East Hampton Public Library

Earth Day 2012 Backyard Composting Campaign

2012-01-24T19:29:00.001-05:00

Going Green
Kitchen scraps and yard trimmings make up 20 to 30 percent of all household wastes. To help reduce what goes to a landfill, the library, in collaboration with East Hampton Public Works, will again be participating in the Northeast Resource Recovery Association's (NRRA) annual Backyard Composting Campaign.

In our third year of participation, any of four environmentally-friendly products will be available for purchase:

The Earth MachineTM Compost Bin : $52 ($100 retail value)
SysternTM Rain Barrel : $67 ($120 retail value)
Compost Turner : $20 ($31 retail value)
Kitchen Scrap Pails : $10

Click here for more detail about the products.

Get Ready to Go Green with Your Order
Click here to download an order form. Pre-paid orders will be accepted at the library until April 2, 2012. Ordered items will be available for local distribution at East Hampton Public Works during the week of April 16, just in time for Earth Day, April 22.

About the Program
The library and East Hampton Public Works collaborate to participate in the NRRA program as a service to our community. There is a mark-up ($5 or $2) on the price we pay NRRA for the products you order. The mark-up mainly covers Connecticut sales tax; the modest overage (about $100 in each of the last two years) we've used to buy books about eco-friendly topics.

Neighbor to Neighbor Energy Challenge

2012-01-21T14:25:00.001-05:00

A Cold Snowy Day Is a Good Day to Think About Saving Energy
If you have not yet participated in the Neighbor to Neighbor Energy Challenge, today's a good day to think about the benefits of doing so.

Check out the N2N website for information on how to sign up for a free lighting retrofit, completing an inexpensive Home Energy Solutions Assessment, or attending workshops to learn about a variety of energy issues from basic to specific (preventing ice dams, for example). If you have completed an Energy Solutions visit, also look for info on deeper energy savings that come from taking advantage of tax incentives, low-interest financing, and rebates on energy-saving upgrades to your home.

Tax Information Roundup

2012-01-20T19:47:00.000-05:00

Tax Information at the EHPL
Tax forms are still arriving (everyone's favorite time of year) so we'll offer a quick roundup of where to find what you need.

Paper Forms and Booklets
The library receives an array of fairly standard federal and state tax forms. Forms and related booklet racks are located in the library's lobby.

On the Web : Forms and Other Resources
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) : Link to this official federal government site for forms, publications, and general guidance.

Department of Revenue Services, State of Connecticut : Link to DRS and find tax forms, publications, and information about online filing.

Assistance With Form Printing
Ask at the front desk if you need assistance finding and printing an online form or publication, federal or state.

Free Filing and Paid Preparers
Check out the freefile page on the IRS site to see if you are eligible to use the services listed. If you prefer a very local and personalized approach, please do keep in mind the many local business folks who offer tax preparation and financial planning services.

Planning Ahead : Grow Your Own Food

2012-01-15T14:45:00.002-05:00

Sorting Through the Seeds

Though it may be a tad too early to start ordering seeds, it's never too early to plan for the greener days ahead. Your library's gardening collection features a wide range of titles about organic gardening and as a subset, growing your own food. Here's a quick list of available and incoming titles tied to the heirloom seed movement and related interests; these may come in handy during warmer days.

Heirloom Life Gardener : The Baker Creek Way of Food Easily and Naturally by Jere Gettle

Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Own Food : Save Money, Live Better, and Enjoy Life with Food From Your Garden by Monte Burch

Perennial Vegetables : From Artichokes to 'Zuiki' Taro, a Gardener's Guide to Over 100 Delicious Easy-to-Grow Edibles by Eric Toensmeier

Beginner's Guide to Growing Heirloom Vegetables : the 100 Easiest-to-Grow, Tastiest-to-Eat Vegetables for Your Garden by Marie Iannotti

Gardening with Heirloom Seeds by Lynn Coulter

The Heirloom Tomato by Amy Goldman or The Complete Guide to Growing Tomatoes by Cherie Everhart

What's Wrong with My Vegetable Garden? by David Deardorff and Kathryn Wadsworth

Garden Up! by Susan Morrison and Rebecca Sweet or Vertical Gardening by Derek Fell

Surf's Up
A few cool web sites for your perusal :
UCONN Home & Garden Education Center
National Gardening Association
CT Northeast Organic Farming Association
Kitchen Gardeners International
Seed Savers Exchange

Winter Fun for Kids

2012-01-14T19:13:00.005-05:00

Something Fun for Everyone

Though the winter weather outside has been calm so far, it seems like a good idea to have kiddo-friendly activity ideas up your sleeve if the trend changes. Here's a quick list of recent books chock full of ideas suitable for every type of family budget or range of interests.

The Kids Winter Fun Book : Homespun Adventures for Family Fun

Authors Claire Gillman and Sam Martin detail a variety of boredom-busting activities, both indoor and outdoor.

Kids Guide to Paper Airplanes by Christopher Harbo

If you have a budding engineer in the family, this one provides instructions and diagrams for making a variety of traditional paper airplanes.

Sort-of-difficult Origami by Chris Alexander

Though not for novices, the step-by-step instructions are well-explained and illustrated. Fold and fold and fold again to make a fox mask, a penguin, a seal, and more.

Valentine Crafts by Greta Speechley

The simpler crafts give this title its shine and offer a great way to help your child craft a special gift for that special someone in their life.

Scrapbooking Just for You! How to Make Fun, Personal, Save-Them-Forever Keepsakes by Candice F. Ransom

The author offers a solid introduction to a very popular pastime with examples geared mainly to girls, grades 4 and up.

Modeling Clay Animals by Bernadette Cuxart

Using non-drying clay, follow basic tips and instructions to create animal sculptures, including ladybugs, giraffes, crabs, dogs, rabbits, and turtles.

George Washington : 25 Great Projects You Can Build Yourself

Carla Mooney and Samuel Carbaugh outline the basics of Washington's life, accompanied by doable, historically-informed activities. An interesting choice for President's Day learning, grades 3-5.

Everyday's a Holiday : Year-round Crafting with Kids by Heidi Kenney

Craft ideas for classic and not-so-classic holidays. Many of the ideas can be adapted, and re-adapted, to "celebrate" holidays of your own making.

Modern Scholar Lectures on CD

2012-01-14T11:08:00.000-05:00

"Imagine learning from some of the greatest living scholars... Well, now you can!"

If you are looking for some quality but also entertaining listening material... say, something more weighty than latest audio fiction book... why not listen to lectures from a college caliber course at your own pace, in your own time, and whenever you're in the mood to think big?

Modern Scholar Lectures

The library is incrementally rolling out a collection of audio titles from the Modern Scholar Series; the series features high-interest, college-level course lectures recorded by great professors who teach at top colleges and universities. Listeners seeking a refresher course, an enriched understanding of career-related subjects, or a way to casually learn about culturally significant topics may enjoy this emerging collection.

Example Titles in the Series

Elemental Matters : An Introduction to Chemistry

Rules of the Game : How Government Works and Why It Sometimes Doesn't

The People's Dynasty : Culture and Society in Modern China

Understanding Movies : The Art and History of Films

Click here for other titles in the series with expectation of fifteen additional titles added by June 2012. The Modern Scholar Series is in large part funded with memorial donations made in memory of Maria B. Durkin.

Oogy and Tuesday and Roselle and Otto and Me

2012-01-11T18:01:00.002-05:00

Books for Dog Lovers

If you are loving the pooches in your life, here's a quick list of books, recent and continuously popular, that you may have missed along the way. There is no shortage of inspiration to be found between the covers. Woof!

Last Dog on the Hill by Steve Duno

Oogy : The Dog Only a Family Could Love by Larry Levin
The Puppy Diaries by Jill Abramson
Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson with Susy Flory
Until Tuesday by Luis Carlos Montalvan with Bret Witter
You Had Me at Woof by Julie Klam
Rin Tin Tin : The Life and the Legend by Susan Orlean
A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron (Fiction)
101 Fun Things to Do With Your Dog by Alison Smith (For Families)
Inside of a Dog by Alexandra Horowitz
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein (Fiction)
The Puppy That Came for Christmas by Megan Rix
Dog Sense by John Bradshaw
Be the Pack Leader by Cesar Millan
The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete
Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant (Kiddo Classic)

Books About Specific Breeds
The library has a substantial collection of books about specific breeds, different approaches to choosing and training a puppy, and otherwise having fun with your pooch. Our Children's Services book collection also features a wide range of picture books devoted to all things dog, for the little person and best animal pal in your family's life.

Think Snow!

2012-01-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

Snow Books for Kids
To the last, we all shoveled and plowed mountains of snow last winter yet here we are in early January 2012 with nary a snowflake in sight. Whether this is good or bad news to you, we suspect your kiddos are probably thinking snow no matter what.

Here's a short list of contemporary snowy season theme books for little people, accompanied by a quick list of classics:

It's Snowing! by Gail Gibbons
Snowbots by Aaron Reynolds
Snowmen All Year by Caralyn Buehner
Snow Rabbit, Spring Rabbit by Il Sung Na
Little Mist by Angela McAllister
The Snow Day by Komako Sakai
The Smallest Snowflake by Bernadette Watts
Snow by Cynthia Rylant
Snowy, Blowy Winter by Bob Raczka
Bedtime for Bear by Brett Helquist

Cool Classics
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Stranger in the Woods by Carl R. Sams
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton
The Snow Bear by Miriam Moss
Snowballs by Lois Ehlert
Snow by Uri Shulevitz

Song of the Airline Trail

2012-01-09T18:05:00.006-05:00

Photo courtesy of the CT DEP

An Adventure... On the Airline Trail...
Last December, seven creative kiddos teamed up with our State Troubadour, Chuck Costa, to write a song about a favorite East Hampton place. The group chose to write about the Airline Trail. See our previous post about the progam.

Our Songwriters
First Row, Left to Right : Alexander Link, Elijah De Siqueria Campos McLaughlin, Vanessa Naughton, Elizabeth Link, London Brazel, Lucia Petruzziello, Dante Petruzziello Standing : Chuck E. Costa (CT State Troubadour), Mira Stanley

Song of the Airline Trail : Sing Along East Hampton!
Click here to listen to the song.

The song is slated to be included on a CT sings CD, the outcome of Costa's statewide songwriting project featuring Connecticut-inspired songs by Connecticut children.

Chorus
It used to be a train track
now it's the Airline Trail
bikes, beasts and feet
go down the worn out rail
someday you might go there
an adventure
on the Airline Trail

One day in the springtime
I went biking there
from East Hampton to Willimantic
23 miles of fresh air

Biking in the summer
grasshoppers jumping 'round
over the viaduct
a buzzing and fluttering sound

Chorus

Miles away from everything
in a sea of golden leaves
letter boxes off the trail
look like they're full of mail

Now it's getting colder
the cranberry bog is frozen
skating and some hockey
under clouds that want to be snowing

Chorus

Online Learning and Then Some...

2012-01-08T15:50:00.000-05:00

Match Your Interests to Your Learning and Doing Style
Your library offers a number of online and print options to assist adult and teen learners. Give one or more of these services a try (kick the tires so to speak), learn something new, and find sturdy support systems suited to your interests and needs.

Testing Guides
Demand for print (yes, print) educational testing guides remains even and our educational testing collection features study guides for the major academic and employment-related tests.

prepme
The library offers online access to prepme, which features personalized lesson plans, 50 hours of detailed lessons, practice tests from the people who make the real tests, and in-depth progress reports. See our previous post about the service.

JobNow!
Use your local library card for live, anytime, anywhere job assistance, including up-to-date nationwide and local job search engines, professional resume critique, and proven interview techniques. Experience a personalized career center with integrated technology aimed at serving your job seekers needs and diverse backgrounds. Click here to join the quest, powered by Brainfuse.

Universal CLASS
Want to learn something new or build on what you know? Check out any of over 500 self-paced, non-credit personal development and enrichment classes. Classes are led by real-life instructors and experts in their field who will give you continuous feedback on your progress. See our previous post about the service; use your library card to sign up.

Transparent Language ONLINE
Do you need or want to learn a second language for business, travel, or enrichment purposes? As a student learning a second language, could you use some outside-of-classroom, at-your-own-pace support? Try Transparent Language Online (Byki™ with a suite of new features) to get started. Choose from 80 languages.

Who Votes In January? You Do!

2012-01-04T18:18:00.001-05:00

2012 Nutmeg Book Awards

If you have not yet had the pleasure -- and we know so many who have -- there is still time to read another Nutmeg Book Award nominee or otherwise weigh in on which title you've read and liked best.

Think big! Which title made you laugh? Which made you ponder a new idea? Which characters did you feel like you knew or would like to know better? Which book did you talk about most or recommend to a friend?

Vote for Your Favorite @ your library or school

Voting for the Nutmeg Award runs from January 2 to January 31. Click here for a list of Nutmeg-nominated titles for intermediate grades 4-6 (jacket art above). Click here for a list of teen titles, grades 7-8. All of the Nutmeg titles are available at the library.

About the Nutmeg Book Award

Established in 1991, the annual Nutmeg Book Award encourages all Connecticut children in grades 4-8 to read great books and vote for their favorite from a list of nominated titles. Jointly sponsored by the Connecticut Library Association and the Connecticut Association of School Librarians, the Nutmeg Committee is comprised of children’s librarians, school library media specialists and student representatives. They read hundreds of books to come up with the two lists which are fairly balanced by gender, reading level, and genre.

Books must also meet certain criteria to be considered for the award. These include: being fiction, with appeal for readers in grades 4-6 (intermediate) or 7-8 (teen); copyrighted in the United States and first published no more than five years from date of selection; currently in print, and available in paperback; and, obviously, well-written.

Create... Invent... LEGO!

2012-01-03T18:56:00.002-05:00

Contraptions, Machines, and Wonders on Wheels

If you have a LEGOTM fan in the house (who doesn't?), try any of the titles in the LEGO Technic Idea series by technical writer and Lego guru, Yoshihito Isogawa. Even if you don't have all the parts ;-( you can still use the books to set your imagination free, improvise, invent, and build very cool functional models.

Now Showing in Our Library Display Case

Next time you stop by the library, check out our display case, the contents of which chronicles the extraordinary success of East Hampton's 2011 FIRST LEGO League teams : Belltown Bots, Brick Bros, and Nanotech Ninjas. All first year teams, team members competed in Connecticut regional competitions; the Belltown Bots went on to compete in the State Championship. All three teams and all team members made our community bust its buttons with pride and admiration!

Funding our 2011 teams came with major support by the East Hampton Rotary Club and support from the East Hampton Public Library, Anchor Lodge, and East Hampton Parks & Recreation.

East Hampton FLL 2012

Watch for information on how your kiddo can participate in East Hampton's FIRST LEGO League, 2012 season. The league is open to girls and boys, ages 9-14, with an interest in cutting-edge science, technology, and exploring and recommending engineered solutions to real-world problems. FLL pamphlets are available at the library and include a label with local contact information.

Further Reading

Click here for other books and games with Lego-friendly themes.

Museum Pass Deals

2012-01-03T17:44:00.002-05:00

Take Two!
Planning a day trip? You may now borrow the following museum passes together, subject to availability:

The Mark Twain House & Harriet Beecher Stowe House are located next door to each other. Borrow the passes together and explore the private lives of these two highly influential American authors.

Make a day of it in Hartford by borrowing the Wadsworth Atheneum pass and the Old State House pass at the same time. Subject to availability, you may also request a discount coupon for the CT Science Center. Add to your trip list a visit to the Museum of Connecticut History (also in Hartford) where admission is always free.

Take a trip to Mystic and enjoy the Mystic Aquarium & Institute of Exploration and the Mystic Seaport.

Reserves and Loan Periods
Each pass may be reserved by phone 24 hours in advance of the day you plan to check out the pass or use it. Passes circulate for 2 days and are funded by the Friends of the East Hampton Library.

Combination offers are suspended during school vacations and July/August.

Footprint Fridays! Early 2012 Programs Announced

2011-12-30T14:49:00.001-05:00

After School Programs for 2nd and 3rd Graders
Parents of our community's 2nd and 3rd graders are invited to register their kiddos for the first two in an ongoing series of Footprint Friday programs. Each program in the series invites kids to create, craft, and explore ideas based on popular book characters or age-appropriate book themes.

Bus transportation is provided from Memorial School to the library. Programs last about an hour, ending at approximately 4:30 p.m. More programs in May and June, with March and April programs to be announced.

Arrghh... It's a Pirate's Life
Friday, January 13, 3:30 p.m. in the Community Room
Join us at the library as we make our own personal treasure chests, play pirate games, and learn some nifty words and phrases used by the 'buccaneers' of olden days. Also craft a fun pirate hat, suitable for picture posing! Click here to register.

Aloha, Calvin Coconut!
Friday, February 10, 3:30 p.m. in the Community Room
Celebrate the great state of Hawaii at our luau. Learn a little hula hoop dance, play a fishing game, and have plenty of aloha fun! Click here to register.

New Year Resolutions

2011-12-28T16:44:00.000-05:00

Health & Wellness
With a new year just around the corner, we've heard tell that our neighbors, family, and friends have improving their overall approach to healthy living at the top of their 2012 agendas. We're there with you.

Here's a short list of recent or popular consumer health titles and some tips on how to use our state's iCONN service to find information about health and wellness topics, both traditional and complementary. As always, couple information you find in print or online with professional advice from your physician.

Muscle Medicine by Rob DeStefano and Bryan Kelly

Fitness conscious folks may appreciate bone-joint-muscle health explanations offered by a sports chiropractor and an orthopedic surgeon.

Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar
Herbal recommendations from a pioneer in the herbal movement.

Doctor, Your Patient Will See You Now by Steven A. Kussin
Advice from a doctor turned author on how to handle office visits and successful interaction with your doctor. Pair this one with Your Medical Mind : How to Decide What Is Right for You by [M.D.s] Jerome Groopman and Pamela Hartzband.

Feed Your Face by Jessica Wu
A board-certified dermatologist offers a lighthearted skin-care guide and a plan for eliminating blemishes, losing weight, and minimizing wrinkles.

The Sweet Life : Diabetes Without Boundaries by Sam Talbot
An acclaimed chef and Type 1 diabetic offers advice on living the diabetic life, from controlling stress to finding a system to reorder supplies. The book provides recipes for fresh, all-natural dishes, and foodie wisdom. Pair this one with advice from the Mayo Clinic.

Super Immunity : the Essential Nutrition Guide for Boosting Our Body's Defenses to Live Longer, Stronger, and Disease Free by Dr. Joel Fuhrman
The latest from the author of Eat to Live and advocate for nutrient-heavy meals.

The South Beach Wake-up Call by Arthur Agatston
Another in the series by a Florida-based cardiologist. Compare and contrast to the Atkins and Sugar Busters plans.

Pick Your Diet Plan
A is for Atkins, B is for Biggest Loser, C is for Carb-Lovers or Crazy Sexy, D is for Dukan or Diet Rehab, E is for Eat This, Not That!, F is for Flex... and on and on it goes to the end of the alphabet. Pick and choose with advice from your medical doctor.

iCONN : Connecticut's research engine
When searching for credible health and wellness information, don't forget to use your trusty East Hampton Public Library card to freely access and use any of a number of iCONN databases including MedlinePlus, CT Consumer Health Information, Health & Wellness Resource Center, CT Physician Profiles, and more! Click here to explore.

Jingle Bells Rock!

2011-12-26T16:06:00.012-05:00

Bevin Bell in the News

Matt Bevin
(Photograph by Caryn B. Davis)

If you were hustling and bustling on December 23 or are not a public radio listener, you may have missed Morning Edition's news story about East Hampton's own Bevin Bells.

Listen to a podcast of the story, courtesy of New England Public Radio. Also read related news about Bevin Bells and Matt Bevin, courtesy of Matt's alma mater, Washington and Lee.

Surf's Up
Bevin Bros. Manufacturing
Bevin Bells on Facebook
The Last Bell Factory in America : photographs by R.J. Phil, East Hampton CT
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Online Catalog : Bevin Brothers Bell Shops ! Link added 12/31/11

Sweet Touches That Make the Cake

2011-12-24T15:13:00.000-05:00

Cake Decorating
Cake decorating is not only a great way to use your artistic talents, the outcome's tasty, too! Here's a few of our favorites, both conventional and specialized.

Fondant Modeling by Helen Penman
This one offers 600 ideas for using fondant models to create a luscious cake for any special occasion.

Workshop Alert! To learn more about fondant, Wilton-trained instructor Jennifer Norman will lead a workshop on the topic, Thursday, January 19th at 1 p.m. in the library Community Room. Click here to register.

Spectacular Cakes by Mich Turner
Caterer to the stars provides step-by-step instructions for making special occasion cakes with a serious wow-factor.

Cake Decorating for Dummies by Joe LoCicero
Tad insulting though these series titles may be, this ~~bake~~ back-to-basics gem gives easy to follow instructions on a variety of recipes and techniques, with encouragement on how to start your own cake decorating business.

The Artful Cupcake by Marcianne Miller
Enjoy 36 recipes for the upscale cupcake maker. Pair this one with two by food sylist Karen Tack : Hello Cupcake! and What's New, Cupcake?

The library staff is at the ready to take one for the team and taste-test the samples...

Books to Film

2011-12-20T17:31:00.000-05:00

From Our Young Adult Shelves to a Theater Near You?
The sure thing is the first book in Suzanne Collins' epic Hunger Games trilogy is due for release on the big screen March 23, 2012. Jennifer Lawrence (thrilling in the book-based adult film Winter's Bone) snagged the lead as Katniss Everdeen. Click here for sneak peak info on the film.

Cassandra Clare's first book in the Mortal Instruments series, City of Bones, has been "optioned", which the author says is "Hollywoodese" for no film yet. Read ahead and try this series and books in the prequel series, Infernal Devices.

Another book-to-film possibility is Shiver, first in the Wolves of Mercy Falls series by Maggie Stiefvater. Click on over to an author website and view some fabulously artful book trailers for each of three books in the series.

Other up-in-the-air film adaptions include these underlying books : Wicked Lovely (Melissa Marr), Valiant (Holly Black); Looking Glass Wars (Frank Beddor). Read in the mean time and we'll keep you posted on these and other Hollywood YA book-to-film choices.

Deck the Halls!

2011-12-20T17:02:00.007-05:00

Yuletide Greetings

Fribrary Time! 2012 Series Announced

2011-12-18T15:34:00.000-05:00

After School Programs for 4th and 5th Graders
Parents of our community's 4th and 5th graders are invited to register their kiddos for one or more programs in our 2012 after school FriBrary Time series. The series invites kids to meet with local experts on a particular topic, invent, craft, move and groove, act and improvise, play, and have plenty of fun, too.

Registration Begins January 7th
Link to our library events calendar to peruse a listing of all upcoming programs. A quick way to find the FriBrary Time programs (dates and program descriptions) is to look for the image, shown left. You may register your child for one or more events, calendar an event, and choose to send yourself an email reminder a few days before the program.

See you after school for FriBrary Time 2012!

The NYT's Ten Best Books of 2011

2011-12-17T09:16:00.000-05:00

Making a List

Leading up to the turn of a new year's calendar page, "best book" lists abound. The New York Times recently published their 100 Notable Books of the Year List; here's their ten best.

Fiction Books

The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach

A baseball star at a small college near Lake Michigan launches a routine throw that goes disastrously off course and inadvertently changes the lives of five people, including the college president, a gay teammate, and the president's daughter.

11/22/63 by Stephen King

Jake Epping is an English teacher in Lisbon Falls, Maine, who makes extra money teaching GED classes. Jake's enlisted by a friend to travel back in time to prevent the Kennedy assassination.

Swamplandia! by Karen Russell

A short story writer's first novel tells the story of the Bigtree family's failed alligator-wrestling theme park and the siblings who try to preserve their family and way of life. This one's a very inventive novel with teen crossover appeal.

Ten Thousand Saints by Eleanor Henderson

When his best friend Teddy dies of an overdose on the last day of 1987, Jude Keffy-Horn finds his relationship with drugs and his parents devolving into the extreme when he gets caught up in an underground youth culture known as straight edge.

The Tiger's Wife by Tea Obreht

Remembering childhood stories her grandfather once told her, young physician Natalia becomes convinced that he spent his last days searching for "the deathless man," a vagabond who claimed to be immortal.

Non-Fiction Books

Arguably by Christopher Hitchens

This collection of essays, most of which appeared in the Atlantic, the Guardian, Newsweek, Slate, and Vanity Fair, speak to everything from politics to religion, literature to popular culture. Not always admired for his criticisms and views, but always for his writing and wit, the author died yesterday in Huston. Farewell, Mr. Hitchens.

The Boy In the Moon by Ian Brown

Canadian writer Ian Brown's son, Walker, was born with an extremely rare genetic mutation called CFC (cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome). Brown retraces his steps as he traveled the world, connecting with medical specialists and families similarly affected by CFC.

Malcolm X : A Life of Reinvention by Manning Marable

This authoritative biography, also a National Book Award Finalist, draws on new research to offer a more complete interpretation of a complicated man. Pair this one with the best-known autobiography, written with Alex Haley.

Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

The Nobel Prize winning author explores how we make decisions. What drives us to decide to do or choose X instead of Y or Z? Bias? Willpower? Logic? Optimism? Deliberation? The book features very accessible prose for any decision maker. A fun brain book, too!

A World On Fire by Amanda Foreman

An award-winning author explores the interdependence between Britain and both North and South. Letters, diaries, drawings, and journals help relate the history of British influence on the Civil War.

Soup Makes the Meal

2011-12-13T18:42:00.003-05:00

Nourishing, Comforting, and Tasty, Too!
Yesterday, an audience of health-conscious foodies enjoyed a Soups On workshop led by Robin Glowa, a.k.a. the Conscious Cook. Here we'll share one of the thoroughly taste-tested and absolutely yummy recipes featured in the workshop. If you're interested, you can pick up a copy of workshop handout at the front desk; the handout also includes a recipe for maple butternut bisque.

Tuscan Beans and Greens Soup
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 medium diced onion
2 finely diced garlic cloves
1 1/2 cups chick stock
2 cups torn broccoli rabe
3 cups torn kale
2 cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 large can whole tomatoes
2 springs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, heat olive oil until just starting to smoke. Add onion and saute until translucent. Add garlic, along with the broccoli rabe and kale and stir frequently until wilted. Add beans and stir to combine. Add chicken stock. Squeeze the whole tomatoes into pot, one by one, stir to combine. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer until very hot and serve.

More Soup
January is National Soup Month; click here to find titles featured in a previous post. Also consider related titles which include full or chapter treatment about soups. Two on the list are on their way to our shelves.

Veggiyana : The Dharma of Cooking by Sandra Garson
Love Soup : 160 All-new Vegetarian Recipes by Anna Thomas
Make It Fast, Cook It Slow by Stephanie O'Dea
Salad as a Meal by Patricia Wells
Soup ; forward by Eric Schlosser

CT Sings! Song of the Airline Trail

2011-12-12T15:54:00.000-05:00

First Row, Left to Right : Alexander Link, Elijah De Siqueria Campos McLaughlin, Vanessa Naughton, Elizabeth Link, London Brazel, Lucia Petruzziello, Dante Petruzziello
Standing : Chuck E. Costa (CT State Troubadour), Mira Stanley

Last Saturday, our CT State Troubadour, Chuck E. Costa, led a workshop for our community's budding singer-songwriters. Thinking it was "impossible" to write a song, this inventive group of kiddos proved themselves wrong and penned a song about the Airline Trail. A rough audio of their creation will be available shortly. In the mean time, enjoy the poetry of their original song's chorus :

It used to be a train track.
Now it's the Airline Trail.
Bikes, beasts, and feet
Go down the worn out rail.
Someday you might go there...
An adventure on the Airline Trail.

Down Through the Village...

2011-12-07T17:24:00.004-05:00

Frosty Meets Wreath!

The East Hampton CT Belltown Garden Club annually adorns the Community Center with holiday finery. Check out our holiday roof-dweller, Frosty the synthetic snowman, and his festive companion, a Garden Club wreath made with bundles of variegated greens.

Also visit the Club's blog to learn more about their many projects and contributions to making our community a more greenified and beautiful place to live. Who knows? You might be inspired to join the club...

Photo courtesy of the East Hampton CT Belltown Garden Club

Today's Kiddo, Tomorrow's Scholar

2011-12-06T15:58:00.014-05:00

Destination College Savings

Charlotte Minnick Saves for College

Last summer, for the third year in a row, the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) partnered with the Connecticut State Library to offer children the chance to receive one of four $1,000 contributions to a CHET direct-sold 529 college savings plan. Official Destination College Savings entry forms were distributed to our state's public libraries, ours included, as part of the statewide, collaborative summer reading program : One World, Many Stories.

Way to Go, Charlotte Minnick!
Local kindergartner, Charlotte Minnick, received one of the four $1,000 CHET contributions, which also won the East Hampton Public Library $500 for use in funding library programs for local children. We couldn't be more pleased for Charlotte and her family : parents Scott and Lynn and 3rd grade brother, Julien, pictured here at a ceremony hosted by our State Library on September 10th.

As the days unfold, we'll keep you posted on children's programs made possible by Charlotte. Thank you!

About CHET

CHET is administered by the Connecticut State Treasurer's Office. The CHET Direct-Sold Plan is managed by TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. (TFI).

Check out the CHET website for information about how the plan works, how our state's plan compares to other college savings plans, and how to participate.

Photos used with permission

Planning Ahead : Adult Book Discussion Group

2011-12-05T18:21:00.000-05:00

Reading Outside the Box

Our library book discussion group reconvenes in January with a three-part series about great American authors. The spring series explores -- dah, dah, dah -- the fictional land of the master spy. All are welcomed to attend the discussions. Books are generally available for checkout a month before each discussion date. Library staff member Phil Carr moderates.

Winter 2012 Series : 20th Century American Writers
Join us for an exploration of the life and often troubled times of three great American writers as seen through the eyes of the people who knew them well.

Tuesday, January 24, 6:30 p.m. : Running With the Bulls by Valerie Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway’s personal secretary and daughter-in-law tells her story, both exhilarating and sorrowful.

Wednesday, February 22, 6:30 p.m. : John Cheever : A Life by Blake Bailey
Bailey’s definitive work chronicles the personal struggles of one of America’s foremost fiction writers, arguably best known for The Wapshot Chronicle.

Wednesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m. : A Ticket to the Circus by Norris Church Mailer
Norman Mailer’s sixth and last wife describes her 30-year relationship with the not infrequently controversial author.

Spring 2012 Series : I Spy a Book Discussion
When this winter winds down (let's hope this one is not at all like the last), expect more detailed info on spring 2012's spy novel series.

Sharpening the Ole Number Twos...

2011-12-05T17:13:00.008-05:00

Free SAT® Test Prep Service @ your library
If you are preparing to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test in 2012, we can help. The library offers online access to prepme, which features personalized lesson plans, 50 hours of detailed lessons, practice tests from the people who make the real tests, and in-depth progress reports.

The service is free to anyone with a valid East Hampton Public Library card, also free. If you have your card handy, click here to get started on your way to a higher score. If you haven't signed up for a prepme account before, use your card number and the link at the top of the screen to create a free account.

Also on hand are the retro but ever-trusty paper study guides for the SAT and SAT subject tests. Pick and choose according to your learning preferences and style.

What a Bargain!

2011-12-03T11:21:00.000-05:00

Pinch That Penny
Cost conscious patrons might enjoy radio/web bargain guru Clark Howard's latest : Living Large in Lean Times. Follow up with Suze Orman's The Money Class : Learn to Create Your New American Dream, a book about employing new financial strategies during difficult days. Orman's tome pairs up nicely with The New Frugality : How to Consume Less, Save More, and Live Better by Chris Farrell.

Couponing
Try the Coupon Moms' book and website. Connecticut resident Gina Juliano can also help you get very serious about couponing, discount deals, and sales you won't want to miss.

For Seniors
Four local supermarkets offer discount shopping days to seniors... ahem, older adults.
Noel's Supermarket : 5% discount offered only on Monday and Wednesday for age 62 and up.
Ted's IGA : 5% discount offered everyday for age 62 and up. First apply for a Ted's card; then apply for senior discount.
Tri-Town Foods : 5% discount offered only on Wednesday and Thursday, for age 65 and up. First apply for Tri-Town card to get senior discount.
Westchester Marketplace : 5% discount offered Tuesday through Thursday for seniors. For discount, just tell the cashier when checking out. Also on site is a full service post office; very convenient.

Pemberley Revisited

2011-11-29T17:18:00.009-05:00

Pride, Prejudice, and P.D. James
Due out next week is the U.S. edition of Death Comes to Pemberely by critically acclaimed British crime novelist, P.D. James. The author, a life-long admirer of Jane Austen's classic novels, takes us back to Pemberley where a murder tale unfolds.

Though we've only read excerpts from the book, we predict this one will find its way in to the land of must-read. Fans of Austen or James? Place your holds...

Further Reading, Listening, and Viewing
Fans of Austen's books probably won't need a refresher course on Pride and Prejudice (different formats, incarnations or loosely based-on, parody) any more than P.D. James fans are likely to forget the likes of Devices and Desires, Children of Men, Original Sin, or Certain Justice.

If you are a fan of one author but don't know much about the other, consider reading outside the box!

About Jane Austen
A Jane Austen Education : How Six Novels Taught Me About Love, Friendship, and The Things That Really Matter by William Deresiewicz
Jane Austen : A Life by Claire Tomalin
Jane Austen, Obstinate Heart : A Biography by Valerie Grosvenor Myer

Surf's Up
Enjoy an interview with P.D. James, courtesy of the U.K.'s Telegraph or visit The Republic of Pemberley.

Spiritual Matters

2011-11-27T17:26:00.002-05:00

Inspirational Reads

Here's a short list of new titles on religious and spiritual topics.

Beyond Religion : Ethics for a Whole World by Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama delivers a familiar and compelling message on compassion, wisdom, and morality. Release date is Tuesday, December 6.

Man Seeks God : My Flirtations with the Divine by Eric Weiner
Weiner (The Geography of Bliss) travels to Turkey, China, Israel, and Nepal, among other places, on a midlife spiritual quest.

The Rise and Fall of the Bible : The Unexpected History of an Accidental Book by Timothy Beal
Learn about the history of the Bible from Beal, a professor of religious studies at Case Western Reserve University.

Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life by Karen Armstrong
Religion historian, Armstrong (The Case for God), argues for compassion and living the Golden Rule as an everyday enterprise. Armstrong was instrumental in creating The Charter for Compassion, a project funded by TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design), a non-profit devoted to "ideas worth spreading".

In the Shadow of the Buddha : Secret Journeys, Sacred Histories, and Spiritual Discovery in Tibet by Matteo Pistono
Part travelogue, part spiritual memoir, part controversial political reportage, the author, a practicing Buddhist, chronicles his travels to Tibet.

The Torah Revolution : Fourteen Truths That Changed the World by Reuven Hammer
The author, an influential Conservative rabbi, explores the underpinnings of Jewish faith and belief.

Evolutionary Enlightenment : A New Path to Spiritual Awakening by Andrew Cohen
For fans of Deepak Chopra (The Shadow Effect), the present moment awareness movement, or Eckhart Tolle.

Unprotected Texts : The Bible's Surprising Contradictions About Sex and Desire by Jennifer Wright Knust
Knust, a Baptist pastor and theology professor, explores challenging and controversial topics in both the Old and the New Testament.

Happy Holidays!

2011-11-22T19:12:00.006-05:00

Mix and Match for Kids
From October 1 to December 31 of each year, we have a close bunch of holidays that we celebrate in different ways.

With Halloween long behind us, Thankgiving this week, and December's holiday season just around the corner, here's a selection of kid friendly holiday resources to jump start your late-year family celebrations.

Thanksgiving Day!
FREE (Federal Resources for Educational Excellence)
Check out online resources about Thanksgiving provided by the Library of Congress, Smithsonian Institute, National Archives and more!

Books and Reading
Here's a few of the latest books added to our kiddo December holiday reading collections:
A Bad Kitty Christmas by Nick Bruel
Harvest of Light by Allison Ofanansky
Babymouse: A Very Babymouse Christmas by Jennifer Holm
A Christmas Tree for Pyn by Olivier Dunrea
Home for Christmas by Jan Brett
Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah by Olga Ivanov and Aleksey Ivanov
Lighthouse Christmas by Toni Buzzeo
The Littlest Evergreen by Henry Cole

Chocolate, Wine, Cheese... MMmmm

2011-11-21T19:02:00.000-05:00

Holiday Entertaining
If you missed last Saturday's seminar on pairing chocolates with wine and cheese for maximum flavor and effect, stop by the library to pick up an information sheet distributed during the program.

You might also like to mark your calendars for a second program presented by the gourmet chocolatiers from Klassic Kreations. On December 3rd, we'll be exploring savory appetizers paired with heart-healthy chocolate, plus holiday tablescaping ideas.

Books and Reading
Here are but a few off-beat books related to last Saturday's program topic :
Unquenchable : a Tipsy Quest for the World's Best Bargain Wines by Natalie MacLean
Food Presentation Secrets by Cara Hobday & Jo Denbury
Chocolate : A Bittersweet Saga of Light and Dark by Mort Rosenblum
A Passion for Cheese by Paul Gayler
Cheese & Wine by Janet Kessel Fletcher
Making Artisan Chocolates by Andrew Garrison Shotts

Walking In a Winter Wonderland : Village LIONS Fundraiser

2011-11-21T17:46:00.002-05:00

Sleigh Bells Ring! Are You Listening?

The library's main reading room is now adorned with a superb selection of wreathes, table-top trees, gift baskets, and other festive items you might like to add use for holiday decorating and entertaining. All of the items were created and donated by local residents, organizations, and businesses.

Silent Auction
All items will be on display through Saturday, December 3. Browse the collection, place your bids, then mark your calendars and join the Village Lions in the library Community Room on Sunday, December 4 for a gala reception and auction results. Details to follow.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors
This is the third year for the inventive Belltown Winter Wonderland Fundraiser which celebrates our community's creative and generous spirit. The program also offers an easy way to spend your dollars locally, with assurance that your dollars will stay in our community. All funds raised from the auction will go to the East Hampton Fuel Bank.

Turkey Day!

2011-11-15T17:48:00.006-05:00

"Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence." ~ Erma Bombeck

Thanksgiving, a great American tradition, brings to mind parades, feasts, football, family, friendship, and above all -- gratitude. As we all plan for the upcoming holiday, here's a few quick lists of practical and enjoyable books.

Meal Planning
The library offers oodles of cookbooks that speak to a variety of preferences and lifestyle choices. Supplement or trade any of these more traditional titles and plan a perfect holiday meal.
New Thanksgiving Table by Diane Morgan
Thanksgiving 101 by Rick Rodgers
Betty Crocker Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook
Thanksgiving Entertaining by Lou Seibert Pappas
Gather : Memorable Menus for Entertaining..by Georgeanne Brennan
Happy Holidays from the Diva of Do-Ahead by Diane Phillips

Football Favorites
From classic to sublime; a few with DVD companions:
The Blind Side by Michael Lewis
Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger
Paper Lion by George Plimpton
North Dallas Forty by Peter Gent
Carry the Rock : Race, Football, and the Soul of an American City by Jay Jennings
Pigskin Warriors : 140 Years of College Football's Greatest Traditions..by Steven Travers
The Glory Game : How the 1958 NFL Championship Changed Football Forever by Frank Gifford

Books for Kids
Check out our Children's Services' holiday book section for these and other fun titles:
Five Silly Turkeys by Salina Yoon
Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet
Fancy Nancy : Our Thanksgiving Banquet by Jane O'Connor
I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson
An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving by Louisa May Alcott
One Is a Feast for Mouse by Judy Cox
Amelia Bedilia Talks Turkey by Herman Parish

Reading a Life...

2011-11-09T18:33:00.002-05:00

Biographies and Memoirs

Last February, publisher Alfred K. Knopf used Twitter to ask people why they read biographies. If the responses resonate with you, here's a quick list of the latest, all about fascinating people.

Technology
Walter Isaacson's biography of globally successful hi-tech genius entrepreneur, Steve Jobs, is available in book and audio CD formats. Also on CD is The Steve Jobs Way : iLeadership for a New Generation by Jay Elliot. Your kids might enjoy Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and the Personal Computer by Donald B. Lemke.

American Authors
Just One Catch : a Biography of Joseph Heller by Tracy Daugherty
And So It Goes : Kurt Vonnegut, A Life by Charles J. Shields
Blue Nights by Joan Didion

Hemingway's Boat by Paul Hendrickson

American History
Jack Kennedy : Elusive Hero by Chris Matthews

Pair this one with Jacqueline Kennedy : Historic Conversations on Life with John F. Kennedy by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis or for kids, Kennedy Through the Lens by Martin W. Sandler.

World History and Art
Try Catherine the Great : Portrait of a Woman by Pulitzer-winning biographer Robert K. Massie (Nicholas and Alexandra and Peter the Great). Art history fans might try Van Gogh : the Life by Steven Naifeh & Gregory White Smith.

Sports
Sports fans will find Los Angeles Laker Jerry West's memoir, West by West, a compelling read. Also try the biography of the late Walter Payton, star running back for 1985's Super Bowl winning Chicago Bears. Baseball fans will appreciate Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca's memoir, A Moment in Time : an American Story of Baseball, Heartbreak, and Grace.

Film
Immerse yourself in books about influential film critics Pauline Kael (The New Yorker) and Roger Ebert, Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times. Also find Marc Eliot's biography of the late "King of Cool" film icon, Steve McQueen.

Popular Music/Popular Culture
Pick and choose bios (solid and sort-of) : Judy Collins, Mick Jagger, Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby, Ellen DeGeneres, Michael Moore. For a big stretch on the idea of "biography", documentary films about Pearl Jam and George Lucas offer fun viewing.

Kid Classics

2011-11-05T19:44:00.000-04:00

Never Out of Style
Here's a quick list of perennially popular picture book titles that have stood the test of time. If you and the latest little person in your life haven't had the pleasure, curling up with any of these kid classics will be a fun reading ride!

In some cases, favorite characters appear in additional books that you can enjoy, too.

Swimmy by Leo Lionni
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Rosie's Walk by Pat Hutchins
Shy Charles by Rosemary Wells
On the Day You Were Born by Debra Frasier
Julius, the Baby of the World by Kevin Henkes
Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion
Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel
Good Morning Chick by Mirra Ginsburg
Little Gorilla by Ruth Bornstein
Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats
Five Little Monkeys Jumping On the Bed by Eileen Christelow
Chicken Soup with Rice : A Book of Months by Maurice Sendak
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
"More More More" Said the Baby : 3 Love Stories by Vera B. Williams

NaNoWriMo? Get Going!

2011-11-03T11:59:00.001-04:00

Logo courtesy of National
Novel Writing Month

It's National Novel Writing Month
If there's a book inside you, give a look at the NaNoWriMo website. Sign up for a free account, post your daily word counts, and track your progress as you work towards writing 50,000 words in a month. That about 175 pages in 30 days.

If you need a push, gentle shove, or kick in the pantalones to get started, check out Nanowrimo's Pep Talk Archive. Your favorite authors offer inspiration...

Steampunk!

2011-11-03T11:39:00.000-04:00

More Than Old-Fashioned Contraptions...
If you are interested in how the future was conceived in the past, join us at the library for a couple of Steampunk-related programs. If you would like to read ahead on the subject, click for a few recommended books, including the Steampunk Bible.

On Tuesday, November 15th, we'll be showing The Time Machine (the ultimate Steampunk gizmo) based on 1895's same-name speculative novel by H.G. Wells. If you grew up with this film, we invite you to join us and share your comments. Click on over and watch the trailer. Film discussion program begins at 6:30 p.m.; all are welcomed.

On Thursday, November 17, Our Take A Break Series will feature an overview of Steampunk as a genre in both fiction, film, and art. Also use your creativity to make yourself a Steampunk-inspired brooch.

Hierarchy of Needs

2011-10-31T15:34:00.000-04:00

Lights! Heat! Wi-fi!

As the black-cloud-power-outage-funk continues to lurk overhead, happy to say we've served 77 wi-fi users and the day's nowhere near over. We're open until 8 p.m. There's a film showing at 6:30 if you're interested; enjoy the melodrama of 1954's The Last Time I Saw Paris.

Books to Film

2011-10-30T16:36:00.000-04:00

Today's Book Is Tomorrow's Movie
Check out upcoming, book-based additions to our film collection and books now in the process of being turned into major motion pictures. Since Hollywood takes seriously the message to reuse and recycle, there are a few remakes. Adds a little spice to the which is better discussion, don't you think?

Water for Elephants : The film version of Sara Gruen's bestselling romantic, bygone era novel comes to us on DVD Tuesday, November 1. Also on Tuesday comes Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, based on Lisa See's 2005 novel about female friendships in 19th century China and in modern Shanghai.

Breaking Dawn Part 1, fourth in Stephenie Meyer's megahit Twilight series, arrives on the big screen November 18. Big frowny face : you'll be waiting at least a year for Part 2. Counter with a big smiley face : David Fincher's big-budget version of Stieg Larsson's international sensation, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, is due for release on December 21. Compare and contrast to the Swedish film.

Let's get quirky! Cameron Crowe directs the film version of Benjamin's Mee's memoir We Bought a Zoo. Of course, Mee's actual zoo (England) has for movie purposes been moved to Southern California. Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson star in this feel good holiday movie due for big screen on December 21.

Reading Ahead : More Books to Film Adaptations
Here's a dozen books with last best news about big screen or DVD status. See you at the front desk or at the movies!

The Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell ~ Big Screen, 2012
Coriolanus by William Shakespeare ~ Big Screen, January 2012
The Descendants by Kaui Hart Hemmings ~ Big Screen, November 16
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safron Foer ~ Big Screen, January 2012
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald ~ Big Screen, 2012
The Help by Kathryn Stockett ~ Blu-Ray/DVD on December 6
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick ~ Big Screen, November 23
Moneyball by Michael Lewis ~ Big Screen, Still Showing
Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay ~ DVD on November 22
The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas ~ Big Screen, Still Showing
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John Le Carre ~ Big Screen, December 9
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver ~ Big Screen, January 2012

Best Friends Forever... Interspecies Style

2011-10-25T18:08:00.000-04:00

For Animal Lovers
On the too-cute-for-words front, National Geographic science writer Jennifer S. Holland delivers a spectacular visual tribute to the power of friendship and empathy among animals of different species. Unlikely Friendships include an orangutan and a kitten, and owl and a spaniel, a white rhino and a billy goat, and a seeing-eye cat and a blind mutt. With 47 stories in all, this a great book to share with the family.

Similar Books for Children
How to Clean a Hippopotamus : a Look at Unusual Animal Partnerships by Steve Jenkins & Robin Page
Owen & Mzee : the Language of Friendship by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff and Dr. Paula Kuhumbu
Two Bobbies : a True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship & Survival by Kirby Larson and Mary Nethery
Suryia and Roscoe : the True Story of an Unlikely Friendship by Bhagavan "Doc" Antle, with Thea Feldman
Koko's Kitten by Francine Patterson

Surf's Up
National Geographic News : Author Interview with Jennifer Holland
Daring Duos : Unlikely Animal Friends (Slide slow courtesy of Our Amazing Planet)

What's Cooking? Holiday Programs for Foodies

2011-10-21T20:16:00.004-04:00

"I was 32 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate." -- Julia Child, celebrity chef and cookbook author

Join us in November and again in December for programs about the joys of good food : healthy, delicious, and delightfully presented. All of our program leaders are small business owners based in Connecticut. Get new ideas for the upcoming holiday party season, share your own secrets with others, and network, network, network!

All of the programs are free and open to the public. Please let us know if you plan to attend a program by using a date link to register.

Soup's On! Healthy Recipes from the Conscious Cook

Saturday, November 5, 2 p.m.
Our presenter, Robin Glowa, a.k.a. The Conscious Cook, is a certified holistic health counselor and member of the Northeast Organic Farmer's Association. In this workshop, Robin will share healthy and hearty soup recipes, all great additions to a tailgating party, holiday gathering, or family-friendly menu. Samples provided... yum!

Perfect Pairings with Klassic Kreations
Saturday, November 19, 2 p.m.
Kim Larkin (right) and Kelly Ferreira (left) are sisters and the owners of a commercially licensed chocolate company, Klassic Kreations Gourmet. Meet with these gourmet chocolatiers who will present on bringing together different types of chocolates, wines, and cheeses for maximum flavor and effect. Sample and find inspiration for your next friends and family gathering.

Celebrating the Holiday Table
Saturday, December 3, 2 p.m.
The Klassic Kreations duo will return to the library on a very-big-day in East Hampton. Plan a full day of fun all around town, including a stop at the library for advice on healthy and yummy holiday options, easily prepared. From savory appetizers to tea breads to a sweet ending of heart-healthy chocolate, great food and tasty recipes will be shared. Learn a bit about tablescaping and how to create a lovely and inviting holiday table, too!

CT Sings! Is There a Song Inside You?

2011-10-19T17:26:00.007-04:00

CT Sings! Songwriting Workshop for Kids

Chuck Costa

Our 2011-2012 CT State Troubadour, Chuck Costa, is currently traveling our state gathering songs about Connecticut, written by Connecticut children. Mr. Costa will be making a stop at the library on Saturday, December 10.

Making Music @ your library
East Hampton children in grades 2-5 are invited to participate in a two-hour workshop. Chuck will guide you through the fundamentals of the songwriting process (rhyme, rhythm, metaphor, and melody) and walk you through the steps it takes to go from an original idea to a finished song. Important goals of the workshop are to support your creativity while at the same time asking you to use your critical thinking/problem solving skills, and work as a team.

The workshop is limited to 20 kids; click here to register.

Surf's Up
Our 2011-2012 State Troubador sings an original tune. Video courtesy of Ann Nyberg, WTNH anchor and online host of Ann Nyberg's Network Connecticut.

20th Annual Connecticut Children's Book Fair

2011-10-18T19:59:00.002-04:00

See Your Favorite Authors in Person!
On November 12th or 13th, join the fun at the 20th Annual Connecticut Children's Book Fair hosted by UCONN on its Storrs campus. You will get a chance to hear from famous children's authors including Mo Willems, Tomie dePaola, and Jane Yolen. Expect to learn about new and exciting upcoming books, get autographs, and enjoy the company of other kids and families who enjoy a good read! For more information, click here.

Book Fair Authors
Here's a quick list of books by just a few of the authors who will be participating in the Book Fair:
Elephant and Piggie Series by Mo Willems
Strega Nona Series by Tomie dePaola
Swindle by Gordon Korman
How Do Dinosaurs...? Series by Jane Yolen
Can You See What I See? Series by Walter Wick
Pop-up book titles written, adapted, or engineered by Robert Sabuda
Year of the Rat plus others by Grace Lin

Book Fair Illustrators
Book Fair participants also include spectacular, award-winning illustrators whose artwork helps add enjoyment to a story. Meet Betsy Lewin, Ted Lewin, and Matt Tavares, to name a few.

Boo!

2011-10-15T14:52:00.076-04:00

Spooky (and Not So Spooky) Halloween Reads for Kids
Halloween is just around the corner. Check out our Holiday Book section -- a good place to start -- for a range of spooky stories sure to provide excitement and of course, some belly laughs! For a quick list of recent titles, click here.

You might like also to choose from a list of other seasonal titles, including several local favorites and a few classics.

Nate the Great and the Halloween Hunt by Majorie Sharmat
The Best Halloween Ever by Barbara Robinson
Monsters on Machines by Deb Lund
The Witch Who Was Afraid of Witches by Alice Low
Scary School by Derek the Ghost
Dragonbreath Series by Ursula Vernon
Ghoulish Goodies by Sharon Bowers
Monsters Don't Eat Broccoli by Barbara Jean Hicks
The Boy of a Thousand Faces by Brian Selznick
Thelonius Monster's Sky-high Fly Pie by Judy Sierra
Dogzilla by Dav Pilkey
Plumply, Dumply Pumpkin by Mary Serfozo

Booriffic Upcoming Event!
Register today to attend our annual shindig for kids, scheduled for Saturday, October 29, 10 a.m. in the library Community Room. Lynn Lewis and Friends will provide the entertainment; great for kids ages 6 months to 8 years-old. Come in costume (no masks, please) and join the party!

Inventory...

2011-10-15T13:52:00.000-04:00

American History, Presidents, Politics

Destiny of the Republic : A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard
This one is tells the story of our 20th President James A. Garfield and the story of his assassin, Charles Guiteau. 19th Century medicine and names of the day play a role in this deftly written page-turner which reads like a thriller.

Killing Lincoln : the Shocking Assasination that Changed America Forever by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
Political commentator O'Reilly and author/adventurer Dugard offer a point-of-view take on the Lincoln assasination.

Jacqueline Kennedy : Historic Conversations on Life with John F. Kennedy : Interviews with Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr., 1964
Shortly after President John F. Kennedy's assassination, Jacqueline Kennedy began the task of documenting and preserving her husband's legacy. The interviews with Arthur Schlesinger were sealed for half a century. (Annotated book plus eight CD set.)

In My Time : A Personal and Political Memoir by Dick Cheney
The former Vice President tells his life story and dicusses his forty year career at the highest levels of American power and politics.

The Black History of the White House by Clarence Lusane
The author describes the mansion's place in African American history, from George Washinghton to today.

That Used to Be Us by Thomas L. Friedman and Michael Mandelbaum
A Pulitzer Prize winner and a foreign policy expert examine 21st century challenges.

Confidence Men by Ron Suskind
Draws on hundreds of hours of interviews and in-depth research to relate the complete story of the nation's financial meltdown, from the trading floors of lower Manhattan to the power corridors inside the Beltway.

Washington by Ron Chernow
A National Book Award winning author offers a page-turning examination of our nation's founding and our accomplished and politically savvy first president.

Back to School and Extra Healthy

2011-10-07T17:05:00.001-04:00

"E" is for Exercise
Check out our collection and services for ideas on how to create and share exercise activities with your children. Explore upbeat exercise routines or yoga calm, martial arts overviews, or set your own moves to fun music!

Video Helpers : On DVD
Happy Healthy Monsters or Elmocize: Join the Sesame Street Gang as the learn about nutrition and exercise.

Kidz Bop Dance Moves: Megan Honore of High School Musical fame leads the dance party. Use your new moves with tunes on any of the latest Kidz Bop music discs.

Rock 'n Learn Alphabet Exercise: Learn letters while exercising with Alphabet Al!

Denise Austin's Fitkids: Use elements of dance, hip-hop, sports drills, yoga and stretching to keep moving and have fun.

Karate for Kids: Learn a little about basic karate techniques and karate as a non-competitive fitness option. Fribrary Time kids (grades 4-5) might also like to check out our martial arts overview program scheduled for Friday, November 18.

Kids Yoga Adventure: Strengthen and tone muscles, increase flexibility, and improve coordination in a fun and healthy way.

Books and Reading
From Head to Toe by Eric Carle (picture book)
Children's Book of Yoga by Thia Luby
The Busy Body Book by Lizzy Rockwell
Exercising by Robin Nelson
Keeping Fit by Sylvia Goulding

Surf's Up
BAM! Physical Activity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Kids and Exercise (Nemours Foundation)
Children and Sports (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education & Research
Exercise and Children (Recommended links from Medline Plus)

Health Insurance and You

2011-10-05T16:01:00.002-04:00

Consumer Report Cards
Our State's Insurance Department recently released the October 2011 edition of Consumer Report Card on Health Insurance Carriers in Connecticut. This annual publication provides "a comparison of all Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and the fifteen insurers with the highest premium volume in Connecticut".

The report may be helpful in choosing an insurance plan or comparing overall customer satisfaction across plans. The report does not include information regarding Medicare, Medicaid and other entitlement programs.

Click here to download a copy of the 2011 report, listed first under the "Publications" heading.

From Consumer Reports Online
You may also use your library card to access Consumer Reports and review health insurance plans ranked by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Click here and go to the Consumer Reports access page; type your East Hampton Public Library barcode in the library barcode box to enter the site.

Books & Reading
Here's a quick title list about healthcare topics or the ongoing health care debate:
Long-term Care: How to Plan and Pay for It by J.L. Matthews
Social Security, Medicare and Government Pensions by J.L. Matthews
Why Our Health Matters by Andrew Weil
Deadly Spin by Wendell Potter
Clinical Trials: What Patients and Healthy Volunteers Need to Know by Lorna Speid
Complete Idiot's Guide to Social Security and Medicare by Lita Epstein
Treat Me, Not my Age by Mark Lachs
Sick: the Untold Story of America's Health Care Crisis and the People Who Pay the Price by Jonathan Cohn

What's New? Universal Class!

2011-10-04T15:19:00.004-04:00

Knowledge is Power...
Why not learn something new today? The library now offers over 500 free online continuing education courses through Universal Class TM. These self-paced, non-credit personal development and enrichment classes are led by real instructors who will give you continuous feedback on your progress.

Quick Facts About Universal Class TM

You will need to create an account and have a valid e-mail address to sign up for courses.
You may take as many courses as you like but may enroll in no more than five (5) courses at a time.
You have up to six months to finish any course.
You have access to your course 24/7 via the Internet.
Attend class and complete assignments on your schedule.
These are non-credit courses, provided for your personal enrichment. They are not intended to be a substitute for any state, government, licensing, or educational requirements.
Each course has a real instructor who you may communicate with using email.

Create an Account
Click here to access Universal Class TM. For validation purposes, enter your East Hampton Public Library in the "Enter Code" field. Follow the instructions to register for the service/create an account. We hope you'll take some time to explore this new addition to our portfolio of online services!

Doggie Detectives

2011-10-01T13:01:00.000-04:00

Chet & Bernie & Friends
Spencer Quinn (a.k.a. suspense novelist Peter Abrahams) offers his fourth in a series of humorous mysteries featuring P.I. Bernie Little and Chet, his faithful dog sidekick and the book's narrator. Keep on having fun with this series, which we wrote about last year.

Read-Alikes
Not all as cozy and cute as the above but well worth a spin.
A Nose for Justice by Rita Mae Brown
Duplicity Dogged the Dachshund by Blaize Clement
The Hard Way by Carol Lea Benjamin

Election 2011: East Hampton Candidates Conversation Scheduled

2011-09-28T15:17:00.004-04:00

Tune In or DVR the Get Real Show
East Hampton Town Council candidates will gather for a ‘candidates conversation’ on town issues on the Get Real show on Monday, Oct. 3 on [Comcast] cable channel 15 at 7pm. During consecutive Monday nights in October, council candidates will debate and share thoughts and positions on the issues effecting the town. All three political parties are slated to appear with candidates. The format of the show is free flowing and conversational between the candidates. Topics are chosen for their timeliness and impact on the community.

The Get Real Show airs each Monday at 7pm on [Comcast] cable channel 15.

This information was provided to the library as a press release from the show's producer, Josh Piteo. Mr. Piteo is a candidate for Town Council on the Republican slate.

See You After School 2011!!

2011-09-27T18:18:00.012-04:00

Fall FriBrary Time
Fall Footprint Friday
The library offers a regular series of after-school programs to fourth and fifth graders (FriBrary) and to second and third graders (Footprint Friday). Check out recently announced programs in our fall series.

Coming Up at Footprint Friday

September 30 (Ivy and Bean), October 21 (Tale of Despereaux), and November 4 (Alvin Ho)
Each program focuses on a popular book or series. Activities are based on characters, settings, and events that take place inside the pages. The programs offer a great opportunity for young readers to make new friends, socialize, talk about stories, and have some some fun, too!

Coming Up at FriBrary Time

Learn about a topic in the news, explore a new skill, bring your friends and make new friends, too! Reuse/Recyle on October 14 then have some Halloween fun on October 28. Take part in a martial arts workshop on November 18 and on December 9, build a holiday craft that takes advantage of solar power.

Rethinking the Picture Book: Part Two

2011-09-23T18:29:00.058-04:00

Brian Selznick's Latest
Autumn is near and we're sure you've seen the ever so slight change in the color of leaves. On the book front -- as in books for savvy kids -- the spectacular "colors" of great fiction arrived early.

If you enjoyed the remarkable, award-winning title, The Invention of Hugo Cabret (soon to be a major motion picture directed by Martin Scorsese), Wonderstruck offers another wild ride. Meet Rose and Ben, two kids living 50 years apart. Ben's story is told using words; Rose's story is told only in pictures.

Selznick's latest also salutes E.L. Konigsburg's 1967 classic, From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.

Check Out the Book Trailer for Wonderstruck...

Check Out the Movie Trailer for Hugo...

Next New Museum Pass Added

2011-09-20T19:55:00.000-04:00

Save Cash, Borrow a Pass!
If you would like to visit the Mark Twain House & Museum, located in Hartford, you can borrow a pass from the library and save money in the process. Pass admits one adult or two children with the purchase of one adult pass. Guided tours are available of this 19-room, Tiffany decorated mansion, where Mark Twain raised his family and worked from 1874-1891, writing many of his famous stories.

Also check out special events at the Twain House, many of them free or affordable.

The pass is funded via used book sales offered by and membership dues to the Friends of the East Hampton Public Library. Check out the used book sale shelves located in the library lobby for good deals on good reads!

Shine on Brightly

2011-09-20T18:11:00.003-04:00

Shel Silverstein
Today brought us a poetry collection by the late, great Silverstein (1930-1999). Every Thing on It features drawings and poems from the author's extensive archive, selected for publication by his family.

Though we doubt any of you are new to the land of Silverstein's quirky, whimsical, strange, clever, and chuckle-filled poetry, don't forget to share anew the author's classic titles with your kids. Who knows? Shel's poems might very well inspire a new poet...

Surf's Up
Use the following links to read more about the author, his books and influence, courtesy of the following sources:
Shel Silverstein's official web site
NPR Morning Edition
Poets.org (Academy of American Poets)

Gearing Up for Halloween...

2011-09-17T16:22:00.003-04:00

Fright-Free Events
Join us in October for holiday events featuring crafts, a workshop about healthy Halloween food choices, first in a sci-fi film series, and a fun music-filled party for families. All events are free and open to the public.

Craft a Creepy Craft for Halloween
Saturday, October 1, 11 a.m.
What Halloween celebration would be complete without a creepy, crawly spider? Work with shapes, patterns, and mixed materials to make this spider your own. For ages 4-7; registration required.

Healthy Halloween with the Conscious Cook

Tuesday, October 4, 6:30 p.m.
Robin Glowa (right), a.k.a. The Conscious Cook, will present on how to make Halloween treats sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and urge to indulge, all without melting your molars. She'll talk about the health benefits of organic dark chocolate, natural but equally sweet alternatives to processed sugar, juicy/fruity delicacies and other fiber-licious treats.

If you are looking for a motivational boost to add "healthy" to your family's Halloween and/or are willing to share your healthy ideas with the group, please join us for DIY demonstrations and tasty samples!

Sci-Fi on the B-List
Tuesday, October 18, 6:30 p.m.
Our fall/early winter film discussion series for adults kicks off with a showing of Them!, a landmark 1954 sci-fi movie about a horror horde of giant crawl-and-crush radiation-mutated ants. Works as a just-before Halloween film, don't you think?

Plan to have some film history fun with this one. Library staff member Phil Carr moderates the discussion.

Annual Halloween Party and Costume Parade
Saturday, October 29, 10:00 a.m.
Our annual Halloween shindig for little people will feature a performance by Lynn Lewis and Friends. Plan to wear your fabulous costume (no masks, please) and prepare to sing, dance, and show off your best moves.

Good news is this year's event is open to preschool children, as well as their younger and older siblings: 6 months to 8 years. Click here to register and join the family fun!

New England Air Museum Pass Now Available

2011-09-12T17:38:00.000-04:00

Lockheed Electra, built
at the same time as
as Amelia Earhart’s plane

Family Fun at an Affordable Price
The latest addition to our menu of museum passes has arrived! Borrow a pass to the New England Air Museum and take advantage of discounted admission to New England's largest aviation museum. Enjoy regular exhibits and activities for families.

This pass brings the total number of library pass offerings up to 17 with three more on their way: Mark Twain House House & Museum, Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, and Imagine Nation Children's Museum.

Save Some Cash and Borrow a Pass!
Our pass program is funded by the Friends of the East Hampton Public Library. You can help support the program by joining the Friends; an annual family membership costs $10.

September 11, 2001

2011-09-10T11:11:00.001-04:00

Ten Years Later
The anniversary of the attacks is tomorrow and calls for both remembrance and reflection. We offer links to and lists of a variety of online and print resources that may be helpful in forging a family discussion about 9/11.

Visit iCONN, a service of the Connecticut State Library. Explore links to the Connecticut Historical Society, the Library of Congress, and other digital news, photo, e-book, and oral history archives about 9/11.

The Sonic Memorial Project tells the story of 9/11 through sound. Listen to collected voice mails, home recordings, and audio clips that tell the first-person stories of WTC neighbors and neighborhoods, WTC workers, and 9/11 families.

Graphic by Kelly
Jensen-Mullins

The Heroes website offers information about how to talk to your child about 9/11; similar guidance can be found at the official 9/11 Memorial website. PBS offers a 9/11 timeline.
Books for discussion include:
September 11, 2001 by Wilborn Hampton
American Under Attack by Gail B. Stewart
9.11.01 by Pat Lalley
It's Still a Dog's New York by Susan L. Roth

One World, Many Stories : September Book Discussions

2011-09-06T19:18:00.000-04:00

Save Your Comments for a New Day
Owing to nasty weather and its aftermath (need we say more?), our discussion of Paul Theroux's The Old Patagonian Express has moved from late August date to Wednesday, September 21. Conversations over the front desk indicate readers have much to say about this book. Join us to share your insights and comments.

One World, Many Stories : Next Book Up
Copies of our scheduled Wednesday, September 28 discussion book, The Same Kind of Different as Me, are ready for checkout at the front desk. The book chronicles the friendship of two men from polar opposite walks of life. Find inspiration here.

Both book discussion sessions are moderated by library staff member Phil Carr. No registration is required and if you have independently read either book, please do drop in and join the conversation!

H-Irene and Your Library

2011-09-06T16:12:00.003-04:00

Rube Goldberg Meets Library
The library was without electrical power and the Internet service we would have used to conduct business during all of its open hours from Monday, August 29th through Thursday, September 1st.

On Thursday, the library borrowed a car battery from Public Works. Using the battery and a power inverter, a laptop and a broadband wireless air card, we connected to our online library business system. From there we tackled the backlog of materials returned to our book and video drops while the library was closed. Interesting experience using different tools to do what seems so easy on a regular day...

Please note no overdue fines will be charged for materials due on any of the four days the library was closed to the public.

Town and Library News: Hurricane Irene

2011-08-26T21:08:00.004-04:00

About H-Irene
The library will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 27 but will close at 4 p.m. instead of 5 p.m.

Town Government H-Irene News
Visit the Town of East Hampton's Facebook Page for info on town shelter and who to call. As H-Irene moves up the East Coast, stay safe, everyone.

Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen

2011-08-19T18:56:00.002-04:00

Illustration by Thorina Rose

The Songwriter as Poet
Join us for a two-part, scholar-led discussion series focused on the poetry in the songs of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.

Cultural Conversations @ your library
As artists, both Dylan and Cohen produced bodies of work that rank with the best popular music of the past half-century. We’ll explore the close relationship between music and poetry and sample sound recordings while we discuss the artistry, influence, and timelessness of these living legends of music and verse.

To Register
Click here to register for the Dylan program (Tuesday, September 13) and here for the Cohen program (Tuesday, October 11). Bring your appreciation for the artists and a story to tell about how their lyrics and music influenced you.

Our Discussion Moderator
David Garnes is graduate of Brown University and Columbia University. He taught English in NY private schools and served as a librarian at Columbia University and UConn, Storrs, retiring in 2001. David is a published author and facilitates literature programs for the Connecticut Humanities Council. For the past decade, he has worked part-time at the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst.

Museum Pass Program Expands

2011-08-14T17:56:00.001-04:00

Borrow a Pass and Save Some Cash!

In September, the library will add three new passes to its list of money-saving circulating museum passes. Other than Middletown's Kid City (pass unavailable for purchase), these are the three most-requested passes we've been asked to add to our menu.

New England Air Museum

The New England Air Museum has two huge display hangars housing more than 70 aircraft from all periods of history as well as an outdoor exhibit area. Discounted admission for 2 adults and 2 children (ages 6-11) free.

Mark Twain House & Museum

Guided tours are available of this 19-room, Tiffany decorated mansion, where Mark Twain raised his family and worked from 1874-1891, writing many of his famous stories. The pass admits one adult or two children with the purchase of one adult admission.

Harriet Beecher Stowe House
The Stowe Center is the home of the author of the anti-slavery novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. It includes three historic buildings surrounded by gorgeous gardens: the Harriet Beecher Stowe House, the Carriage House, and the Katharine Seymour Day House. Pass admits two.

More to come on new passes and do watch for forthcoming combo deals which will allow you to check out two complementary passes at a time.

Steampunk

2011-08-09T19:03:00.017-04:00

Say What?
Experts at the Mark Twain House & Museum describe "steampunk" best:

"Steampunk"? Steampunk is the future as imagined through the eyes of the past. It is mechanical gears and boilers, dirtiness mixed with shininess of brass and copper with the deep red of cherrywood. It is a time for tea and gadgets, airships and ether. Steampunk is a trip to the moon through the barrel of a cannon. It is progeny of Jules Verne and H. G. Wells finding their voice in fiction, fashion and music. Steampunk is all of these things, none of them and more. Steampunk is "punk".

Coming this Fall to the Mark Twain House and Museum
Beginning October 1, 2011, visit the Steampunk Bizarre exhibit at the Twain House. Thanks to your ongoing support for the Friends of the Library "Second Hand Prose" summer book sale rack, we'll be adding the Twain Museum pass to our menu of money-saving pass options in early September, if not before.

Steampunk Art
If you are interested in the how-to end of steampunk art or the glory of major steampunk artists, click here and enjoy.

Steampunk Fiction and Films
Steampunk owes more than a short salute to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and The Time Machine. Since you've asked, expect follow-up recommendations for steampunk books and films, both classic and contemporary...

One World, Many Stories : The Chocolate Story

2011-08-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

"Candy doesn't have to have a point. That's why it's candy." ~ Charlie Bucket

Did you know that chocolate grows on trees?! In a matter of speaking it does. The beans of the cacao plant, mostly found in Central America, are ground up (then a few extra ingredients are added) to make chocolate. Central American natives drank the ground cacao powder in a drink sometimes with a dash of pepper, but never any sweetner. It was considered a luxury!

Read Chocolate (Kids)
A Chocolate Bar by Sarah Ridley
Chocolate by Hershey: A Story About Milton S. Hershey by Betty Burford
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
The Last Chocolate Cookie by Jamie Rix
Chocolate Fever by Robert Kimmel Smith
The Secret Series by Pseudonymous Bosch

Read Chocolate (Adults)
Chocolate Wars by Deborah Cadbury
My Cooking Class : Chocolate Basics by Orathay Guillaumont
Lickin' the Beaters 2 : Vegan Chocolate & Candy by Siue Moffat

Surf Chocolate
Smithsonian Magazine
The Field Museum

Participate in Chocolate : Workshop for Kids
If you are entering grade 4-6 in the fall, join us on August 11th to learn how to make chocolate lollipops while you gain a little chocolate business savvy. Kim Larkin, of CT-based gourmet chocolate company Klassic Kreations, leads the workshop. Click here to register for this free event.

Visit Chocolate
Here are but a few chocolate-makers located in our state:
Munson's Chocolates in Bolton, CT
The Little Chocolate Company in Greenwich, CT
Fascia's Chocolates in Waterbury, CT
Bridgewater Chocolate in Brookfield, CT

Video Game Update

2011-08-05T18:03:00.000-04:00

Xbox 360 Added to the Mix...
About a year ago, we began putting together a collection of console video games. The collection has grown more slowly than we (and you) would probably like. Much of this has to do with pricing and the fantastically large number of titles that disappear from the market shortly after issue. (We like lowest price and titles likely to endure/hold gamer interest over time.)

Keep on Gaming
The number of circulating games hasn't yet impacted the popularity of our lending program and by request, August brings the introduction of circulating games for Xbox 360. Wii and PS3 titles will continue to lean toward E titles for Everyone; Xbox titles will start with E titles and lean toward T for Teen titles by mid-autumn. Suggestions for purchase are always welcomed at the front desk.

Circulation Conditions
Yes -- da-da-dah -- there are some rules. Games are loaned to adult cardholders only. The loan period is a very liberal 14 days, 1 per card, holds permitted, no renewals.

Click here for a quick list of available games.

News from the "Energy Challenge" Front

2011-08-03T17:39:00.003-04:00

If You Haven't Yet Heard...
Our town is one of 14 municipalities in our state participating in the Neighbor to Neighbor Energy program, which challenges residents to reduce their energy consumption by 20 percent by 2013.

Marking Our Place
When you participate in the program, you help win points for our town. Total points may help our town earn energy-saving prizes. As of mid-July, about 200 local households had signed up to participate and our current point total on the Energy Challenge Leaderboard is 11,000. With a goal to involve 10 percent of homes, or 450 households, let's get busy!

Home Energy Solutions
Home Energy Solutions (HES) is the best way to fully understand how your home is wasting energy. Right now, you can participate in this state-sponsored service valued at around $750 for a co-pay of only $75! This in-depth assessment will not only provide you with weatherization, CFLs, and other energy improvements, but qualifies you for rebates and renewable energy (solar) incentives. Watch the video, below, to see what you get for $75.

If you like what you see in the video, click here to sign up for an HES assessment or pass the information on to a friend. Please note, if you are on a fixed or limited income, you may qualify for this service for free.

Also check out latest news on green initiatives from our community's all-volunteer Clean Energy Task Force.

What's for Dinner?

2011-07-30T15:19:00.001-04:00

Grilling, Chilling, and More...Though record temperatures probably means your kitchen scores lower on the favorite room hit parade, you still have to eat...

Here's a few titles new to our cookbook collection, accompanied by suggestions for grilling and chilling...

Eat Like a Man includes recipes collected by Esquire editor-in-chief, David Granger. People from both genders will recognize the names of many a recipe contributor. On the lighter side, try Man with Pan from cartoonist and New Yorker editor, John Donohue.

BBQ afficianados may appreciate Smokin' with Myron Mixon; Mixon is a judge on TLC's Barbecue Pitmasters. The Food Network's Guy Fieri (Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) weighs in with Cookin' It, Livin' It, Lovin' It. Also try Steven Raichlen's Planet Barbecue; Raichlen hosts Primal Grill on PBS.

On the beverage front, the Liquid Kitchen books by Hayden Wood include oodles of recipes for cocktails (without and without), accompanied by food recommendations and tips for entertaining. A Cooking Well title showcases alcohol-free drinks; nutritional and calorie count info included.

Online Service Alert : BookNews
The library publishes over 20 monthly e-newsletters, one of which features recently added titles on the topics of food and cooking. If you would like to subscribe to this newsletter alone, click here. If you are interested in broader newsletter alerts, click here.
Either way, have fun with your family and friends this summer and keep on reading!

Newsletters powered by Dear Reader

Summer Reading with Dav Pilkey

2011-07-21T17:57:00.009-04:00

Captain Underpants and Other Humorous Books for Kids

Dav Pilkey
Photo: Karyn Carpenter Baker

If you like author Dav Pilkey, of Captain Underpants, Ook & Gluk, and Ricky Ricotta fame, here's a few other series sure to tickle your funny bone :

Big Nate series -- George Brown, Class Clown series -- Lunch Lady series -- Knights of the Lunch Table series -- Riot Brothers series -- Dear Dumb Diary series -- Roscoe Riley Rules series --Stink series -- Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.

Enjoy the spirited adventures of knights, clowns, captains, diarists, and otherwise imaginative (fictional) kids and as always, choose for yourself or for your children and family.

Content inspired by an article in Book Links, June 2011

Special Event : Bending Gravity

2011-07-19T19:07:00.001-04:00

Wednesday, August 10, 1 p.m. @ Sears Park

Join us for a celebration of all that is summer : fast-paced, energetic, and filled with fun things to do...

See You at the Park!

Eric Girardi, a world-ranked yoyo player, a juggler, a fire-eater, and much more will perform at the park. The performance is family-friendly, free, open to the public and co-sponsored by East Hampton Parks and Recreation. Adults who might be thinking the performance is "just for kids" may want to reconsider the view; Girardi's program is truly for all ages.

About Bending Gravity

Girardi's September 2010 performance at the library

Bending Gravity website

Click here or here to see a sampling of Eric's skills on YouTube

Alice for Real...

2011-07-19T14:56:00.000-04:00

Growing Up with Alice McKinley
More than 25 years ago, author Phyllis Naylor Reynolds wrote The Agony of Alice, the story of an eleven year-old girl trying to navigate early adolescence. The book was a hit and led to a series. Sequels were added along the way -- so were prequels -- owing to demand from readers who wanted to know more about Alice.

The series is still going strong. The author promises to follow up Incredibly Alice, published in May 2011, with a new title in both 2012 and 2013.

Surf's Up
Visit Naylor's Alice blog, a good indication of Alice's impact on readers who got to know her...

Happy Anniversary, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard!

2011-07-15T19:43:00.003-04:00

Seventy Years Old and Still Quacking...
Robert McClosky's Caldecott award-winning title, Make Way for Ducklings, is celebrating it's 70th Anniversary. The story has been immortalized in bronze by artist Nancy Schon at Boston's Public Garden; a duplicate was installed in Moscow's Novodevichy Park in 1991.

In 2009, the title was one of the inaugural inductees to the American Booksellers Association's Indies Choice Book Awards Picture Book Hall of Fame, along with Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak and Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems.

More ABA Picture Book Hall of Fame Nominees and Winners
The American Booksellers Association (ABA) is trade association for independent bookstores. Here's a quick sample of picture books nominated for Hall of Fame status. Titles in bold were voted in as Hall of Famers in 2010 and 2011; all are available at the library.

If you are child of the boomer years or a Gen-Xer, many of these titles will be familiar to you and are well worth sharing with your children.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst and Ray Cruz
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson
Bread and Jam for Frances by Russell & Lillian Hoban
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault, Lois Ehlert
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Curious George by H.A. Rey
Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann
Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton
The Napping House by Audrey & Don Wood
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Stellaluna by Janelle Cannon
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Independent Booksellers in CT
Click here for list of independent bookstores located in Connecticut.

Road Trip! New Britain Museum of American Art

2011-07-14T18:32:00.001-04:00

One World, Many Stories: East Hampton Library Takes a Road Trip

On August 4th, 2011 the East Hampton Public Library will sponsor a field trip to the New Britain Museum of American Art.

East Hampton kids entering grades 3-6 in Fall 2011 are invited to join us for a guided tour of the museum's paintings, sculptures, pictures, and illustrations from a wide variety of American artists. Works from numerous times periods and styles will be on display. Kids may even get to try their hand at some art of their own as they learn how people have told stories through pictures over the years.

About the Museum

The New Britain Museum of American Art was established in 1903 and was the first institution in our country devoted to collecting and exhibiting American art. The museum has a substantial permanent collection, but also hosts visiting pieces. The museum prides itself as an institution of learning and conservation.

Trip Details and Registration Information

This field trip is open to East Hampton children entering grades 3-6 in Fall 2011. Transportation is provided. The bus will leave the library at 9 a.m. sharp for a 10 a.m. tour and return at approximately 12 noon.

The program is free to participating kids with museum admission funded by the Friends of the East Hampton Public Library, who also fund our circulating Museum Pass Program.

Registration is required and may be done in person, by phone at 860-267-6621, or by using our online Events Calendar. Parents interested in chaperoning are encouraged to volunteer; contact the library for more information.

Crafts for Bibliophiles

2011-07-12T19:04:00.000-04:00

Handmade Books
If you are looking for a great way to pass a rainy summer day, why not try making a book? Crafters, DIYers, artists, origami and book-lovers alike might enjoy exploring any of the following titles, most of which include interesting tidbits about bookmaking history.

At Home with Handmade Books : 28 Extraordinary Bookbinding Projects Made from Ordinary and Repurposed Materials by Erin Zamrzla

More Making Books by Hand : Exploring Miniature Books, Alternative Structures, and Found Objects by Peter Thomas

By Alisa Golden, handmade book blogger, who also teaches bookmaking and letterpress printing at California College of the Arts:

Making Handmade Books : 100+ Bindings, Structures and Forms or
Expressive Handmade Books

Adding Some Jazz to Your Projects
Also try titles about altered art and pop-up construction, which describe techniques you might like to integrate into your bookmaking or craft projects.

Baseball Milestones...

2011-07-10T14:22:00.198-04:00

By the Numbers Champions
Saturday's Old Home Day festivities attracted a huge crowd and though we're certainly not sports reporters, we couldn't help overhearing many a conversation about East Hampton's very own EHHS Bellringers Baseball Team, who won our state's 2010-11 Class S championship!

Click here for a great recap of Bellringers' season, including stats and photos.

Also high on the conversation list was Derek Jeter, who yesterday joined the exclusive 3000-hit club.

Just for Fun
In the record books, Jeter met up with long-time Red Sox third baseman, former Yankee teammate, and Hall-of-Famer Wade Boggs, by joining the 3000 club with a home run. Coincidentally, Boggs hit 3000 while playing for Tampa Bay and Jeter hit 3000 while playing against Tampa Bay...

Further Reading
For more about Jeter, books about the Yankee captain are available for both kids and adult readers.

Surf's Up on 3000-Hits
National Baseball Hall of Fame (search 3000-hit club for other members)
New York Times
ESPN New York
Boston.com

Hello, Lucy!

2011-07-05T16:34:00.007-04:00

One World Many Stories : The Lucy Story
In 1974, half a world away in the Hadar Valley of East Africa, anthropologists made an exciting discovery. They found Lucy, an almost complete skeleton which gave the scientists clues as to what life was like over 3 million years ago.

To learn more about Lucy, try the kid-friendly biography about anthropologist Donald C. Johanson or for adults, try titles written by Johanson himself. For 'surf's up' fans, visit ASU's Institute of Human Origins.

Fictional Stories Set in Africa
I Lost My Tooth in Africa by Penda Diakite (Set in Mali)
Kai by Leona Welch (Set in Nigeria)
Planting the Trees of Kenya by Claire Nivola
A South African Night by Rachel Isadora
One Hen : How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference by Katie Smith Milway (Set in Ghana)
The White Giraffe by Lauren St. John (Set in Southern Africa)

Anthropology & Archaeology!
Anthropologists study people and primates over time; archaeologists study the remains a society leaves behind. Kids interested in these related scientific disciplines might enjoy:

DinoMummy by Phillip Manning
The Bone Detectives by John Townsend
Bodies from the Ice : Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past by James M. Deem
Mummies and Pyramids : a Nonfiction Companion to Mummies in the Morning by Mary Pope Osborne
Stones, Bones, and Petroglyphs by Susan Goodman
Written in Bone : Buried Lives of Jamestown and Colonial Maryland by Sally M. Walker
The Big Book of Bones : an Introduction to Skeletons by Claire Llewellyn

For dinosaur fans, check out a previous post on the subject.

Surf's Up : Places to Go, Things to Do
Learn more by taking a trip to many special places, among them :
Dinosaur Park in Rocky Hill, CT *
Yale Peabody Mueum in New Haven, CT*
Mashantucket Pequot Museum in Mashantucket, CT*
Go to archaeology field school at UCONN
Visit the Connecticut Archaeology Center

*The library has a circulating pass that will save you some money; the pass program is funded by the Friends of the East Hampton Public Library.

Independence Day

2011-07-04T12:01:00.004-04:00

Places to Go, Things to Do
Independence Day celebrations invariably include (legal) aerial fireworks displays sponsored by cities, towns, and other organizations.

If you would like to be able to identify the patterns you see in the sky, visit How Stuff Works.

For a list of fireworks display events in CT, both today and well into next week, WTNH has a list ready to go.

Creature Features?

2011-07-02T17:42:00.031-04:00

Yeti and Yowie, Manimals & Merpeople
Six years after Stephenie Meyer popularized fictional teenage vampire angst -- and well in to the hugely successful run of the HBO series True Blood (based on the books by Charlaine Harris, latest titles here) -- the fascination with mythical creatures continues unabated.

The Big Picture
For a quick overview of the major players in centuries of folklore -- every 'thing' from Bigfoot, to swamp creatures, to aliens and their hybrids -- try Tracking the Man-beasts : Sasquatch, Vampires, Zombies, and More by Joe Nickell.

For Zombiephiles
While vampire fiction zips in and out our doors, we missed marking Zombie Appreciation Month (May 2011). For adult readers who did 'observe' try:

The New Dead : a Zombie Anthology edited by Christopher Golden
The Zombie Autopsies : Secret Notebooks from the Apocalypse by Steven C. Schlozman
Zombies : Encounters with the Hungry Dead edited by John Skipp

Slightly off the undead beat is Zombies vs. Unicorns. Twelve writers, Meg Cabot, Garth Nix, and Scott Westerfeld among them, use genre bending short stories to debate who might win a fantasy vs. horror creature smack down. For ages 14+...

Arts & Crafts
If you truly dig the whole zombie/monster thing during the off season (not Halloween) try:

Zombie Felties : How to Raise 16 Gruesome Felt Creatures from the Undead by Nicola Tedman & Sarah Skeate
Papier-mâché Monsters : Turn Trinkets and Trash into Magnificent Monstrosities by Dan Reeder

For Kids
Titles in the Captain Underpants, Bailey School Kids, and Dripping Fang series books tend to feature mythical beings. Scooby Doo's escapades with a variety of folklore's famous favorites are fun, too. "Rut Roh!"

On DVD
Plenty o' zombie films for adults, including the 'classics' by George Romero.

As Always
Choose for yourself or for your children...

One World Many Stories : A Very Famous Castle

2011-07-01T14:41:00.003-04:00

Photo by library staff member
Marilou Overson at EPCOT
Orlando, November 2008

St. Ludwig's Castle: Disney Version
Did you know that a gorgeous German castle is the inspiration for the design of the Magic Kingdom Castle at Disney?

Kids might like to read more about the original castle in King Ludwig's Castle: Germany's Neuschwanstein by Lisa Trumbauer or about Germany in a Cultures of the World series title. Families might like also like to share any of a number of European travel videos hosted by the Travel Channel's Samantha Brown.

More About Castles
If you are interested in what it took to build a castle centuries ago, try David Macaulay's Built to Last, a composite volume including updated content from Macaulay's classic trio: Castle, Cathedral, and Mosque.

Disney Travel
Thinking about visiting Disney? Check out our travel book collection before you go:
The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World for Kids by Kids
Frommer's Walt Disney World and Orlando
The Hassle-Free Walt Disney World Vacation

Surf's Up: In-State Travel and Ethnic Festivals
Want to travel the world without leaving Connecticut? Check out the CT Tourism site, click events on the right side panel, then check the box Ethnic Festivals. Change the date parameters depending on when you're free to enjoy some in-state fun.

In The News

2011-06-25T16:53:00.063-04:00

One World Many Stories : Machu Picchu
By the end of 2012, Yale University plans to send thousands of artifacts excavated from Machu Picchu nearly a century ago back to Peru. If you would like to learn more about this 15th century Inca Empire city, here's a few reading, viewing, and surfing suggestions.

Books and Reading
Try the classic title Lost City of the Incas by explorer Hiram Bingham III (1875-1956).

In Turn Right at Machu Picchu : Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time, adventure travel writer Mark Adams tries to retrace Bingham's steps. The book is set for release on June 30.

For kids, try Machu Picchu by Elizabeth Mann, The Inca Empire by Jane Bingham, or National Geographic Investigates the Inca by Beth Gruber.

Travel Videos
Armchair travelers might also enjoy Destination Peru or 14 Wonders of the World Ancient and New, both of which include segments on Machu Picchu.

Surf's Up
UNESCO : Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Encyclopedia Britannica; log in with your East Hampton card number to find info, photos, and links to reputable web sites about Machu Picchu.

If you don't have a local library card, we can share this Britannica Online article with you, though advertising and promotions may appear. Grab your spyware; here's Machu Picchu with blinking lights...

This and That : Non-Fiction Summer Reads

2011-06-25T13:25:00.002-04:00

New and Different

Here's a quick list of summer reading suggestions for non-fiction readers. The list includes memoirs, true crime and history flavored titles, a few of which relate to topics recently discussed "in the news".

Connecticut author Jeff Benedict (Without Reservation, Little Pink House) writes about 1993's E. Coli outbreak in the U.S. in his latest title, Poisoned. A topical food safety read given the recent E. Coli outbreak in Europe.

In The Statues That Walked, two anthropologists explore the history of gigantic statues located on a remote island in the Pacific, discovered in 1722 and later described in Captain Cook's journals. Pair this read with a travel video and Aku-Aku, a classic book by Thor Heyerdahl of Kon-Tiki expedition fame.

"Try to imagine Thoreau married, with a job, three kids, and a minivan" and with high-tech gadgets. If you can imagine this, try Tom Montgomery Fate's Cabin Fever : A Suburban Father's Search for the Wild. This one might also provide a perfect reason to read (or re-read) Walden.

True-crime fans looking for backstory on Kill the Irishman, a June DVD release about 1970's Cleveland racketeer Danny Greene, might also try the book by Rick Porrello. Brings to mind the recently captured Whitey Bulger and The Departed...

In Unnatural Selection: Choosing Boys Over Girls and the Consequences of a World Full of Men, Beijing-based Science correspondent Mara Hvistendahl explores the growing gap in the ratio between boys and girls and its consequences. Read a review published in Bloomberg or listen to an author interview courtesy of NPR.

Sarah Sentilles, raised Catholic and later, a former candidate for the Episcopalian priesthood, offers her spiritual memoir, Breaking Up With God : A Love Story. Pair this one with Dating Jesus by Hartford Courant columnist Susan Campbell.

U.S. Marine and Iraq veteran, Jess Goodell, recounts her tour as member of Mortuary Attachment platoon in Shade It Black : Death and After in Iraq.

The Murder of the Century : The Gilded Age Crime That Scandalized a City and Sparked the Tabloid Wars by Paul Collins takes place in the late 1800's but offers an all too familiar account of our taste for sensational headlines, the more lurid the better.

Summer Travel

2011-06-22T16:58:00.000-04:00

Family Travel
If you are looking to get away this summer but not travel too far from home, check out the library's travel book collection. We've recently added up-to-date titles about New England, Mid-Atlantic, and South Atlantic states.

Click here for a quick list of titles slated to arrive this week.

The Library's Museum Pass Program

2011-06-18T19:25:00.002-04:00

Save Some Cash This Summer
Use our museum pass program this summer to visit premiere attractions that are less than a ga$ tank away. Each pass offers discounted or in some cases free admission to great places including art museums, aquariums, state parks, children's venues and more. Pass conditions vary; click here for a list of current pass offerings.

How to Reserve a Pass
Passes may be reserved up to 24 hours in advance of the day you plan to use or checkout the pass. Passes circulate for 2 days and may not be renewed. One pass at a time per family.

Thank the Friends of the Library
For more than a decade, our museum pass program has been funded by the Friends of the East Hampton Library.

If you would like to help support the pass program, join the Friends. Membership costs as little as $5 or less than what you save when you use a pass!

The "Eyes" Have It

2011-06-18T18:10:00.002-04:00

My Cooking Class
If cookbook recipes sometimes seem vague or not as instructive as you'd like them to be, you might try any in the My Cooking Class series. Each book in the series lays out recipes visually, with color photographs of both the ingredients and the techniques you need to assemble and prepare a particular dish.

Books in the series include Pasta Basics, Steaming Basics, Vegetable Basics, Chocolate Basics, and Sauce Basics. The books will be fun for cooks who enjoy visual, how-to support and may be particularly useful to beginner cooks or those who prefer uncomplicated recipes that still pack a punch.

Summer Reading 2011 : Hey Kids, Read What You Like!

2011-06-16T17:21:00.019-04:00

Making a List : More Summer Reading Choices

Are you looking for great suggestions for vacation reading or books to bring to (or check out at) camp? Here's a few lists that are ideal for the season. The books included on each list also tie nicely to our summer reading program theme, One World, Many Stories!

Clickable Lists
Click on the grade grouping to retrieve a list of suggested titles. Titles within each grouping accommodate many different reading interests, levels, and skills.

Grades K-2 -- Grades 3 & 4 -- Grades 5 & 6 -- Grades 7 & 8 -- Grades 9-12

Click on any title in any list and read a summary of the book, book reviews, author profiles, and more.

About the Lists
The lists were compiled by Linda Williams, Connecticut State Library, for the Connecticut State Department of Education. Each title listed was selected, between 2001 and 2011, as an exemplary book by the American Library Association (ALA) and at least one professional education association. Education associations include: the International Reading Association (IRA), the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), and the National Science Teachers Assocation (NSTA).

Summer Reading Central

2011-06-07T18:22:00.006-04:00

Summer Reading List Titles Ready to Go...
Though summer reading season @ your library officially begins on Saturday, June 18, you might like to plan ahead and checkout any of the "must read one" titles featured on East Hampton High School's official summer reading list.

For grades 9-10 titles, click here. For grade 11-12 titles, click here.

After "must read one", keep an eye out for many other recommended summer reading title lists as we count down to June 18. Tick-tock...

Current Affairs

2011-06-07T15:47:00.002-04:00

Bestsellers and Then Some...

Here's a few among the latest crop of books offering analysis and review of American and international affairs : financial, political, and in between. Pick and choose.

TV pundit and Newsweek editor, Fareed Zakaria, updates his 2008 international bestseller with a '2.0' edition, released last week.

High on national and local reading lists is Wizard of Lies : Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust by Diana B. Henriques. The author tells the 'inside' story of Madoff's $65 billion Ponzi scheme.

Jonathan Kay's Among the Truthers takes a look at conspiracy theories, from both the left and right perspective. The author profiles 'ten brands of modern conspiracists' and their impact on public discourse.

In Reckless Endangerment, Pulitzer Prize-winning NYT business journalist Gretchen Morgenson and Joshua Rosner, a financial and policy analyst, trace the origins and dissect the aftermath of the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Whodunit?

Former Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, offers On China, an analysis of the country's place on the international stage from the Korean War to the present. Heavy stuff but touted as essential reading for anyone interested in international relations.

Money and Power by William D. Cohan (House of Cards) adds to the list of recent books about a dominant and controversial investment bank, Goldman Sachs.

Summer Reading... and Your Child's Future

2011-06-05T17:03:00.000-04:00

The Connecticut Higher Education Trust* , Connecticut State Treasurer’s Office, TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc., and the Connecticut State Library sponsor the “Destination College Savings” Promotion.

Check Out CHET!*
When to enroll your child in the library's summer reading program (begins June 18) you can also enter a drawing with chance to win one of four $1,000 direct sold 529 accounts. Pick up a informational flyer with postage-paid entry form at library; entries must be postmarked by August 19, 2011.

Surf's Up
Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) 529 College Savings Program
Official Rules for the Promotion

Summer Reading Program Begins June 18

2011-05-30T18:02:00.027-04:00

Color Your World

One World, Many Stories

The EHPL's 2011 summer reading program begins in a few short weeks. The overall theme of our program is One World, Many Stories. Why participate? Yes, there will be small incentive prizes awarded throughout the 8-week program.

However, the bigger picture shows us all that summer reading is a great way to help preschoolers learn early literacy skills, school age children and teens avoid the "summer slide" and for adults to model the joy of reading to their children. Age-appropriate programs include:

For Our Littlest People (Pre-school through Kindergarten in Fall 2011)

If you don't know how to read (yet) that's okay because you can be read to either by a parent/caregiver or turn the pages of your favorite book while listening to the book's companion audiobook. Have some fun with stickers and at regular story hours, too!

Board Games and Independent Reading for Grade School Kids

For Kids in Grades 1 or 2 (Fall 2011)

Read independently and/or learn about the USA by navigating a map of our country. Find books about places and using cool kid-friendly web sites or online databases.

For Kids in Grades 3-5 (Fall 2011)

Read independently and/or choose a travel itinerary then set off on a world travel adventure using a world map and tons of fun fact finding expeditions!

For Middle Grade Readers (Grades 6-8 in Fall 2011)

Sign up for You Are Here, and read what you like. We've got some great recommended reading titles to choose from; browse the lists that we'll make available at the library and online.

For Teens (Area High Schools)

We'll again be making it easy for you to find and borrow You Are Here books showcased on required and recommended reading lists, as well as those you might like to read on your own.

For Adults

Join us for Novel Destinations, our summer book discussion series and/or read to enter a drawing for any of three family oriented prizes set for award in August.

More to come about the program but please do

Join the Fun This Summer @ your library

Learning a Second Language

2011-05-28T18:24:00.033-04:00

En Su Biblioteca
The library holds a variety of tools useful to people looking to learn a second language; reinforce their skills in a second language, or as a heritage project, learn and share a second language with the younger people in their extended family.

New on the Shelf
If you prefer the CD format (great for commuter learning) try any of eight titles from the GoPimsleur series. Each title features eight 30-minute lessons on four audio CDs, a Reading Book with more than 50 reading lessons, and an MP3 CD. Shorter CD language courses are also available.

Learn Online
The library also offers free access to Byki Online which includes more than the language learning opportunities shown above. Look for the New User? click and use your East Hampton Public Library card barcode number to set up a free account. Bonne chance!