Plants, Natural Landscapes.

Recycle in Your Yard February 9, 7 pm, Central

Belfast Gin January 20, 7 pm, Central The indie group Belfast Gin creates a sound unique to the Celtic genre with an almost classic rock feel—a music category they call “Twisted Traditional.” Enjoy searing vocals, kit drum, electric and acoustic guitars, bass, fiddle, and tin whistle/flute in their high energy performance. They released their first CD, Ain’t Been Sober Yet, on St. Patrick’s Day, 2008.

and little-known gems.

Looking for productive yet fun ways to manage your yard’s old leaves, grass clippings, and trimmings? Steve Leuty, former Kalamazoo County recycling coordinator, will help you explore the 101 neighbor-friendly ways to compost and “grasscycle” to save money and connect to the environment.

Oshtemo

Second Tuesday Oshtemo, 1 pm

Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates December 8

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert January 12

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows February 9

music The Beatles: Rock Band January 14, 7 pm, Central Grab a front row seat for The Beatles—the long awaited music video game. Play along with the original songs of the greatest rock band in history, spanning their entire career—from Liverpool’s Cavern Club to the Ed Sullivan Show to the rooftop of Abbey Road studios. No experience necessary! Form a virtual band of up to four players, grab a guitar, bass, or drums, and prepare to go head-to-head against other gamers on Xbox 360 or Wii with a little help from your friends! Adults and teens only.

Classics Revisited Third Thursday Central, 7 pm

Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen December 17

A Passage to India by E. M. Forster January 21

The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin February 18 3

@ your library finding a job

free clinics

In these sessions, discuss and

Ask a Lawyer

review necessary skills, determine individual needs, then practice what you’ve learned. Registration required; call 553-7862.

Job Seeking Tips December 3, 2-4 pm, Washington Square January 7, 2-4 pm, Oshtemo Laid off? Just out of school? Looking for work after a long absence? Learn where to find job listings, about job and career sites and resources, how to apply for a job, and submit a resumé in the digital age.

Resumés & Cover Letters December 10, 2-4 pm, Washington Square January 14, 2-4 pm, Oshtemo Learn about effective resumés and cover letters, then create and/or revise these documents. Bring your current resumé for review and suggestions. Microsoft Word experience helpful.

Interviewing Skills December 17, 2-4 pm, Washington Square January 21, 2-4 pm, Oshtemo Learn how to present yourself, what to wear, how to answer questions, and what information you should and shouldn’t discuss in a job interview. Increase your confidence by rehearsing.

December 2, February 3, 6 pm, Powell December 10, January 14, 6 pm, Central January 8, February 12, 11:30 am, Central Free legal clinic for low to moderate income persons. Get help with most areas of civil law, including landlord-tenant problems, divorce, and family law. Call 553-7920 to a schedule a 20-minute appointment with County Bar Association volunteer lawyer.

Tax Help January 30, February 13, March 13, 10 am-2:30 pm, Central February 27, March 27, 10:30 am-3 pm, Oshtemo Tax preparation help for individuals or families with a household income under $49,000 in 2009, provided by an IRS-certified community volunteer from VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance). Appointment required. Call 211 to sign up and for a list of what to bring.

business Programs especially designed to help develop and manage small businesses.

Small Business Counseling January 21, February 25, 9:30 am, Central Meet with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) counselors to discuss how your potential or existing business can both thrive and grow in today’s challenging economic climate. Registration required; call SCORE at 381-5382 or email info@scorekazoo.org.

Get Your News in the News February 8, 7 pm, Central In this hands-on session, learn the dos and don’ts of media relations: how to develop a relationship with the appropriate reporter and/or editor; what issues are important to the media; what makes a great release. Designed for businesses and nonprofits seeking ways to promote their products or service.

The following workshops are offered by the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center. Space limited. Registration required for each session below; call 387-6004.

Business Research Essentials December 9, January 13, February 10, 7 pm, Central Discover free resources to help you make informed decisions about your business future. Learn how to find information on industry trends, estimate the size of your market, identify potential customers and competitors, determine the best way to promote your product or service, and more.

Starting a Small Business January 25, 6-8 pm, Oshtemo You have a passion…a hidden talent. Do you know what it takes to turn that skill into a successful business? Assess your ability to lead and manage a company. Evaluate the market and sales potential for your product or service. The first step for many in MI-SBTDC assistance.

Writing a Business Plan February 16, 6-9 pm, Oshtemo Start putting your thoughts on paper. Learn why you need to write a business plan, what to include in each section, and the resources you need to create it. Your plan outlines the steps from concept to reality and helps determine your financial needs—a must for potential lenders or investors.

tween/teen

Winter December 2009 - February 2010

meet mark crilley december 10, 6:30 pm, central

Fasten your seatbelts! Meet Mark Crilley, the high-energy, funny author of the manga series Miki Falls and the Akiko graphic novels. Mark tells jokes, reads from his books using his characters’ voices, and draws during his presentations. He’ll talk about his work as a storyteller, writer, and illustrator and provide tips for aspiring writers and artists.

Drop Zone December 10, January 14, February 11, 4-5 pm, Eastwood December 17, January 28, February 25, 4-5 pm, Washington Square Drop in downstairs @ your library for some after school festivities! Enjoy games, crafts, and fun. We’ll break out the Wii and games, and of course there will be snacks! Tweens only.

Gifts 101

Gamers’ Arena December 19, 2-4 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, Xbox 360 or PS2 games, or bring one of your own. Teens only.

December 12, 2-4 pm, Central

J-Pop Club

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. Registration required.

December 28, January 25, February 22, 3:30-5 pm, Central

Beat Cabin Fever December 14, January 11, February 15, 6-8 pm, Central (Teen Area) Sick of cold and snow? Want more than gray skies and slushy sidewalks? Beat cabin fever at KPL! Enjoy all sorts of activities designed to banish the winter blues. Crafts, games, readalouds, and much more, plus hot chocolate and cider to warm you up!

Enjoy the latest media (and food) straight from Japan. Anime, manga and Pocky for all. Vote for your favorite anime series, and tell us what to get next! If you love Japanese pop culture, then you’ll love this casual club. Stop in any time during the event! Teens only.

Bingo December 29, 6-7 pm, Oshtemo Old-fashioned fun with a library twist! Join us for an hour of Bingo fun and win fabulous prizes, maybe even books! Snacks, Bingo cards and dobbers provided!

Central Library Teen Services 315 S Rose St 553-7807

Eastwood 1112 Gayle Ave 553-7810

Oshtemo 7265 W Main St 553-7980

Alma Powell 1000 W Paterson St 553-7960

Washington Square = Registration required; sign up in advance at the location where the event will be held. All programs for

1244 Portage St 553-7970

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.

SmashKart Tournament January 9, 2-4 pm, Central Get your game on in one of our most popular Wii tournaments! Race against your friends in Mario Kart, or pound away at your enemies in Super Smash Bros. Brawl! Prizes, food and fun! Teens only.

The Beatles: Rock Band January 14, 7 pm, Central Grab a front row seat for the Beatles! Play along with original songs spanning their entire career—from the Ed Sullivan Show to the rooftop of Abbey Road studios. No experience necessary. Form a virtual band, grab a guitar, bass, or drums, and go head-to-head with other gamers—with a little help from your friends! Adults and teens only.

ReCraft: Candy Wrappers T.A.B. December 2, January 6, February 3, 3:30 pm, Central 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 resumés, job and college applications. Teens only.

Galley Review Group December 3, January 7, February 4, 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! Teens only.

February 2, 5 pm, Oshtemo February 16, 5 pm, Eastwood Don’t toss that candy wrapper, Recraft it! Turn a variety of candy wrappers into a belt. It’s a sweet way to be fashionable while recycling! We provide the materials (the candy too) and you supply the creativity. Space is limited. Registration required.

teen filmmaker

festival february 26, 7 pm, kalamazoo institute of arts

Calling all teen filmmakers! Enter the 7th Annual Teen Filmmaker Festival. Expert judges will award prizes for the best film, plus prizes for animation, experimental, documentary, short film, technical merit, music video, and judges’ choice. A jury will screen every film and select finalists to be shown at the festival, where audience members vote for a People’s Choice award. Submit films by 9 pm, January 25, to the KPL Teen Desk. For a complete set of rules, format requirements, official entry form, and tips on making your film, visit www.kpl.gov/teens.

Rock Band Tournament February 20, 2-4 pm, Central Rock your ears off with our newest game tournament! Form a band, choose from guitar, bass, drums or vocals and play along with your favorite songs. Prizes, snacks, and fun! Teens only.

Kalamazoo Academy of Rock February 23, 7 pm, Central Hear great youth-produced rock music from the Kalamazoo Academy of Rock: Kalamazoo’s rock band program for young musicians! These aren’t your average garage bands, but talented area teens and tweens playing the best classic and contemporary rock. Learn how you can join and get your own groove on!

Puppet Idol 2010 February 25, 5 pm, Central You pick the music and puppet. Then turn your puppet into a singing, dancing, and lip-synching star. This hands-on puppet workshop is as much fun to watch as it is to create! Registration required. Tweens only.

annual report

2008-09

at a glance District Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19,517 New Registrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,147

Dear Friends,

Materials Circulated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 979,192

When I assumed leadership of Kalamazoo Public Library five years ago, I pledged to renew our emphasis on fundamental library services and to expand KPL’s role in the community. As I review the past year’s activities, I’d like to share our progress in these areas. We expanded Book My Favorites and now offer several new services to readers: Book Club in a Bag, Hot Picks books and movies, plus reader ratings and reviews in the online catalog. We hosted one or more authors each month—last spring’s visit by Reading Together author Rick Bragg delighted an audience of 750.

Computer Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,845,756 Reference Questions Answered . . . . 213,977 Program Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36,793 Programs Offered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,265

revenue 92.3%

Our website has truly become a virtual branch. In the past year, web visitors viewed 20,492 KPL web pages more than two million times! Popular areas include the “browse,” “books,” and “music” pages for new materials and our KPL Staff Blogs featuring staff picks and reviews. KPL managers and I are all engaged in a wide variety of civic activities; our collaborations with the schools, cultural organizations, economic and community development committees, and other groups continue to grow. In March, we launched ONEplace@kpl, a management support center for nonprofits, with ongoing funding from local foundations. Since opening, ONEplace has offered 57 programs and served 1,300 people. You let us know how much you value the library when you passed KPL’s millage by 75% in May. We’re very pleased that you’re using the library more than ever. Last year, KPL patrons borrowed almost one million items, including 29% more CDs, DVDs, and audiobooks. If you have specific comments—about our services, collection, website, or more—please use our online comment box at www.kpl.gov/comments or write to directors@kpl.gov. We love to hear from you. Come visit soon!

Property Taxes

$11,683,759

Gifts & Grants

358,411

Penal Fines

305,554

Library Fines & Fees

147,413

Other

129,160

State Grants

75,077

Investment Return

- 32,313

Total Revenue

2.8%

2.4%

1.1%

$12,667,062

1.0%

.6%

- .2%

expenditures Salaries & Benefits

55.1%

$7,469,399

Debt Service

1,633,508

Materials

1,130,206

Capital Outlay

1,060,859

Operating Supplies & Expenses

938,131

Building Operation & Maintenance

541,239

Purchased Services

434,107

Automation & Equipment

241,320

Programming

117,931

Total Expenditures

$13,566,700

12.0% 8.3%

Ann Rohrbaugh Library Director

7.8%

6.9%

4.0%

3.2%

1.8%

.9%

Kalamazoo Public Library

Non-Profit Org. US Postage

315 South Rose Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007

PA I D Kalamazoo, MI Permit No. 1224

Central Library 315 S Rose St, 49007 342-9837

Friends of the Library Bookstore

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

315 S Rose St, 49007 553-7820

Bookmobile Call 553-7991 for complete schedule.

Eastwood

note

director’s

weathering the storm In recent issues of the Link, I’ve shared with you some of the financial challenges we’re facing. KPL recently completed an annual year-end audit—revenue and expenditure figures are shown on the previous page. As you’ll see, we cut $300,000 last year and underspent by another $378,000. Property taxes are the major revenue source for local units, like counties, cities, and libraries— 92% of Kalamazoo Public Library’s revenue comes from property taxes. Last year, tax revenue was flat in Kalamazoo. The State Treasurer has forecast a 6.5% drop in taxable value statewide. While Kalamazoo is in better shape than the east side of the state, we anticipate a 5% drop here. What does this mean for Kalamazoo Public Library? This drop, combined with additional cuts in state aid and other income sources, will require another $550,000 cut in KPL’s budget—on top of last year’s reductions. Previously, I told you that we’ve met budget constraints by reducing energy use, delaying equipment purchases, trimming funds for books, movies, music, newspapers, magazines, and more. We’ve also 8

eliminated positions and reassigned work following retirements and resignations. Those measures are no longer enough— we have to look for greater cost savings. Therefore, KPL trustees have reluctantly determined that bookmobile service must be phased out. We share the disappointment of bookmobile patrons, but feel we can meet their needs at our neighborhood branches or through other services, like Via Mail. A full report is available at www.kpl.gov/bookmobile. Thanks for your understanding as we seek the most cost-effective ways to deliver library services. We’re committed to good stewardship of your tax dollars.

1112 Gayle Ave, 49048 553-7810

Oshtemo 7265 W Main St, 49009 553-7980

Alma Powell 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

Ann Rohrbaugh Library Director

James VanderRoest Treasurer Cheryl TenBrink Secretary Cynthia Addison Lisa A. Godfrey Fenner Brown II Trustees

Credits Kalamazoo Public Library’s Marketing and Communications Office publishes Link with support from the Friends of the Library. Contact us with your comments or suggestions, 553-7879 or mail mac@kpl.gov. Above: KPL’s Linda Clearwaters sends books to housebound patrons Via Mail. Left: Friendship Village’s library features a collection of KPL books.

www.kpl.gov

Winter Fun Ornament Making

Preschool Players

December 5, 1 pm, Washington Square Paint your choice of several designs of porcelain ornaments. Take it home for the tree or give it as a gift. Grades K-6. An adult must accompany kindergartners.

Gingerbread Houses

December 7, 6:30 pm, Oshtemo Holiday time is gingerbread house-making time! Create your own masterpiece using crackers, frosting, and candies. Grades 2-6.

Ornaments for Preschoolers

January 7, 10 am, Central February 5, 10 am, Central Join Mr. Steve to explore stories through reading, acting, and creating scenes out of play dough. Ages 3-5. Children attend on their own.

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

December 9, 6:30 pm, Washington Square Preschoolers will use markers and other craft items to decorate special shapes. For ages 3-5 years accompanied by an adult.

Capoeira Demonstration

December 15, 6:30 pm, Eastwood Make an ornament for the holiday season. Grades 1-5.

February 17, 6 pm, Powell This Afro-Brazilian art form combines elements of martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics. Performers will demonstrate the Maculele (stick fighting dance), play Capoeira, and ask the audience to join in for a Samba de Roda. Learn Capoeira history and a few songs. Family program.

Sugar Cookie Houses

Music and Make Believe (M&Ms)

Holiday Crafts

December 23, 6 pm, Powell

Create and decorate sugar cookie houses with lots of frosting and sprinkles. Grades 1-6.

Game Day

December 26, 2-4 pm, Powell December 30, 4-7 pm, Powell Join us for some fun with board games like Twister, Pictionary, Zooreka, and more. Grades 1-6.

Make It, Take It Crafts December 30, 1-4 pm, Oshtemo Drop in and be creative, making a fun craft or two.

Yummy New Year’s Hats

December 30, 2 pm, Washington Square Decorate an edible New Year’s Hat. Eat it or keep it until January 1! Family program.

February 23, 9:30 am and 10:30 am, Central February 24, 9:30 am and 10:30 am, Central February 25, 10:30 am, Oshtemo Based on the book The Perfect Purple Feather by Hanoch Piven, M&Ms features a storytime, craft activity, and child-friendly performance by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra string quartet. Ages 4-6. Groups welcome. Call 553-7804 to register.

Jumping the Broom

Winter

Storytimes

Preschool Storytime, 3½-5 years

Storytimes for children from birth to 5 years! Librarians consider children’s developmental stages when planning stories, fingerplays, and craft activities. Some programs require registration (indicated by this symbol R ). An adult caregiver must accompany babies and toddlers up to 3½ years. Questions? Talk to your children’s librarian.

December 7, 14, 21, 10 am, Central January 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:30 am, Washington Square February 4, 11, 18, 10:30 am, Oshtemo This first “on your own” storytime for preschoolers includes stories, crafts, fingerplays, and other fun activities.

Family Storytime Baby Lapsit, birth-walking

December 3, 10, 17, 31, 10:15 am, Oshtemo January 7, 14, 21, 28, 10 am, Eastwood February 1, 8, 15, 22, 9:30 am, Central 15-30 minutes of rhymes, songs, and books followed by a chance to talk and bond with other caregivers. Siblings may attend as guests.

Baby Steps, walking-2 years

December 1, 8, 15, 22, 12 noon, Powell December 2, 9, 16, 30, 12 noon, Eastwood January 4, 11, 18, 25, 10 am, Central January 5, 12, 19, 26, 12 noon, Powell February 2, 9, 16, 23, 12 noon, Powell February 5, 12, 19, 26, 10:30 am, Washington Square Storytime for the whole family! If program is at noon, feel free to bring your own brownbag lunch.

December 3, 10, 17, 31, 11 am, Oshtemo January 7, 14, 21, 28, 10:45 am, Eastwood February 1, 8, 15, 22, 10:30 am, Central 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. Siblings may attend as guests.

Toddler Storytime, 2-3½ years

December 4, 11, 18, 10:30 am, Washington Square January 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30 am, Oshtemo February 3, 10, 17, 24, 10:30 am, Eastwood Toddlers and caregivers will enjoy this lap-sit of stories, songs, and a simple craft.

December 2009 - February 2010

Baby Storytime, birth-2 years January 13 - February 17, 6:30 pm, Central Circle time with plenty of movement for caregivers and baby. 15-30 minutes of songs, rhymes, books and more! Older preschool kids can attend with caregivers to learn songs and rhymes to share with their dolls and stuffed animals.

Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends January 12, 6:30 pm, Central February 11, 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.

Nutcracker Ballet December 22, 2 pm, Central

Enjoy the adventures of Clara and the Nutcracker as they battle the Mouse King and journey through the Land of Sweets, complete with the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy in this perennial holiday favorite. The Kalamazoo Ballet under the artistic direction of Thérèse Bullard will treat us to a performance perfect for newcomers to ballet and those who make seeing the Nutcracker a holiday tradition. Family program. We will start handing out numbers one hour before this performance. Everyone in a group must be present to receive a number.

Aerial Angels

December 28, 11 am, Central Who was that masked maiden? Poor Cinderella has just one chance to escape her wicked stepsisters and go to the ball. With an acrobatic Fairy Godmother and aerial dreams of her own, Prince Charming will need to climb high to reach Cinderella’s heart. Don’t miss this circus fairytale by Kalamazoo’s own high-flying female circus artists, the Aerial Angels, performing feats of grace, strength, and beauty suspended between floors of the library rotunda. All ages.

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

Alma Powell 1000 W Paterson St 553-7960

Eastwood 1112 Gayle Ave 553-7810

Oshtemo 7265 W Main St 553-7980

Washington Square 1244 Portage St 553-7970

February 24, 6 pm, Powell Learn about the African-American custom of jumping the broom. Is it from Africa or is it a slave custom? Have fun with history while you enjoy a piece of cake and some ginger tea. Grades 1-6.

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

www.kpl.gov

TUESDAY

MONDAY

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

Wednesday 1

R R

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs Gingerbread Houses 6:30 pm, OSH, gr 2-6

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

Preschool Storytime 10 am, CEN, 3½-5 yrs

Aerial Angels 11 am, CEN, family

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family Nutcracker Ballet 2 pm, CEN, family

MONDAY

Family Storytime 12 noon, EAS, family Ornaments for Preschoolers 6:30 pm, WSQ, 3-5 yrs

Family Storytime 12 noon, EAS, family

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family Holiday Crafts 6:30 pm, EAS, gr 1-5

Family Storytime 12 noon, EAS, family

December

Thursday

TUESDAY

Sugar Cookie Houses 6 pm, POW, gr 1-6

Baby Lapsit 10:15 am, OSH, birth-walking Baby Steps 11 am, OSH, walking-2 yrs

Family Storytime 30 12 noon, EAS, family Make It, Take It Crafts 1-4 pm, OSH Game Day 4-7 pm, POW, gr 1-6 Yummy New Year's Hats 2 pm, WSQ, family

Friday

Saturday

Toddler Storytime 4 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

Baby Lapsit 10:15 am, OSH, birth-walking Baby Steps 11 am, OSH, walking-2 yrs

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

Game Day 2-4 pm, POW, gr 1-6

Key to Locations CEN EAS OSH POW WSQ

Central Eastwood Oshtemo Alma Powell Washington Square

R Registration Required

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

January Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

6 Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs

Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends 6:30 pm, CEN, family

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

MONDAY

Library Closed

Family Storytime 10 am, CEN, family

Library Closed

Library Closes at 5 pm

Wednesday

Ornament Making 1 pm, WSQ, gr K-6

Toddler Storytime 11 10:30 am, WSQ, 2-3½ yrs

24 Library Closed

TUESDAY

13 Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

20 Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

Toddler Storytime 27 10:30 am, OSH, 2-3½ yrs Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

Wednesday

Baby Lapsit 10 am, EAS, birth-walking Baby Steps 10:45 am, EAS, walking-2 yrs

Preschool Players 10 am, CEN, 3-5 yrs Baby Lapsit 10 am, EAS, birth-walking Baby Steps 10:45 am, EAS, walking-2 yrs

Thursday

Preschool Storytime 8 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

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

Preschool Storytime 22 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

Preschool Storytime 29 10:30 am, WSQ, 3½-5 yrs

Friday

Saturday

February R

Baby Lapsit 9:30 am, CEN, birth-walking Baby Steps 10:30 am, CEN, walking-2 yrs

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family From the Heart 1-6 pm, EAS

Baby Lapsit 9:30 am, CEN, birth-walking Baby Steps 10:30 am, CEN, walking-2 yrs

Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

Baby Lapsit 9:30 am, CEN, birth-walking Baby Steps 10:30 am, CEN, walking-2 yrs

M&M's 9:30 and 10:30 am, CEN, 4-6 yrs Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

From the Heart 10 am- 8 pm, CEN 2-6 pm, OSH Family Storytime 12 noon, POW, family

2 R

R R

From the Heart 3 10 am- 8 pm, CEN 2-6 pm, OSH Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, EAS, 2-3½ yrs Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs Toddler Storytime 10 10:30 am, EAS, 2-3½ yrs From the Heart 1-6 pm, EAS & WSQ Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

Toddler Storytime 17 10:30 am, EAS, 2-3½ yrs Capoeira Demonstration 6 pm, POW, family Baby Storytime 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

M&M's 24 9:30 and 10:30 am, CEN, 4-6 yrs Toddler Storytime 10:30 am, EAS, 2-3½ yrs Jumping the Broom 6 pm, POW, gr 1-6

From the Heart 4 10 am- 8 pm, CEN 2-6 pm, OSH Preschool Storytime 10:30 am, OSH, 3½-5 yrs

Family Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, family From the Heart 3-5 pm, POW Preschool Players 10 am, CEN, 3-5 yrs

Preschool Storytime 11 10:30 am, OSH, 3½-5 yrs From the Heart 1-6 pm, EAS & WSQ Storytime with Mr. Steve & Friends 6:30 pm, CEN, birth-2 yrs

Family Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, family

Preschool Storytime 18 10:30 am, OSH, 3½-5 yrs

Family Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, family

M&M's 25 10:30 am, OSH, 4-6 yrs

Family Storytime 10:30 am, WSQ, family

From the Heart 2-4 pm, POW