INFO Magazine - February 2012 by Metropolitan Library System Oklahoma

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Sitting In With Clara

Calendar of Library Events

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Do you remember when you were in school and Valentine’s Day rolled around? That was the one time everyone in class was treated equally because we all got pretty much the same number of those “cute”

little cards from our classmates. I swear that one year I got one that had a picture of a donkey with a red bow around its neck and the message “Yes, One Day a Year Even You Can Pretend To Be Popular.”

Well, we may not have individual Valentine’s Day cards for each of you, but you have to know that we

sincerely like our customers. You’re the reason we do what we do every day—and more importantly, a desire to help you is the reason we came to work for the library in the first place.

So just think of us as your not-so-secret admirers. Or just join us at the DIY Valentines or Anti-

Valentines program to hand craft your own card for that special or not-so-special person in your life at the Del City Library, Thursday, February 9th. XOXOXO

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Inside info:

MLS Executive Director Donna Morris Publisher Kim Terry Editors Doug Bentin Nancy Lytle

Designer Rick George Contributing Writers Christine Bassett Jana Hausburg Lloyd Lovely

Oklahoma Images Think that street congestion was introduced when horses disappeared from downtown? Think again. This Month: The More Things Change . . .

Reviews & Recommendations Looking for something different to read, watch, or listen to? Check out the books, DVDs, and CDs that caught our reviewers’ attention this month.

9 Listen Up! Playaways Are Coming!

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METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine 300 Park Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Editorial: (405) 606-3752 Fax: (405) 606-3799 E-mail: dbentin@metrolibrary.org MLS Commission Fran Cory, Chair Nancy Anthony, Disbursing Agent Donna Morris, Secretary Bosé Akadiri Ralph Bullard Fran Cory Cynthia Friedemann Rozz Grigsby Deanna Hannah Helene Harpman Jose Jimenez Carolyn Leslie Penny McCaleb Tracy McDaniel Tracy McGehee

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Lori Nelson Brenda Palmer Mukesh Patel Kim Patterson Vanna Shaw Jim Shonts Judy Smith Alyne Strube Beth Toland Susan Tucker Greg Womack

Soon you’ll be able to check out all-in-one audiobook Playaways. It’s not just the book and it’s not just the player, but both in one. Read on for more information.

Sitting In With Clara

Our annual Black History Month dramatic presentation from Rhythmically Speaking is the story of Oklahoma’s own Clara Luper, the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.

Calendar of Events

Every MLS programming event listed in one place. All you need to know about the people, times, and places of this month’s library activities.

Ex Officio OKC Mayor Mick Cornett County Commissioner Willa Johnson The official magazine of the Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County, info, is published monthly by MLS Marketing & Communications, 300 Park Avenue, OKC, OK 73102.

On the Cover Check out some of the cool Valentine programs at your Metropolitan Library.

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Oklahoma Images

The More Things Change... It’s a pity we’ll only get to enjoy the new Downtown for a few more short months before the world ends on December 21, 2012. by Larry Johnson

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etween Project 180, Devon Tower construction, SandRidge Commons construction (and destruction), utility work, and the I-40 relocation we Downtowners’ workaday commute is rarely the same. Heck, most days we took a different route in the evening than we used that morning. We were assured that traffic would never be completely shut down and there would always be a way to

Looking west from downtown OKC.

get where you needed to go. Mostly that was true. A few businesses suffered – too small to survive the big plans – but for the most part we got through. Except for one day. One Saturday in December as I made my way to the Downtown Library for a local history scanning party, I traveled south only to find all north-south streets blocked and only NW 6 and Reno passable east to west. Several of us were stressed by this because getting to work meant driving the wrong way on a oneway street and a fair measure of faith. Not me. I just grinned to myself and thought, “So this is what it was like.” Before the mid-1930s, twice a day the

north and south halves of the city were Stories of injuries from runaway carriages cut off from each other when trains from whose horses were spooked by train the Rock Island and Frisco railroads whistles were not uncommon, nor were chugged into town. Back when the city those of car wrecks and fatalities from had a population of fewer than 10,000, people who tried to race across the wide civic leaders courted the two big railroads as a way to grow the city. The Choctaw Coal and Railway line (later part of the Rock Island line) traveled east-west down a right-of-way between today’s Kerr and Park Avenues. It grew with the city and eventually was five tracks wide. The station was behind the Skirvin Hotel off Broadway, but, depending on the number of cars, the train could The Old Rock Island depot behind the Skirvin, extended all the way across the center of downtown OKC. the city. When the Frisco, whose station was further west on the same right of tracks before the train arrived. way (essentially at Hudson), pulled into Finally in the 1930s the tracks were town at the same time, citizens could torn out and moved to the south and be trapped on either side for several the Municipal Auditorium, City Hall hours or face a rather lengthy detour. At and the County Courthouse were built in the empty space. Interesting correlation between 80 years ago and today – they share an economic slump, a landmark skyscraper nearly completed (1st National then and Devon now), a major transportation line moved to the south (railroads and I-40) and major beautification projects underway (Civic Center and Project 180). The railroad right-of-way between Kerr and Park Avenues, downtown OKC.

first having the railroads was worth the trouble, but Oklahoma City doubled in population every ten or so years and the problem soon became unmanageable.

Larry “Buddy” Johnson has been with MLS since 1998. Not only a librarian at the Downtown Library, he is the brilliant mind behind the Oklahoma Images database which is a collection of pictures and essays that illustrate the history of central Oklahoma.

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Reviews & Recommendations FICTION/

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The Buddha In The Attic by Julie Otsuka In this charming novella Otsuka writes with both pathos and humor about the experiences of Japanese picture brides who came to America at the turn of the last century. She draws on many historical references to describe the lives of these women and how difficult they found adjusting to cultural changes. They married men they had never met before, were not always accepted by American families in the places where they wished to settle, and had to learn to speak a new language. But trying to get used to living in a foreign country was the most difficult. “How were they able to tell each other apart? Why were they always shouting? Did they really hang dishes on their walls and not pictures? And wear their shoes inside the house?” What makes this little book so unique is that the story is told in the third person plural which Otsuka uses poetically throughout to describe the feelings and plight of the women: On the first days on the boat we were sea sick, and could not keep our food down, and had to make repeated trips to the railing. Some of us were so dizzy we couldn’t even walk, and lay in a dull stupor….. Some of us clutched our stomachs and prayed out loud to Kannon, the goddess of mercy…..

reviewed by Christine Bassett Particularly harrowing for the women is the time during WWII when the Japanese were evacuated to camps. However understandable this decision was from the American perspective, the Japanese lost their homes, their possessions and their livelihoods which they had built up for decades. The waiting to find out when they would have to leave for the camp was particularly distressing: Some of us went out and began buying sleeping bags….. just in case we were next. …..One of us stopped talking. Another of us went out early one morning to water the horses and hung herself in the barn. In the final chapter, Otsuka describes how the Americans felt in the towns after the Japanese left. Some were relieved to see them go; some felt guilty that they should have done something to stop it happening; many missed their presence very much. “A year on almost all traces of the Japanese have disappeared from our town.” Christine Bassett has worked for the MLS for nearly 10 years. She currently works as a reference librarian at Belle Isle and is a volunteer community literacy tutor in her spare time.

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Here Comes Trouble: Stories From My Life by Michael Moore Oscar-winning documentarian and first class provocateur Michael Moore (Fahrenheit 9/11) begins this sort-of autobiography with the story of the time a brainless news reporter asked him on live TV how he felt about so many people wanting to see him dead. “You just told someone it was OK to kill me,” Moore responded incredulously. Whether or not you’re a fan of the guy, Moore’s stories from life, frequently with names changed to protect the guilty, present him at his most human. He calls the chapters “short stories,” but regardless of their 6 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

reviewed by Doug Bentin actual fact-content, the pieces are clever introductions to various aspects of Moore’s personality. I once talked with two guys who’d met Moore at the same time. One thought he was an egotistical creep and the other thought he was a big-hearted defender of the little man with a sharp sense of humor. I bet I know how they vote. Politics aside, Here Comes Trouble is an amusing and educational read. Doug Bentin edits info magazine.

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Mao’s Last Dancer reviewed by Christine Bassett In Mao’s Last Dancer, Li Cunxin is a young boy from China who is given the opportunity to train in the Beijing Ballet and to eventually perform in Houston, Texas after Chairman Mao’s death. Breathtaking scenery in China richly contrasts village life with the busy cities of Beijing and Houston. Mesmerizing dance performances by Chi Cao as Li Cunxin in Swan Lake, as well as romance, political intrigue and a tear jerker ending, make this movie well worth watching. As a small boy in 1972 aged 11, Li Cunxin lived in a village in communist China with his large family at near poverty level. One day, some of Madame Mao’s cultural delegates who were looking for students to study ballet in Beijing and to serve in Mao’s Revolution, visited Li’s school. In spite of the painful audition procedures at local, county and provincial levels, Li is chosen to join the Academy. Li is only one of 15 students chosen out of 70 million people from Shandong Province. The story charts Li’s difficulties in adapting to being

away from home and with learning the ballet steps. One day in 1978 after Mao’s death, Ben Stephenson who was the director of the Houston Ballet came to teach at the Beijing Academy. He offered two scholarships to his academy for the summer in Houston and Li was chosen along with one other boy. This was the first cultural exchange between China and America since 1949. Li is allowed to go to America but difficulties arise when he wants to stay longer adding drama to the true story. If you enjoy watching movies set in foreign countries with a cultural emphasis, be sure to add this one to your list! Find out more at www.licunxin.com or by reading Mao’s Last Dancer by Li Cunxin, 792.8092/L6932m.

Christine Bassett has worked for the MLS for nearly 10 years. She currently works as a reference librarian at Belle Isle and is a volunteer community literacy tutor in her spare time. FICTION/

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Miss Pettigrew Lives For a Day by Winifred Watson

reviewed by Lloyd Lovely

Here’s a fun, quick read that you will really enjoy. It’s a quirky little novel that is unusual enough to be interesting and effortless to read. I say unusual because it reads like a play – and a fairytale play at that. It definitely held my interest and I read it faster than I usually read because I was anxious to know how the story would end. The author manages to neatly tie all the incongruities together by the end; although, in today’s world, you’d have the distinct feeling that a sequel was in the pipeline. With the storyline set in the late 1930’s, Miss Pettigrew is a down-and-out spinster, an old maid (fortyish) who has never so much as been kissed. She’s never had money or much of a life, not even a prospect for a life, and she gets by as a governess, but

a very poor governess who doesn’t care for children – no Mary Poppins here. Her prospects have declined to the point that she is on the verge of being evicted, when she falls into the world of the unlikeliest of fairy godmothers, Miss LaFosse, a beautiful, young, nightclub singer. There are lots of interesting characters that you are free to like in varying degrees, and a satisfying look at the world seventy years ago. Originally published in 1938, the book was filmed in 2008—and you can check out the DVD, too. Lloyd Lovely is the MLS Deputy Executive Director for Finance and Support, which makes him feel important. Please don’t tell him the truth.

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Reviews & Recommendations FICTION/

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Gourmet Rhapsody by Muriel Barbery Muriel Barbery’s second book, The Elegance of the Hedgehog, was my favorite of those I read in 2011, so I was eager to read this, her first book (I understand a third is in the works). Elegance is still my favorite (maybe), but Gourmet Rhapsody did not disappoint. The setting is a bedroom in France, where the world’s foremost food critic, Monsier Pierre Arthens is dying, but he has one last, simple, self-imposed search before he dies. The search is in his memories, and the book takes you back through Arthens’ life, providing glimpses of him and those in his life with whom you can sympathize. The beauty of the writing is unmatched. The word play is superb, bordering on poetic. With the story being written in French and translated by another

reviewed by Lloyd Lovely (Alison Anderson), I keep questioning the originator of the beautiful words – the author or the translator? Did the author provide the story, and the translator enhance it with the difficult but sublime English version? Or did the author herself provide the wonderful words and the translator merely look up the synonymous English versions? Perhaps a mixture of both, but I like to think the author herself is the master of the language as evidenced in the following passage: Words: repositories for singular realities which they then transform into moments in an anthology, magicians that change the face of reality by adorning it with the right to become memorable, to be placed in a library of memories. Dang, that’s purty.

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The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Shared by Alice Ozma «You know,» I said when his pancakes were fully buttered and I was free to enjoy my own meal, «I have been giving this a lot of consideration. Deep consideration. And after this consideration, I have decided that it is only logical for us to go for a thousand nights.» I vowed I would read to my children every night. Well, you probably know how that turned out. But I can happily report that for some families, this is an achievable goal. Reading with a child is a wonderful experience. My children usually enjoyed the opportunity to snuggle up with me and hear about imaginary characters and worlds. Soon our schedules got too busy and the boys began to feel they were too old. For Alice Ozma and her father, however, their reading experience went above and beyond what ordinary families are able to do. It turned into a treasured nightly ritual. 8 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

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reviewed by Jana Hausburg At first the goal was simple -- 100 consecutive nights of reading. Once achieved, Alice wanted more. The figure she came up with put her well past high school and into her first year of college. Undaunted, father and daughter continued. And continued. And continued. Believe it or not, they never missed a day. Together they read books by Beverly Cleary, Judy Blume, J.K. Rowling, L. Frank Baum, and Shakespeare, to name a few. In those eight years of reading, Alice went from a scrawny, boy-hating fourth grader to a pink-prom-dress-wearing high school senior. She learned plenty of life lessons and felt the power of the printed word. Best of all, she learned a lot about her father and the beauty of commitment. With her sharply-honed reviewing skills, Jana Hausburg is ready to tackle any literary challenge. Except, maybe, vampire romance. She is also the manager at the Capitol Hill Library.

Listen Up!

The Playaways Are Coming! ere’s one I bet you haven’t heard about – it’s the Playaway. No, it’s not a new segment on Sesame Street. Good guess, though. A Playaway is a new all-in-one audiobook device. When you check one out from us, you’ll get everything needed to listen to a recorded book but it comes pre-loaded and the device has a place for a universal jack to make listening easy though headphones, speakers, or even a car stereo system. It looks kind of like an iPod but each Playaway unit contains one book—up to 60 hours of playtime. There’s no screen and it comes with five narration speeds for clearest comprehension. It sounds weird to say so, but some people do listen faster than others. Anyone in the family can use it because messing up with one is impossible. You can’t erase it, or copy it, or record over it. Playaways have all the best features of audiobooks with none of the weaknesses. They even make great teaching aids. Your reluctant reader can listen to a Playaway while reading the same book, making an immediate connection between the printed word and the sound, between the individual meaning and the meaning in context. They’re terrific for seniors who dislike the bother of changing tapes or CDs in traditional players, and who frequently don’t like “messing with all that stuff.” You can’t open the unit so there’s no chance something will go missing. And here’s another nice feature for people on the go—the Playaway doesn’t have to plug into a power source so you can literally take them anywhere. A bonus for the library is that each unit is good for around 1,000 plays. A book that’s read that many times would probably fall apart and blow away. Library staff who have experimented with them on a trial basis love them, and we’re not all that easy to impress when it comes to library technology. So keep an eye out for Playaways, coming soon to a library near you. If you don’t see them, ask for them at the Circulation Desk where you go to check out your items.

Mary Higgins Clark Coming to Literary Voices™ Think for a minute of how many mystery novels have been published since the days of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. There are over 450 in our Library Catalog that were published in 2011 alone. Now think of a list created by the Mystery Writers of America of the 100 best mysteries of all time. Now imagine that you’ll get the chance to meet an author whose name appears on that list. Mary Higgins Clark, author of Where Are the Children? and over two dozen other suspense bestsellers, will be the Guest of Honor at the Library Endowment Trust’s 2012 edition of Literary Voices™ on April 10. Visit the Endowment Trust section of the website at www.supportmls.org for details as they become available. In the meantime, why not check out Clark’s latest thriller, I’ll Walk Alone and settle in for a cool evening of suspense.

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Sitting Clara In With

Oklahoma has given birth to its share of icons, but who would ever have thought that a baby girl born in Okfuskee County in 1923 would grow up to be one of them?

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er dad was a laborer and her mother was a laundress. Even with a degree in mathematics and history awarded from Langston University in 1944, Clara Mae Shepard didn’t seem to have the stuff that heroes are made from. But by 1950, people began to change their minds. The woman we now know as Clara Luper joined with other black students to integrate the University of Oklahoma, from which she received a Masters Degree in 1951. Then, on a Tuesday afternoon in 1958, she did something extraordinary. She sat down. It was the place that made all the difference. She, her eight-year-old daughter, and a group from the NAACP Youth Council took seats at the segregated lunch counter of the Katz drugstore in downtown Oklahoma City, and ordered Cokes. Two days later, the Katz drugstores in three states were desegregated. Eighteen months later, another group did the same thing in

Greensboro, NC, and the American Civil Rights Movement was in full swing. To celebrate Black History Month, your Metropolitan Library System is

She, her eight-year-old daughter, and a group from the NAACP Youth Council took seats at the segregated lunch counter of the Katz drugstore in downtown Oklahoma City, and ordered Cokes. Two days later, the Katz drugstores in three states were desegregated. once again teaming with playwright DWe Williams and the Rhythmically Speaking theater company to present a world premiere play. Based on Clara Luper’s achievement, the

production is called “Sitting In With Clara.” “Every February we work with DWe and Rhythmically Speaking to present a new dramatic work based on the black experience in Oklahoma,” said MLS Director of Outreach Services Dana Morrow, “and we are always thrilled at the freshness and originality that DWe and her performers bring to the project. Combine the brilliance of Rhythmically Speaking with the continuing importance of Clara Luper’s life and work, and you’re bound to have a theatrical experience like no other.” “Sitting In With Clara” will be presented at 11 MLS locations between February 7 and 28. See page 21 for full details of times, locations, and dates. All performances are free and open to the public. “Clara Luper passed last year,” Morrow added. “Oklahoma and fighters for civil liberty everywhere will never forget her.”

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february c a l e n d ar o f eve n t s

To see the latest information about library programs and events, please click on Calendar of Events on the MLS website: www.metrolibrary.org

5501 N. Villa Ave., OKC (405) 843-9601

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Belle Isle Library Bethany Library Capitol Hill Library Choctaw Library Del City Library Downtown Library Edmond Library Harrah Library Jones Library

2012 Winter Readfest Feb. 1-29 Age 19 and older Join the 2012 Winter Readfest and read for fun and prizes! Receive one drawing entry slip for every two books read during the month of February. Drawings will be held the first week in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. AARP Tax Aide Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 9a-1p Feb 4,11,18,25 | Sat | 9a-noon Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue | 9a-1p Adults AARP volunteers will provide free tax preparation and e-filing assistance for seniors, age 60 and over, and others with a low to moderate income of not more than $49,000.00. Developmental Screenings Feb 1 | Wed | 12:30-4:30pm Adults A developmental screening is a very general look at how your child is doing compared to other children the same age. Questions or concerns you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Appts are one hour

Learn English as a Second Language Feb 2,7,9,14,16,21,23 Tue and Thur | 9:30a-12:30p Adults This is an ongoing enrollment with the Oklahoma City Public Schools. Improve your English speaking, reading, and writing skills in this free class for people who are new to the English language. For questions and to register, come to the class. Lecture on Concentration with the School of Metaphysics Feb 6 | Mon | 7-8:30p Teens and older In this free lecture learn steps for developing the ability to effectively use your most precious commodity: attention. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City School of Metaphysics. Gaming Club Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue 4-5p Teens Come join the fun at your library! Everything from chess to Xbox Kinect will be available to play. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. You don’t want to miss out!

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Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance Class Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue | 5:30-6:30p Feb 9,16,23, | Thur | 5:30-6:30p Teens - Adult Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance is a fun class, using eight-forms. Tai Chi is a lowimpact dance-like exercise that can be done in almost any location. It also helps to build confidence from the fear of falling, which is commonly found in a community of older adults. Class is free, but space is limited, so sign up at the reference desk. Will meet Tuesday and Thursday evening. Cosponsor: OCCHD.

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Luther Library Midwest City Library Nicoma Park Library Ralph Ellison Library Southern Oaks Library The Village Library Warr Acres Library Wright Library

Friends of the Library Booksale 2012, Feb 25 and 26, 9a-5:30p

long and will include a small fee. To schedule an appointment call 425-4412. The child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Cosponsor: OCCHD.

Belle Isle Library HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

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Your Two and Three-Year-Old Child Feb 7 | Tue | 6-7:30p Ages birth to 5 years Adults Join other parents and caregivers as we explore typical language development of 2 and 3 year old children. This workshop will focus on ideas and activities to stimulate your child’s language and learning skills. Facilitated by Tracy Goebel. PreRegister at 425-4412. Cosponsor: OCCHD . Valentine Friends Feb 8 | Wed | 10-11a Pre-kindergarten Friends are fun and Valentine’s Day is a fun time when you may share your thoughts and make a craft for good friends. Open playtime will follow. Pre-registration begins Feb. 1st. 843-9601. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 12 | Sun | 2-3p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts. Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win Feb 13 | Mon | 6:30-7:30p Adults Internet criminals are out there, working to steal your stuff, or to use your computer behind your back to steal other people’s stuff. In his free workshop, computer security expert Dave Moore will expose the bad guy’s schemes, teaching you how to Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win. Cosponsors: Friends of Libraries in Oklahoma and Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

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The Belle of Amherst Feb 16 | Thur | 7p Ages 15 - adults The famous and eccentric spinster Emily Dickinson, although plain and reclusive, had an intoxicating exuberance for life. In The Belle of Amherst playwright William Luce creates an entertaining and anecdotal accounting of Ms Dickinson’s life and art starring Ginger Grace as the passionate poet. Metro OKC Knit Guild Group Meeting Feb 19 | Sun | 3-5p Teens-adults The Metro OKC Knit Guild group is meeting at Belle Isle. Everyone—any knitter or a person who’s never knitted, but would like to learn—is welcome. Each monthly program includes a lesson of a new knitting technique and examples of charity knitting projects. For questions about the group email at Mschoir01@ gmail.com, Melissa.ryan@tinker.af.mil or call 361-2044 or 739-2851. Belle Isle Anime/Manga Club Feb 20 | Mon | 4-5p Teens Every third Monday of the month from 4-5pm share and discuss your favorite Anime and Manga. Screen new Anime episodes! *Anime may contain material that is considered unsuitable for ages 13 and younger.

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Book Discussion Group Featuring the Great Books Feb 29 | Wed | 6:30-8:30p Teens-adults A Great Books discussion group meets at Belle Isle. The group uses the shared inquiry method, led by Steve Overman, a certified discussion leader. The only requirement for attending a Great Books meeting is that you read the selection to be discussed. You need not attend all meetings. To sign up or get additional information ask at the library or contact Steve Overman, 509-2363 or sjoverman@cox.net.

3510 N. Mueller, Bethany (405) 789-8363 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

N. Mueller Ave.

Teen Crafts Feb 16 | Thur | 4-5p Teens Come join us every third Thursday of the month for a arts and craft extravaganza! A different craft project every month. Don’t miss out on the fun!

children the same age. Any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings will include a small fee. To schedule your screening appointment, please call Child Guidance, OCCHD at 425-4412.

Bethany Library

N. Rockwell Ave.

Metropolitan Library Commission of Oklahoma County Feb 16 | Thur | 3:30-5p Belle Isle Library 5301 N. Villa Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405.843.9601 The public is welcome to attend.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed

NW 39th Expy. NW 36th St. NW 35th St.

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Toddler Story and Play Time Feb 2 | Thur | 9:30-10:15a & 10:30-11:15a Ages 18 mos - 3 yrs w/adult Enjoy play time with your child plus a story, music and nursery rhymes. For child with adult. Choose the 9:30 or 10:30 session. Preregister at the information desk or call 789-8363, ext. 3. Fall Prevention Feb 2 | Thur | 1:30-3:30p Adults and Seniors Marge Jantzen with Integris Third Age Life Center will be the instructor for this class. Free program to improve your balance and prevent falls. Falls are the leading cause of injuryrelated deaths among individuals who are over 65 years of age. Limited enrollment. Call 789-8363 ext.3 for pre-registration. Developmental Screenings Feb 3 | Fri | 9a-Noon Ages birth to 5 years w/guardian A developmental screening is a very general look at how children are doing compared to other

Magic as a Hobby Feb 7 | Tue | 7-8p Adults and Age 14+ with adult Magician Lee Woodside will perform magic, discuss his career in magic and teach simple tricks. Refreshments served after the program. Valentine Story and Craft Time Feb 9 | Thur | 10-10:45a Ages 3-6 Enjoy Valentine’s Day stories, songs, nursery rhymes and a fun craft as well as Valentine refreshments to celebrate the holiday. Pre-register at the information desk or call 789-8363, ext. 3. Heart Needle Point Feb 9 | Thur | 6:30-8p Adults Just in time for Valentine’s Day, make a needle point heart craft. Free supplies furnished. Myra Woodside will be the instructor for this fun class. Refreshments will be served after the program. Pre-register 789-8363 ext.3. Silver Strings Feb 11 | Sat | 2-3p All ages Putnam City’s Silver Strings will perform their annual Valentine concert. Everyone is invited for this special treat. Valentine refreshments will be served after the program. Family Place: 1-2-3 Play with Me Feb 16,23 | Thur 9:30-10:15a & 10:30-11:15a Infants to age 4 w/adult Playing with your baby or child is not only important for bonding but is also an educational experience for your child. We are providing a special time for four weeks for you to come to the library and spend one-on-one time playing with your child. A different community resource professional will be available each week to answer your parenting questions. This free series is intended for infants through age four with their parents or guardians. Pre-register by calling the library or visiting the reference desk. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 18 | Sat | 2-3p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP

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february and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts. Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win Feb 20 | Mon | 6:30-7:30p Adults Internet criminals are out there, working to steal your stuff, or to use your computer behind your back to steal other people’s stuff. In his free workshop, computer security expert Dave Moore will expose the bad guy’s schemes, teaching you how to Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win. Cosponsor: Friends of Libraries in Oklahoma and Oklahoma City Community Foundation. Trip Around the World Feb 25 | Sat | 10-11:30a Grades 3-6 Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to travel the globe right in your very own local library. his innovative and hands-on experience for children in grades three through six is sponsored by the Junior League of Oklahoma City. Kids will have a great time learning about the different cultures in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The program is free, but space is limited so pre-register at the Information Desk or call the library. Cosponsor: Junior League of OKC.

Capitol Hill Library 334 SW 26th St., OKC (405) 634-6308

hiel

SW 26th St.

ds B

S. Hudson Ave.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed

S. S

S. Walker Ave.

HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-8 Fri: 9-6

lvd.

2012 Winter Readfest Feb. 1-29 Age 19 and older Join the 2012 Winter Readfest and read for fun and prizes! Receive one drawing entry slip

calendar of events

for every two books read during the month of February. Drawings will be held the first week in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. GED Feb 1,6,8,13,15,22,27,29 Mon & Wed | 1-4p Age 16 and older Attend free GED classes on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Capitol Hill Library. Review English, social studies, science and math skills in preparation for the GED test. Materials are provided. Attend any Monday or Wednesday class to enroll. Call 634-6308 for more information. Gaming Club Feb 1,15,29| Wed 4:30-5:30p Ages 8-16 Join us after school for some Gaming time. GameCube, and Kinect. Bring your Yu Gi Oh! and Pokemon cards and battle it out with other players. All ages invited. Capitol Hill Chess Club Feb 2 | Thur | 4-5p All ages Come learn how to play this strategic game of chess. If you already know how to play, have a fun match with others. Please call 634-6308 for more information or to sign up. Tell Me A Story: Story & Craft Feb 7 | Tue | 9:30-10:30a Age 6 and younger Kids love to hear a story! Join us for storytimes featuring nursery rhymes, popular children’s books and beloved authors. Craft activity will be included. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 634-6308 for more information. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 7 | Tue | 1-2p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

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Tax Help by AARP Volunteers Feb 9,16,23 | Thur | 9:30a-2:30p Feb 14,21,28 | Tue | 11a-3:30p Adults Free service for seniors or any adult with low to moderate income. Local ERO Coordinator and certified tax counselors will be available to assist with tax preparation and e-filing. Please call Louene Hembree at 685-2773 for more information. Cosponsor: AARP Valentine’s Day Art Feb 9 | Thur | 4-5p Ages 6-13 Create a Valentine’s Day craft to give to your sweetie. Children Reading to Dogs Feb 11 | Sat | 1-2p Children who can read Come read to a trained, professional story dog to practice your reading skills. For kids who can read, or parents who want to read to their kids and a dog! Art in the Afternoon with Debbie Langston Feb 11 | Sat | 2-4p Ages 6 and older Join us for a relaxing day of creating art with local artist Debbie Langston. Children younger than 10 are required to have a parent present. For more information please call 634-6308. Conversational Spanish II Feb 13,20,27 | Mon | 1-4p Adults This course is designed for individuals who already have a basic understanding of the Spanish language, and want to further increase their Spanish speaking skills. The class begins on Monday, February 13th and will continue on Monday evenings until May 7th. Register by contacting the library, or sign up at the information desk. Tell Me A Story: Move and Groove Feb 14 | Tue | 9:30-10:30a Age 6 and younger Join us for preschool aerobics or yoga, and a short story time. Children must have an adult present. Bilingual Story Time: English y Español Feb 16 | Thur | 6:30-7:15p Ages 1-5 Kids love to hear a story! Join us for story times featuring nursery rhymes, popular children’s books and beloved authors. Craft or play activity will be included. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 634-6308 for more information.

Tax Help: AARP

For Adults. AARP trained volunteers will assist you in preparing your 2011 state and federal tax returns. No appointments taken. First come, first served.

Belle Isle Library–AARP, E-filing ONLY. Wednesdays: Feb 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 9a-1p Saturdays: Feb 4, 11, 18, 25: 9a-Noon Tuesdays: Feb 7, 14, 21, 28: 9a-1p

Edmond Library–AARP E-filing ONLY Wednesdays: Feb 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 10a-2p Thursdays: Feb 2, 9, 16, 23: Noon-8p

Ralph Ellison Library–VITA

Capitol Hill Library–AARP, E-filing ONLY Saturdays: Feb 11, 18, 25: 9a-4p Thursdays: Feb 9, 16, 23: 9:30a-2:30p The Village Library–AARP, E-filing ONLY. Tuesdays: Feb 14, 21, 28: 11a-3:30p

Del City Library–AARP, E-filing ONLY

Computer Basics: Excel Feb 25 | Sat | 2-3:15p Adults and seniors This class is designed for adults and seniors who know very little about computers, but who want to learn more. This month we will focus on Excel, and any questions related to the Excel program is appropriate. An attempt to answer all questions will be made. If you have a laptop or notebook computer, you are encouraged to bring it with you to the class. Please register at the information desk, or by calling the library. Tell Me A Story: Play and Learn Feb 28 | Tue | 9:30-10:30a Age 6 and younger There’s more to play than just fun! Play makes learning enjoyable, helps children develop creativity, cooperation skills, social skills, gross and fine motor skills, communication, concentration, and so much more!

Fridays: Feb 3,10,17,24: 9a-2:30p Mondays: Feb. 6,13,20,27: 9a-2:30p

Join the Lil’ Lit’ Club for weekly activities. Children will benefit from reading the selection in advance with their family. Check with the information desk for next title. Call 390-8418 for more information.

Choctaw Library 2525 Muzzy St., Choctaw (405) 390-8418 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-8 Fri: 9-6

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed Muzzy St.

Old School After School Feb 23 | Thur | 4-5p Ages 6-13 Go old school at your library and play board and card games with your friends.

Warr Acres Library–AARP, E-filing ONLY

Main St.

Thursdays: Feb 2, 9, 16, 23: Noon- 4p Saturdays: Feb 4, 11, 18, 25: 9-11a Mondays: Feb 6, 13, 20, 27: Noon-4p

Wednesdays: Feb 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 10a-3p Tuesdays: Feb 7, 14, 21, 28: 10a-3p Saturdays: Feb 11, 18, 25: 10a-3p

Gilbert St.

NE 23rd St.

Yoga For Your Health Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 6:15-7:15p Adults The health benefits of yoga include stress reduction, the concentration required during yoga practice tends to focus your attention on the matter at hand, and thereby reducing the emphasis you may be putting on the stress in your life. Melissa O’Neill of Oklahoma City will lead these sessions. Classes are free and space is limited. Please pre-register at 3908418, ext 3. Parachute Play Feb 2 | Thur | 10:30-11a Ages 3-5 years While playing games with a parachute, children will have the opportunity to practice skills such as: following directions, socializing with others, using language, using small and large muscles, and remaining in control during active play. Class size is limited to 12 children and their parent or caregiver. Call 390-8418.

Lil’ Lit’ Club Feb 8,15,22,29 | Wed | 1-1:30p Readers age 4 and older Do you like to read aloud and act out stories? February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 15

february

Preschool Storytime Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue 10:30-11a Ages 3-5 years Come to the library for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun to help build early literacy skills. Please call 390-8418 or stop by the Reference Desk for more information. Paint Those Things Feb 9 | Thur | 4-5:30p Ages 10 and older Tired of those old, ugly shoes, but they still fit you? Got a few light stains on your favorite t-shirt? Want a new, shiny look? Paint it! Glitter it? Give it some bling! (Bring your own shoes, shirt, denim jacket or vest, etc.). Call 390-8418 to reserve a spot. Open Play Time Feb 11 | Sat | 10-11a Age 6 months-5 years w/parents Sharing in playtime with your young child helps promote learning and development. Each second Saturday the library provides a roomful of great toys for children ages 6 months to 5 years. We invite you to join in the fun! Call 390-8418 to register. Children Reading to Dogs Feb 11 | Sat | 3-4p Feb 15 | Wed | 4-5p Children who can read Come and read to a dog! (A dog and trainer certified as a therapy team by Therapy Dogs International.) Readers can come to practice and improve their reading skills. The dogs with their owners act as an uncritical, appreciative audience with excellent listening skills! Bring your own book or borrow one from us! Come by or call 390-8418 to reserve a space.

Choctaw Library 4th Annual Chocolate Fest Feb 16 | Thur | 6-7p Teens Join in on some fun and tasty activities in celebration of one of our favorite foodsChocolate! Test your speed, wit and agility while enjoying several types and forms of chocolate. You don’t want to miss this!

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AARP: Defensive Driver Safety Course Feb 18 | Sat | 9:30a-3:30p Age 16 and older Participants will update their skills for safer driving. A Certificate of Completion provides auto insurance discount lasting 3 years. AARP members: $12; all others $14 cash or check payable to AARP on the day of the course. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Cosponsor: AARP and Eastern Oklahoma Tech Center. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 20 | Mon | 6-7p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts. Ookami Anime Club Feb 25 | Sat | 2:30-4p Teens Share and discuss your favorite Anime and Manga (Japanese drawings and cartoons). Screen new Anime episodes each month! Snacks will be provided so come join the fun!

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*Anime may contain material that is considered unsuitable for ages 13 and younger. Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win Feb 27 | Mon | 6:30-7:30p Adults Internet criminals are out there, working to steal your stuff, or to use your computer behind your back to steal other people’s stuff. In his free workshop, computer security expert Dave Moore will expose the bad guy’s schemes, teaching you how to Fight the Internet Bad Guys and Win. Cosponsors: Friends of Libraries in Oklahoma and Oklahoma City Community Foundation. Lego Club Feb 29 | Wed | 4-5:30p All ages Build with the Lego Club at the Choctaw Library. Open to all ages. Legos provided. Join us or call for more information at 390-8418.

Del City Library 4509 S.E. 15th, Del City (405) 672-1377 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed

I- 4

S. Sooner Rd.

Lapsit Story Time Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue 9:30-10a Ages 6 months-3 years Join us for simple songs, rhymes, and stories for parents and babies to enjoy together. Call 3908418 or stop by the reference desk to sign up.

Child Guidance Screenings Feb 16 | Thur | 1-5p Parents of young children Child Guidance is offering developmental and speech/language screenings @ the libraries once again! A developmental screening is a very general look at how children are doing compared to other children the same age. At a screening appointment, your child’s developmental progress will be assessed. Any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings will include a small fee. Parents of young children can schedule your screening appointment, please call Child Guidance @ 405-425-4412. Cosponsor: OCCHD.

S. Sunnylane Rd.

German for Beginners Feb 6,13 | Mon 5:30-6:30p Ages 13 - adult Join us for “German in 10 Minutes a Day” with Hannalore Chan. Students will learn to speak conversational German and practice correct pronunciation of common German words and phrases. This is a 6 week course.

calendar of events

SE 15th

February 2012

Downtown Library Atrium every Thursday from 11:30 to 12:30pm February 2: February 9: February 16: February 23:

Shade of Blue, jazz trio Maurice Johnson Trio, smooth guitar Quartet Greer, classical plus Tony Gonzales’ Norman North HS Jazz Choir

All performances are free and open to the public.

Downtown Library

300 Park Ave. | OKC, OK | (405) 606-3833 Storytime Feb 3 | Fri | 10:30-11a Ages 3-6 Children benefit from storytimes by: an increased attention span, a larger vocabulary, and better listening skills just to name a few. But, most of all storytimes are fun! So please join us for stories, songs, action rhymes, and more. To sign up or for more information visit us at the Del City Library or call 672-1377. Baby Play Feb 4 | Sat | 10-11:15a 6 mos - 5 yrs You are your child’s first and most important teacher and they learn so much from you when you get down on their level and play with them. So we invite you to come share our toys and join us for an hour of play time followed by a short story time. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To sign up or for more information please call 672-1377 or visit us at the information desk. Spice It Up!: Salsa Dancing Feb 6,13 | Mon | 6:30-8p Adults 16+ Spice it up at Del City Library with Salsa Dancing! Designed for beginners, this series of classes will teach the basics of salsa dancing during the first two sessions on January 30th and February 6th and then you can show off your moves during the Salsa Social Dance on February 13th. Bring a dance partner or come alone, you’re sure to meet someone new. Please

call 672-1377 or visit the reference desk for more information or to sign up. Ayumu Anime Club Feb 7| Tue | 4:30-5:30p Teens Share and discuss your favorite Anime and Manga. Screen new anime episodes each month! Snacks will be provided so come join the fun! *Anime may contain material that may be unsuitable for ages 13 and younger. Call 672-1377 for more information or to sign up.

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Zumbatomic Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue | 5:45-6:30p Children age 6 and older Zumbatomic is an international dance/fitness workout designed to get kids moving and having fun. Not only will kids be having fun but they will also be developing better listening skills and coordination. Classes will be lead by a certified Zumbatomic Instructor and will last from 30-45 minutes. Kids should wear comfortable clothing, water will be provided. Space is limited. For more information or to sign up please call 672-1377 or visit us at the information desk. DIY Valentines (and Anti-Valentines Feb 9| Thur | 4:30-5:30p Teens For some, Valentine’s Day is a day for romance and love bathed in hearts and pink doilies. For others, anti-Valentines are the order of the day,

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and all cheesy romantic imagery is tossed aside in favor of heart stomping robots and deranged Cupids! Come celebrate Valentines your way with DIY Valentine’s Day (or Anti-Valentine’s Day) cards for that special (or not-so-special) person in your life. Call 672-1377 to sign up or for more information. Children Reading to Dogs Feb 9,23 | Thur | 6:30-7:30p Feb 25 | Sat | 9a-Noon Children at reading age If you really want to be good at something you’re suppose practice a lot. Bring your child to the library and let them practice their reading skills with a Certified Therapy Dog. Kids can read their favorite story or read one of the many great books we have on our shelves to a new friend, who is a great listener and loves stories. For more information call 672-1377 or visit us at the information desk. TAB Meet-Up Feb 14 | Tue | 4:30-5:30p Teens The Teen Advisory Board (TAB) gives teens the opportunity to participate, volunteer, and influence teen services at the Del City Library. We meet once a month to talk about the books, magazines, music, and library programs that YOU care about. Join us and make the Del City Library YOUR library! Call 672-1377 for more information.

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ESL Feb 4,11,18,25 | Sat | 2-4p Adults Join us at the Downtown Library for English as a Second Language classes, held every Saturday from 2p to 4p on the 4th Floor. Please register at 606.3879 as space is limited.

Downtown Library 300 Park Ave., OKC (405) 231-8650 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

Sat: 9-5 Sun: 1-6

➞ ➞

N. Harvey St.

➞ ➞

N. Hudson St.

The Belle of Amherst Feb 15 | Wed | 2p Age 15 - adult The famous and eccentric spinster Emily Dickinson, although plain and reclusive, had an intoxicating exuberance for life. In The Belle of Amherst playwright William Luce creates an entertaining and anecdotal accounting of Ms Dickinson’s life and art starring Ginger Grace as the passionate poet.

calendar of events

Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 16 | Thur 6:30-7:30p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

Movie Night Feb 22 | Wed | 5-8p All ages Please join us for a “Night at the Movies!” The curtain goes up at 6PM and all are welcome to attend! Please call (405) 672-1377 for movie titles.

Wednesday Night at the Movies Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 6-8p Age 13 and older Please join us for Downtown “Wednesday Night at the Movies!” Movies showing @ 6pm and all are welcome to attend! Please call (405) 606-3879 for movie titles.

The Busy Person’s Book Club Feb 23 | Thur | 6-7p All ages Do you like good books and good conversation, but don’t have a lot of time on your hands? Come to the Busy Person’s Book Club! Each month’s selection is under 200 pages long and is sure to grab your attention quick and hold it until the very last page. This month we are reading Shopgirl by Steve Martin. Call 6721377 or stop by the reference desk to reserve your copy of this month’s book selection.

Noon Tunes Feb 2,9,16,23 | Thur 11:30a-12:30p All ages Cosponsored by the Friends of the Metropolitan Library System. Performing in February are: Feb 2: Shades of Blue Feb 9: Maurice Johnson Feb 16: Quartet Greer Feb 23: Norman North HS Jazz Choir

Park Ave.

➞ ➞

Reno

C.O.T.P.A. Parking Garage

Traditional, Folk and Community Dance Feb 4 | Sat | 1-3p Age 15 and older The dance workshop instructor is Mrs. Marie Leslie who has a Diploma in Traditional Japanese Dance (Tozan Yume Yogiku, Tozan Style). Mrs. Leslie has conducted and demonstrated a number of dance workshops in Oklahoma City and St. Louis. Participants will get hands-on experience of traditional Japanese dance and music. Please call (405) 748-0485 for details. Cosponsored by Japan-American Society of Oklahoma.

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Write On! Writing Workshop Feb 5,12,19,26 | Sun 3-5p Ages 13-21 Oklahoma Young Writers presents Write On!, a workshop for writers ages 13-21, facilitated by nationally touring poets Rob Sturma and Lauren Zuniga. Students explore the path between imagination and memory, build a toolbox of literary devices, and learn new techniques for constructive peer critique. www. okyoungwriters.org

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2nd Sunday Concert Feb 12 | Sun | 2-3p All ages Please join us for a Very Special Valentine’s Concert with Wayne McEvilly. Concert will be followed by a reception of coffee, tea, chocolate and more plus a meet and greet with Mr. McEvilly! You won’t want to miss this free event! 2pm in the 46th Star Auditorium, doors open at 1:45p. Pajama Tales Feb 16 | Thur | 6:30-7p Age 2-7 with adult Join us for some sleepy-time tales! Come in your jammies and bring your favorite stuffed friend. Bookworms Book Club Feb 18 | Sat | 2-3p Ages 5-8 For students just learning to read on their own, this is a bookclub for them! This month’s book is “Frog and Toad All Year” by Arnold Lobel. Come for fun, reading and a quick craft project. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 19 | Sun | 2-3p Ages 8 - adult Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

The New Improved

Winter

he 2012 edition of Winter Readfest kicks off on February 1 and runs through the 29th (Leap Year means an extra day for reading). What’s different this time is that all adults aged 19 and over are eligible to enter and win prizes. It’s as simple as ever: read or listen to two books via standard book format or electronic media and fill out a drawing slip at your library. Put the slip in the drawing box, then start again. You can fill out a slip and enter the drawing for every two books you complete. At the end of the month libraries will draw for a variety of wonderful prizes. Prizes at your library could include Lyric Theatre tickets, Oklahoma City Barons tickets, iPads, History Center and Cowboy Hall memberships, dining cards to locally owned restaurants, VISA Gift Cards, and a lot more. The more books you read, the more chances you have to win. Questions? Just ask anyone at your neighborhood MLS library, and start reading. Now let’s see . . . “Chapter One” . . .

Readfest

Reading Program

Much Ado About Nothing Feb 25 | Sat | 1-4p Age 12 - adult The very first production independently produced by founder and artistic director, Tyler Woods’ Much Ado About Nothing was first performed in 2000 in Edmond, Oklahoma. Told with all of the love and care of the original production, Woods hopes to bring further innovation into this lively look at love and deceit set in 1860 Italy. You will love the Bard’s

Edmond Library

10 S. Boulevard, Edmond (405) 341-9282 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

Main St.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: 1-6

N. Boulevard

Music Play W/Miss Ginger Feb 24 | Fri | 10-10:45a Age 2-5 w/adult Enjoy songs, musical games and a story with Ginger Waldrip of Ginger’s Kindermusik. Instruments will be provided for those who have registered by calling 231-8650 ext. 4.

beloved battle of wits.” Audience members will find themselves full engaged and invested in this bright and vibrant story as they participate directly in the action: breaking down the 4th wall completely between actor and audience. Cosponsor: Reduxion Theatre, Oklahoma Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts.

S. Broadway

Child Guidance Screenings Feb 23 | Thur | 9a-Noon Birth to age 5 w/guardian A developmental screening is a very general look at how children are doing compared to other children the same age. At the screening, your child’s developmental progress will be assessed. Any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings will include a small fee. To schedule your screening appointment, please call Child Guidance, Oklahoma City-County Health Department at 425-4412.

E. 1st St. E. 2nd St.

in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. 55+ Coffee Club Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 9:30-11a Seniors Our coffee break is made just for you. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate will be served with light refreshments. Mingle and talk about your favorite books or activities. This is a come-andgo event. AARP Tax Aide Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 10a-2p Feb 2,9,16,23 | Thur | Noon-8p Adults and Seniors AARP volunteers will be providing free tax preparation and e-filing assistance for seniors, age 60 and over, and others with a low to moderate income of not more than $49,000.00. Assistance is provided on a first come, first serve basis. Please be sure to bring all relevant documents with you, e.g. all earning and dividend statements, copies of last year’s federal and state returns, and proof of bank account numbers for direct deposit. Volunteers will be available beginning Feb 1 through Apr 5 on Wednesdays 10a-2p and Thursdays 10a-8p. Cosponsor: AARP.

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february Intermediate ESL Feb 1,6,8,13,15,22,27,29 Mon & Wed | 1-4p Adults This class is for adults who would like to improve their spoken and written English and includes grammar, conversation, vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and pronunciation. Class is provided by Oklahoma City Community College. Free. Register with instructor the first day you attend. Cosponsor: OCCC. Beginning ESL Feb 1,6,8,13,15,22,27,29 Mon & Wed | 5:30-8:30p Adults Beginning English as a Second Language (ESL) teaches students how to improve their conversational and listening skills in English. Enroll with the instructor on the first day you attend class. Class and materials are free. Cosponsor: OCCC. GED Feb 2,7,9,14,16,21,23,28 Tue & Thur | 5:30-8:30p Adults Students are invited to attend free GED classes. Review English, social studies, science, essay writing and math skills in preparation for the GED test. Materials are provided. Classes are open to students 16 years and older who are not currently enrolled in high school. For students 16-17, a notarized consent waiver form is required. Register w/Instructor first day you attend class. Cosponsor: OCCC. Stamp Club Feb 4,18 | Sat | 10a-Noon 4th grade and up Are you looking for a new hobby? Join experienced stamp collectors who can guide you in this rewarding venture. To pre-register call 348-4607. Michael Fresonke presents: Joyful Music Guitar Concert Feb 4 | Sat | 2-3p Ages 8 - adults Edmond native Michael Fresonke will present a guitar concert featuring works for solo classical guitar. The music moods will range from fun to spiritual. A highlight of the concert will be Fresonke’s presentation of Little Suite in A Major, a work he recently composed and is recording. Advanced Farsi Feb 5,12,19,26 | Sun 1:30-2:30p Adults and teens For those who have some familiarity with

calendar of events

spoken and written Farsi. Supply charge is $30 per month, payable to the instructor. All written materials are provided by instructor. Beginning Farsi Feb 5,12,19,26 | Sun 2:30-3:30p Adults and teens For those who have no prior experience speaking or writing Farsi. Supply charge is $30 per month, payable to the instructor. All written materials are provided by the instructor. Preschool Storytime Feb 6,13,20,27 | Mon 10-10:30a Ages 3-5 For all children ages 3-5, join us for story time. There will be songs, fingerplays, puppets, hidden mysteries, occasional crafts and special stories. Early reading literacy skills will be emphasized. Come and join the fun. Lapsit: Playtime and Story Time Feb 7,14,21 | Tue 9:30-10a and 10:15-10:45a and 11-11:30a Ages Birth - 2 years Enjoy a special time with your child at the library. We will have a playtime with the toys in the story time room. This is followed by a circle time that emphasizes group participation, movement, early literacy skills, books and language development. Chess Club For Teens Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue 6-7p Teens Free Chess Club for Teens meets Tuesday nights 6:00 to 7:00. All skill levels are welcome. Students can play others who are learning or have prior skills in the game. Local mom and coach provides materials and instructions.

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Children Reading to Dogs Feb 7,21 | Tue 6:30-7:30p Kindergarten to 6th grade Read to a specially trained dog who loves to hear a good book! Dogs with their owners will be in the library to be read to by children. The dogs enjoy hearing one of the dog stories we have, but you can bring your own book. It is valuable in building self confidence and self-esteem for those needing an uncritical, appreciative listening audience to improve reading skills. All dogs and owners are trained and certified as dog therapy teams, and most through Therapy Dogs International.

20 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

Edmond Manga & Anime Club Feb 9 | Thur | 4-5:30p Teens Local Teens meet to draw, write, watch and discuss manga and anime. This is a free club that meets the 2nd Thursday of the month. Manga and Anime is rated TEEN and may not be appropriate for young teens and children.

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Music With Susan Feb 10,24 | Fri | 10-10:30a Ages 2-3 Join with Susan in musical activities designed especially for this age group. Classes are held on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month. Registration for the 2nd Friday always begins on the 1st day of the month. Registration for the 4th Friday always begins on the 15th day of the month. Pre-register by calling 341-9282, ext. 4. AARP Driver’s Safety Program Feb 11 | Sat | 9:30a-3p Adults Attention ALL drivers! If you want to learn how to be a better driver AND save money, attend the AARP Drivers Safety Program and become eligible for a discount on your monthly auto insurance premium. The State of Oklahoma authorizes a discount lasting 3 years for any licensed drive aged 16 and up who successfully completes a defensive driver’s course. Space is limited. Pre-register at the Information Desk or by calling 341-9282. Cost is $12 for AARP members or $14 for non-members, in cash or check payable to AARP, for course materials. Cosponsor: AARP . Readers’ Choice Book Club Feb 11 | Sat | 10:30a-Noon Adults The Reader’s Choice Book Club meets the second Saturday of every month at the Edmond Library. The group consists of people who enjoy reading outstanding books and discussing them. In February, the book club will discuss Sandra Brown’s Rainwater. A historical novel, Rainwater follows an independent woman who runs a boarding house in Texas. Contact the library to reserve a copy. Edmond Library Book Bunch Feb 11 | Sat | 2-3:30p Seniors Edmond’s Book Bunch meets monthly to discuss important and memorable fiction. NBC News correspondent Mike Leonard is the author of the February selection, The Ride of Our Lives. Leonard and three generations of his family set out on a cross-country tour, from the

Join

Rhythmically Speaking

for a sit-down event celebrating Clara Luper, Mother of the Civil Rights Movement.

Tuesday, February 7 – 1pm Capitol Hill Library

Wednesday, February 15 – 6:30pm The Village Library

Monday, February 20 – 6pm Choctaw Library

Thursday, February 9 – 6:30pm Midwest City Library

Thursday, February 16 – 6:30pm Del City Library

Thursday, February 23 – 7pm Edmond Library

Saturday, February 11 – 2:30pm Warr Acres Library

Saturday, February 18 – 2pm Bethany Library

Tuesday, February 28 – 7pm Ralph Ellison Library

Sunday, February 12 – 2pm Belle Isle Library

Sunday, February 19 – 2pm Downtown Library February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 21

february

HOURS Mon-Thur: 9:30-6 Fri: 9-5

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed

N.E. 23rd St.

e. Av

Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 23 | Thur | 7-8p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the

HOURS Tue & Thur: 9:30-5:30 Sat: 1-5 Mon Wed Fri & Sun: Closed

. St

N. State St. W. Main St.

Toileting Triumph Feb 22 | Wed | 3:30-5p Parents of young children With the development of new language skills, motor skills, attitude and activity level come many challenges. Toileting doesn’t have to be one of those challenges. Come discuss ways to make this exciting milestone more fun and rewarding for the whole family. Call 425-4412 to register. Cosponsor: OCCHD.

111 E. Main St., Jones (405) 399-5471

1930 N. Church Ave., Harrah (405) 454-2001

The Belle of Amherst Feb 15 | Wed | 7p Ages 15 - adults The famous and eccentric spinster Emily Dickinson, although plain and reclusive, had an intoxicating exuberance for life. In The Belle of Amherst playwright William Luce creates an entertaining and anecdotal accounting of Ms Dickinson’s life and art starring Ginger Grace as the passionate poet.

Harrah Library

Developmental Screenings Feb 15 | Wed | 1-5p Parents and child Child Guidance is offering developmental and speech/language screenings @ the libraries once again! A developmental screening is a general look at how children are doing compared to other children the same age. At a screening appt your child’s developmental progress will be assessed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings will include a small fee. To schedule your screening appointment call Child Guidance @ 425-4412. Facilitated by Robyn Sears and Louise Washburn. Cosponsor: OCCHD.

Lapsit: Playtime and Toddler Aerobics Feb 28 | Tue | 9:30-10a 10:15-10:45a and 11-11:30a Ages Birth - 2 years Enjoy a special time with your child at the library. We will have a playtime with the toys in the story time room, followed by a short session of aerobics, emphasizing movement to music.

Jones Library

E. Main St.

Luther Library 2012 Winter Readfest Feb 1-29 Age 19 and older Join the 2012 Winter Readfest and read for fun and prizes! Receive one drawing entry slip for every two books read during the month of February. Drawings will be held the first week in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. Children Reading to Dogs Feb 11 | Sat | 9a-Noon Kindergarten to 6th grade Come practice your reading skills by reading to therapy dogs, Duke and Chewbacca. Call Harrah Library at 454-2001 for information.

22 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

310 N.E. 3rd, Luther (405) 277-9967

HOURS Mon - Thur: 9:30-6 Sun: Closed

Hwy. 66

N. Ash St.

Yu-Gi-Oh Tournament Feb 11 | Sat | 3-4:30 All school-aged children Come get your Yu-Gi-Oh game on at the Edmond Library. This tournament is for those who already know how to play the game.

Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

N. Hiwassee Rd.

desert Southwest to the New England coastline. On this ultimate family reunion, the Leonards reminisce about their rich and heartwarming lives. Contact the library to reserve a copy.

calendar of events

Fri & Sat: 9-5

N. E. 3rd St.

. St N

2012

Februa ry 1st Februa ry 29th

Readers AgeS 19+ Sign Up! Read Books for Fun & Prizes Call 606-3835 for more info.

w w w.metrolibrar February y.org 2012 n info

METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine

n 23

february Midwest City Library 8143 E. Reno, Midwest City (405) 732-4828 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

N. Douglas St.

N. Midwest Blvd.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: 1-6

E. Reno

calendar of events

limited. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City/County Health Department.

Tuesday. Class is free and all supplies provided by the library. No registration required.

Urban Lit Book Discussion Group Feb 2 | Thur | 4-5p Teens and adults Choose urban/street lit books that inspire you or peak your interest to the Midwest City Library Urban Lit Discussion Group. We will discuss each book with each other. For more information please call 405-732-4828 or visit the Information Desk.

Pajama Story Night Feb 7 | Tue | 6:30-7p Children of all ages Bedtime stories for children of all ages. Put on your pajamas and grab your favorite stuffed friend. We will enjoy stories, songs, poems, rhymes and the occasional craft. All children should be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. Call 732-4828 or visit the Information Desk to sign up.

The Mad Scientist Lab Feb 4 | Sat | 3:30-4:15p Feb 6,13 | Mon | 4:30-5:15p Ages 6-12 Astronomy, zoology, geography, chemistry, oh my! Calling all young scientists! Discover more about the world around you through fun activities and experiments. Each month we will explore a different branch of science. Registration is recommended so we will have enough supplies for each child. Call 732-4828 or visit the Information Desk to sign-up.

Early Season Vegetables Feb 9 | Thur | 1:30-3p Adults It is that time of the year to consider planting early season vegetables. If you want your garden to include: potatoes, onions and other cold season crops please attend our Early Season Seminar taught by Ray Ridlen from the OSU/ OKC. This class is free and available to all; no registration required. For further information please call 732-4828. Cosponsor: OSU/OKC.

Crowns Tea at the Midwest City Library Rhythmically Speaking presents: Feb 5 | Sun | 2-4p Sitting In with Clara Adults Feb 9 | Thur To celebrate the rich tradition of church hats 6:30-7:30p Art Quilts Exhibit by Lola Jenkins in the African American community, the Ages 8 - adults Feb 1-29 | During Library Hours Midwest City Library will host our first annual Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP All ages Crowns Tea. Attendees will partake in music, and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store To celebrate Black History Month, the work drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Space is limited, on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This of African-American fiber artist Lola Jenkins all attendees must wear a hat (church hat is was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma will be on display at the Midwest City Library preferred) and registration is required. For more City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Gallery throughout the month of February. information, please contact the Information Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin This award-winning art quilts of contemporary Desk or call 405-732-4828. Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m portrait collages exhibit is free and open to the gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for public. Preschool Storytime this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Feb 6,13,20 | Mon Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Exhibit: Revisiting the Civil Rights 10-10:30a Council and National Endowment for the Arts. Struggle in Oklahoma Ages 2-5 w/parent Feb 1-29 | During Library Hours Join us for story time! There will be songs, Children Reading to Dogs All ages fingerplays, rhymes, and special stories. Come Feb 14,28 | Tue | 7-7:30p The Midwest City Library will mark African and join the fun! Older and younger siblings are Parents of young children American Heritage Month with a display welcome. All children should be accompanied Read to a specially trained dog who loves to hear highlighting some of the Civil Rights activities by an adult. Space is limited, so be sure to a good book! The dogs particularly enjoy hearing that took place in Oklahoma in the 1950’s and reserve a spot by calling 732-4828 or visiting the one of the dog stories we will have, but you can 1960’s. The roles played by both blacks and Information Desk. bring your own book too. It is valuable in buildwhites will be explored, as well as how those ing self confidence and self-esteem for those events continue to influence race relations in the Whose Line needing an uncritical, appreciative, listening State. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Feb 6 | Mon | 5:30-7p audience to improve reading skills. All dogs and Ages 14-17 owners are trained and certified as dog therapy Total Wellness Get your IMPROV ON!! every Monday. No teams. Registration is recommended so we will Feb 1,8 | Wed | 9:30-10:30a registration required. have enough dogs for each child. Call 732-4828 Adults or visit the Information Desk to sign up. Help prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, Knit Wit heart disease, some cancers, and asthma. Learn Feb 7 | Tue | 10a-Noon Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention Course simple ways to a healthier lifestyle. Free classes Adults Feb 18 | Sat | 9a-4p meet one hour a week for 12 weeks. The goal of Learn to knit or crochet OR, strengthen your Adults the class is for everyone to lose 5% of their body craft. Crochet class meets every first Tuesday All licensed drivers are invited to participate weight and become more active. Call 405-425of the month; knitting class meets every third in a certified AAA instructed class. A material 4352 to register for the classes. Class size is

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24 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

Nicoma Park Library 2240 Overholser, Nicoma Park (405) 769-9452

Watercolor Class Feb 25 | Sat | 10a-Noon Adults Adults, get in touch with your artistic side in this free watercolor class with all supplies furnished. Watercolor Artist Jim Pourtorkan will teach how to apply color and create a beautiful watercolor painting using some basic techniques. Attendees will complete a painting suitable for framing and/or gift giving during this sessions. This program is free. To attend, please register at the Information Desk or call 405-732-4828. Toddler Aerobics Feb 27 | Mon | 10-10:30a Ages 2-5 w/parent Preschoolers may join in the aerobics class that features lessons & exercises designed to develop fine & gross motor skills. Parents/caregivers will participate with their child. Registration is required and begins one week before the scheduled program. Call 732-4828 or visit the Information Desk to sign up.

N. Anderson Rd.

Ove

Ralph Ellison Library 2000 N.E. 23rd, OKC (405) 424-1437 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-8 Fri: 9-6

NE 23rd St.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed

N. Bryant St.

Family Craft Night Feb 21 | Tue 6:30-7:30p All ages Come to the library for a fun evening of craft activities. We will have several craft stations set up with activities for all ages and skill levels. Please sign-up in advance so we will have enough supplies for everyone. Register at the Information Desk or by calling 732-4828.

M & Sun: Closed

Martin Luther King Blvd.

Midwest City Legislative Meet and Greet Feb 21 | Tue | 10-11:30a All ages The Midwest City Library, in partnership with the Midwest Chamber of Commerce and, the Mid-Del Public Schools, would like to invite you to attend a meet-and-greet event. Midwest City residents can speak with local and state officials regarding various topics and issues. No registration is required. For more information please call 405-732-4828.

N. Westminster Rd.

Readers’ Society Book Club HOURS Feb 21 | Tue | 10-11:30a Tue-Thur: 9:30-5:30 Adults Fri & Sat: 9-5 If you enjoy reading and discussing books, come to the Midwest City Library the third N.E. 23rd St. Tuesday of each month for our book club. New members are always welcome. Pick up your copy of our current book at the Information Desk, or call 732-4828.

rh o l s e r

fee of $30.00 applies; AAA members will receive a discount. Please call 1-800-222-2582 to register.

Black History Month Trivia Feb 1-29 | Library Hours All ages Stop in during the entire month of February and answer Black History Month trivia questions. If you answer all the questions correctly, you could win a special prize! History of Black Music Display Feb 1-29 | Library Hours All ages Have you ever checked out what’s on display in Ralph Ellison’s lobby? This month we are featuring a display on the rich and varied history of black music in America. Just imagine where we would be without great American artists like Scott Joplin, Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, and many others who continue to influence and move us today? So, be sure to drop by and discover the artistry and history of work songs, ragtime, gospel, rhythm & blues, jazz, hip hop,and more. Black History Month Lecture Series Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 6:30-7:30p Age 16 and older Scholars will discuss current issues important to the black community. Audience members are encouraged to listen and discuss. Cosponsor: UCO, OU and Oklahoma Policy Institute. Genealogy 101 Feb 2 | Thur | 6:30-8p Age 16 and older Ready to learn how to use library resources to research your heritage? Then let Laura Martin from the Oklahoma Historical Society show you how! Laura will lead participants through the basics and teach some expert tricks! Co-Sponsor: Oklahoma Historical Society Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Feb 11,18,25 | Sat | 9a-4p Adults Volunteers from the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program will be available to assist people in preparing their 2011 State and Federal Income Tax Returns. Cosponsor: OKC Community Action Agency and The Association for the Improvement of Minorities in the Internal Revenue Service. Total Wellness Feb 4,11,18 | Sat | 9:30-10:30a Adults Help prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, some cancers, and asthma. Learn ways to lead a healthier lifestyle. Free classes meet one hour a week for 12 weeks. The goal of the class is for everyone to lose 5% of their body weight and become more active. Call (405) 425-4352 or email Total_Wellness@occhd.org, to register for the classes. Classes are limited

February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 25

february to 20 participants. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City-County Health Department. First Monday Gamefest Feb 6 | Mon | 4-5:30p Tweens and teens Gamfests rock! So, Ralph Ellison Library has decided to make them happen every month. Join the First Monday Gamefest and get ready to jam out to Guitarhero, dance the night away on our XBOX Kinect, make some sweet touchdowns on Madden 11, and race some cars on Mario Kart! No sign up required.

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Preschool Storytime Feb 7 | Tue | 10-10:30a Age 2-5 Come join the children’s librarian for some family fun with fingerplays, music, movement, books, & more! Younger and older siblings are also welcome. Because space is limited, you may want to reserve a spot by calling 606-3457 or by visiting the information desk. Stomp Performance and Workshop Feb 7 | Tue | 6-7:30p Tweens and teens Do you have rhythm? Stomp or stepping has its roots in African foot dances as well as military exhibition drills. It is a mixture of intricate foot and hand movements that combine into a rhythmic dance. Join Edmond Santa Fe’s stomp team as they perform and then stay for a workshop where you, too, can learn the basics of this popular and fun form of dancing. Cosponsor: Edmond Santa Fe.

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Block Party! Feb 9 | Thur | 5:30-7p All ages Calling all builders, architects, artists, and designers! Join kids of all ages for a fun block building party using architectural blocks, baby blocks, Legos, Lincoln Logs, Mega Bloks, and more. Did you know they enhance kids’ visual-spatial, fine motor, problem-solving, math, language, and social skills? Books about building and construction will be available for creative inspiration and to check out and enjoy at home. Girl’s Night Feb 14 | Tue | 5-6:30p All ages Girls’ Night is just around the corner! Open for girls of ALL AGES, it will be a night of bonding over hair braiding, nail painting, and henna art! Invite your sister, mom, grandma, and cousin for this spectacular event for girls only! Sign up is required. Call 424-1437.

calendar of events

Young Inventors Feb 16 | Thur | 6-7:30p Age 6 and older As part of Black History Month, we are celebrating the invaluable contributions of black inventors throughout American history. In this program, you can show your creative skills by constructing your own unique invention out of a variety of fun materials provided by the library. There’s no limit to your imagination! While you’re here check out some fantastic books about the lives of black inventors whose ideas and products we use every day. Who knows, you may be the next George Washington Carver or Madam C. J. Walker! Read, Share, Grow Book Club Feb 20 | Mon | 6:30-7:30p Adults Love to read and talk about stimulating (and sometimes provocative) books? Then the Ralph Ellison Library’s Read, Share, Grow Book Club may be a perfect fit for you! The book for February is Brainwashed by Tom Burrell. Call 424-1437 or visit the library to reserve your copy of the book. Cosponsor: Junior League of OKC. Mother Goose on the Loose Feb 23 | Thur | 6-6:30p Ages 0-6 Hey, Diddle Diddle, Jack and Jill! You’re invited to a play-based early literacy program filled with big time rhythm and rhyme. Developed by Betsy Diamant-Cohen and Barbara CassBeggs, Mother Goose on the Loose® (www. mgol.org) is an award-winning, research-based program for young children. Mother Goose on the Loose brings language and literacy to life by incorporating books, puppets, flannel pieces, musical instruments, movement, and more. We hope to see you there! (Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, Ralph Ellison Library welcomes you!) Scholarship Paths Feb 23 | Thur | 6:30-8p All ages Let instructor Francesca L. James, MBA, get you started in the right direction with Ralph Ellison Library’s Scholarship Paths. Learn tips for the scholarship search, completing applications, creating activity resumes, writing essays, and preparing for interviews. City Arts Center presents: Your Life in History Feb 25 | Sat | 9:30a-12:30p Adults Everyone has a story to tell. That’s why the contemporary memoir has become such a popular phenomenon. In this workshop, you will learn how to focus your life stories, give

26 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n February 2012

them purpose and apply such craft elements as character, plot, dialogue and setting, especially pertaining to Oklahoma history. Whether you attend one or all twelve sessions, this workshop will show you how to best tell the stories of your life. Pre-registration required. Class limit is 12. Cosponsor: City Arts Center The African American Community Diabetes Prevention Partners Feb 27 | Mon | 11:30a-12:30p Adults The African American Community Diabetes Prevention Partners are comprised of representatives from community agencies, businesses, government institutions, faith-based communities, as well as vested concerned citizens. By advocating for positive health outcomes within the African American Family and by increasing public awareness of Community Sources/ Resources, the Partners continue to effectively participate in multiple community sponsored events. Partners invite you to join the regularly scheduled monthly meeting on the last Monday of each month. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City/ County Health Department. Shinigami Anime Club Feb 28 | Tue | 5-6p Tweens and teens If you love to read manga, watch anime, and enjoy gaming, then the Ralph Ellison Anime Club is just for you! It meets from 5-6p on the 4th Tuesday of every month and is open for tweens and teens.

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Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 28 | Tue | 7-8p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®.. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drivein, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

child. A different community resource professional will be available each week to answer your parenting questions. This free series is intended for infants through age four with their parents. Pre-register by calling the library at 631-4468 or visiting the reference desk.

6900 S. Walker, OKC (405) 631-4468 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

S. Santa Fe Ave.

S. Walker Ave.

SW 68th St.

Sat: 9-5 Sun: 1-6

I-240

The Southern Oaks Library is now located at 2914 S.W. 59th Street while the S. Walker library is being remodeled. The remodel will last approximately one year.

2012 Winter Readfest Feb 1-29 Age 19 and older Join the 2012 Winter Readfest and read for fun and prizes! Receive one drawing entry slip for every two books read during the month of February. Drawings will be held the first week in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. Friday: Films, Family & Fun Feb 3,10,17,24 | Fri | 9a-6p All ages Looking for fun on a Friday night? Come to the library every Friday to check out our movie collection. Free popcorn & candy for every five items checked out. Fun for the entire family & it’s free! Limit one gift per family. Preschool Storytime Feb 6,13,20,27 | Mon 10:30-11:10a Ages 2-6 w/adult/caregiver Introduce young children to books and reading at our fun storytimes! Children will have fun with books, songs, and activities as they build their early literacy skills. All children should be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required. Sign up by calling 631-4468 or by visiting the Info. Desk Family Place: 1-2-3 Play with Me Feb 8,15,22,29 | Wed 10-11a Infants to age 4 w/adult Playing with your baby or child is not only important for bonding but is also an educational experience for your child. Come to the library and spend one-on-one time playing with your

Celebrate Black History Month Feb 13 | Mon | 6:30-7:30p All ages Celebrate Black History month and join our read-in by sharing a book authored by an African American writer. Books, reading lists and educational materials provided. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited please call the Southern Oaks Library at 6314468 to register or stop by the reference desk

fun and prizes! Receive one drawing entry slip for every two books read during the month of February. Drawings will be held the first week in March. Cosponsors: Friends of the Library and Library Endowment Trust. AARP Tax Aide Feb 1,8,15,22,29 | Wed | 10a-3p Feb 7,14,21,28 | Tue | 10a-3p Feb 11,18,25 | Sat | 10a-3p Adults AARP volunteers come to our branch to help people get their taxes done during the tax season. They’ll be at the Village every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. AARP members will help individuals on a first-come, first-served basis. Feb 1 - Apr 14 (no taxes done on Sat., Feb 4) Cosponsor: AARP

Southern Oaks Book Club Feb 14 | Tue | 11:30a-12:30p Total Wellness Adults Feb 1,8,22 | Wed | 4:30-5:30p If you enjoy reading and discussing books Adults come to the Southern Oaks book club the Help prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, second Tuesday of each month. Call 631-4468 heart disease, some cancers and asthma. Learn to reserve your copy of the book selection or simple ways to a healthier lifestyle. Free classes stop by the reference desk. *Book discussion at meet one hour a week for 12 weeks. Each Trinity Lutheran Church, 5701 South May Ave. Wednesday there are 2 classes offered one at 4:30pm and one at 6:30pm. Enroll for the time Book Adventure: Kids’ Book Club that’s best for you! The goal is for everyone Feb 21 | Tue | 6:30-7p to lose 5% of their body weight and become Ages 6-9 more active. Call (405)425-4352 or email Join us for a Book Adventure! Meet with kids Total_Wellness@occhd.org to register for the your age to discuss a great book. We will have classes. Each class is limited to 20 participants. a snack, make a craft, and play a game. Call the Cosponsor: OCCHD. information desk to find out the book for this month. Some copies of the book are available at Children Reading to Dogs the Information Desk. You must read the book Feb 1,8,15,22 | Wed | 6-7p before attending the program. Sign up at the Feb 2,9,16,23 | Thur Information Desk or by calling 631-4468. 3:30-4:30p Age 6 and older Come and read to a dog! Readers can come to The Village Library practice and improve their reading skills. The 10307 N. Pennsylvania Ave., The Village dogs with their owners act as an uncritical, (405) 755-0710 appreciative audience with excellent listening skills! The dogs and their owners are certified HOURS therapy teams. Bring your own book or borrow Mon-Thur: 9-9 Sat: 9-5 one from us! Fri: 9-6 Sun: Closed N. Hefner Rd. Vineyard Blvd.

N. Britton Rd.

N. Pennsylvania Ave.

Southern Oaks Library

2012 Winter Readfest Feb 1-29 Age 19 and older Join the 2012 Winter Readfest and read for

Family Place: 1-2-3 Play with Me Feb 2,9,16,23 | Thur 10-11a Infants to age 4 w/adult Playing with your baby or child is not only important for bonding but is also an educational experience for your child. We are providing a special time for four weeks for you to come to the library and spend one-on-one time playing with your child. A different community resource professional will be available each week to answer your parenting questions. This free series is intended for infants through age four with their parents or guardians. Pre-register by calling the library or visiting the reference desk.

February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 27

february

Literacy Referral Service Feb 4,11,18,25 | Sat | 10a-Noon All ages Do you know someone who wants to improve their reading skills? Do you want to improve your reading skill? Literacy referrals are available at the Village Library every Saturday from 10 am to Noon. Can’t make this location or time? Call 405-830-2790. Do you want to volunteer to tutor an adult or child? Go to www.okcliteracycoalition.org or www. supportmls.org. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Oklahoma City Metro Literacy Coalition. Introduction to Microsoft Excel Feb 6,13,20,27 | Mon 6-8:30p Adults Free individualized instruction in Microsoft Excel. Learn to create workbooks and spreadsheets, use formulas and functions, format data, create charts, and more. Evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Scheduled in 30 minute to one hour sessions per individual. Come in or call to make an appointment for your instruction time. Village Library (405) 755-0710. V-SIFT: Anime Feb 9 | Thur | 4-5p Teens VSIFT (Village Something Interesting For Teens) meets every second Thursday of the month and features a new activity each month. This month we’ll be watching Anime videos. You’re welcome to bring drawings with you or create new ones. Snacks will be provided, please pre-register by calling 755-0710 or stopping by the Reference Desk. Some material may not be appropriate for those under 13.

TeenS

Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 15 | Wed 6:30-7:30p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drive-in, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts. The Belle of Amherst Feb 16 | Thur | 1p Ages 15 - adults The famous and eccentric spinster Emily Dickinson, although plain and reclusive, had an intoxicating exuberance for life. In The Belle of Amherst playwright William Luce creates an entertaining and anecdotal accounting of Ms Dickinson’s life and art starring Ginger Grace as the passionate poet. Introduction to Word 2007 Feb 16 | Thur | 6:30-8p Adults Learn how to access the Internet from the Library computers. Take a look at the home pages of internet servers such as AOL, MSN, Cox and others. Learn to use Search engines such as Google and Yahoo. Learn how to access the Metrolibrary Home Page from home, school or work to use Library Services via the Internet. Come in or call to sign-up. Village Library (405) 755-0710. Book Discussion Group Feb 20 | Mon | 3-4p All ages We always have a lot to say at the Village book discussion group. Join us each 3rd Monday at 3pm to discuss our latest pick. This month’s title can be picked up at the information desk. Child Development Screening Feb 23 | Thur | 1-5p Birth - 5 yrs w/parent Child Guidance is offering developmental and speech/language screenings @ the libraries once again! A developmental screening is a very general look at how children are doing compared to other children the same age. At a screening appointment, your child’s

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developmental progress will be assessed. Any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings will include a small fee. To schedule your screening appointment, please call OCCHD, Child Guidance @ 405-425-4412. Do Fence Me In: Setting Limits with Love Feb 23 | Thur | 6-7:30p Parent/caregivers of young children Join other parents and caregivers as we explore typical language development of 2 and 3 year old children. This workshop will focus on ideas and activities to stimulate your child’s language and learning skills. Facilitated by Tracy Goebel and Cheryl Custer. Please call 425-4412 to preregister. Cosponsor: Oklahoma City County Health Department . Knitty Committee Feb 25 | Sat | 10a-Noon All ages Interested in knitting or learning how to knit? Join the Knitty Committee on the 4th Saturday at 10am. Bring your yarn and join the fun! The recommended yarn for beginners is “variegated worsted weight” and size 7 or 8 needle.

Warr Acres Library 5901 N.W. 63rd, Warr Acres (405) 721-2616 HOURS Mon-Thur: 9-9 Fri: 9-6

Sat: 9-5 Sun: Closed N. MacArthur Blvd.

Trip Around the World Feb 4 | Sat | 10-11:30a Grades 3-6 Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to travel the globe right in your very own local library. This innovative and hands-on experience for children in grades three through six is sponsored by the Junior League of Oklahoma City. Kids will have a great time learning about the different cultures in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The program is free, but space is limited so pre-register at the Information Desk or call the library. Cosponsor: Junior League of OKC.

LEGO Club @ Your Library Feb 10 | Fri | 1-3p For children and their parents Come have fun building with Legos!

N. Rockwell Ave.

Village Chess Club Feb 3,10,17,24 | Fri | 4-5:30p All ages Chess club meetings consist of playing chess, and all materials are provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome; no sign-up is required.

calendar of events

N.W. 63rd St.

Child Guidance Screening Feb 9 | Thur | 9-Noon Birth-5 yrs w/parent Child Guidance is offering a developmental screening, a general look at how children are doing compared to other children the same age. At a screening appointment, your child’s developmental progress will be assessed. Any questions you may have about your child’s development or behavior will be discussed. Information about upcoming stages and home activities will be given. Screenings include a small fee based upon a sliding scale and ability to pay. Medicaid is accepted. No one is denied services for inability to pay. To schedule your screening appointment, call Child Guidance @ 425-4412. Children Reading to Dogs Feb 9 | Thur | 6:30-7:30p Age 6 and older Children will practice their reading skills while having fun with lovable dogs and their owners. All dogs and owners are trained and certified as dog therapy teams by a national canine therapy organization. Please preregister. Rhythmically Speaking presents: Sitting In with Clara Feb 11 | Sat 2:30-3:30p Ages 8 - adults Members of the Youth Council of the NAACP and Clara Luper sat down at Katz

Story Time for Twos and Threes Feb 14,28 | Tue | 10-10:30a Ages 2 1/2-3 Two and three year olds will enjoy story time with Miss Alma and her puppets followed by fun crafts to take home. Older and younger siblings are welcome. Please preregister. Story Time for Fours and Fives Feb 14,28 | Tue 10:45-11:15a Ages 4 & 5 w/adult Four and five year olds will enjoy story time with Miss Alma and her puppets followed by fun crafts to take home. Older and younger siblings are welcome. Please preregister. Pajama Story Time Feb 16 | Tue | 6:30-7:30p Ages 2 1/2 - 5 Yrs Bring your preschooler and enjoy stories with Miss Alma and her puppets. Snacks and fun activities will be provided for everyone. If you come early, we will play games together. Please call to preregister and let us know of your child’s eating limitations.

Star Wars Quest Feb 23 | Thur | 6:30-8p Ages 12-17 Enjoy an epic night of entertaining activities and intergalactic treats. Come in costume if you wish, & “May The Force be with you! ”

TeenS

All In Order with Charlotte Hayes Feb 25 | Sat | 10a-Noon Adults Join Charlotte Hayes, retired professional organizer, author and teacher as she helps you laugh and learn the 7 steps to successful organization. Find out about the different techniques based on your needs and start bringing All into Order.

Wright Library 2101 Exchange, OKC (405) 235-5035 HOURS Tue-Thur: 10-5:30 Fri & Sat: 10-3

Mon & Sun: Closed

S. Penn Ave.

Play Time for Babies and Tots Feb 8,15,22,29 | Wed 9:15-10a and 10:30-11:15a Ages 8-30 months Play promotes healthy development and learning, so bring your youngster to our library for 45 minutes of toys, lap games with Miss Alma and her puppets. (Siblings are welcome) Pre-register at 721-2616.

Warr Acres Book Club Feb 13 | Mon | 11a-Noon Adults We will discuss The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree by Susan Wittig Albert. The Warr Acres Book Club meets the second Monday of each month. Call 721-2616 for more information about the book being discussed.

and learning skills. Oklahoma City-County Health Department. Preregister: 425-4412.

S. Rockwood Ave.

AARP Tax Aide Feb 3,10,17,24 | Fri | 9a-2:30p Feb 6,13,20,27 | Mon | 9a-2:30p Adults AARP will offer tax assistance to people who need help in preparing their 2011 taxes. Help is on a first-come, first-served basis. Simple forms only. Electronic filing only

Drug Store on August 19, 1958 and ordered a Coke®. This was one of many sit-in protests in Oklahoma City which resulted in the Integration of Katz Drug Store, Split-T Drivein, the Skirvin Hotel and hundreds of other businesses. “I’m gonna sit in with Clara ‘cause I can’t stand for this anymore”. Cosponsors: Friends of the Metropolitan Library System, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.

S. Agnew Ave.

ESL Feb 1,6,8,13,15,20,22,27,29 Mon & Wed | 5:30-8p Adults Improve your English in this free class for people who are new to the English language. For questions and to register, call Oklahoma City Community College Adult Learning Center at 686-6222. Cosponsor: OCCC.

Exchange Ave. S.W. 15th St.

LEGO Club @ Your Library Feb 18 | Sat | 10:30-11:30a Ages 6-11 Young LEGO builders are invited to build with us. LEGO bricks are provided. Bring your team spirit. Sign up at the Information Desk. Your Two and Three-Year-Old Child Feb 21 | Tue | 6-7:30p Adults Join other parents and caregivers as we explore typical language development of 2 and 3 year old children. This workshop will focus on ideas and activities to stimulate your child’s language February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 29

february Metropolitan Library System

calendar of events

Your Inviting, Innovative Link to the World !

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it all. Visit your nearest Metropolitan Library and discover Your Inviting, Innovative Link to the World!

www.metrolibrary.org

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february

Visit us at www.metrolibrary.org.

2 0 1 2 c a l e n d ar

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

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19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Friends of the 26 27 2 8 Friends of the Library Booksale 9a - 5:30p Oklahoma State Fairgrounds

Library Booksale 9a - 5:30p Oklahoma State Fairgrounds

Off the Beaten Path

. . . Discovering New Literary Treasures

Getting tired of a constant diet of best sellers and book club hype? Want to take a look at what librarians enjoy? Here are two favorite books as selected by MLS staff. Kasher, Steven. The Civil Rights Movement: A Photographic History, 1954-68. Foreword by Myrlie Evers-Williams. 323.1 / K19c

Williams, Horace Randall and Ben Beard. This Day in Civil Rights History. 323.1196 / W7264d

These stark black and white images were part of a traveling exhibition drawn from the work of over 50 photographers. The text by Kasher explains the meaning behind the pictures, as well as recounts the overall history of the movement. This is a fine introduction to the subject that reprints all the iconic images burned into the memories of those of us who lived through the era.

This is a far more detailed overview that spotlights individual people and activities on a day-to-day basis. Not every event can be found hereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not even all of the significant onesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but this gives a clear picture of the movement as it actually moved along.

February 2012 n info METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM magazine n 31

We’re here to serve you. MLS LIBRARIES M T

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BELLE ISLE 5501 N. Villa, OKC, 843-9601

9-9

9-6

9-5

1-6

BETHANY 3510 N. Mueller, Bethany, 789-8363

9-9

9-6

9-5

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CAPITOL HILL 334 S.W. 26th, OKC, 634-6308

9-8

9-6

9-5

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CHOCTAW 2525 Muzzy Street, Choctaw, 390-8418

9-8

9-6

9-5

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DEL CITY 4509 S.E. 15th, Del City, 672-1377

9-9

9-6

9-5

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DOWNTOWN 300 Park Ave., OKC, 231-8650

9-9

9-6

9-5

1-6

EDMOND 10 S. Boulevard, Edmond, 341-9282

9-9

9-6

9-5

1-6

MIDWEST CITY 8143 E. Reno, MWC, 732-4828

9-9

9-6

9-5

1-6

RALPH ELLISON 2000 N.E. 23rd, OKC, 424-1437

9-8

9-6

9-5

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SOUTHERN OAKS** 631-4468

9-9 9-9 9-9 9-9 9-6 9-5 1-6

THE VILLAGE 10307 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, The Village, 755-0710

9-9

9-6

9-5

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WARR ACRES 5901 N.W. 63rd, Warr Acres, 721-2616

9-9

9-6

9-5

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**Southern Oaks has been relocated to a temporary location at 2914 S.W. 59th due to renovations at the current location.

MLS EXTENSION LIBRARIES* M T *HARRAH 1930 N. Church Avenue, Harrah, 454-2001 *JONES 111 E. Main, Jones, 399-5471 *LUTHER 310 N.E. 3rd, Luther, 277-9967

W TH

F S S

9:30-6

9-5

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9:30-5:30

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9:30-5:30

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1-5

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9:30-6

9-5

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9-5

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*NICOMA PARK 2240 Overholser, Nicoma Park, 769-9452

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*WRIGHT 2101 Exchange, OKC, 235-5035

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9:30-5:30 9:30-5:30 9:30-5:30 10-5:30

10-5:30

*Extensions close daily for lunch from 12:30-1 p.m. — except Wright Library, which closes 1-1:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday.

The Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County / www.metrolibrary.org