Library Programs for Children, Teens and Adults
By Jean Clarke, June 29, 2009
The summer reading programs are in full swing at the library and adults, teens, and children are encouraged to sign-up for bingo! Complete a row on your bingo card and receive a special prize.
Special events at the library for this week include: Music with Mar instructor, Julie Wirth, will join us for a musical program where both children and their caregivers participate in musical activities. The mission of the Music with Mar program is to get more parents involved with their children in positive activities while using music to prepare them for the future. The child’s music abilities can be nurtured along with motor, social, language, safety and cognitive skills. Visit www.musicwithmar.com for more information. Thursday, July 9 at 2:00 p.m.
Teens! The cook-off craze has hit Gilford and you’re invited to the Gilford Library to join in the fun! Combining the ingredients provided, whip up a delicious concoction that will “wow” our expert panel of judges based on presentation, taste and originality. Find out if you have what it takes to be named “Gilford’s Best Cook” by the end of the evening! Sign-up is required. Tuesday, July 7, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Adult movie buffs! “The Orange Thief” is the featured film for Foreign Movie Night at the library. Join us for this 84-minute movie rated PG-13. The orange thief and his fellow country-wise ruffians steal fruit for sustenance, profit, and the sheer excitement of courting danger. After the thief ends up in a Sicilian jail his life takes an unexpected turn when his bunkmate promises him a deal. Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m.
Library's Summer Reading Programs Kick-off
By Jean Clarke, June 22, 2009
Children, teens and adults - the library’s summer reading program has something to offer everyone!
The teen summer reading program "Reading Rocks" opens with acclaimed blues powerhouse Michael Vincent and Doubleshot on Monday, June 29 from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Often compared to Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, this blues trio plays a range of blistering blues numbers. Come share your evening with the Lakes Region's one and only Michael Vincent and Doubleshot. Sign-up for the teen summer reading program and receive a free can of lemonade.
Award-winning singer/storyteller Steve Blunt will present “Summertime Singalong” at the Gilford Bandstand on Wednesday, July 1, at 5:00 p.m. This sing-along, laugh-a-lot concert kicks off the summer reading program for children “Summertime, and the Readin’ is Easy” designed for pre-readers to 5th graders. Blunt will offer fun, upbeat original and traditional material that appeals to a wide age range, including selections from Let’s Have a Reading Party! a new CD created by Blunt and NH children’s author/illustrator, Marty Kelley. Since moving to New Hampshire in 1998, Blunt has been teaching locally and appearing at schools, libraries, and concert venues throughout the region. He has been selected 8 times as a roster artist for the NH State Library’s “Kids, Books, and the Arts” Program. Both of Blunt’s CD’s, Hang On, Henry! (2002) and Outta School! (2007), have been recognized as Parents’ Choice “Approved” Award Winners.
Adults can join in the fun of summer reading with “Reading by the Lake,” the library’s adult summer reading program (9th grade and up). Remember bingo? You can play again by picking up your bingo card at the library, finish a bingo row, pick up a prize and be entered into the Adult Summer Reading Program Grand Prize drawing. Programs for adults include: the GO GREEN series on energy conservation; numerous book discussions, watercolor classes, and foreign movie night, featuring “The Orange Thief.”
For complete and up-to-the-minute information on events and programs visit the library’s website at gilfordlibrary.org. Better yet, come to the library on Monday, June 29th sign-up for the children, teen or adult summer reading program and receive your special treat!
Library Hosts NH Humanities Council Discussion on Classic American Wilderness Story
By Jean Clarke, June 8, 2009
The Gilford Library hosts a book discussion led by Suzanne Brown, NH Humanities Council scholar, on Thursday, June 18 from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The first in a 3-part series called “American Wilderness”, this discussion will focus on “We Took to the Woods” by Louise Dickenson Rich. In her early thirties, Rich and her husband took to the woods of Maine. They found their livelihood and raised a family in the remote backcountry settlement of Middle Dam, in the Rangeley area. First published in 1942, this adventure story is written with humor, but also portrays a cherished dream awakened into full life.
Suzanne Brown, discussion leader, is the Visiting Assistant Professor at Dartmouth College, where she teaches in the Humanities Program, the English Department, and the Women’s Studies Program. The New Hampshire Humanities Council is a private non-profit organization that strengthens New Hampshire by providing free public humanities programs to its communities. The mission of the Council is to offer opportunities for discovery, self-reflection, and lifelong learning by bringing ideas from the humanities to the people of NH. Working in partnership with schools and cultural institutions, the Council awards grants and develops and sponsors public programs such as workshops, seminars and book discussions. If you miss the evening discussion, you can catch the “Brown Bag Book Discussion” on June 25 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Copies of “We Took to the Woods” are available at the Gilford Library.
SATISFYING SUMMER READS FOR ALL AGES
By Jean Clarke, June 1, 2009
Whether you’re headed to the beach, the mountains, or your own backyard, there are some great choices for summer reading this year. Here are just a few possibilities:
The Scarecrow by Michael Connelly. Former Los Angeles Times crime reporter Connelly has said that his goal in writing The Scarecrow was to come up with a story “that would be a thriller first and a torch song to the newspaper business second.” He succeeds on both counts. Alternating point of view between villain and reporter, Connelly builds tension and uses dramatic irony to its fullest, screw-tightening potential . . this novel is one of Connelly’s very best.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett. What perfect timing for this optimistic, uplifting debut novel set during the civil rights movement in Jackson, Mississippi. Eugenia Skeeter Phelan is just home from college in 1962, and, anxious to become a writer. The budding social activist begins to collect the stories of the black women on whom the country club sets relies enlisting the help of Aibileen, a maid who’s raised 17 children. Full of heart and history, this one has bestseller written all over it.
Wicked Prey by John Sandford. This novel brings back Lucas Davenport with another entertaining mystery/thriller. The story begins in Minnesota and the great Lucas Davenport and his team - along with the local police - are blanketing the area in hopes of curbing the criminal element that promises to bring chaos to an orderly St. Paul. John Sandford’s novels always have incredibly evil and unique villains - and Wicked Prey follows that formula. By allowing the reader into the mind of the villains and telling the story from their points of view, the reader is also allowed to follow Lucas Davenport as he investigates crimes.
The Branch and the Scaffold by Loren D. Estleman (Billy Gashade) turns in a sharp, funny and exciting western centering on Isaac C. Parker (1838–1896), the notorious federal Hanging Judge for Arkansas and the Indian Territory (Oklahoma) from 1875 until his death. This is a vivid, fast-paced western adventure brilliantly presented by a masterful storyteller.
Crazy for the Storm by Norman Ollestad. Set amid the spontaneous, uninhibited surf culture of Malibu and Mexico in the late 1970s, this riveting memoir recalls Ollestad's childhood and the magnetic man whose determination and love infuriated and inspired him--and also taught him to overcome the indomitable. As it illuminates the complicated bond between an extraordinary father and his son, Ollestad's powerful story offers remarkable insight for us all.
SCIENCE FICTION FANS CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY OF MOVIE RELEASE
By Jean Clarke, May 25, 2009
Do you remember where you were on May 25, 1977? Do the names Luke, Han and Leia ring any bells? Over 32 years ago on May 25, 1977 Star Wars was released to the general public. George Lucas’ space epic, starring Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo and Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia, featured stunning special effects and was a blockbuster hit worldwide. It took Lucas four years to develop this cult film about “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away . . . “ The modestly-budgeted production was based upon Lucas’ recollections of Saturday afternoon matinees, serials, and comic strips, usually with cliff-hanging endings. Star Wars is the mythological tale of space-age heroism (fighting Evil for the sake of Good) featured memorable characters that created a cult-like following that continues to this day. The story follows an idealistic young boy who becomes trained in the righteous ways of the Force in order to rescue the captured Princess from the evil Empire's Death Star and the dark forces of the Empire, led by evil Darth Vader. The film, shot mostly on location in Tunisia, Guatemala and Death Valley, CA, advanced special-effects technology to a degree unseen before, with computerized and digitally-timed special effects. It ultimately helped to resurrect the science-fiction genre and brought the phrase “May the force be with you,” into common usage. The library has an extensive collection of movies, books, magazines, comic books, and computer games that will keep even the most die-hard Star Wars fan happy! Stop by and rediscover Star Wars!
Go GREEN at the Library!
By Jean Clarke, May 11, 2009
What do windmills, solar space heaters, and wood-pellet furnaces have in common? No longer just the fantasies of environmental idealists, these terms have become household words for New Hampshire residents looking at ways to modify or build sustainable energy efficient homes. Just a few years ago, only homeowners with environmental passion even considered most of these alternatives for their homes. Most people might weatherize or splurge for insulation, but few would invest thousands to save a few bucks on their utility bills. Today, that is all changing. Come to the library on Thursday, May 14 at 7 p.m. to “Learn How to Go GREEN” with Mark Weissflog of KW Management. Weissflog’s home in Lyndeborough, NH has been on the NH Sustainable Energy Association’s Green Buildings Open House Tour for the past seven years. In partnership with the Gilford Energy Committee, Weissflog’s program will cover: the benefits of a geo-thermal system, how and why a geo-thermal system works, different types of ground loops, maintenance and warranties and how geo-thermal systems fit into the renewable industry.
Book Buddy Program Pairs Reading Fans with Favorite Authors
By Jean Clarke, April 27, 2009
Whether you prefer mysteries or romances, thrillers or adventure stories, most readers have a favorite author that they turn to over and over again for a story that meets their reading needs. The Gilford Library’s Book Buddy Program pairs readers with their favorite authors so that everyone can benefit. To join the program call the library and let us know your favorite author. When the author publishes a new book, the library purchases the book, and the book buddy is placed first on the list to borrow the book. When the book buddy picks up the book, they donate the library’s cost for purchasing the book (usually discounted by 10% - 40% of the list price). It’s a tax deductible contribution, directly supports the purchase of newly published books, and let’s other fans share the joy of reading a favorite author. Currently, the library has over 50 participants in the Book Buddy Program, but there’s always room for more reader-author pairs. In fact, some of the most frequently published and popular writers are still available including: Stephen King, Stephenie Meyer, Danielle Steele, and J.K. Rowling. Call the library today and become a book buddy with your favorite author!
Check Out Museum Passes at the Library!
By Jean Clarke, April 20, 2009
Open the door to learning and fun with a visit to one of 9 area museums that won’t cost you a dime! That’s right, the Gilford Library has free and discounted passes available on a first come, first serve basis to all library patrons. Just in time for spring school vacation week, you’re encouraged to reserve your pass in advance by calling the library with the museum and date of your visit. Through the generous support of the Friends of the Gilford Public Library these passes are available during 2009: Currier Museum of Art, Manchester; The Libby Museum, Wolfeboro; NH Boat Museum, Wolfeboro Falls; Museum of NH History, Concord; McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord; Canterbury Shaker Village, Canterbury; Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness; Strawbery Banke, Portsmouth and the Wright Museum, Wolfeboro. The Friends of the Gilford Public Library is a nonprofit, charitable organization of more than 250 volunteer members who raise funds through member fees, donations, used book sales, and special events to support the programs, services, and special needs of the library. Whether you’re a native New Hampshire resident or just moved to the area, there’s always something new to discover about the state in which we live and work. Reserve your museum pass today and discover New Hampshire’s history, wildlife, art and architecture, space exploration, craftsmanship, and so much more!
The Library Salutes Its Volunteers During National Volunteer Week
By Jean Clarke, April 13, 2009
Where would the Gilford Library be without its volunteers? With a core group of 50 volunteers working over 350 hours a month, it’s hard to imagine! In fact, on just about any day you can walk into the library and find a volunteer hard at work shelving books, sorting magazines, or preparing materials for borrowing. Did you know that the Gilford Library is recognized as one of the top five libraries in the state for its volunteer program based on the number of volunteers and the hours they work? During National Volunteer Week from April 20 – 25, the library is planning some special activities to celebrate its devoted volunteers. Coordinated by Assistant Librarian, Betty Tidd, the Volunteer Program is a vital part of the library’s community outreach. There are no special qualifications to be a volunteer – just an interest in the library. From retired librarians to middle school students, people from all backgrounds and experiences volunteer at the library. A volunteer’s schedule can be a weekly commitment for a specific time and task or on an “on-call” basis when a special project or program comes up. Volunteers perform a multitude of tasks from the behind-the-scenes covering of books and materials to providing computer technical assistance to library patrons. Is it time for you to join the library volunteer team? New volunteers are always welcome to stop by the library and fill out a volunteer application. You’ll be matched up with a task or project that suits your interests and part of the library’s volunteer team before you know it.
National Library Week Festivites at the Library!
By Jean Clarke, April 6, 2009
There’s a party going on all week at the Gilford Public Library and everyone is invited! National Library Week is April 13-18, 2009 – a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. This year is especially significant for Gilford because of the new library building and the resulting expansion of library services that benefit all town residents. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less time on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. In honor of National Library Week you are invited to visit the library and register for a library card. In today’s fast-paced world, having a library card is one of the smartest investments you can make. Besides giving you free access to books, Gilford Library offers its cardholders DVDs, audio-books, magazines, museum passes, and, of course, internet service. With a library card, you can also download digital media directly to your personal computer or laptop. No matter what your interest – mastering a new craft, refining your job search, researching a topic – the Gilford Public Library is your stop for knowledge and self-improvement. During National Library Week anyone who walks through the doors of the library will be given a small gift (while supplies last) with a different “give-away” for each day of the week. So, on “Marvelous Monday” library users will receive a magnet and on “Wild Wednesday” they’ll receive a removable tattoo or gel wrist band that says “read.” The Friends Gift Shop is sponsoring a contest to name their new shop and offering expanded hours so shoppers can take advantage of their special sale on “good-as-new” books at $5/per bag. Not to be left behind, the Children’s Room is joining in the fun with “Catch the Reading Bug” trading cards—one for each day— with information about the bug plus a recommendation for a children’s book. Come in every day to receive your free gift and sign-up for the grand prize drawing to be held the last day of the festivities, Saturday, April 18.
Opening Day Heralds a New Season for Baseball Fans and a Terrific Selection of Bestsellers
By Jean Clarke, March 30, 2009
“Play ball!” This cry goes out in hundreds of baseball stadiums across the nation signaling the start of the 2009 season. For major league baseball fans the long awaited Opening Day is usually scheduled for the beginning of April and this year Opening Day is Monday, April 6. Unique to Opening Day, each team’s home opener is the only time that the entire rosters of both teams as well as coaches and clubhouse staff are introduced to the crowd. As the first of 162 games in the regular season, fans will have ample opportunity to cheer on their favorite players. To keep avid baseball fans busy between games, the library offers a score of books on our most popular national pastime, including bestsellers, biographies, novels, and non-fiction. Here is just a sampling: The Yankee Years by Joe Torre. (Non-Fiction) Twelve straight playoff appearances. Six American League pennants. Four World Series titles. In an era of multimillionaire free agents, fractured clubhouses, revenue-sharing, and off-the-field scandals, Torre forged a team ethos that united his players and made the Yankees one of the greatest teams in sports. As the Yankees Manager for 12 years, Torre’s story is both grand in its scope and fascinating in its details. (7 Weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List) Deep Drive by Mike Lowell (Autobiography) From his battle with testicular cancer, to the ups and downs of his baseball career, to the extraordinary journey and struggles of his Cuban family under the Castro regime, this is the story of a man who overcame every challenge thrown at him to become one of the best third basemen in baseball—and a true role model for his millions of fans. Becoming Manny by Jean Rhodes. (Biography) Manny has perplexed the baseball world for years with his amazing hitting and his unique approach to life. Incredibly focused at the plate yet carefree everywhere else, he has become a constant topic of discussion. This authorized biography examines Manny's life through the lens of larger issues such as mentoring and immigration, while also telling the story of a great career. Oh, Johnny by Jim Lehrer. (Fiction) A talented athlete, Johnny Wrigley firmly believes that someday he will play major league baseball. But, in April 1944, Johnny is shipped overseas to fight in the Pacific Theater. Full of rich and vivid descriptions of Johnny’s experiences both as a marine and as a ballplayer, this novel is a compelling story of one man’s remarkable coming-of-age—and Jim Lehrer at his best.
Trail Maps at Gilford Library Prove Popular with Outdoor Enthusiasts
By Jean Clarke, March 2, 2009
Whether you prefer a pair of snowshoes, cross country skis or hiking boots, there are plenty of ways to explore the Lakes Region in winter.
The library is pleased to offer its patrons a number of trail maps covering a diversity of terrain. The latest addition to the library's collection of maps covers the entire Ossipee Range. The Trail Bandit Ossipee Mountain Map is the work of Bob Garrison of Henniker, NH. Bob, a.k.a. Trail Bandit, has given a limited number of maps to the library and all proceeds from sale of the maps will be donated directly to the library. Bob says that his inspiration to create a map of the Ossipee Range started with a chance encounter with Dave Roberts, a mapmaker in his own right, about 7 years ago. Since then, Bob has hiked every trail and logging road with a GPS and printed the map now available to library patrons. The detailed maps are waterproof and available at $5/each.
How did the library begin offering trail maps? As a community resource, it just seemed like a natural way to help local residents learn more about the town of Gilford and surrounding areas. Originally, the library had trail maps that people could come and review before heading out to the trails. But, it wasn't long before library employee, Anita Hewitt, came up with an even better idea. She proposed making color copies and offering maps to library patrons charging for production costs only. Since that day, the library is oftentimes the first stop that hikers, bikers, and skiiers make before hitting the trails. In fact, it's not unusual for library staff to field phone requests from folks in the North Country, Massachusetts, and beyond.
Trail maps of Lakes Region areas include: Belknap Mountain Range, Mount Major, Gunstock Ski Area, Weeks Woods and Ramblin Vewe Farm. Cost of maps range from $2 - $3 each and are available for purchase at the circulation desk. Thanks to our trail map designers: Bob Garrison, Dave Roberts, Mike Ware, and Weldon Bosworth.