Thursday, December 20, 2012

Art in the Stacks: Joe Doebler


The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present an exhibit  of photographs by Joe Doebler beginning Sunday, December 2nd. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours through December.  “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.

ARTIST’S  STATEMENT

“I received a second hand camera as a gift when I was 12 and started taking pictures. I financed my new hobby with a paper route.   I took pictures of everything, my friends, landscapes and nature.  I quickly decided to become involved with the enlarging and chemical processing of my photos so I could have control of the finished product.  I was fascinated with the technology involved. During the past 20 years I followed the transition of photography from film and chemicals into digital cameras and computers.  The new digital technology brought new challenges of its own but also made results much quicker to achieve. “  All of my pictures are taken and printed by me.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

In real life Joe was an underwater acoustic engineer for the Navy, explaining that his favorite subjects in school were math and physics.  He and his wife retired and washed ashore here in 1996.  Retirement has given him more time for travel and photography.  It is fair to say that he has taken  photos from all over the world.  He has sold photos, donated photos to many local benefits and shown his work at Featherstone Center for the Arts, and at other venues.  He also edits and produce a small circulation photo calendar.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

The Peter H. Luce Play Readers perform "Comedies of Manners"

The two best-known, most highly-praised and most frequently-produced comedies of manners are Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest" and Noel Coward's "Private Lives". Scenes from both classic plays will be performed as staged readings on Sunday, January 13th at 2pm at the Vineyard Haven Public Library. The program is presented by the Friends of the Library as part of their monthly "Sunday with Friends" series. The reading is free and refreshments will be served.

Excerpts from Act II of "...Earnest" will feature performers Mike Adell, Ellie Beth, Myra Stark and Eric Turner. The performers in excerpts from Act III of "Private Lives" will be Mike Adell, Linda Comstock, Leslie J. Stark and Rise Terney. Mr. Stark has adapted and will direct both scenes. Elaine Eugster will introduce the program, and will read the stage directions.

For nearly 15 years, the Peter H Luce Play Readers have met every Wednesday of the year at the Vineyard Haven Senior Center from 9AM to Noon to read plays of every era and of every genre, from the Greek and Roman clasics to the cutting-edge works of contemporary playwrights... and everything in between: Shakespeare, Shaw, Checkov, Moliere, Miller, Ibsen Albee, O'Neil, Pinter and Neil Simon. The group is named for its founder, Peter Luce, who died in 2007.

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library encourage public understanding of the Library's vital role in the community, support activities for both adults and children, and provide various other volunteer services. Their mission is to support the Library, to build a partnership between the Library and the community and to advocate for exemplary library service. All volunteers and those who are interested in knowing more about the Friends meet at 1:00 pm on the fourth Monday of every month (except December) at the library.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Holiday Hours and Upcoming Events

The library will close early at 1pm on Monday, December 24th, and will be closed on Tuesday December 25th. We will also close early at 1pm on Monday, December 31st, and will be closed on Tuesday January 1st.

On Wednesday, December 19th at 7pm, enjoy a celebration of the winter solstice with readings from some of our Island's most popular writers. Ellie Bates, Marianne Goldberg, Jill Jupen, Clark Meyers, Donald Nitchie, Barbara Peckham, Annette Sandrock, Laura Wainwright and William Waterway will be reading, and Island Poet laureate Lee McCormick will also be there. Please bring poetry or prose you would like to share. Refreshments will be served.

The Library is also pleased to present a free concert and celebration to welcome the new year. Join us on Sunday, January 6th at 4pm for holiday refreshments and a performance on the mini-grand concert harp by Nathaniel Horwitz.

Did you know you can check out free eBooks and downloadable audiobooks from the library? For those who recieve a new eReader or audio player for the holidays, drop by the library on Saturday mornings between 10am and noon for informal demonstration of the library's "Overdrive" service. Library staff will be present to answer your questions and show you how to get started.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

2012 National Book Award Winners Announced

The 2012 National Book Award Winners:
Young People's Literature 

William Alexander
(Margaret K. McElderry Books, an imprint of 
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing)




Poetry
 
David Ferry,  
(University of Chicago Press) 
 
  




Nonfiction
 


Fiction

Louise Erdrich  
The Round House 
(Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers) 


Sunday, November 4, 2012

Vineyard Haven Public Library Releases Strategic Plan for Services

The Vineyard Haven Public Library recently developed a long-range plan to carry out library services for the next five years. The plan is the outcome of a year-long planning process that assessed current library services and facilities, and gathered extensive feedback from the community.

With the rapid growth of eBooks, streaming audio and video services, combined with increased usage of libraries nationwide, the public library environment is more unsettled than it has been for many decades. To meet these challenges the Vineyard Haven Public Library Board of Trustees and Library Staff members engaged in a strategic planning process to involve the community in a discussion about what the library could and should become.

Library Trustees followed the Strategic Planning for Results model developed by the Public Library Association. This planning model identifies 18 services responses that cover the many resources and activities that a public library does for, or offers to, the public in an effort to meet a set of well-defined community needs. To help form the plan, the Trustees appointed a Long-Range Planning Committee that included both year-round and seasonal residents.

More than 250 community members responded to two surveys designed to help the library evaluate current services and desired improvements. Members of the public also gathered at two community forums to provide further feedback. It was clear from the participation at the two community forums that the Library is a vital part of the community and a place where people go for books, media, and information, but also for cultural events, as a gathering place, and as a hub for information about what is going on in the town. People place a high value on the services the Library provides and are appreciative of everything the Library and staff does to enhance their experience in the community as a whole.

The Library’s new plan focuses on four strategic initiatives and outlines activities that library staff and trustees will undertake over the next five years to meet the community’s vision. Under the plan, the library will continue to offer a large number of programs to promote lifelong learning and early literacy, and to provide books, films, and other materials in a variety of formats for all ages. In addition, the library will focus on providing information on local, national and world affairs in order to help library patrons become informed citizens and participate in community decision-making.

Although plan activities were slated to begin in July 2013, Library Director Amy Ryan says that both staff and trustees are already acting on initiatives suggested by the plan, such as improving safety around the library grounds, increasing online resources for children, and offering programs such as the Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions discussion group, currently meeting at the library on Thursday evenings.

Public Libraries must have an approved Long-Range Plan on file with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners in order to apply for both Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds and the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program. The library has been awarded two LSTA grants in the past five years, including a "Conversation Circles" grant to support English language learners, and an "Equal Access" grant to provide lifelong learning opportunities for older adults.

The complete plan is available on the library website atwww.vhlibrary.org, and printed copies are available for review at the library.

 

 

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Vineyard Libraries Earn Stars!

We're happy to share that the Vineyard Haven Public Library has once again been named one of 262 "star" libraries (out of 7,570 rated) in Library Journal's annual rating of U.S. public libraries. The rating is based on four public service indicators—circulation, visits, program attendance, and public Internet use—from 2010 data collected by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. There are 9 "star" libraries in Massachusetts, also including the West Tisbury and Oak Bluffs Libraries on Martha's Vineyard. 8 of the 9 Massachusetts star libraries are members of the CLAMS network.

November Dates to Remember

The library will be closed on Sunday, November 11th and Monday, November 12th for the Veterans Day holiday. The library will closed early at 1pm on Wednesday, November 21st, and remain closed on Thursday November 22nd and Friday November 23rd for Thanksgiving.

On Wednesday, November 14th at 7pm, Edward Hoagland, one of America's great essayists, will speak at the library. Widely celebrated for his essays on travel and nature, Mr. Hoagland has written more than twenty books, both fiction and nonfiction. He worked at the Barnum & Bailey Circus while attending Harvard in the early 1950s and later traveled around the world writing for Harper’s, National Geographic, and other magazines. He has received two Guggenheim Fellowships and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1982, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2011. He recently received the very prestigious John Burroughs Medal for his 2011 book, Sex and the River Styx. His latest book is Alaskan Travels. Join us in welcoming an American treasure.

Also in November, the Friends of the Library launch their "Sunday with Friends" winter series with Louisa Gould, a regarded maritime, portrait and travel photographer who has traveled to over 100 countries and territories. On Sunday, November 18th at 2pm at the Vineyard Haven Public Library, she will take you around the world with some iconic images and some never before released photographs. Countries that will be featured in the presentation will include Antartica, Burma, Cambodia, Morroco, Bali, India, Fiji, Vietnam, Spain, New Zealand, Egypt, Cuba. There will be time for questions, and refreshments will be served.

On Tuesday, November 20th at 7pm, the Martha's Vineyard Library Association is pleased to present the third in a series of talks by Phil Weinstein, Alexander Griswold Cummins Professor of English at Swarthmore College. Beginning with Ernest Hemingway's In Our Time (1925) and concluding with Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kittredge (2008), this course explores a range of American short stories. The goal of the course is not to sample the huge output in this genre, but to delve more deeply into these writers' concerns and literary procedures and to identify the characteristic voice of each. Books may be requested through your local library and a study guide is available at the front desk. This evening's program will be held at the Vineyard Haven Public Library and the text will be Raymond Carver's "Cathedral".

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Library CLOSED on Monday, October 29th

The Vineyard Haven Public Library will be closed for the day on Monday, October 29th.
The library will open on Tuesday October 30th weather permitting, however programs including Preschool Storytime will be cancelled on Tuesday.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Online Access to the Cape Cod Times

Library patrons can access many full text articles (without photographs) for the Cape Cod Times from 2002 to the present through a free online database. You may need to enter your library card number in order to access the database from your home computer. A link to the database appears on the library home page at www.vhlibrary.org.

Recent articles, including photographs, are available on the Cape Cod Times website at www.capecodonline.com (website users are limited to a monthly quota of articles unless they purchase an online subscription).

If you need help locating an article from the Cape Cod Times, please ask a library staff member for assistance.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

CLAMS Mobile Apps Now Available for your iPhone, Android Phone, Blackberry, and More!

CLAMS MOBILE APP LINKS


                         

For your iPhone


For your iPad


For your iPodTouch

                         

For your Android Phone


For your Android Tablet


For Android Devices
*not* listed on Google Play

                         

For your BlackBerry Phone


For your BlackBerry Tablet


For your *Windows Phone

*The Windows Phone Option does not download an APP to your phone. It simply runs the App from the site.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Friends of the Library Booksales Held Monthly

The Friends of the Library hold "mini" book sales at the library, from 1pm-3pm on the third Saturday of each month. The October sale will be held on Saturday, October 20th from 1-3pm. Books are priced at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers, or $12 to fill a bag.

Proceeds from these sales benefit library programs for children, and other library services supported by the Friends. Sales are also planned for Saturday, November 17th, and Saturday, December 15th, from 1pm-3pm.

Sunday Hours and Programs Resume on October 14th!

Sunday, October 14th, will be the first Sunday of the season that the library will be open. The library will be open from noon-4pm throughout the winter, except for a few holiday weekends. To celebrate, please join us for coffee and refreshments starting at Noon on the 14th.

As in past years, the Friends of the Library will be presenting a variety of special programs on Sunday afternoons at 2pm, including lectures, a play reading, and "Crafts for Grownups" with Jennifer. Details of programs will be posted soon on our website and bulletin boards.

West Tisbury Library Moving to Temporary Location October 15th

As the West Tisbury Library prepares to break ground on their new building, their library will be relocating to a temporary location at Middletown Village, across the street from Conroy’s Apothecary in North Tisbury, open to the public on Monday October 15th. The last day in the current library building will be Saturday, October 13th. The temporary location will have room for their newest materials including adult, children, and teen books and DVDs. They will have WiFi and laptops, passport applications, inter-library loan, printing, copying and fax available for public use. The library phone number and hours of operation will remain the same.

Friday, September 28, 2012

October 1st Price Change for Friends of the Library Tote Bags

Since 2008, the Friends of the Vineyard Haven Library have been helping Vineyard residents do their part in keeping our Earth a little greener by offering reusable, recyclable polypropylene bags, to help reduce the use of plastic bags by library patrons. The sturdy eco-friendly bags can be used to carry books and DVDs home from the library, or may be used for groceries and other personal items. The bags are also available in a new color this year, "Vineyard Purple."

In the past, the bags were available for purchase at the Library for less than the cost of manufacturing and shipping paid by the Friends of the Library. Due to price increases and in order to raise money to continue to support library children's programs and other initiatives, the price of the bags will be changed. Effective October 1st 2012, the bags will be sold for $2.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Art in the Stacks: Clara Kisko

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present an exhibit of acrylic landscape paintings by Canadian born artist and Edgartown resident Clara Kisko. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours through the end of October. "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.

Clara began painting when well into her fifties, beginning with small watercolor sketches to illustrate her travel journals. This interest was enhanced by watercolor classes taken at Featherstone Centre for the Arts with Carolyn Daniele. She is a newcomer to painting in acrylics and is captivated by the rich and vibrant color as well as the texture of this medium.

Both here on the Vineyard and in Toronto, Canada, Clara paints with groups of artist friends on Monday afternoons. The series of paintings on display were all painted in 2012 during these friendly, informal sessions. The abstract flower pieces were painted to contrast the whites and grays of a Toronto winter. The landscapes were inspired by New England scenes and were painted during the spring and summer months.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

How to Protect Yourself from Tick-Borne Illnesses

At 7pm on Tuesday, September 25th, Tisbury Health Commissioner Michael Loberg, Tisbury Assistant Health Agent Maura Valley, and other Island health administrators and providers will all be on hand to discuss how to best protect oneself from tick-borne illnesses, and to share a  recently launched website from the Martha's Vineyard Boards of Health. 

This site provides the information necessary to minimize TBI exposure, to recognize its early symptoms, if exposed, and to seek prompt effective therapy, if symptomatic. This site also contains data currently being collected throughout our county, including Naushon. The Island Boards of Health will be developing recommendations based on these findings and presenting them to the Island's Boards of Selectmen in early 2013.

Sunday, September 16, 2012

5k Results!

15th Annual 5k Run / Walk for the Library
"Run to the Chop"
Vineyard Haven, MA September 15, 2012
Timing and Score by ORGANIZATION PLUS Road Race Management Services

Place Div/Tot No. Name City St Ag S Time Pace
===== ======== ==== ===================== =============== == == = ======= =====
1 1/4 13 Da Silva Rene Vineyard Haven MA 26 M 18:31 5:58
2 1/10 38 Steenkamp Reaan Vineyard Haven MA 45 M 18:36 6:00
3 1/8 55 DiDONATO-SROCZ GIA WEBSTER MA 35 F 20:45 6:41
4 1/3 51 GARRISON BRYAN VINEYARD HAVEN MA 30 M 21:26 6:54
5 2/4 73 MERCALDO DAVID VINEYARD HAVEN MA 25 M 21:59 7:05
6 3/4 84 HALPERIN J EDGARTOWN MA 29 M 22:24 7:13
7 1/11 59 BURKE PETER TISBURY MA 10 M 22:31 7:15
8 2/10 83 PORTERFIELD CHRIS VINEYARD HAVEN MA 43 M 23:02 7:25
9 2/11 31 Porterfield Owen Vineyard Haven MA 11 M 23:10 7:28
10 4/4 3 Boughton Jeff Oak Bluffs MA 24 M 23:12 7:29
11 3/10 63 BURKE JONATHAN TISBURY MA 43 M 23:19 7:31
12 2/3 82 LUCAS JUSTIN VINEYARD HAVEN MA 37 M 23:19 7:31
13 4/10 29 Perleberg Chris Vineyard Haven MA 47 M 23:36 7:36
14 5/10 6 Carter Paul West Tisbury MA 44 M 24:07 7:46
15 2/8 37 Stackpole Katherine West Tisbury MA 30 F 24:13 7:48
16 1/5 9 Clancy Laurence West Tisbury MA 50 M 25:05 8:05
17 3/8 76 BROWN KATIE VINEYARD HAVEN MA 37 F 25:13 8:07
18 2/5 89 LALOR PAUL RIVERSIDE RI 51 M 25:19 8:09
19 1/14 72 CREIGHTON DONNA VINEYARD HAVEN MA 48 F 25:19 8:09
20 3/5 43 PARKER JOHN VINEYARD HAVEN MA 59 M 25:30 8:13
21 4/5 77 PARKER PATRICK VINEYARD HAVEN MA 51 M 25:31 8:13
22 2/14 7 Casper Karen Vineyard Haven MA 43 F 25:52 8:20
23 3/11 54 POGUE SPENCER EDGARTOWN MA 10 M 25:53 8:20
24 1/5 58 BLEIER JOEL WINCHESTER MA 64 M 25:58 8:22
25 4/11 44 EMERY CAMDEN EDGARTOWN MA 11 M 26:01 8:23
26 6/10 67 PIL AUTON PURCHASE NY 40 M 26:22 8:30
27 1/5 17 Fitzpatrick Ellen West Tisbury MA 51 F 26:23 8:30
28 3/14 69 KOSTMAN BETH VINEYARD HAVEN MA 48 F 26:30 8:32
29 5/5 23 LUCAS FRED Vineyard Haven MA 51 M 26:34 8:34
30 4/14 65 NOLAN DIANE VINEYARD HAVEN MA 47 F 26:41 8:36
31 5/11 30 Porterfield Nathaniel Vineyard Haven MA 9 M 26:50 8:39
32 5/14 88 KOPOYAN ROBIN WORCESTER MA 46 F 26:57 8:41
33 4/8 19 Goldstein Nili Beth Vineyard Haven MA 30 F 27:13 8:46
34 6/11 87 DORR HARRISON VINEYARD HAVEN MA 12 M 27:34 8:53
35 3/3 18 Goldstein Josh Vineyard Haven MA 33 M 27:35 8:53
36 7/10 71 CREIGHTON CHARLES VINEYARD HAVEN MA 45 M 27:47 8:57
37 5/8 50 GARRISON KIM VINEYARD HAVEN MA 34 F 28:14 9:06
38 8/10 45 EMERY STEPHEN EDGARTOWN MA 45 M 29:28 9:30
39 7/11 66 WALLIS TIMOTHY OAK BLUFFS MA 10 M 30:38 9:52
40 6/14 25 Metters Maria Vineyard Haven MA 47 F 30:44 9:54
41 9/10 57 SROCZENSLCI LEE WEBSTER MA 41 M 31:49 10:15
42 7/14 32 Porterfield Stacey Vineyard Haven MA 42 F 32:06 10:20
43 1/3 52 POGUE PAIGE EDGARTOWN MA 10 F 32:42 10:32
44 2/3 70 CHERRY CATHERINE EDGARTOWN MA 11 F 32:42 10:32
45 2/5 33 Raymond Bud Vineyard Haven MA 61 M 32:52 10:35
46 8/14 2 Booth Diane Vineyard Haven MA 45 F 32:59 10:37
47 1/9 48 O'SULLIVAN KATHY EDGARTOWN MA 62 F 34:10 11:00
48 1/5 8 Chapa Lindsey Vineyard Haven MA 27 F 34:17 11:03
49 3/5 11 Clough Marston Southborough MA 69 M 34:20 11:04
50 6/8 46 MAUND REGAN LITTLE FALLS NH 34 F 34:21 11:04
51 2/5 47 HOLLADAY JANET EDGARTOWN MA 59 F 34:32 11:07
52 7/8 1 Blake Lynn Vineyard Haven MA 39 F 35:03 11:17
53 9/14 90 BUCHAULD TAMARA VINEYARD HAVEN MA 45 F 35:04 11:18
54 10/14 68 DAVIDSON CHRISTINA PURCHASE NY 42 F 35:13 11:21
55 3/3 53 POGUE MOLLY EDGARTOWN MA 10 F 35:21 11:23
56 1/2 34 Schneider Audie Vineyard Haven MA 70 F 35:42 11:30
57 8/11 27 Munn Linus Vineyard Haven MA 7 M 36:34 11:47
58 11/14 28 Munn Natalie Vineyard Haven MA 42 F 36:35 11:47
59 10/10 26 Munn Dana Vineyard Haven MA 42 M 36:36 11:47
60 56 WALTERSDORF BOX 2379 56833F 37:48 12:10
61 3/5 74 GITLITZ ROBIN VINEYARD HAVEN MA 55 F 37:50 12:11
62 1/3 39 Street Jack Vineyard Haven MA 72 M 38:08 12:17
63 2/9 10 Clough Louise Southborough MA 64 F 38:20 12:21
64 3/9 81 KISKO CLARA EDGARTOWN MA 60 F 39:58 12:52
65 2/5 75 ALSTON PATRICE STATEN ISLAND NY 28 F 41:17 13:18
66 4/9 80 DeCARION DEIDRE EDGARTOWN MA 68 F 41:22 13:19
67 9/11 91 METTERS OLIVER VINEYARD HAVEN MA 10 M 41:23 13:20
68 5/9 62 SOLARES MARY LASK OSWEGO OR 62 F 41:31 13:22
69 6/9 61 CLEARY JANICE PORTLAND OR 61 F 42:23 13:39
70 4/5 60 SOLARES ALLAN LAKE OSWEGO OR 60 M 43:10 13:54
71 12/14 24 Magiera Dee Greenville RI 47 F 43:21 13:58
72 10/11 78 FAVREAU OWEN VINEYARD HAVEN MA 10 M 43:23 13:58
73 11/11 79 FAVREAU EMMETT VINEYARD HAVEN MA 08 M 43:53 14:08
74 13/14 49 FARREAU PATTY VINEYARD HAVEN MA 46 F 43:59 14:10
75 7/9 40 Street Pamela Vineyard Haven MA 65 F 45:12 14:33
76 14/14 5 Campbell Stephanie 45 F 45:13 14:34
77 8/9 20 HOLLAND KAREN WINEYARD HAVEN MA 60 F 46:26 14:57
78 2/3 15 DORR PAUL VINEYARD HAVEN MA 70 M 48:08 15:30
79 3/5 41 Tarter Ashley Vineyard Haven MA 26 F 48:48 15:43
80 4/5 86 DILLON ABIGAIL EDGARTOWN MA 27 F 48:48 15:43
81 5/5 42 Welch Cassie Dighton MA 28 F 48:54 15:45
82 8/8 85 CALLAHAN MELISSA OAK BLUFFS MA 33 F 48:54 15:45
83 4/5 36 Smith Susan Oak Bluffs MA 55 F 48:55 15:45
84 5/5 12 Coleman Mara West Tisbury MA 57 F 50:59 16:25
85 2/2 16 Eugster Elaine Vineyard Haven MA 75 F 59:59 19:19
86 3/3 64 STARK LESLIE J VINEYARD HAVEN MA 74 M 59:59 19:19
87 9/9 4 Burt Bonnie Piedmont CA 67 F 1:01:41 19:52
88 5/5 22 Liss Mark Piedmont CA 64 M 1:01:42 19:52

Thursday, September 13, 2012

A Century of American Short Stories

Starting September 13th, Philip Weinstein, Professor of English at Swarthmore College and part-time resident in Aquinnah, will lead a reading and discussion series at Island Libraries on the American Story Story. Beginning with Ernest Hemingway's In Our Time (1925) and concluding with Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kittredge (2008), this course explores a range of American short stories. We will devote a week apiece to each of four writers. Our goal is not to sample the huge output in this genre, but to delve more deeply into these writers' concerns and literary procedures and to identify the characteristic voice of each.

Dates, Locations and Texts:
  • Old Aquinnah Town Hall, September 13th (5-6:30 p.m.): Ernest Hemingway, In Our Time
  • Chilmark Free Public Library, September 26th (5-6:30 p.m.): Flannery O'Connor, The Collected Stories (selections)
  • Vineyard Haven Public Library, November 20th (7-8:30 p.m.): Raymond Carver, Cathedral
  • Edgartown Public Library, December 5th (7-8:30 p.m.): Elizabeth Strout, Olive Kittredge
Major topics:

* What insights into multifaceted modern America does a study of four writers (from the 1920s into the new century) provide us?

* An encounter with nature recurs as an abiding dimension of several of our writers' work. What larger (and differing) meanings about America does this encounter take on?

* What are the strengths and limits of the short story as a literary form? In what ways do the books by Hemingway, Carver, and Strout seem to aim for novelistic form (by way of short stories)?

Access Your CLAMS Account More Easily by Creating a "Username"

This week the CLAMS library network has introduced a new feature to make it easier for patrons to use their online library accounts. Instead of using a 13-digit library card number each time you access your account, you now have the option of creating an easy-to-remember username.

To do so:
  • Log in with your barcode and PIN.
  • Go to Modify Personal Information.
  • Enter a username of your choice, and click "Submit." (Usernames may contain 6 to 25 alphanumeric characters.)
If you forget your username, you can still log in with your library barcode. Once in My Account, you can go back to Modify Personal Information to view and/or change your username.

NOTE: At this time, your library card barcode is still required to use the Virtual Catalog and CLAMS Digital Download service, and to use public computers at the Vineyard Haven Public Library.

Temporary Relocation of Tisbury Town Hall Offices Extended

The Tisbury Town Hall located at 51 Spring Street will be closed beginning September 17th. The office of the Town Tax Collector will be temporarily relocacted to the Town Hall Annex off High Point Lane, which will remain open as usual. All other Town offices will move to basement of the Tisbury Emergency Services Facility located at 215 West Spring Street. Both parking and the entrance to this temporary location are in the rear of the building. The Town Hall will reopen at 51 Spring Street on Monday, October 1st.

Summer Reading For Grownups Grand Prize Results

Congratulations to Sarah Carr and Kay Mayhew, who were the winners of the grand prize drawing for the Library's second annual "Summer Reading for Grownups" program.

The prizes, which included a Bunch of Grapes gift certificate and a canvas library tote bag, were sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

All participants who have not already done so are invited to visit the library to select a free book before the end of September.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Monthly Book Sales Held 3rd Saturday of Each Month

The Friends of the Library hold "mini" book sales at the library, from 1pm-3pm on the third Saturday of each month. The September sale will be held on Saturday, September 15th from 1-3pm, with a "bonus" sale on Sunday September 16th from 9-11am.

Proceeds from these sales benefit library programs for children, and other library services supported by the Friends. Sales are also planned for Saturday, October 20th, and Saturday, November 17th, from 1pm-3pm.

Sunday Hours Resume Beginning October 14th!

Sunday, October 14th, will be the first Sunday of the season that the library will be open. The library will be open from noon-4pm throughout the winter, except for a few holiday weekends. To celebrate, please join us for coffee and refreshments starting at Noon on the 14h.

As in past years, the Friends of the Library will be presenting a variety of special programs on Sunday afternoons. Details of programs will be posted soon on our website and bulletin boards.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

5k Race, Kid's Fun Run, Plus "Bonus" Book Sale on Sept. 16th

On Sunday, September 16th, 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 at the library or may be downloaded from our website, or you can register online.

The morning of the race, the Friends will also hold a "mini" book sale fundraiser from 9am until 11am. This is in addition to the regular monthly book sale that will be held on Saturday September 15th from 1-3pm.

12 Part Series on the History of Opera Begins in September

Beginning in September, Susan Grunthal will present a twelve part series on the History of Opera, from Monteverdi to Adams including Mozart, Wagner, Verdi and Pucinni. Having grown up a short distance from Covent Garden and a teacher of music by profession, Susan Grunthal began teaching the history of opera after 30 years as an attendee of the Metropolitan Opera. She currently teaches at the Westchester Collegium in 5 different venues, and sings in the Taconic Chorus in Westchester. Class materials will be available before each session at the library circulation desk. Four sessions will be offered this September, and will then continue in May 2013.

Scheduled dates:
Thursday September 13th at 7pm
Saturday September 15th at 11 am
Thursday September 20th at 7pm
Saturday September 22nd at 2pm

Participants may register by calling or visiting the library, or may register online.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Art in the Stacks: Christopher Wright

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present an exhibit of photographs by Christopher Wright this month. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours from now through September 29th. "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.

ARTIST'S STATEMENT:

"I think of myself somewhat as a hybrid photographer, combining elements of my past history in charcoal drawing, and my appreciation for painting and other art mediums with my passion for photography.

I started taking pictures at the age of eight, and while I respect those who have chosen the path of formal education in photography, it just wasn't mine. Being self taught, I feel, allows me to be freer to push boundaries, as I simply don't see any. When I see a setting that I'd like to photograph, what I see is more similar to a drawing or a painting. It's as though a window opens up where it feels right to take a photograph, and the scene takes on a life of it's own, alive and interactive. I could describe it as being magic. It's truly one of the most amazing things I've ever experienced, and something I'm extraordinarily grateful for.

Life is full of magic, and to be able to carry a piece of that through a photograph for others to feel is what I hope to achieve and exactly why I am doing this. With that and with gratitude, I think I will step out of the way and let the pictures speak for themselves."

ABOUT THE ARTIST:

Christopher Wright is a full time resident of Martha's Vineyard, who has been here, on and off, for his entire life. He considers his work, which revolves around the Vineyard, to be, in his words, "an honor and a true labor of love". Choosing to begin selling his work in December 2010, Christopher's photography is now hanging in homes spanning from here on Martha's Vineyard, to New York City, to the shores of New Zealand, with, as he puts it, his "honest gratitude being the key component". Christopher has shown his work on island at The Scottish Bakehouse, the Made Here On The Vineyard gallery, the Shephard Fine Artspace gallery, Featherstone Center For The Arts, The Vineyard Haven Public Library, The 2011 and 2012 Family Planning Art Shows, The 150th, & soon to be 151st, Agricultural Fairs, The Island Children's School, and continues to show at "Bryn Walker - Vineyard Haven".

For more information please visit: www.CWrightArtistry.com

"Great Decisions" Global Affairs Discussion Group Begins in September

The Vineyard Haven Public Library is forming a Great Decisions Discussion Group that will meet for 8 sessions on Thursdays at 7pm, beginning September 27th.

A Great Decisions Discussion Group is composed of interested individuals who want an opportunity to learn and participate in the foreign policy decision-making process. The Foreign Policy Association (FPA) has published the Great Decisions briefing book, a well researched annual publication covering eight timely global topics to be read by group participants in order to prepare for each discussion. At each meeting we will show a 30 minute documentary film on that week's topic, to be followed by a moderated discussion.

Please register online or by calling the library (508-696-4211). Briefing books may be purchased from the library for $10 ($20 if purchased from FPA). A limited number of free copies may be available for students (contact the library for more details). This program is jointly sponsored by the Vineyard Haven Library and the League of Women Voters of Martha's Vineyard.

Topics and meeting dates:

7pm Thursday September 27,
Middle East realignment: The popular revolts and upheaval of the Arab Spring have radically changed the face of the Middle East. What lies ahead for the Middle East’s transition to democracy? What are the prospects for the governments that have held out in this new order? With many longtime U.S. allies ousted, how will the U.S. recalibrate its relations with the new regimes?

7pm Thursday October 4
Promoting democracy: The U.S. has had a history of advancing and supporting democracy around the world. What place does democracy promotion have in U.S. foreign policy today? With a choice of tools ranging from economic aid to military force, what are the appropriate yet effective methods that the U.S. should use to promote democracy?

7pm October 18, 2012
Mexico: Mexico’s border with Central America, as well as the border it shares with the U.S., has been a pathway for people, goods, crime and contraband in both directions. How can Mexico address these transborder challenges? What is the future of Mexico’s relations with its northern and southern neighbors? How will Mexico’s foreign relations affect its domestic politics?

7pm Thursday October 25
Cybersecurity: The securitization of cyberspace has caused a sea change for both governments and the private sector, faced with new threats, new battlegrounds and new opportunities. Faced with challenges such as international cybercrime and authoritarian control of networks, how will the U.S. and its democratic allies approach the cyber frontier? How does this new domain figure in U.S. strategic interests?

7pm Thursday November 1
Exit from Afghanistan & Iraq: Ten years after September 11, 2001, the U.S. is winding down its military commitment in Iraq and slowly pulling out of Afghanistan. What exit strategy will help Afghanistan and Iraq build stable democratic nations? How can the U.S. continue to achieve its counterterrorism goals? What is the role of the U.S. in the future of the Middle East?

7pm Thursday November 8
State of the oceans: The world’s oceans are essential to life on earth, and are tremendously sensitive to global climate change. What are the consequences of climate change on oceanic factors like biodiversity, sea levels and extreme weather systems? How can the U.S. and its international partners address the emerging challenges to this shared resource?

7pm Thursday November 15
Indonesia: Having emerged from authoritarianism in the last 15 years, Indonesia has made remarkable strides politically, economically and socially. Yet the new, democratic Indonesia is still a developing country facing considerable challenges. How can Indonesia continue its path of growth, reform and prosperity? What is Indonesia’s role in the global community?

7pm Thursday November 29
Energy geopolitics: The energy markets have been shaken by the instability of Middle East oil and the vulnerability of nuclear power. Moreover, developing countries like China are becoming bigger energy consumers, while energy producers like Russia see the opportunity to widen their influence. In this changed landscape, how will the U.S.’s energy needs affect its relations with other nations?

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Special Events in August

Tuesday August 7th, 7 pm
James Prosek: Eels -- An Exploration, From New Zealand to the Sargasso, of the World’s Most Amazing and Mysterious Fish
James Prosek offers a fascinating tour through the life, history, and cultural associations of the freshwater eel, exploring its biology in streams and epic migrations in the ocean, its myth and lore, its mystery and beauty. Prosek travels the globe and will be spending much of the month of August in Japan filming a documentary about his study of eels for Nature on PBS.

Tuesday, August 21st, 7 pm
From Cowboys to Kids: A Personal Journey with Len Morris
Winner of the 2012 Iqbal Masih Award for the Elimination of Child Labor, documentary filmmaker Len Morris will share his story of how he went from producing documentary films on westerns and their cowboy heroes, to filming and producing documentaries on child labor in many third world countries. Len’s website, mediavoicesforchildren.org, documents his fight against violations of human rights and the human spirit.

Wednesday , August 22nd, 7 pm
Lee McCormack & Rachel Baird: Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard’s New Poet Laureate
Join us as we welcome Lee McCormack to his new role as Martha’s Vineyard’s Poet Laureate. Lee will read his poetry, accompanied by Rachel Baird, Martha’s Vineyard’s Seasonal Poet Laureate. Sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard Poetry Society, with a reception to follow.

Tuesday, August 28th, 7 pm
Duncan Caldwell: Ancient Egyptian Royal Symbols
Archaeologist Duncan Caldwell will speak about one of his most recent expeditions to the Egyptian Sahara. Many of the symbols which were used by the royalty of ancient Egypt around 5,000 years ago came from 3,000 miles away. As the area became a desert, the Sahara, the population retraced their ancestors’ steps. Duncan has been on the vanguard of important archaeological conservation efforts in Europe and Africa. He lives in Paris and Aquinnah.

Thursday, August 30th, 7 pm
Richard Ferland: Travel To China -- From Preparation to Immersion
Join professional photographer Richard Ferland as he takes you on a journey through China. Richard has extensive experience in China, having lived and worked there for a number of years. This presentation focuses on China’s greatest asset, its people.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Art in the Stacks: Carolyn Daniele

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present an exhibit of watercolors and oils by Carolyn Daniele this month. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours until early August. "Art in the Stacks" is an initiative of the Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library, to provide individual artists an opportunity to show their work, and for library patrons to enjoy art at the library throughout the year.

Carolyn is a multimedia artist. Her first love is ceramic sculpture, and after that... everything else. Carolyn had a very successful one woman show at Featherstone Center for the Arts last summer, selling most of her paintings to new and loyal followers. She has also shown at the West Chop Club, the All Island Art Show, the Family Planning Show, and Dragonfly Art Gallery. Her subjects are as varied as her medium, including Vineyard scenes, landscapes, flowers, abstracts, and
animals.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Register Now for the Library 5k Run/Walk and Fun Run

On Sunday, September 16th, 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.

Pickup a registration forms at the library or download from our website, or you can register online.

Monthly Book Sales Held 3rd Saturday of Each Month

The Friends of the Library hold "mini" book sales at the library, from 1pm-3pm on the third Saturday of each month. The July sale will be held on Saturday, July 21st.

Proceeds from these sales benefit library programs for children, and other library services supported by the Friends. Sales are also planned for Saturday, August 18th, and Saturday, September 15th, from 1pm-3pm.

Author Appearances at the Library in July

On Sunday, July 15th at 3pm, the Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present a free event honoring local author Cynthia Riggs, with reception to follow. Cynthia Riggs is the author of the Vineyard-based mystery series featuring 92-year-old poet & sleuth Victoria Trumbull. Educated as a geologist, Cynthia has also earned an MFA in creative writing from Vermont College. Cynthia's eleventh mystery, Poison Ivy, is available on Kindle and coming soon to paperback.

On Wednesday July 18, at 7pm, the library welcomes fifth generation summer visitor Phyllis Meras, who has written a new book, In Every Season: Memories of Martha’s Vineyard. Ms. Meras, a former editor at the New York Times and The Vineyard Gazette, celebrates the natural beauty and values of the older Island lifestyle of Martha’s Vineyard. Having lived on the Island since 1967 when she became editor of the Gazette, she says of her book, “This is about the eternal aspects of the Vineyard that should be cherished.” Join us for a reception after Ms. Meras' talk.

On Wednesday July 25, at 7pm, Charlayne Hunter-Gault will be at the library to talk about her new book for young adults, To the Mountaintop: My Journey Through the Civil Rights Movement. The first black woman writer at The New Yorker and a former reporter for The Times, for “The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour” on PBS and for National Public Radio, Charlayne Hunter-Gault was also one of the first students to integrate the all-white University of Georgia in 1961. In her book, Charlayne Hunter-Gault retells her journey through the Civil Rights Movement from 1959-1965. Charlayne will join us for a special reception and book signing. Her book is aimed at the young adults in your life so bring your children and grandchildren along.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

TumbleBooks and TumbleReadables "eBooks for eKids"

TumbleBooks are animated, talking picture books which teach kids the joy of reading in a format they'll love. They are created by taking existing picture books, adding animation, sounds, music and narration to produce an electronic picture book (and some classics) which you can read, or have read to you.

Tumblebooks are also available for viewing on the iPad. Check out the first batch of iPad-compatible TumbleBooks by signing into TumbleBookLibrary on your iPad and going to the Story Books section. Just below the "Story Books" heading, there is a link called "Click here for iPad-compatible titles". Click on this link, and the iPad books will be sorted for you. Next, simply click on the "iPad" button to launch the book of your choice. The book will appear in a small window at first. Click on the "full screen" button to expand it.

The creators of Tumblebooks have also created Tumblereadables, featuring elementary, middle school and young adult titles, as well as classics and graphic novels, and nearly 200 educational videos from National Geographic. Vineyard Haven Library has trial access to Tumblereadables for the summer, so please try them and let us know what you think.

Monday, June 18, 2012

Summer Reading for Kids, Teens, and "Grownups" at the Vineyard Haven Library

Registration for the Summer Reading Program at the Vineyard Haven Public Library begins June 25th, 2012. Children may visit the Children's Room at the library to sign up, log the books they read, and earn prizes including a T-shirt and gift certificates from local businesses. Teens ages 12 to 18 can register online. Teens who register online can visit the library circulation desk to claim a special prize, just for signing up

Special programs for children that are planned for the summer include a concert by Ellen Allard for ages 4 and up on Tuesday July 24th at 11am, and a performance by Marcus the Magician on Thursday, August 9th at 3:30. These events are made possible by a contribution from The Anderson Foundation. Other special guests planned for children's include author Jacqui Boulter, Joyce Maxner, Susie Bowman, storybook character Lilly, and Gus Ben David and his wild animals. Monday, July 9th will be MV Sharks day at the library. Details will be available at the library and on the library event calendar.

For the second year, the Vineyard Haven Library is offering a Summer Reading Program for “Grownups”. Adults who read a book a week (8 books July through August) will be eligible to win a gift certificate, books, and other prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Library. To participate, patrons may create an online account by visiting the library homepage. Patrons may log the books they read over the summer, write reviews, and register for prizes.

The summer reading program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the Massachusetts Library System, the Boston Bruins, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. Programs for children are supported by the Friends of the Library and are free for participants.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

EnvisionWare: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why did the library purchase EnvisionWare software?

A. EnvisionWare provides equitable access to the public computers by enforcing a time limit for each user when the computers are in high demand and encourages patrons to be more conservative when printing at the library. It also helps the library recover printing costs.

Q. How do I log on a computer?

A. Type in your 13-digit library card number at the logon screen. If you do not have a library card, you may request a one-day, thirty minute guest pass at a library circulation desk.

Q. What if all of the computers are in use?

A. At the Reservation and Printing Station (near the Circulation Desk):

* Click "Make a Reservation"
* Select Next Available PC
* Enter library card number or guest pass number
* Cardholders may choose Internet or Word Processing
* Guest pass holders choose Express
* Accept reservation, and print a receipt.
* At the time indicated, logon to the computer indicated on your receipt

Q. How does EnvisionWare manage time?

A. For library card users, the system will extend computing sessions (after prompting the user) by 20 minute increments when computers are available. For users with guest passes, the system will extend computing sessions (after prompting the user) by 15 minute increments when computers are available.

As reservations are made at the Computer Sign-In Station, there is a chance that the computer a patron is using will become reserved by another patron. The person using the computer will be allowed to use the remaining time on their timer, and then the computer must be relinquished to the patron who has the reservation.

Patrons using a library card are guaranteed an initial 1 hour. Time management beyond the first hour controls how long a library card user can stay on a computer. When computers are full, the system determines which computer(s) are eligible to be reserved based on whose time is "up" first.

Q. Will I receive a warning message before the end of my session?

A. EnvisionWare has a small countdown timer that remains in view.

Q. Can I make a reservation for another day?

A. Patrons with library cards may reserve a computer one day in advance at the Reservation and Printing Station. Reservations will be held for 10 minutes past your scheduled starting time.

Q. How does EnvisionWare manage printing?

A. EnvisionWare uses a print release station to allow users to access and pay for print jobs. You will be asked to enter your library card number at the Reservation and Printing Station. If you used a guest pass to log on the computer, you will enter the guest pass number. Once you have entered your library card number—or guest pass number—the Print Station screen will display your print jobs. Select the job you wish to print and pay using the coin and bill acceptor.

Printing charges are 25 cents per page. The print release station coin box accepts coins as well as $1 and $5 bills. Change is given in quarters only.

To print from your laptop connected to the library wifi, click here to download the print client. Install the client and print as needed. Proceed to the Reservation and Print Station to pay and release your printouts.

Q. Can I lock a computer and come back?

A. Yes. EnvisionWare allows you to lock a computer, but your time continues to count down. If your time runs out while the computer is locked, you will be logged off. If you leave a computer locked for more than 15 minutes, a staff member may end your session so that someone else can use the computer.

Q. Do I need to be concerned about my privacy with EnvisionWare?

A. No, EnvisionWare only keeps track of the time you have spent using the computer during one day. At the end of the day, all patron data is deleted. EnvisionWare provides general reports on computer usage, but the report data is not tied to individual patrons.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Lyme Disease Awareness Month

May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Massachusetts. The Vineyard Haven Library's reference librarian can help you locate information on Lyme and other health topics using MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov). MedlinePlus is a service of the NIH & National Library of Medicine, and is a safe and reliable source. The information is science-based and no advertisements are allowed.

The following websites have also been recommended by Margot Malachowski, Outreach Librarian with Baystate Health, in a recent presentation at the Springfield City Library:

www.ilads.org –a doctor's organization, for an overview of the persistent infection point of view

www.columbia-lyme.org –science-based information and NIH-sponsored research organization

www.lymediseaseassociation.org –a patient advocacy organization, include doctor referral

tickencounter.org/tick_identification—for identifying ticks

In Massachusetts:

www.mass.gov/dph/tick --information from Health and Human Services

www.malegislature.gov/Committees/187/Document/House/H46/LymeDiseaseReport --legislation information

extension.umass.edu/agriculture/index.php/services/tick-borne-disease-diagnostics --for testing ticks ($40.00 per tick)

Online Support Group for patients with Lyme in Massachusetts:

health.groups.yahoo.com/group/MassachusettsLyme

Friday, May 4, 2012

Library Schedule Changes and Closings in May

The Library will continue to be open on Sundays from noon to 4pm through Sunday, May 20th. The Library will be closed on Sundays starting Memorial Day weekend, with Sunday hours resuming after Labor Day.

On Wednesday, May 16th, the library will be closed for software installation and staff development. We will be open normal hours the rest of that week.

The Library will also be closed for the Memorial Day holiday on Monday, May 28th.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Changes to Public Computers Coming Soon

Beginning May 16th, 2012 Vineyard Haven Public Library will be using EnvisionWare software to manage public computers and printing at the library. This software will ensure equitable access to VHPL public computers, and help the library more responsibly manage its resources.

One-hour computer sessions will no longer start and end on the hour -- library patrons may start a session whenever a computer is available. Library users may reserve a computer and pay for printouts at a convenient self-service kiosk (cash only). Reservations may still be made one day in advance at the library.

Patrons will need to bring their CLAMS card with them to use the one-hour computers and printers. Guest passes will be available for visitors to access to the 30-minute computers.

The EnvisionWare software manages time and printing, but does not record Internet usage or other work done on the computer. At the end of the day, all patron data is deleted.

The library will be CLOSED on Wednesday May 16th for the software installation and staff development. 

Art in the Stacks: Alida O’Loughlin, "Moments of Light"

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Public Library are pleased to present "Moments of Light", an exhibit of photographs by Alida O’Loughlin. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours througout the month of May.

Alida O’Loughlin came to professional photography late in life. She was early 70’s when she showed for the first time any of the photographs she had taken in the course of her lifetime - time spent on demanding careers while raising three children by herself. She is self- taught and uses a simple non-digital camera.

In 2003 she won first prize for Professional Photography in both the Landscape and the Seascape category at the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair.

Alida grew up in Holland, close to the North Sea, “where” she states,” there was always a special interplay between the sky, the clouds, the wind, the water and whatever sunlight might bring shadows”. She now lives and works on Martha’s Vineyard where many of her more recent photographs are taken.


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

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Have you ever checked out an e-book from your public library?

The Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project, a non-profit research organization in Washington, DC, is conducting an online survey of public library patrons who borrow e-books. If you have checked out or downloaded e-books from a public library, please consider taking Pew Internet’s survey, available at the link below. All responses will be confidential, although your answers may be quoted anonymously in a future report. The survey should take about 15 minutes.

To take the survey, visit: http://libraries.pewinternet.org/participate/survey/e-book-borrowers

The Pew Internet Project will also be doing broader surveys of public library patrons general, as well as people (including non-library-users) who own e-readers or tablet computers. If you want to participate in those, you can sign up to be notified of future surveys here.

To learn more about the Pew Internet Project’s research on e-reading and public libraries, which is entirely free and available to the public, visit libraries.pewinternet.org.

Monthly Book Sales Held Third Saturday of Each Month

The Friends of the Library hold "mini" book sales at the library, from 1pm-3pm on the third
Saturday of each month. The April sale will be held on Saturday, April 21st.

Proceeds from these sales benefit library programs for children, and other library services supported by the Friends. Sales are also planned for Saturday, May 19th, and Saturday, June 16th, from 1pm-3pm.

Tisbury Town Elections to be Held on Tuesday, April 24th

Tisbury's town elections will be held at the General George W. Goethals American Legion Post #257 at 47 Martin Road, on Tuesday, April 24th from noon to 8pm.

The selectman's race between candidates Tom Pachico and Jonathan Snyder is the only contested office, however the FinCom has three open seats and one candidate, so the other open seats may be filled by write-in candidates.

Question 3 addresses an article that was passed at town meeting, but still requires a vote: Shall the Town of Tisbury be allowed to assess an additional $90,000 in real estate and personal property taxes for the purpose of funding a new step on the wage scale for Town employees under the terms of the Union Contract with the Tisbury Employee General Union, for the fiscal year beginning July first two thousand and twelve?

Question 2 concerns a Proposition 2.5 override to fund the proposed connector road between Holmes Hole Road and the Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, however this article did not pass at town meeting.

Question 1 is a non-binding public opinion advisory ballot question, asking: Should a roundabout be built at the intersection of the Edgartown/Vineyard Haven Road and Barnes Road (blinker) intersection?

Monday, April 16, 2012

2012 Pulitzer Prizes Announced

These 2012 Pulitzer prizewinning titles are available from CLAMS libraries:

FICTION: No award. Finalists: Train Dreams, by Denis Johnson (Farrar, Straus and Giroux); Swamplandia! by Karen Russell (Alfred A. Knopf); The Pale King, by David Foster Wallace (Little, Brown and Company).

HISTORY: Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention, by Manning Marable (Viking)

BIOGRAPHY: George F. Kennan: An American Life, by John Lewis Gaddis (The Penguin Press)

POETRY: Life on Mars, by Tracy K. Smith (Graywolf Press)

GENERAL NONFICTION: The Swerve: How the World Became Modern, by Stephen Greenblatt (W.W. Norton and Company)

A complete list of winners and finalists is available at http://www.pulitzer.org/.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

National Library Snapshot Day on Martha’s Vineyard

On, Thursday April 12, Martha’s Vineyard libraries will join libraries across the Commonwealth and the nation to provide a “snapshot” of what happens in a day in the life of libraries. How many books are checked out? How many people receive help finding a job? Doing their taxes? Doing their homework? During Snapshot Day, libraries will collect data and photos that help demonstrate the value of libraries and raise public awareness that libraries are busier than ever.

Everyone can participate just by doing their regular library business, such as using the Internet, checking out books, doing research, or attending a program. Programs at the Vineyard Haven Library will include afterschool crafts for children ages 5 and up at 3:30 pm, and a screening of a popular new release movie at 6 pm. Children ages 3-5 can attend story time at 10:30 am. at the Edgartown Library or West Tisbury Library.

New this year is online participation. Patrons can go to mass.gov/libraries and post comments about the ways they use the library. “With so many people using our online resources, we wanted to include them in the fun.” Last year residents downloaded more than 9 million articles from trusted library resources.

Nationally, Snapshot Day is supported by the American Library Association which will compile state data to provide a national look at a day in the life of libraries. Busy days are the norm at libraries across the state. Over the past decade, libraries in Massachusetts have experienced a dramatic surge in usage, including a 50% increase in library visits and a 29% increase in circulation.

Massachusetts Library
Snapshot Day is presented by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Massachusetts Regional Library System, the Massachusetts Library Association, the Massachusetts School Library Association, and Boston Public Library. Visit: mass.gov/libraries or contact your local library for more information.