City of Stillwater NEWS

''Library Shelf' from the Stillwater Public Library at 1107 S. Duck Street in Stillwater, Okla.

For more information, call (405) 372-3633 or e-mail askalibrarian@stillwater.org or visit the library online at library.stillwater.org.

'Library Shelf'
December 24, 2008: "Music in the Children's Department" by Mary Leslie

In the past few months, I have heard several reports on the benefits of music in our lives, and how it can affect our physical and mental wellbeing.  It turns out, music reduces blood pressure, and even reaches individuals who are unresponsive to any other form of therapy. 

I love listening to music in all styles—from classical to rock, easy listening to alternative bands, from big band to jazz.  I listen to music to relax, to energize, and just for fun.  Music can create its own atmosphere.  Think of how it affects you when you enter a store and there is some background music playing.  It’s an invitation to relax and stay longer.                                                    
           
Children are very responsive to music.  They love to dance and sing to all kinds of music.  It’s important to let them hear all types of music, and we have a great variety of children’s CDs at the library.  Some of my favorites are Monty Harper, Raffi, and John Denver.  We also have Disney Classic Songs and a selection from the Baby Einstein series.  There are also examples of Celtic music, Reggae music, Native American Lullabies, and other music found around the world.

The world of children’s music has changed.  No longer is it limited to nursery rhymes and the traditional songs of childhood.  New artists are producing albums which you will enjoy as much as your children.  Give this music a listen.  As much as reading to children when they are growing, music will have an impact on their learning. 
           
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'Library Shelf'
December 17, 2008: Giving Thanks by Lynda Reynolds, Library Director

Having just finished Thanksgiving and getting ready for the upcoming holiday season, I thought I would take time to say how thankful I am for the people who support the Stillwater Public Library.  My first thanks are to the seven members of the Library Board who volunteer their time each month and oftentimes in-between Board meetings to guide the library staff in offering the best possible service to our community. 

Next, I give thanks the City Council and City Management for their support of the Library.  I hear from many other Library Directors about how impressed (and maybe a tad envious) they are with the Stillwater Public Library.  Our facility is almost fifteen years old, and with City support, we are able to maintain an excellent facility and recently replaced worn out furniture.

I take every opportunity to thank the Friends of the Stillwater Public Library.  With their support, we are able to offer phenomenal summer and year round programming.  The Friends also do a fantastic job of recycling used books to the entire community.  They sell used items twice a year (next sale is April 16-19, 2009) and throughout the year in the library’s north lobby.

My greatest thanks go to the staff of the Stillwater Public Library.  This is an amazing group of hard working individuals who are dedicated, creative, and sincere in their desire to provide great library service to our community. 

As you prepare for the holidays, remember those you are thankful for and take the time to tell them so.

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'Library Shelf'
December 10, 2008: Sue’s Winter Read-Alouds by Sue Busch

Winter is no longer “just around the corner” – it’s in plain sight!  What could be cozier for bedtime than sharing a book with your family?  The Stillwater Public Library has several books about “snow company” – people and creatures who crowd together for company and warmth during winter weather – that make good bedtime reading with your children.

In the picture book area of the children’s department, there are several good books for the younger set:

• “The Mitten” by Jan Brett-In a fresh retelling of this Ukrainian folktale, several animals sleep snugly in Nicki’s lost mitten until the bear sneezes.

 

• “The Blizzard” by Betty Wright-Although a blizzard prevents his cousins from visiting for his birthday, a disappointed Billy ends up having a very special day when his teacher and classmates must stay overnight at his house to wait out the storm.  

• “Birthday Blizzard” by Bonnie Pryor-Jamie is disappointed when a huge blizzard cancels her birthday party, until unexpected visitors arrive to create a winter picnic and a very special birthday.

 

• “A Houseful of Christmas” by Barbara Joosse-Snowed in after sharing Christmas with Grandma, a houseful of relatives settles in for the night.

If you have older children who still enjoy a good story just before bedtime, the following juvenile titles are great for the “chapter a night” system:

• “Snowed in with Grandmother Silk” by Carol Fenner-Ruddy is disappointed when his parents go on a cruise and he must stay with his fussy grandmother for a whole week, but an unexpected snowstorm reveals an unexpected side of his grandmother.

 

• “The Christmas Barn” by C.L. Davis-In 1930, when a snowstorm destroys their Appalachian home, twelve-year-old Roxie and her family move into the barn and prepare for a very unusual Christmas celebration.

• “Snowbound” by Ann Martin-Stoneybrook is paralyzed by a massive blizzard, but it’s Stacey who is in the most trouble.  No one’s heard from Stacey or her mother.  This is one snowfall the babysitters will never forget.

 

• “Help!  I’m Trapped in the Library!” by Eth Clifford-Two girls spend an adventurous night trapped inside the public library during a blizzard.

Check out these and other good winter stories at your public library.  For more suggestions or information, ask a librarian.

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'Library Shelf'
December 3, 2008: ‘Green Books" by Stacy DeLano

We just held a recycled wreath contest and had a recycling display at the front doors.  Naturally, we’ve gotten many requests for books on recycling.

It’s always been difficult to locate plain-old recyling books.  I renewed my search this week, looking for really specific books on exactly how to recycle—all the nuts and bolts—items to recycle, how recycling works, tools for recycling, etc.  I still can’t find what I want. 

I can, however, find massive numbers of books on “going green.”  I found books on green cleaning, green beauty, shopping green, growing rich green, being a green teen, Christmasing green, interior decorating green, and even being pregnant and green at the same time.  Most will have some info on what I want, but they’re still not exactly right.

I’d say, as a library, we’re pretty concerned about reducing our waste.  We recycle paper, cardboard, magazines, newspapers, soda cans and the paper in old worn out books.  We even have an online database devoted to environmental issues. 

With all of the newly published books, it’s exciting to see so many informational options on this subject.  And yet…I’m having a hard time getting past the irony of just how many “green books” are being published right now.  I wonder how much paper that’s taken?  Seeing the “Living Green Page a Day” calendar sort of pushed me over the edge. 

It’s not like our library isn’t also capitalizing on the Green craze (we just had a recycled jewelry program, had a recycled wreath contest, and plan to have a basic recycling program in April), but I guess I’m maybe saying that one of the best green ways to find out about being green is to just use your library.

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'Library Shelf'
November 18, 2008: ‘Reading Readiness’ by Danielle Shreve

Reading readiness for children begins early.  When reading is valued and enjoyed in the home, children pick up the importance of reading.  Children enjoy the attention they receive when a reader relates and interacts with the child while reading age appropriate material. 

By copying or acting like the reader, a child picks up key reading concepts such as words being composed of letters and clusters of letters, the progression of the page from top to bottom, reading left to right, and reading left page before right page. 

An adult can also show the best way to care for and handle a book by having clean hands, opening and closing the book softly, turning the page gently, not marking in the book and storing the book properly.

A game using ABC flash cards with young children is a first step in developing reading readiness.  It is fun for the child because they are receiving the adult’s individualized attention, and they are also encouraged and thrilled to learn the names of the letters and the corresponding name of the picture on the other side of the flash card.  For example the flash card “D” might have a duck on the opposite side. The reader and the child pronounce the letter D and turning the card over say the word “duck.”  The pair then could have a fun imitating the duck quacking.  The child eventually becomes familiar with the letter D and the sound the letter makes.  Priceless memories and reading readiness are covered in a few minutes of fun. 

For more ideas preparing a child to read, check out “250+ activities and ideas for developing literacy skills” by M. Ellen Jay and Hilda L Jay.

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'Library Shelf'
November 12, 2008: One of THEM by Stacy DeLano

 

I just found out I’m one of THOSE people.  I thought I was okay—could find the papers and projects I needed, saw all the messages that needed returned.  Then it happened.  Seemingly overnight, I became one of THEM. 

On the day it happened, I innocently strolled into my office, perhaps whistling a jaunty tune, unaware my life would irrevocably change.  I rounded my desk----and THERE...IT....WAS!  A message left ON my chair!!!  Not on my desk like a message SHOULD be, but ON...MY...CHAIR! 

I don’t need to be told.  I know what this means.  I am now too disorganized, too sloppy to be trusted with receiving a document or message amid the mess on my desk.  I couldn’t believe it!!  I’ve ALWAYS been the organizer.  Leaving messages on chairs is MY trick.  I use it on forgetful Boss almost every day---it is NOT what people do to ME!!! 

After calming down and facing the facts (and mess), I remembered. There is always a book to help me just like in any other crisis.  Here’s my plan:

I’ll start off with “The Office Clutter Cure” by Don Aslett (658.4093 ASL)—a light and fun way for a quick purge.  I’ll then get serious with “The Organized Executive” by Stephanie Winston (658.4 WIN)—good for in-depth ideas about managing paperwork.  Next, I’ll detail a maintenance plan using Julie Morgenstern’s “Making Work Work: new strategies for surviving and thriving at the office.” (650.1 MOR)  Last, I’ll keep “Well Ordered Office” by Kathleen Kendall-Tackett (651 KEN) on my reading list for periodic refreshers. 

There!  Problem solved.  I’m no longer one of them!  If I can figure out where I filed those books, you can check them out next!

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'Library Shelf'
November 5, 2008: You’ve Got a Friend by Dotty Brawley

 

Friends of the Stillwater Public Library, you outperform yourselves each year!  All of the daily gathering, hauling and sorting of donated books which culminates in the annual spring and fall book sales is reaping huge dividends for every library patron.

Thank you all so much. One of the benefits of your hard work and dedication is the expansion of our Large Print collection. As we Baby Boomers age, we are becoming more and more grateful for the availability of books with larger size print.

The widely appreciated and highly attended children’s and teen’s summer programs have hugely benefitted from the ongoing financial support of the Friends of the Library (FOL). Stillwater Public Library is extremely fortunate to be able to provide these excellent programs at no cost to the public.

The proceeds from the FOL book sales support all sorts of other library needs like Adult programming, additional DVDs, CD books, Graphic Novels, homebound bags and computers.

When you come into the library and see an FOL volunteer pushing the huge carts of donated books that have been gathering in the lobbies, please be sure to thank them. Better yet, if you are interested in helping the Friends with their hauling, gathering and sorting, please contact Olen Thomas at 405 743-3613 or olen@brightok.net.

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'Library Shelf'
October 29, 2008: A Love Letter to Reading by Recilla Harms

 

Here it is—the first cool, rainy autumn day.  I thought, “Wouldn’t I love to stay home curled up with a book!”  Then I realized on a cold winter day, I want to be wrapped in a snuggly blanket with a book; on a hot summer day, I want a cool drink and a book; and on a pleasant spring morning, I enjoy nothing more than sitting on the patio listening to the birds sing as I read a book.

That is the joy of reading. It can be done anywhere, any time, and any place—well, not in the swimming pool.  Besides the sheer delight of a good story, one of the pleasures provided by reading is that it is done purely for my own satisfaction.  I have shared my passion by reading aloud to classrooms, storytimes, sewing circle, and to my children and grandchildren, but this is truly a self-indulgent pleasure.  There is no contest.  I don’t have to be better than others.  I am, however, a winner because I do enjoy the story or learn new facts regardless of my skill level.

Yes, I know I am a librarian so naturally I love to read.  But my joy of reading occurred long before I chose my profession.  As a child, I remember holding the flashlight under the bed covers to finish my book even though it was past my bedtime.  Reading has taken me to worlds unknown and places familiar, led me to new experiences and nostalgic remembrances, and enriched my life.  I still read past my bedtime and hope that you, too, have discovered the joy of reading. 

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'Library Shelf'
October 22, 2008: "NOVELIST"

Need a new favorite Author? Maybe a new series to keep you up through the night?  Want to know if a particular book is part of a series?  When you want explore other authors or find a good book, look no further than “Novelist” on the library webpage (library.stillwater.org).           

This database is perfect if you have read every book by a particular author, but do not know what to begin reading next.  Under the “Read-alike” link, Novelist provides a list of authors whose writing styles are similar to your favorite author.  Soon to come to “Novelist” is the “Describe a plot” feature.  “Describe a plot” lets you choose the characteristics you liked most about a specific book, and then it finds books with those same characteristics.  Another great way to find a great book is by browsing the Award lists.  Novelist has about the most complete listing of book awards that we’ve ever seen, including romance awards, fantasy, Christian fiction, and a bunch more.

The greatest “Novelist” feature, by far, is its series listings.  Once you choose a book in a series, look up the title or the series title and “Novelist” will list all of the books in the series and list them in order.  I like to print off a copy of the list, so I can check off the titles as I complete them.  I always know which book I need next.  It is much easier than having to thumb through the opening pages of past books, hoping to find an “other books in this series” listing.

Next time you need a good book, let “Novelist’ help or ask a librarian.

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'Library Shelf'
October 15, 2008: "Donations to the Library"

The Stillwater Public Library is most appreciative of donations and monetary contributions received each year.  There are 3 easy ways to make a donation to the public library:  1) monetary donation in honor or memory of a loved one; 2) contribution to the Stillwater Public Library Trust; and/or 3) donation of items which are in good condition.

When making a donation in honor or memory of a loved one, the Director will work with you to select an item in an area of interest to the person being honored or remembered.  The Library will designate the name of the loved one and the donor on the item and send a card to the loved one or their family as well as to the donor. 

For a long-term contribution the Library, you might consider donating to the Stillwater Public Library Trust.  The Trust was created for the benefit of the Library and is used to purchase equipment, materials, and to fund programming.  Donations to the Trust will be appropriately recognized. 

Items donated to the library will be added to the collection based on condition and need.  Items not added to the collection will be sent to the Friends of the Library for their bi-annual sales in March and September or at their on-going sale in the north lobby of the Library.  Proceeds from the Friends sales help purchase new materials and equipment as well as provide program funding for all ages. 

To make a donation, contact, Lynda Reynolds, Library Director, at 372-3633 ext. 101 or lreynolds@stillwater.org.

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'Library Shelf'
October 8, 2008: PUPPEHS, SPARKLES, AND PONIES

Some days it’s tough being a librarian.  When I’ve had a bad day, I like to go home to a cheerful pick-me-up.  Luckily, I know a few websites that’ll do the job, and as your librarian, I’m glad to share them with you! (Cat lovers beware.  These are dog heavy suggestions--I am a person who actually reads to my dogs).

1.  cuteoverload.com--if you haven’t visited this website, you’re missing out.  Tiny puppies emitting their first howls, otters holding hands, newborn “behbeh” deer, and regular updates from Winston, the “smooshed-face kitteh.”  Each adorable photo and video includes hilarious (but once in awhile adultish) captions.  I recommend first visiting the “Rules of Cuteness” link found on the right hand-side.  The wrinkular mcpuppersons on this site are redonk! (P.S. be sure to visit the glossary page too).

2.  ihasahotdog.com--another site with animal pictures, but the captions are the real joy.  Written in silly puppy talk, the captions are right-on and fit the pictures amazingly.  Sometimes the captions are very subtle so that you have to read them twice or look at the pictures more closely to get it.  Visit http://icanhascheezburger.com/ for the kitteh point of view.

3.  dogster.com/dogs--just like myspace or facebook, but for dogs!  The best part is the “Puppies Only!” stroll under the “See the Dogs!” link.  On each page, you can give the puppy a bone, and if you’re a member, you can invite the pup to be your dog’s friend.  Avoid the “Give Some Paw” link where you rate the dogs’ pages from one paw to five.  (I think it is mean and unfair since the dogs can’t really help if their human parents post a bad picture (An aside to my dog: Yes Stanley—I understand now that my posting the picture of you in the tutu ruined your rep in the neighborhood)).

For more happy website recommendations, ask a librarian!

 

'Library Shelf'
October 1, 2008: COMMENT CARD DAY

Every Wednesday at 9:55 a.m., I see Boss head over to the little metal comment box between the Check-in and Help Desks.  Boss takes out her key, opens the box, and removes the index sized cards that have accumulated for the week.  Boss takes the cards to the weekly meeting where they’re read, reviewed, and responded to.  After this process, the contents of the cards and the actions to be taken thereon are published to the library employees in the staff minutes.

I love comment card day at the library.  I love to hear about what people think about the library, what they’ve noticed, what they love, what they hate, and what they wish we had.   

I’ll have to admit that as I watch Boss remove the comment cards, if I’m feeling particularly self-conscious, self-involved, and vulnerable that week, I might analyze everything I did--quickly scrolling through every interaction to try to remember if I might have been grumpy or made any children cry, but for the most part I am just super excited.  Excited to see if anyone liked something I did, a display I put up, or a question I helped to answer.  When you get mentioned in the minutes as a recipient of a positive comment card comment, it’s like winning an award—the Oscar! Perhaps even the Nobel peace prize.

But enough about my own feelings about the comment cards.  The point I want to make is that we have them here at the library and that we want you to use them.  Boss and boss’s boss take the cards VERY seriously and all of us want to know what you think—good OR bad (but there’s really nothing wrong if I especially like the good ones!)

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'Library Shelf'
Sept. 24, 2008: A CHILD CRIES IN THE LIBRARY

10.    Brother or sister hit each other. Just because.
9.      Brother or sister chooses to watch dvds with a friend and won’t let child participate.
8.      Brother or sister won’t give child a chance at the children’s game terminal plus brother or sister shove child off the tot sized chair as child tries to sit on brother or sister’s lap to play the game.
7.      Child did not get to put the books in the book drop, but brother or sister did.
6.      Child’s library stay has exceeded its awake:happiness ratio (i.e. it’s time for a nap).
5.      Child cries while throwing up on the new carpet.
4.      Child realizes it has lost sight of mother or father after exploring the power of being invisible since child is shorter than the shelves (one person hide and seek gone bad).
3.      Child upset because lizards won’t come out from hiding.
2.      Cries of exuberance—origin unknown.
1.      Our very favorite and the most heartwarming—Child does not want to leave the library.

 

'Library Shelf'
Sept. 17, 2008: ELECTION BOOKS FOR KIDS

As a historic presidential election begins to heat up and draw near, all American citizens will find themselves barraged daily with politics.  The election process can be fascinating, but often complex.  If this important process seems complex to adults, imagine how confusing it is for children to make sense of the events and changes occurring within the next few months.  The library offers resources for children of all ages curious about the election.
           
Ellen Christelow’s “Vote!” begins with the very basics.  The concept of voting is introduced through a mayoral election.  Described through the eyes of a candidate’s children, the process becomes relatable for young readers. 

An audio alternative is Betsy Maestro’s book “The Voice of the People” on cassette.  The history of democracy and the specifics of the governmental system are described in detail.
           
An especially delightful political picture book is “So You Want to be President?” by Judith St. George.  The caricature images of presidents are a fun way to explore the nation’s leaders.   Everything from personality and family to controversies are explored.  While this book has a light tone, it is clear that St. George is striving to provide a fair, complete picture of the presidency. 

For slightly older readers, Michael Burgan provides information about detailed issues in “The Electoral College.”  The foundations of our country’s vital system are explained, and current issues facing the system are explored.
           
Each of these nonfiction books has detailed timelines and glossaries to aid in the exploration of the election process.  If your child prefers fiction, try a story that can place children in the heart of an election.  One excellent example is “The Kid Who Ran for President” by Dan Gutman. 

Children of many ages and interests may be curious about their (future) important role in society.  They can learn more by visiting the library.

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'Library Shelf'
Sept. 10, 2008: AUTHOR PETER DEUTERMANN

Peter Deutermann’s novels are labeled mysteries but they read like fast paced, edge-of your-seat thrill rides of the very best kind!  His latest book “The Moonpool” is a well crafted tale straight from today’s headlines: an attack on a nuclear power plant in a large metro area.

The story begins with the death of a private detective in a gas station restroom.  When her body sets off radiation alarms in the pathologist’s lab, the FBI, local police and the security team from the nearby nuclear power plant become involved in the investigation.

Cam Richter heads the private investigations firm that employed the dead woman.  He begins his own inquiry to learn what his employee was investigating at the time of her death and why she is the only person exposed to radiation.  As the FBI and the internal security chief warn him off, Richter finds the trail leading to the “moonpool,” the storage pool that houses the spent radioactive elements.  Racing against time, he discovers an inside plot to use the plant’s own systems to begin an unstoppable, disastrous sequence of events.

Retired from the navy, Deutermann’s background in biological, chemical and radiation weapons has played an integral part in each of his 12 novels.  His last three novels are set in North Carolina and feature the same protagonist who’s retired from the military and law enforcement.  Back again are his two best buddies, Frick and Frack, female and male German shepherds, who at times seem to steal the scene from the humans! 

This book is guaranteed to open your eyes to the ‘what ifs’ of power plants, nuclear power, home grown terrorists and sabotage.

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'Library Shelf'
September 3, 2008: 'Judge Your Book by It's Cover'

Yeah—I’ll admit it—I’m a librarian paid to recommend books to the public, and I choose the books I read by their covers.  And I’m not ashamed about it.  To me, the cover of a book has a lot to say about it.  I like my covers pretty and I especially care about the spine art—the graphics that you see as you’re browsing down a shelf.  It’s all about marketing—the little details here and there that jump out and say “Hey! Look at me!  Come get me off the shelf!”  I figure that if the publishers think about grabbing me from the time I see the spine of the book, then they’re pretty smart cookies.  And if the author is smart enough to surround herself with smart publishers, then that’s an author I want to read.

Another key selling point for me is the size of the print in a book.  Who wants to read a book with tiny print?  Not because it’s hard to see, but with small print you don’t feel like you are accomplishing anything.  With big print, I get to keep turning pages—I’m making progress—I’m getting somewhere.  Reading is supposed to be about the journey, right?  No one ever read The Sound and the Fury because it’s all that great of a book—you read it because you can say “Hey!  I got through Faulkner!”  Think you could have gotten through with little print?  Heck no!  You’d be stuck on the same page three times as long as you would with big print—a recipe for failure.

I may be a marketer’s dream, but I’ve read some pretty darn good books in my life, so I’m sticking with pretty covers and big print.  They haven’t let me down so far.

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'Library Shelf'
August 27, 2008: 'TLC FOR OLD BOOKS'by Stacy DeLano

Patrons often request information on preserving old family books.  The library itself struggles to keep the information in its older tomes available for the public, while still preserving the physical books.  Professional services are the best bet, but if you can’t use a professional, then consider these Library of Congress tips for preserving your old treasures.

Keep your books out of direct light.  Sunlight and even normal house bulbs cause fading.

Keep your books in a stable temperature.  Hot and cold extremes destroy books, so be careful of storing them in attics, near heat registers, or by fireplace bookshelves.

Keep books in low humidity.  Archivists recommend that relative humidity be less than 60% in a room to ensure the best atmosphere.  Never store your books in a basement or garage where moisture is high and triggers mold growth.

If you have a leather volume, don’t use oils on it as the residue may damage the pages.

If you like to browse through your old book, never force it open if it will not lay flat naturally.

If your book is shelved upright with other books, never pull at the top of the spine to remove it.  Push in the books on either side so you can get a better grasp of the body of your book.

Be careful of storing your books in plastics (mold and chemical damage), newspaper (acidity), wood (also acidic) and even cardboard (more acid).

And last…yes—you really do have to dust your books.  Accumulated dust promotes mold growth and can discolor the pages.

For more information on book preservation, ask a librarian.

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'Library Shelf'
August 20, 2008: 'BLISS IS BACK' by Summer Luster

Finally, after over a decade of holding their collective breath, fans of the Vicky Bliss series rejoice. The newest installment of this mystery suspense series titled Laughter of Dead Kings will be released Aug.26, 2008.  Laughter of Dead Kings is the sixth book of the series authored by Elizabeth Peters.  Other titles in the series include Borrower in the Night, Street of Twelve Moons, Silhouette in Scarlet, Trojan Gold, and Night Train to Memphis. 

The series is based on Dr. Victoria Bliss, a former art history professor, who works as the assistant curator at the Munich National Museum.  Bliss travels across Europe and Africa to investigate antiquities and various mysterious, often criminal plots.  When we last saw Bliss in Night Train to Memphis, she was posing as an Egyptian art expert to track down an art theft ring.  The main action of the new novel is set in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, a familiar setting for the author.   

Elizabeth Peters is a pseudonym for non-fiction writer and Egyptologist Barbara Mertz.  Barbara Mertz received her PhD in Egyptology from the famed Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago.  As a result, she always pays great attention to historical and archeological detail and her books never fail to educate as well as entertain.  As Elizabeth Peters, Mertz also writes the Amelia Peabody series, based on a Victorian Egyptologist and her family. Mertz is also the author over 30 gothic suspense titles written under the penname Barbara Michaels. 

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'Library Shelf'
August 13, 2008: “BACK TO SCHOOL” by Levonn Collins

It's school time again! Summer is over, and homework will start soon.  We all know that homework is a necessary, but often disliked activity.  Here are some hints to make it a little less of a problem.

Make homework part of your family routine, even if there is no homework that particular day.  Choose a time when homework will be done.  Evenings with no homework can be used for extra practice (drills) on spelling lists, multiplication tables, and reading, reading, reading.

Make a space for homework.  It does not have to be large space, but it does need to be quiet with few disturbances and close to a parent for easy help.  Have a box of supplies handy, so your child can start easily without a household search for a pencil, paper, dictionary etc.

Take advantage of the library.  We have several on-line databases that can help with research for children’s reports, such as Sirs Discover and Searchasaurus available at http://library.stillwater.org.  We also have helpful books like, “Homework without Tears” by Lee Canter and “Every Child Can Succeed” by Cynthia Ulrich Tobias.

Another option is to try reputable Internet sites for assistance. Two good sites are Kidspace at the Internet Public Library at www.ipl.org/div/kidspace or Fact Monster at www.factmonster.com.
Be sure to ask at the Children’s Help Desk for more assistance.

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'Library Shelf'
August 6, 2008: “AUTO REPAIR REFERENCE CENTER”

If you’re handy with car repairs or just want to know more about what your mechanic does to your vehicle, then you may want to explore the Auto Repair Reference Center.

The Auto Repair Reference Center is a database on the Stillwater Public Library’s website that provides repair and maintenance information for over 25,000 vehicles.  The database covers most major domestic and import vehicle manufacturers back to the 60s.  It also includes repair information for some vintage models starting as far back as the 40s.  The database has been compiled in partnership with publishers of the Chilton’s Car Manuals and includes the contents of the original Chilton repair manuals.

The Auto Repair Reference Center can be accessed from any of the library’s computers.  Even better, the database can be accessed at any online computer outside of the library with a Stillwater Library card. 

Once you log into the database from the library website (library.stillwater.org), you will find wiring diagrams, maintenance schedules, maintenance tips, services bulletins, and recalls.  And of course, the database has tons of repair instruction in the form of text, photos, and diagrams.  The publishers of the database continuously update repair information and service bulletins, so it’s a good idea to periodically check in to see if there is new info about your vehicle.

The library does still carry the book versions of the Chilton repair manuals for vehicles up through 2003.  If you need help with either of these resources, please visit the Help Desk.

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'Library Shelf'
July 30, 2008: “GREEN SEARCHING”

We all know we should do more to reduce our consumption and help our planet, but where do we start? 

You can start by going to http://www.greeninfoonline.com.  EBSCO, a company that provides databases and journals, now offers this free “green” database on the Web for anyone to use.  The information is compiled from scholarly journals, popular magazine titles and government documents, so you can trust the information is well-researched.  It’s also really easy to search.

For example, if you want to learn how to conserve water in your home, search “conserve water” and “home” and 7 documents appear.  Opening the PDF document will give you exactly what you see if you open a paper copy of the magazine.  It includes photos, advertisements, and the exact same layout.  Choosing to open the HTML document will give you all the textual information, but maybe not in the same format.  Users with slow internet connections should choose the faster HTML option.  Use the provided subject headings to help refine your search if you get too many “hits” your first try. 

Using this database will give you a better idea of how people are conserving and recycling.  No sense re-inventing the wheel and you may have fun in the meantime!  Always call your librarians if you get stuck.

Speaking of getting help----thank you to the reader who noticed that we inadvertently stuck a book about India in with our favorite African travelogues in the July 2, “Armchair Traveler” article.  We appreciate our readers!

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'Library Shelf'
July 23, 2008: “KEEP COOL WITH HOT MUSIC”

Each week, the library displays lists of “best sellers” from The New York Times and Publishers’ Weekly.  What if you’re looking for what’s “hot” in music?  Billboard is a well-known and respected weekly American magazine devoted to the music industry.  It maintains several internationally recognized music charts that track the most popular songs and albums in various categories on a weekly basis.  The "Billboard Hot 100" ranks the top 100 songs regardless of genre and is frequently used as the standard measure for ranking songs in the United States.  The "Billboard 200" survey is the corresponding chart for album sales.  It also publishes charts of top selling songs, albums, and air play from a variety of musical genres, including Rock, Hip-Hop/Rhythm & Blues, and Country.

Each Saturday, the library makes available to its patrons three of the most popular charts found in Billboard: “Hot 100,” “Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay,” and “Hot Country Songs.” You can find a lot of information in these charts, including how many weeks a song has been on the list, predictions for the next “hit” song, and short articles about popular entertainers.  Copies of these charts are free and can be found on the Listening Center table near the music CDs.

Whether you want to find out what’s Number 1 this week, read about Lil Wayne’s recent debut, or find out what Carrie Underwood’s latest top-selling song is, come by the library and pick up the chart of your choice. While it’s hot outside this summer, come inside the library and found out what’s really hot in music!

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'Library Shelf'
July 16, 2008: "FAST CARS & DOGS"

Here I am again, your library’s stock car race fan.  Did I tell you that I am also a dog lover?  To some, this would be a strange combination in a person.  Apparently, author Garth Stein doesn’t think so.  He has written a novel combining the love of these two things in his new book, “The Art of Racing in the Rain.”

The main characters are Denny, a young husband, father, and race car driver, and his dog, Enzo, a lab-terrier mix.  This novel was most interesting to me because the narration of the story is done by Enzo, the dog.  Enzo has spent his entire life with Denny enjoying the same things as his owner: watching TV, racing, and watching Denny’s old racing videos.  From watching a documentary, Enzo believes he will be reincarnated as a man after death.  He is very excited at this thought, because he wants very much to have opposable thumbs and the ability to speak.  Denny dreams of being a driver on the professional racing circuit.  As usual, in any novel, there are many dramatic highs and lows that interfere with their dreams.

Stein’s ability to make you believe Enzo is actually telling this story made me look at my own dog, Mikey, in a different light.  Does he look at the world around him in the same way Enzo does?  Maybe he too enjoys the SPEED channel as much as I do!  For all you lovers of fast cars and dogs, this book is for you. 

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'Library Shelf'
July 9, 2008: "Hobbies at the Library"

 

Do you have an interest in collecting – antique jewelry, postcards, stamps, coins, dishes?   Do you enjoy cooking?  Sewing?  Fishing?  Model Trains?  Would you like more information about your favorite hobby or pastime? 

The Stillwater Public Library has hundreds of books dealing with hobbies and special interests.  Everything from knitting (“Fabulous & Flirty Felt: stylish handbag and accessory patterns to knit and felt,” “Knitting Stitches,” “One-Skein Wonders”), jewelry making (“Create Jewelry Crystals,” “The Art & Craft of Making Jewelry,” “Beautiful Button Jewelry”), furniture restoration (“Furniture Restoration: step by step tips,” “Chairmaking & Design,” “Flea Market Furniture Makeovers”), golf (“1001 Golf Holes You Must Play,” “The Women’s Guide to Lower Scores”), photography (“Complete Guide to Digital Wildlife Photography,” “Art Photography Now,” “Digital Scrapbooking for Dummies”) to rock and mineral collecting (“Mineral Collector’s Handbook,” “Rocks and Fossils: a visual guide”), and so many more!  

We also have many magazines dealing with hobby interests, including “Sew Beautiful,” “Field and Stream,” “Cycle World,” and “Art & Antiques,” to name just a few.

These and many more titles are available to help you get started on a new hobby or to learn more about your particular hobby or interest.  Most of them will be found in the Nonfiction area, 600’s or 700’s.  Always feel free to ask for help if you are having trouble finding what you need.

And of course, for the BEST hobby of them all—reading—we’ve got you covered!

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'Library Shelf'
July 25, 2008: ARM CHAIR TRAVEL

If gas prices have you down, take a short trip to the public library to get your fill of great travel writing.  The following books are all top choice travelogues from all different kinds of perspectives: pleasure, investigations, reporting, and sport. 

My favorite African travelogues include “Chasing the mountain of light: across India on the trail of the Koh-i-Noor Diamond” by Kevin Rushby and his book about Yemen, “Eating the Flowers of Paradise: a journey through the drug fields of Ethiopia and Yemen.”  Other African travelogues are “Looking for Lovedu: a woman’s journey across Africa” by Ann Jones and “Dark Star Safari: overland from Cairo to Cape Town” by Paul Theroux.

Excellent European destination books include one on moving to Spain in “Driving Over Lemons: an optimist in Andalucía” and walking in Spain in “Travels with My Donkey: one man and his ass on a pilgrimage to Santiago” by Tim Moore.  I really like Tim Moore, so when he did the grand tour of Europe, I followed in “The Grand Tour: the European adventure of a continental drifter.”  A great Irish adventure is “Round Ireland with a Fridge” by Tony Hawks.

For Asian travel I recommend “Honeymoon in Purdah: an Iranian journey” by Alison Wearing, “Mirrors of the Unseen: journeys in Iran” by Jason Elliot, “An unexpected light: travels in Afghanistan” by Jason Elliot, and “Where the Pavement Ends: one woman's bicycle trip through Mongolia, China & Vietnam” by Erika Warmbrunn.

For the Americas, try “Rowing to Latitude: journeys along the Arctic's edge” by Jill Fredston, “Scraping heaven: a family's journey along the Continental Divide” by Cindy Ross, “God's Middle Finger: into the lawless heart of the Sierra Madre” by Richard Grant, “Evolution's Captain: the dark fate of the man who sailed Charles Darwin around the world” by Peter Nichols, and “Searching for El Dorado: a journey into the South American rain forest on the tail of the world's largest gold rush” by Marc Herman.

This “short” list is just a small example of fantastic travel books at the library, so save some gas and read books.  Ask your librarian for more suggestions if you finish these.

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'Library Shelf'
June 25, 2008: NEW READERS

The Library---what a wonderful, magical place this is for all ages.  I remember visiting our library when I was growing up.  There were many large steps to climb to the giant heavy doors.  When I passed through the doors, it was like going into a different world. It was cool and quiet, and there were shelves and shelves of books, stretching from the floor to the ceiling. 

I was amazed and awestruck.  All of these books in one place, just waiting for someone to pick them off the shelves and read them.  My family was a family of readers and we had many books at home, but there was just something special about choosing a book to borrow from the library. The decision of which to select was always very difficult, but at last I would have my book in my hands and I felt so important.

Watching all the children who are enrolled in the Summer Reading Program, I see many of the same emotions I recall from my childhood.  They are excited about the programs, seeing their friends, selecting books, participating in what the library has to offer them this summer.  I also see a new generation of readers and learners, those who will be our future. 

At my childhood library, one had to be VERY quiet.  Here at the Stillwater Library, some days are not so quiet, and it is extremely difficult to squelch the enthusiasm of some of our youngest patrons.  Before the noise level coming from the children’s area gets to you, think back on your childhood and what the library meant to you.  Yes, it’s everyone’s library, and how wonderful it is to share it with all these new readers.

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'Library Shelf'
June 18, 2008: “Plagiarism in the Library?”

Claims of plagiarism, literary fraud and literary hoaxes have been around for centuries. A few of the more famous authors who have been accused of this literary crime include, Stephen Ambrose for The Wild Blue, Doris Kearns Goodwin for her 1987 best seller The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys, and James Frey for A Million Little Pieces, an Oprah Book Club pick. Even works of fiction have been scathed by claims of plagiarism, including Roots by Alex Haley, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown, and How Opal Metha Got Kissed, Got Wild, and Got a Life by first time novelist, Kaavya Viswanathan.

Most recently, in the March 5, 2008 New York Times, publisher Riverhead Books was reported as being held accountable for releasing a fabricated memoir Love and Consequences by Margaret B. Jones (pseudonym for Margaret Seltzer). The publisher had to recall almost 19,000 copies of the book and offer refunds to book buyers.

The Stillwater Public Library did not acquire a copy of Love and Consequences given it was pulled by the publisher; however, a quick check of our new catalog, iBistro, shows all but one of these other titles in the library catalog. Most of these books have high circulation rates. There are probably other works in the library that have had claims of literary fraud brought against them, but it would be impractical for the library to keep up with each of these claims or to remove these items from the collection. The best practice is for readers to use their own judgment when reading any published item and to remember that the old adage is still true- “You can’t always believe everything you read.”

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'Library Shelf'
June 11, 2008: “BUG BOOKS BY ERIC CARLE”

“Catch the Reading Bug” with these popular titles by Eric Carle: The Grouchy Ladybug, The Very Busy Spider, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle, The Very Lonely Firefly, and his classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Carle has a gift for showing nature in a way that is understandable by the very young, as in his book about the metamorphosis of a young caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly. Carle was born in Syracuse, New York, in 1929. He moved with his parents to Germany when he was six years old; he was educated there, and graduated from the prestigious art school, the Akademie der Bildenden Kunste, in Stuttgart. His dream was to return to America, which he did in 1952, with portfolio in hand and forty dollars in his pocket. He found a job as a graphic designer with The New York Times. Author Bill Martin called Carle to ask him to illustrate a book he had written, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Martin had seen a striking illustration of a lobster that had been done by Eric Carle; their collaboration on “Brown Bear” was very successful. This was the beginning of Eric Carle’s true career. Since the creation of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Eric Carle has illustrated more than seventy books, many best sellers, most of which he also wrote, and more than 84 million copies of his books have sold around the world. Come to your public library to enjoy the works of this beloved author.

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'Library Shelf'
June 4, 2008: “Digging Up Dirt at the Library”

Sure, the internet can provide you with answers right at your fingertips, in the safety and comfort of a sterile electronic world, but there are still some things you can’t find there. And isn’t it more fun to get your hands a little dirty sometimes? Take, for instance, researching local history. Being covered with bits of dust and crumbling paper is just part of the experience.

Some of the resources you might want to use are old Stillwater City Directories, which can be used for looking up addresses of people and businesses. They also include neat photos in the ads, and old street maps of Stillwater. Many of them also list information about the municipal government and city organizations at the time they were published. The library also has old Stillwater High School yearbooks, and Oklahoma A&M and OSU Redskins which were published until 1991. These have photos of both the people and places of Stillwater.

The library’s microfilm holdings in the Genealogy Room will allow you to view old news stories and obituaries. Our Vertical Files contain clippings, which many people have thumbed through over the years. The library even has old scrapbooks of certain civic organizations.

We are always looking for additions to our local collection. If you have an older city directory or Stillwater High School yearbook you would like to donate to the library to enhance the collection, please stop by the Business Office during the week or the Help Desk on evenings and weekends

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'Library Shelf'
May 28, 2008: “The Best Magazines @ Your Library”

Every year in July, the staff evaluates the magazines, newspapers, and other current items we receive on a daily, weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly basis to determine what will best suit our patrons and community.

Our evaluation takes in three steps. The first is a “tally” week in June where we request that patrons leave the magazines and newspapers on a cart or table instead of putting them away. This lets us know what you are reading on a daily basis. The second step is reviewing all the patron requests for specific magazine or newspaper titles that we receive throughout the year. This lets us know what you would like to read that we don’t have. The third step is for staff to physically look at each magazine/newspaper and determine if the collection is balanced in perspective and community interest.

Today, we have 167 magazine titles for adults and teens, 16 of interest to children, and 13 different newspapers we receive on a regular basis. The newest copies of our magazines cannot be checked out, but past issues of most magazines can be checked out by patrons with a library card. And, of course, for those of you who are interested in beefing up our magazine collection, you may donate a yearly subscription so all of our patrons can enjoy that title as much as you do!

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'Library Shelf'
May 21, 2008: “Well-Connected Medical Database”

When given a diagnosis of an ailment or wellness issue from your doctor, have you ever left the medical office confused about what you just discussed?  The Stillwater Public Library has a free, reliable resource about common medical conditions that might help. 

WELL-CONNECTED is a library of reports on common diseases and wellness issues.  Each report includes the most current, relevant, and authoritative information available written by experienced medical writers and reviewed for accuracy and relevancy by a board of physicians at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital.

Each report includes the causes and symptoms of the medical condition, diseases with similar symptoms, complications, risk factors, diagnostic tests, medications used to treat the condition, alternative medicine options, physical therapy, treatment, lifestyle changes, surgical procedures, resources, and references. 
Other WELL-CONNECTED features include links to reviewed and useful web sites, links for locating specialists, links to the Medline web site, and other articles used in updating the reports.

As with all printed literature, these reports are not a replacement for your own doctor’s professional help, but are to be used as support in understanding a diagnosis.  A physician should be consulted for any health problem or medical condition.
WELL-CONNECTED is available on the library catalog computers and the library internet stations.

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'Library Shelf'
May 14, 2008: “More than a Librarian”

To many of us he was the Library. The little bald-headed man who seemed to always be at the library, ready to answer your questions with patience and careful explanations no matter how busy he was or how pre-occupied he must have been with his own problems.

I try to remind myself of his advice whenever things get busy with phones and lines of people and children crying: "Don't rush" he would say, "take your time and concentrate on the person in front of you.  Things work out better if you just take one thing at a time."

Providing assistance to people made him happy.  That's really what being a Librarian is all about--offering people assistance and guidance.  He was an expert at helping people both in the library and in his personal life.  That is proven by all the wonderful people who appreciated him and have shown their appreciation through donations in his name.

Because he was so loved, the Library has been able to purchase a variety of new items, among them are:

v     Four listening stations; one in the Childrens area, one in the Young Adult area, and two in the Adult area near the music CDs
v     Two viewing stations; one in the Childrens area and one for Adults in the Study Room.
v     Various books
v     Classic movies

Until the youngest child that received a card from him has grown old and passed on, Richard Sutton will be remembered.

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'Library Shelf'
May 7, 2008: “Sequoyah Children's Book Awards”
Oklahoma has one of the oldest state book awards for children’s literature.   Sponsored by the Oklahoma Library Association (OLA), the first Sequoyah Children's Book Award was given in April, 1959, making the award the third oldest children's choice award in the nation.  In 1988, the first Sequoyah Young Adult Book Award was given.

Each year a committee of librarians from both public libraries and public schools read many volumes of age-appropriate literature in order to create a Masterlist of 12 to 15 books.  Children in third through fifth grades read books on the Children’s Masterlist, and young adults in grades 6 through 8 read from their Masterlist.

In April, students who have read at least 3 books may vote for their favorite.  The authors of the winning selections are invited to attend the Sequoyah Award Ceremony at the Annual OLA Conference.  School children from across the state attend the ceremony and have the opportunity to hear the author of the Sequoyah Award.  The ceremony is followed by an autograph session.

The 2008 Sequoyah Children’s Book Award is Angus and Sadie by Cynthia Voigt.  The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan won the 2008 Sequoyah Young Adult Book Award. Appearing this April at the OLA Conference were the 2007 winners Betty Birney for The World According to Humphrey and Priscilla Cummings for The Red Kayak.

Stillwater Public Library has copies of all of the Sequoyah Award winning books. The 2009 Masterlist books are now available in both the children’s and young adult collections.
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'Library Shelf'
April 30, 2008: 'OVERLOOKED BOOKS: YOUNG ADULT FANTASY'

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) — These days many young adult series are reaching popular status because of hype around an upcoming movie or shock about controversial content. Unfortunately, many delicious series are overlooked despite the fact that they are packed with just as entertaining tales as their more often checked out neighbors.

For example, in Marianne Curley's Guardians of Time, the author combines gods and goddesses with time travel and a “save the world” scenario. Despite the fast moving storyline, the first book in the series, The Named, only sees the outside world (i.e. gets checked out) about eight times a year.
For those of us who enjoy the post-apocalyptic scene, the Hungry City Chronicles by Philip Reeve provides a future where large mobile cities devour smaller, slower cities with gigantic hydraulic “jaws.” This series is filled with amazing sky ships and exciting sword fights, but the first book, Mortal Engines,only checks out about five times a year.

Most disturbing is Sylvia Waugh's Ormingat Trilogy.  The first book in this wonderful series, Space Race, has been checked out only fifteen times the past nine years.  Each book in this trilogy can be read independently of the other books, though their stories are connected – however, this does not seem to increase checkouts in the slightest.

The next time you want to begin reading a series why not take the time to find grab one of these overlooked books rather than jumping on the next big thing? Quietly wonderful books need love too!

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'Library Shelf'
April 23, 2008: 'Outdoor Activities for Kids'

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) — As the sun shines and the end of school approaches, remember that the library can be a great resource for finding outdoor activities to do with your children over the summer. Whether it’s finding instructions to build a kite, developing new basketball skills, or identifying those shells your family found on the beach, there’s a lot to discover at the library.

A good way to start the search is looking under the numbers 796 to 799 in the Dewey Decimal System. Books in this section are all about outdoor sports and games – including soccer, baseball, swimming, fishing, and more. In addition, the library holds many other children’s books full of terrific ideas to explore the outdoors. Here’s a selection of what we have to offer:

• Arnosky, Jim. Beachcombing: exploring the seashore. (E 578.796 ARN)
• Arnosky, Jim. Flies in the water, fish in the air: a personal introduction to fly fishing. (J 799.1 ARN)
• Butterfield, Moira. How to draw and paint the outdoors. (J 743 BUT)
• Dixon, Norma. Kites: twelve easy-to-make high flyers. (J 629.133 DIX)
• Gleasner, Diana C. Illustrated swimming, diving, and surfing dictionary for young people. (J 707.2 GLE) Kalbfleisch, Susan. Jump!: the new jump rope book. (J 796.2 KAL)
• Loy, Jessica. Follow the trail: a young person’s guide to the great outdoors. (J 796.54 LOY)
• Rhatigan, Joe. Run, jump, hide, slide, splash: the 200 best outdoor games ever. (J 796 RHA)

Visit the Stillwater Public Library to check out these and other great books!

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'Library Shelf'
April 13, 2008: 'USE THE LIBRARY; SAVE THE EARTH'

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) —Earth Day is April 22 and taking advantage of the library’s many resources is a great way to help the environment. 

Everybody has heard the slogan “reduce, re-use, and recycle.”  Libraries do just that.  The Stillwater Public Library carries all kinds of books, movies, music, magazines, newspapers and more.  Normally, you would have to purchase these items and there is a good chance they would end up as clutter around the house, then eventually in a landfill.  The library reduces your waste by buying those items for you and making them available to be re-used by everyone in the community.

Some people feel that the library does not carry what they want to read, watch, or listen.  That is sometimes true due to space restrictions and tight budgets.  However, through interlibrary loan you can take re-using one-step further and ask the library to borrow an item from another library.  You can borrow books, movies, music and more through interlibrary loan completely free of charge.

The library also can help you recycle.  The library accepts donations of used books and other items to sell at the semi-annual Friends of the Library book sale and the year-round Friends’ sale in the north lobby of the library.  So don’t throw your used books, magazines, and movies in the trash - recycle them by donating to the library. 

Celebrate Earth Day by taking a trip to the Stillwater Public Library.  By doing so, you will be helping the environment and your community

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'Library Shelf'
April 2, 2008: LIBRARY HISTORY

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) — Recently, I have had several requests for information about the history of the library. It’s a perfect time to talk about library history, because on April 8, the library will be celebrating its fourteenth anniversary in its current location.

The Stillwater Public Library was founded in 1922 by the Stillwater Woman’s Club. A year later the club opened Stillwater’s first public library in the former parsonage of the United Brethren Church. Later that same year, the City of Stillwater agreed to assume financial responsibility for the public library by hiring a part-time librarian and establishing a Library Board and building fund.

In 1926, the W.T. Keys home, located at the corner of 6th Avenue and Husband, was purchased for $10,500 to house the Library. In 1937, Stillwater voters approved the construction of a 12,000 square foot library at the same location. The Library at 206 West 6th Avenue was formally opened on October 16, 1938 and featured an auditorium, shelving for 22,000 books, and seating for 100 people in the reading room.

On November 20, 1990 Stillwater voters passed a $4.98 million bond issue for the construction of a new public library at 1107 S. Duck. The new facility included renovation of the existing Stillwater South High School and construction of a new 27,500 square foot building giving the Library a grand total of 50,400 square feet. The Library was officially opened to the public on April 8, 1994.

For more interesting information about the history of the library, visit the permanent display in the library’s southwest lobby.

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'Library Shelf'
March 26, 2008: LISTEN & WATCH @ YOUR LIBRARY

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) — Let’s face it, there are not very many places that actually encourage loitering. However, Stillwater Public Library does — except we call it browsing. The browsing opportunities have been expanded to include more than just looking at books. Patrons can listen to available CD music and books or view items from our collection of videos or DVDs.

The listening and viewing centers were made available from donations of the Friends of the Library and individual donations to honor the memory of Richard Sutton, a long-time SPL staff member.

The children’s center is designated for parents/caregivers to listen and watch available library materials with their children. It has a five disk CD player and a small TV and video/DVD player. Both centers are equipped with dual headphones.

The listening center in the Teen area is placed in a comfortable sitting area where one or two teens may listen to the same disk simultaneously.

The Adult listening center has two 5 disk players and is located conveniently next to the CD music. Patrons may preview available items to determine if they would like to check them out, or just sit, listen, and relax.

The second viewing area is in the study room, which is near the video/DVD collection. A 20-inch screen with a video/DVD combination and headphones provides our patrons a great viewing opportunity.

A SPL library card is not required to use the listening and viewing centers, and may be used by the public free of charge.

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'Library Shelf'
March 19, 2008: MULTI-LANGUAGE SHELF

(STILLWATER, OKLA.) —¿Qúe tipo de libro quiere leer? Quel est votre livre préféré? Did you know that the Stillwater Public Library has books written in other languages? Between the children’s books and the adult non-fiction, we have an entire row devoted to books in languages other than English. We call this area the “Multi-language” section.

One side is filled with books in Spanish, including children’s picture books and board books, adult fiction and non-fiction, and even some movies and teen materials. We also have included many handouts and brochures in Spanish collected from different governmental and service agencies, including legal and health material. In addition, we’ve recently added an encyclopedia set in Spanish. Most of these materials were added through a generous grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. People who speak Spanish and those just wanting to practice or to expose their children to Spanish enjoy checking out these materials.

The alternate side of our multi-language section is devoted to other languages, including materials in French, German, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, and Korean. We do not yet have many items in these collections, but we continually try to add items in these other languages as receive donations.

If you have material in a language other than English and would like to donate it to the library, then please bring it to the Help Desk. We’re interested in any materials in good condition. It’s a great way to share a limited resource with the entire community.

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'Library Shelf'
March 7, 2008: DISPLAYS or MEN IN KILTS or NASCAR

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—The Stillwater Public Library offers a variety of displays throughout the year: Banned Books, Best Books of the Year, Women’s History, Oklahoma authors, and many more. We have displays throughout the entire library from the cases at the front doors, around the walls in our “gutter” shelving, and all the way back to the Young Adult and Periodicals departments.

While in the library recently, you probably noticed displays on NASCAR, Urban Fantasy, Men in Kilts, Our Favorite Bookclub Books, and 50 Ways To Improve Your Life.

One particularly popular ongoing display is "Staff Picks." These are books are chosen as “winners” by library staff, and we hope you enjoy them as much as we did.

Sometimes, our displays feature programs being held at the Library, such as "Oh, Dewey", a comedy about Dewey Decimal that’s coming up March 27th. The display includes books, handouts, and bookmarks on the Dewey decimal system.

We use displays to make it easy for people to walk right in and find a good book. We also like to have current event displays featuring exciting recent, so that the public can walk right in and read more about it. Ultimately though, we hope the displays will spark an interest for people in subjects they’ve not yet explored.

People often ask whether the books, audio books and DVDs in the displays are available for checkout. The resounding and hardy answer is YES! The library staff and volunteers put a lot of time and effort into these displays, so we hope you enjoy them in the library and at home.

 

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'Library Shelf'
March 5, 2008: M ICROFILM READERS

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—If you’ve ever tried to scan through the hundred plus years of Stillwater newspapers we have at the library, then you know that it can be slightly tedious.  Scroll left. Scroll back right.  Push up. Push down.  Enlarge. Reduce. Refocus…and all of that just to get to the point where you can print.  Even then, you can only get pieces and parts of the article you need onto one page. 

The Stillwater Library Trust has just made the whole microfilm searching and printing process a lot easier by providing funds for the purchase of a very high resolution microfilm lens.  While our former lens could capture only one quarter of a newspaper page, the new lens will capture one full page of a Stillwater newspaper.  This means that you can search much more of the page without having to re-center.  Most importantly, you can use the lens on the microfilm digital reader to scan in one entire, uninterrupted page of the newspaper.  Since it is digitized, you can easily enlarge or manipulate anything on the page when you get it home to your own computer.

By far the neatest trick with the new lens is something that everyone can do when they need a thoughtful gift in a pinch.  The new lens will allow you to print an entire newspaper page onto a legal size sheet of paper.  Anyone born in the Stillwater area would love to get a copy of the front page of the paper on the day they were born.  This is also a fun activity to do with your children.  Copies are 15 cents per page.  If you need assistance, please ask at the Help Desk.

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'Library Shelf'
Feb. 27, 2008: FAMILY READING TIME

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—What keeps your children occupied around your house? Do Play Station, Wii, computers and TV pop to mind? If you lined them all up and added a stack of books, which form of entertainment would your child choose?

According to the TV Turnoff Network, the average child spends more than four hours per day in front of the television. That is compared to the average four minutes a child spends reading for enjoyment per day. However, before you storm over to the television set and reprimand your children, you should know that the average parent spends 30 hours per week watching television, compared to only two hours per week reading to a child.

How can we get kids to choose to read? Try these ideas to help encourage reading:

• First, set a good example by letting your child see you read.
• Have plenty of reading material around the house. Not just books, but also magazines and newspapers.
• Establish a set Reading Time in your home. Turn off the TV and dedicate 30 minutes each day to reading for enjoyment. Everyone in the household stops to read, including Dad and Mom.
• Let your children read whatever they want. Remember, it is for their enjoyment. Maybe you would never want to read “Captain Underpants” or the “Guinness Book of World Records,” but kids love them.
• Play instrumental music during reading time. Kids are used to being surrounded by noisy gadgets and other kids. Absolute silence can be a distraction. So try some instrumental, jazz or classical music for a while (you may find it very relaxing too).
• Visit your library or bookstore regularly. Once again, remember to let children choose for themselves as much as possible.
• Last, discuss the books you read. Show an interest in what your children are reading, and share with them what you enjoy reading.

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'Library Shelf'
Feb. 20, 2008: BIBLIOMYSTEREIES

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—Looking for a good read? In celebration of Read Across America Day on March 3, 2008, why not pick up a bibliomystery! What, you ask, are bibliomysteries? They are defined as “mysteries that have settings, plots, or substantial characters in them related to the world of books, writers, archives, and libraries” (Bibliomysteries.com). What they really are include sinister stories of covert collections, mysterious manuscripts and dubious discards, and feature arcane authors, left-handed librarians and bibliomaniacs as characters!

In addition to the millions of readers around the world who enjoy a good mystery, I have an affinity for clever use of words, and most bibliomystery titles are an interesting play on words. Some of the creative titles gracing the covers of these special mysteries are “The Best Cellar,” “Dewey Decimated,” “Out of Circulation,” “Murder by the Book,” and “All Booked Up.” These catchy titles are just one appealing characteristic that many mystery readers will enjoy. The book world is enormously entertaining and offers unique opportunities for mystery writers to write about. As technology moves ahead at rocket speed, the world of books and libraries continues to evolve. Perhaps it is in these times of “overabundance” of information that pleasure reading is needed most. Let’s hope that this genre continues to flourish and bring the readers of the world new “Best Cellars.” So the next time you’re in the library, investigate one of these titles… but, “watch your back in the stacks!”

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'Library Shelf'
Feb. 8, 2008: SUGGEST A BOOK

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—I am one of the few sports enthusiasts at the Stillwater Public Library. Some of my favorite sports are college football & basketball with OSU being my favorite team, of course. However, my true passion lies with NASCAR. And believe me, there is NO one on staff who knows anything about this sport.

I checked the library’s catalog, and as of today, there are 30 - 40 entries containing the word NASCAR. This means we have a rather small collection of items about NASCAR in the library. When I enter the word, cookery, I find 1,022 entries, a rather large collection. How many ways can you make tuna casserole? Give me a break!

However, there is enough material for you to learn some basics of the sport. For instance, do you know how many members are in a pit crew? What green/white checker means? How many points a driver earns for leading a lap? Which announcer starts the race with, “Boogity, Boogity, Boogity, let’s go racing boys!”

Still in the dark about NASCAR? Come visit the library and see what you can find on the subject. For those of you still wondering, NASCAR stands for National Association for Stock Car Automobile Racing. I have suggested certain titles which I felt should be in the library. Thanks to me, some have been purchased. I also suggested we subscribe to NASCAR Illustrated, a monthly magazine for the NASCAR enthusiast with great articles and wonderful color photographs. Our first copy arrived this month, just in time for the new NASCAR season (beginning February 17) and the Daytona 500.

Is there a subject which you are passionate about? Visit the library and see what we have on your favorite topic. Don’t see what you need or like? We will gladly take suggestions from you. Help build our collection!

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'Library Shelf'
Jan. 18, 2008: WHO LOVES SKIPS

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—Have you ever found yourself immersed in an audio book only to get near the end and have the CD begin to skip uncontrollably? Or has the tape started to fast forward and rewind simultaneously until your tape player tries to spit it out at you? It’s as frustrating as having the power go out on your television right when the murderer is being revealed.

If you find yourself in the predicament of missing out on the middle or end of a story, you have three choices: 1) skip the middle or end and be content, 2) bring the audio book back and check out the book, or 3) return the item to the Library and let us try to fix the problem.

Should you choose option three, the more information you can provide as to what the problem was and on which disc or tape you had a problem can speed up the mending (repair) process. You can even put a hold on the item so we will contact you as soon as it is fixed.

Sometimes we can fix the problem quickly (we want to know how it ends as much as you) and get the items right back out to you. Other times, the processing time is extended due to complex problems.

Whatever you decide, please do not try and recoil the tape or wipe the CD with your shirt sleeve! Instead, bring them back to the Library. We will attempt to resurrect these items and hopefully avoid any future climax or conclusion interruptions.

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'Library Shelf'
Jan. 18, 2008: PERIODICALS

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—Do you like to keep up on all the latest news, entertainment, consumer reports, decorating ideas, etc., but don't want to go out and purchase dozens of newspapers or magazines?  Well, the Stillwater Public Library is the place to go!

We have dozens of current magazines and newspapers available for reading in the library and past issues of many magazines available for you to checkout and take home to read.  We also have very comfortable, and relatively quiet, reading areas for your convenience.

Interested in the latest ideas in home decorating?  Browse through the magazines “House Beautiful,” “Martha Stewart” or “Better Homes and Gardens.”   Want to know the latest fashion trends?  Take a look at “Glamour,” “Harper’s Bazaar,” or “Vogue.”  We have magazines to satisfy your interests in home improvement and repairs, bicycling, running, entertainment news, art, antiques, crafts, parenting, cooking, hunting, fishing and so much more! 

If you like to read the most current up-to-date news coverage, we have the major area newspapers (“Stillwater NewPress,” “Daily O’Collegian,” “Perkins/Stillwater Journal,” “Oklahoman,” “Tulsa World”), plus several national papers (“Wall Street Journal,” “USA Today,” “Investor’s Business Daily”) and the Sunday issues for “New York Times” and “Dallas Morning News.”

We also have magazines for young adults to enjoy, including "Teen Ink,” "Shonen Jump," "New York Times Upfront,” "Seventeen,” "Transworld Skateboarding,” “BMX Plus,” and “MAD&rdquo.;

In the children's area, magazines for young readers include "Zoobooks,” "National Geographic for Kids,” "Cricket,” "Jack & Jill,” and “Highlights” to name just a few.  Parents may enjoy reading "Parents" magazine or "Working Mother" for time-saving and child-rearing hints! 

On your next visit to the library, we hope you will take time to visit our periodical areas and check out our selection.

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'Library Shelf'
Jan. 6, 2008: Library Meeting Room Equipment

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—Have you ever had the thrill of seeing your PowerPoint presentation on a ten-feet screen? No? When you reserve space in the Stillwater Public Library meeting rooms, you can. At the Library, you have the option of renting some pretty awesome equipment guaranteed make your meetings shine.

Our LCD projectors rent for $50, and projection screens are available in each room with no charge. With the use of your own laptop, you can give your audience an amazing presentation. Wireless internet access and a PA system are free. If needed, we can rent overhead projectors, slide projectors, and TV/VCRs for $12 each.

What's a meeting without coffee? The Library's meeting room staff provides a full, in-room coffee service for the fee of $10 for 12 cups, $15 for 24 cups, and $25 for 36 cups.

Thinking about meeting at the Stillwater Public Library? Remember to ask about the equipment we have that can make a good meeting great. Just let us know ahead of time and we will be prepared for you. View all of our available equipment, rooms, and fee schedule on our new meeting room webpage at http://library.stillwater.org/meeting.html or contact the meeting room coordinators any time.

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'Library Shelf'
Jan. 9, 2008: Oklahoma Bragging Rights

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—If at times it seems Oklahoma leads all the wrong categories (poverty rates, obesity rates, poor school funding), there are some very bright spots that can make us proud. This list (from the Oklahoma Observer 12.25.07) along with some suggested reading you can do at the Stillwater Public Library will put you right at number one for any bragging done

• The best Vo-Tech system in America—“Through the Jungle: A Job Search Guide”
• University of Oklahoma is number 1 in National Merit Scholars—“The A’s and B’s of Academic Scholarships”
• Oklahoma State University has more that 2000 valedictorians and salutatorians at any given time—“Oklahoma State Portraits”
• Oklahoma is the true hearth of American Music—“Oklahoma Music Guide”
• Oklahoma has more Prima Ballerinas than any other state—“Maria Tallchief: America’s Prima Ballerina”
• Oklahoma had America’s first Boy Scout Troop—“Thunderbird Tracks: Early History of the Will Rogers Council Boy Scouts of America”
• Oklahoma had the first flowing oil well—“Lakes of Oil: Ben Russell's Rare Photo Record of an Early-day Oklahoma Oil Boom”
• Oklahoma is a pioneer in airplane industry—“Born to Fly: The Story of a Barnstormer”
• Oklahoma is home to the largest air material center at Tinker Air Force Base—“Tinker Air Force Base: A Pictorial History”
• Oklahoma had the first woman astronaut—“Astronauts, Athletes, and Ambassadors: Oklahoma Women from 1950-2007”
• Oklahoman Thomas Stafford was Commander of Apollo 10—“The Race”
• Oklahoma averages 350 flying days a year—“The Flying Farmer Organization”
• Oklahoma is home of the Federal Aviation Administration—“Flying Blind, Flying Safe”
• Oklahoma has Gilcrease Museum, the best collection of art and literature of the west—“Treasures of the Old West: Paintings and Sculpture from the Thomas Gilcrease Institute of American History and Art”
• Oklahoma has more Indian Tribes than any other state—“Hidden Treasures of the American West: Muriel H. Wright, Angie Debo, and Alice Marriott”
• Oklahoma has the best Elementary Teach/Pupil ratio in America—“Vinegar Pie, Being the Story of a Teacher Who Taught Forty-Five Years in the Public Elementary Schools of the United States of North America”

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'Library Shelf'
Jan. 2, 2008: Resolve to Read to Your Child!

(STILLWATER, OKLA.)—This New Year, as you begin making resolutions, please include the promise to read to your child—the promise to raise a reader!

You can begin reading to your child at birth, or even before! Just the sound of your voice is a connection to the world for your infant. Reading stories aloud before your baby begins to form sounds encourages the development of speech and language patterns.

Let your baby or toddler hold the book. The children’s section of the Library has four large tubs of sturdy board books that are perfect for this activity. These books are almost indestructible.

As your toddler shows more interest in the contents of books, choose books that use word repetition, rhymes, and a predictable text. Examples of this type of book are “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” and “Jump Frog, Jump.” Tell your child something about the story before you begin to read so they know what to expect. As you read, use different voices or facial expressions. Be animated and have fun!

If your child has a favorite book, read and reread it as often as your child wants. Choose a special place and time for reading, like a favorite chair and before bedtime. What a nice ending to the day for both of you!

As your child begins to read on his own, encourage him to read the story to you. Even as your child becomes an accomplished reader, take the time to read together.

The Library offers Storytimes for 2, 3, 4, and 5-year old children on Mondays and Fridays. Please come join us, we always have such fun with the little ones. Remember, it’s never too late to start, and words are all around us. If you can read, you can do anything.

Happy New Year from all the staff at Stillwater Public Library!

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Click here to read the "Library Shelf" columns from 2007. Return to Press Releases