Freegal: Download Music from the Vineyard Haven Public Library

The Vineyard Haven Public Library now offers free MP3 music file downloads on its website through Freegal Music. Freegal Music is an online service that provides access to over 500,000 songs from Sony Music artists, and new music is added to the collection daily.

The music files are DRM-free and do not expire, and are compatible with PCs, Macs, iPods, iPads and other MP3-compatible devices. Vineyard Haven Library cardholders are eligible for two MP3 downloads per week. A Library card number and PIN is necessary to access and download songs.

To view, browse and download music from Freegal, go to www.vhlibrary.org and scroll down the page to find the "Freegal Music Collection."

Register for the September 5k Run/Walk and Fun Run

On Sunday, September 11th, the Friends of the Library will host the annual Race for the Library. The 5k Run/Walk starts at the library with runners proceeding to the West Chop lighthouse and back. There will also be a 1/2 Mile Fun Run for Kids (13 & under). There will be prizes for winners in all age groups, and a raffle. 5k starts at 10 am; Fun Run for Kids starts at 9:45 am; Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Registration forms are available in the library or may be downloaded from the library website. Online registration is also available at https://registration.strands.com/ .

Art in the Stacks: Kathleen Poehler, Seaweed Collage

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present an exhibit of seaweed collages by artist Kathleen Poehler. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours throughout the month of July.

"Art in the Stacks" is an initiative of the Friends of the Library, to provide individual artists an opportunity to show their work, and for library patrons to enjoy art at the library throughout the year.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Kathy Poehler learned about seaweed walking the island beaches with her father when she was young, and continuing her interest in her studies at Allegheny College in Pennsylvania. Later she was able to integrate this interest with her creative expression as she sought to introduce the young children she was teaching about life in the ocean.

Interest in the medium proved to be contagious and led to several private showings at Harvard University, and the placement of her work in homes from San Francisco to Seoul, South Korea. Kathy has recently returned to the Vineyard after a sixteen year hiatus. She has participated in the All-Island Art Show, and was awarded the Rose Treat Award for her Island Collage.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

I grew up on the island with parents who instilled an appreciation and understanding of our natural habitats. I accompanied my farther as he collected, classified, and mounted seaweed (Algae), for teaching purposes, and I’ve acquired a deep understanding of individual seaweeds and their properties.

In my collages, I’ve merged an understanding of the limitations of my medium with the possibilities for self expression. The process of creating these pieces is as important to me as the work itself. Being in the ocean observing the seaweeds movement in its natural state and trying to stay true to that feeling as I work with it on paper is an important part of what I hope to reflect in my work.

My collages are created the same day the seaweed is gathered to maintain its color and structural integrity. I may have a vision or direction I would like to move in, but ultimately I listen to the seaweed and the finished pieces reflect that balance. They vary from the abstract to the more sculptural depending on the specifics of the seaweed I am working with at any given time.

New! Early Literacy Station for Ages 2-10

The Vineyard Haven Public Library System has added an Early Literacy Station in the Children's Room, a complete educational solution loaded with 50 educational software titles for kids ages 2–10. The Early Literacy Station offers children a safe, standalone computer not connected to the Internet that is age-appropriate, engaging, and academically relevant for children. The ELS has a colorful keyboard and child-size mouse to promote easy learning and discovery, however children may also interact with the ELS using the touchscreen! Children may sign up to use the ELS for 30 minutes per day.

The Early Literacy Station's educational software covers seven curricular areas: reading, math, science, social studies, writing, arts and music, and reference. The system is designed to attract and educate toddlers through early elementary school ages. The multimedia and educational content has been evaluated by early childhood specialists, educators, and family focus groups using the latest developmental models.

The Early Literacy Station was obtained through generous community support for the Friends of the Library 2011 Annual Appeal.