Blog | Missoula Public Library

We're changing websites, everybody

2011-06-14T20:24:00.000-06:00

After several years of posting on Blogger, we've decided to make a change: we're moving to Tumblr. We've been working on this switch for a while now, and it's been up for public viewing for a couple weeks (you might have noticed the new link on our official website), but this is our first time announcing it to our regular blog readers.

We hope you'll the like the new design and format. Please continue to follow us and we'll make sure to continue to provide you with posts about library events, books that come across our desks, obscure word definitions, and other interesting stuff to be found all around the internet and our weird and wonderful world.

You can visit our new website at missoulapubliclibrary.tumblr.com

Word Woman

2011-06-13T13:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to another wild and woolly episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! While you're out enjoying the summer weather, why not expand your mental horizons with a little life-long learning, such as improving your vocabulary? Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Nebulous:

1. of, related to, or resembling a nebula; nebular

2. indistinct, vague

from the latin nebulosus, misty, from nebula

-- "nebulous", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nebulous , 6/4/2011.

Example: Carl's nebulous recollection of where he parked his car resulted in a leisurely twenty minute stroll up and down the lanes of the parking lot in the pouring rain.

Word Woman

2011-06-13T08:06:00.000-06:00

Welcome to another mind-bending installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! It's time to stretch those neural pathways with a little bit of mental exercise, like learning a new word. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Salubrious:

favorable to or promoting well-being

-- "salubrious", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/salubrious , 5/21/11

Example: The salubrious effects of eating grapefruit are not to be overlooked.

Word Woman

2011-06-09T08:15:00.001-06:00

Welcome to another astonishing episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! School may be out for the summer, but don't forget to keep your brain in shape with a little mental exercise, like learning new words. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Lugubrious:

1. mournful; especially : exaggeratedly or affectedly mournful lugubrious brooding — V. S. Pritchett>

2. dismal lugubrious landscape>

-- "lugubrious", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lugubrious , 5/20/2011

Example: In spite of the lugubrious atmosphere of the restaurant, it was remarkably popular as a meeting place for business executives on their lunch breaks.

Word Woman

2011-06-02T08:35:00.000-06:00

Welcome to another exciting installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! It's June at last, and officially time to get started with your summer reading. I hope that you've picked out a few good books to help turn your summer into an adventure in reading. Here's the Word of the Week, for those who are interested in being adventurous with their vocabulary:

Vituperative:

1. Uttering or giving censure

2. Containing or characterized by verbal abuse

"vituperative", http://www.merriam-webster .com/dictionary/vituperative?show=0&t=1305055598 , 5/19/2011.

Example: Because of the vituperative quality of his comments at the rehearsal dinner, Brad was excused from his duties as best man at the wedding.

Family Summer Reading Program starts today!

2011-06-01T11:11:00.000-06:00


Children's Librarian Karen is prepared to hand out reading packets!

Our annual family Summer Reading Program kicks off today Wednesday, June 1. Whether you are a kid, a bigger kid, or even the biggest kid of all, we have a reading program for you!

One World, Many Stories (Children’s Reading Program) – Come to the children’s desk and pick up a reading folder. Keep track of the time you spend reading and return to the library to collect prizes, including treats from the Dairy Queen, Good Food Store, Del’s Place, and Carousel tokens. In addition, the library will be providing lots of programs. For school-age children (first grade and older) there will be activity programs every Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. These programs range from craft activities, to visits with animals, to stories and, of course, a party to celebrate the reading program. The Tuesday activities begin June 14 and run through July 26. Pick up a complete schedule of activities at the library in June. In conjunction with the summer reading program the library will also show movies Thursday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. The movies will begin June 16 and last through July 28.

U R Here (Teen Reading Program) - Teens, come to the library this summer and join the fun while U R Here. It all starts on Wednesday, June 15 with our Welcome to Summer Party at 2:00 p.m. Throughout the summer participate in the library’s Digital Photo Scavenger Hunt. Your photos will be on display August 5 as part of First Friday festivities. To get you started in the right direction attend the Digital Photo Class on Wednesday, June 22 at 2:00 p.m. at the library. And don’t forget the Steampunk Jewelry activity on Wednesday, July 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Novel Destinations (Adult Reading Program) – Pick up a check-off sheet at the library’s reference desk where you will have the opportunity to pick ten books to read from categories relating to travel. Complete milestones along the way for prizes: read three books to win a free small beverage at Civitella Espresso Bar; read five books to get your name entered into a drawing for a prize basket.

Come to the library (including our branches at Big Sky and Frenchtown, as well as Lolo) for some summer reading fun for everyone in the family!

Word Woman

2011-05-26T08:39:00.003-06:00

Welcome to another invigorating installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Train your brain for the long run of life as well as your body and it will improve your quality of living. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Anodyne:

1. Serving to alleviate pain

2. Not likely to offend or arouse tensions : innocuous

"anodyne", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anodyne , 5/4/2011.

Example: The anodyne effect of copper bracelets on arthritic joints has yet to proven scientifically.

Word Woman

2011-05-19T08:24:00.002-06:00

Welcome to another spine-tingling episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Your brain is meant to last a lifetime, so keep it in good working order by doing mental exercises like crossword puzzles, cryptograms and sudoku. Or you could expand your vocabulary by learning new words, like the Word of the Week:

Insouciance: (in-soo-see-ants) [noun]

lighthearted unconcern ; nonchalance

French, from in- + soucier to trouble, disturb, from Old French, from Latin sollicitare — more at solicit

First Known Use: 1799

-- "insouciance", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insouciance , 4/28/11.

Example: Grant's persistent insouciance toward the editor's stated deadlines for copy resulted in his reassignment as foreign correspondent to Burkina Faso.

Looking for an uplifting read?

2011-05-17T13:19:00.006-06:00

Flavorwire just released a list of uplifting books for lonely souls that contains some unexpected titles. Compiled by Kathleen Masara you may want to consider one of these titles for your next uplifting read whether your soul is lonely or not.
Still life with woodpecker by Tom Robbins on order
Vida by Patricia Engel call# ENGEL
High fidelity by Nick Hornby @ our partner libraries
The amazing adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon @ our partner libraries
A natural history of the senses by Diane Ackerman call# 612.8 ACKERMA
Me talk pretty one day by David Sedaris call# 814.54 SEDARIS
Bridget Jones' diary by Helen Fielding call# FIELDIN
Radio Free Dixie by Timothy B Tyson
The Alchemist by Paul Coelho call# COELHO
A people's history of the United States by Howard Zinn call# 973 ZINN
See the full article at flavorwire.com

Library Week Treasure State Treasure Hunt contest winners announced!

2011-05-16T11:05:00.000-06:00

Back during National Library Week, April 10-16, Missoula Public Library staff encouraged our patrons to participate in the week with a unique celebration – a statewide online scavenger hunt, called "A Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State." Montanans from Alazada to Zortman played the game to try and win a prize at the end of the contest. We are pleased to announce that a Frenchtown Elementary School class won one of the prizes!

The "Treasure Hunt" questions were located on local library web sites and on http://mymontanalibrary.org. Participants had to use library electronic resources to find the answers. All answers had to be submitted electronically and were verified for correctness. There were four separate contest categories with questions of varying difficulty available for students K-5, middle school, high school, and adult age groups.
Winners were selected randomly and included:

Patti O’Sullivan’s class at Frenchtown Elementary School in Frenchtown
Celeste Jolley’s first grade class at Smith Elementary School in Helena
Brad Holland, middle school category, whose library is the Drummond School Community Library in Drummond
Julia Balcom, middle school category, whose library is the Parmly Billings Library in Billings
Haley Walter, high school category, whose library is the Lewis & Clark Library in Helena
Ryan Bowers, high school category, whose library is the Superior High School Library in Superior
Patt Leikam, adult category, whose library is the Parmly Billings Library in Billings
Diana Rogers, adult category, whose library is the Parmly Billings Library in Billings

Statewide prizes included six Apple iPods™, which were presented to two winners each in the middle school, high school, and adult categories by their local libraries. Two pizza parties were provided for the winning elementary school classrooms.

"We wanted to encourage all Montanans to try some of the many library resources we offer online that are available day and night – whether you’re in your local Montana library or at home," said Darlene Staffeldt, Montana State Librarian. "We felt that if we offered a scavenger hunt with fun prizes that some folks who have never tried using their online library might be more inclined to give it a shot." Thanks for participating Missoula Public Library patrons!

Word Woman

2011-05-12T08:34:00.003-06:00

Welcome to another mind-bending installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! And what an amazing word we have for you this week, courtesy of one of my co-workers! Even Word Woman herself had never heard of this one before:

Lucubration: [noun] laborious or intensive study; also the product of such study - usually used in the plural.

-- "lucubration", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lucubration , 4/19/2011.

Example: Sam's lucubrations on herbal remedies were a welcome addition to the group's project on alternative medicine.

And all that Jazz...

2011-05-11T11:21:00.003-06:00

If you participated in the Jazz Festival at the end of last month and are ready for another shot of vintage music, join us for the Wednesday Movie Matinee today at 2:00 in the large meeting room. Doris Day gives one of her best performances in the bio-pic of Ruth Etting set in the 1920s. It's great drama with James Cagney and outstanding music.
Mark your calendar for every 2nd and 4th Wednesday at 2:00 and join us in the large meeting room for a classic movie. For titles, see our newsletter online at www.missoulapubliclibrary.org and click on the newsletter link.

May is Get Caught Reading Month in Missoula!

2011-05-10T10:54:00.001-06:00

May is Get Caught Reading Month and Missoula Public Library staff are out and about looking for people who are reading in order to give them a free bag full of cool stuff. Bruce, Jane, Benjamin, and Launi above, were all smiles upon receiving their free stuff from the library. All for doing what we all love to do--READ! Be on the lookout for someone who says "I'm from Missoula Public Library and you've been caught reading!"

Word Woman

2011-05-05T08:22:00.002-06:00

Welcome to another weird and wonderful installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! It's the time of the year for spring cleaning, so sweep those winter cobwebs out of your brain by learning a new word! Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Obstreperous:

1. marked by unruly or aggressive noisiness : clamorous

2. stubbornly resistant to control : unruly

-- http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obstreperous

Example: Steve's obstreperous behavior in class resulted in a visit to the principal's office.

Upgrade your computer skills

2011-04-29T11:22:00.003-06:00

Need a refresher or do you regularly describe yourself as "computer illiterate"? Time to give our free computer classes a go. We will increasing our class offerings as of May to include our round of Basic courses normally taught on Monday evening to be repeated on Wednesday evenings at the same time/same station, 6-7 in the classroom.
If you would like to join us for classes in computer fundamentals, beginning word processing, email basics and internet searching give us a call and reserve a spot. We'd love to help increase your comfort level when it comes to computers... and it's all free.
See our website for a full listing of our classes at http://www.missoulapubliiclibrary.org/classes#Computer Classes

Word Woman

2011-04-28T08:05:00.003-06:00

Welcome to another fun-filled episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! What can I say? It's almost May already! It hardly seems possible that this year is going by so quickly. And the last Word of the Week for April is:

Truculent: 1. feeling or displaying ferocity : cruel, savage 2. deadly, destructive 3. scathingly harsh : vitriolic 4. aggressively self-assertive : belligerent

-- "Truculent", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/truculent , 4/6/11.

Example: The truculent behavior of Tina's outdoor cat was of great concern to the neighbors who owned small dogs.

Become Someone Else

2011-04-27T13:42:00.009-06:00

Some clever marketing from Mint Vinetu, a used bookstore in Lithuania.

You can check out a few more here.

Happy Easter, y'all

2011-04-23T11:00:00.003-06:00

We'll be closed Sunday, but we'll be back to our regular 10-9 schedule on Monday. In the meantime, here's the latest episode of Simon's Cat for you to watch.

Celebrate Earth Day @ your library!

2011-04-22T13:59:00.000-06:00

Submitted by Megan McFarlane in

Green Living

Planning to celebrate Earth Day today, but not sure what you can do to be “greener?” The solution could be a trip the library, your community’s original renewable resource.
In addition to offering books on topics like organic gardens, water conservation and renewable forms of energy, your library and libraries across the country are doing their part when it comes to reducing, reusing and recycling.
Here are just a few things that libraries are doing this Earth Day.

In celebration of “Earth Day @ your library,” the Atlanta-Fulton (Ga.) Public Library System reminds library users of new “green” innovations available through the library. In addition to promoting “recyclables” like books, DVDs and CDs, the library encourages users to conserve gas by using its OverDrive database to download audiobooks and e-books at home.
Leading up to the Earth Day, the Warren-Newport Public Library District of Gurnee, Ill., has encouraged library users to “Take the Earth Day Challenge @ your library.” Library users submit their own “recipes” for creating “green” cleaning supplies using household items like vinegar and baking soda that have less of an environmental impact then traditional cleaning agents. Entrants will get a chance to win a bucket of green cleaning supplies.
For “Earth Day 2011 @ your library,” the East Hampton (N.Y.) Public Library will collaborate with East Hampton Public Works and the Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA) to sell backyard compost bins and rain barrels to library users.
For each compost bin and rain barrel sold, the library will receive $2. The library will use those proceeds to purchase books about eco-friendly topics.
The Quarryville (Pa.) Library will promote Earth Day to a new generation of library users and environmentalists. “Earth Day @ your library” programming will include the planting of a children’s garden, a used book sale, recyclable crafts and a presentation on learning how to recycle.

Heads UP! Our Website to be DOWN!

2011-04-22T10:24:00.000-06:00

The Missoula Public Library Website www.MissoulaPublicLibrary.org will be inaccessible from Friday, April 22 at 4:00 p.m. until Monday morning, April 25, as we move to a new Website. We apologize for the inconvenience. PLEASE NOTE: You may use http://mymontanalibrary.org/ to access the catalog, download audio and eBooks, and access our databases while the Website is down. Thank you for your understanding. And check out our cool new Website next week!

National Library Week revisited

2011-04-22T09:00:00.001-06:00

We hope you enjoyed our activities, displays and contests during National Library Week. Here is a video just to cap it all off. Created by the American Library Association I know that the quotes contained in here express the feelings of so many in our community. http://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/al_focus/national-library-week-2011-quotes-about-libraries ... and here are a few more...

Libraries: The medicine chest of the soul. ~Library at Thebes, inscription over the door

We may sit in our library and yet be in all quarters of the earth. ~John Lubbock

I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library. ~Jorge Luis Borges

The Frenchtown Branch is closed for the rest of the day

2011-04-21T16:45:00.000-06:00

The power is out at our Frenchtown Branch so the library is closed for the day. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Word Woman

2011-04-21T08:04:00.001-06:00

Welcome to another thrilling installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! This week's word is dedicated to Word Woman's hard-working co-worker, though whether or not the word may accurately be applied to her is matter of speculation:

Vociferous: (adjective)

marked by or given to vehement outcry

-- “vociferous”, http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vociferous , 3/30/11.

Example: Annie's co-workers were at a loss to understand her vociferous objections to painting the walls of the staffroom pea-soup green.

The Help - the movie

2011-04-20T11:11:00.005-06:00

It's been one of our hottest book chat kits and will be coming to theaters on August 12 as a movie. Deadline.com reports that Dreamworks has released a trailer of the movie based on Stockett's best selling movie at www.youtube.com/user/DreamWorksthehelp. If you haven't had a chance to read it yet you might want to check it out from the library.

How to Steal Like an Artist

2011-04-19T09:00:00.000-06:00

It's been a little while since I last posted on the art and craft of writing fiction. The link I want to share this time has been making the rounds on the internet lately. I was a little skeptical at first to read it, because I'd never heard of Austin Kleon, but it's actually quite good. Some of the advice won't speak to everyone, but you're probably going to find something to inspire you here. Hope you enjoy.

http://www.austinkleon.com/2011/03/30/how-to-steal-like-an-artist-and-9-other-things-nobody-told-me/

The writing workshop is still going strong here at the public library and anyone is invited to attend. If you've been meaning to stop in, there's no time like the present. Please join us on the first Saturdays of each month at 10 a.m. in the Boardroom.

Image courtesy of Austin Kleon

Teddy Bear Sleepover at Missoula Public Library

2011-04-16T14:10:00.023-06:00

The Teddy bears and other friends had a wonderful time at the
library's first Teddy bear sleepover.

Yesterday afternoon children and their bedtime friends met in the library, for bedtime stories and a snack.

Then the children headed off for home and their furry friends spent the night.

Boy did they have fun.

Tea Parties

Having fun with Ellie

Books

Playing in the castle

And just plan hanging around.

Thanks to all of the boys and girls who allowed their friends to spend the night. We look forward to doing it again!

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-16T09:14:00.001-06:00

Day 7 of the Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Last day of the hunt! You're doing great! Go to our online databases and find the answer to these final questions.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Elementary: Who did Tecumsah fight for in the War of 1812?

Middle School: What was Montana's first state park?

High School: When is the rainy season in Zambia?

Adult: When was the original Columbia Gardens pavilion destroyed by fire?

Have fun and remember to post your answers at your State Library's website.

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-15T09:50:00.003-06:00

Day 6 of the Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Friday, April 15, 2011

Elementary

What are three of the six factors that determine weather conditions?

Air temperature, air pressure, and amount and kind of cloud cover
Wind, season, humidity
Where you are, what season it is, and what time of day it is
Number of buildings, amount of asphalt, and air temperatureiddle School

Middle School

Why was Wilma Rudolph’s Olympic achievement of winning three gold medals in track and field so impressive?

She was 30 years old at the time.
She had the flu during the Olympics.
She had a sprained ankle, but ran anyway.
She contracted polio as a child and had to have years of physical therapy.

High School

What is considered the foundation of all other sciences?

Earth Science
Study of mathematics
Physics
Chemistry

Adult

Who was Gary Cooper's mother?

Alice Louise Brazier
Helen Carter
Veronica Balfe
Lynda Quincy

Have fun and remember to post your answers at your State Library's website.

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-14T09:21:00.002-06:00

Here are the questions for Thursday, April 14, 2011.

Elementary

What was the first wildlife management area in Montana?

Amelia Island
Badlands
Horseshoe Lake
Judith River Game Range

Middle School

Where can you find Fringed Sagewort?

The Yukon Territory in Northern Canada
Montane Forest
Intermountain Grassland
Southern regions of the United States including the South Carolina, Georgia area

High School

Who was Joe Lewis?

Baseball player for New York Yankees
Basketball player for Celtics
Baseball player for Chicago Cubs
Heavyweight boxing champion

Adult

Where did Annie Lazzari live in 1937?

Kalispell
Meaderville
Great Falls

Have fun and post your answers at your State Library's website.

Word Woman

2011-04-14T08:20:00.003-06:00

Welcome to another wild and wonderful episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Those who follow astronomical events with interest may be aware that last month's full moon was the perigee moon. What does that mean? Read on:

Perigee:

Perigee comes from the Greek words peri ("around" or "near") and geo ("earth").

The full moon of March 19th coincided with the point in the moon's orbit that is nearest the Earth, causing the moon to appear unusually large.

This "perigee moon" occurs because the moon's orbit is oval in shape, bringing the moon closer to the Earth on one side than on the other. A full moon on the opposite end of the elliptical orbit – the "apogee" side – would be 50,000 km farther from the Earth and appear 14% smaller than a full moon on the perigee side.

"perigee", http://www.merriam-webster.com/trend-watch/2011/03/24/3/29/2011

Example: The perigee moon rose huge and beautiful in the clear night sky.

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-13T07:29:00.003-06:00

Here are your questions for Wednesday. Good Luck!

Elementary

What is Sijo?

A Japanese dish with fish and rice
Traditional Korean poetry similar to haiku
A dialect spoken in South Korea
A town in southern Japan

Middle School

Where did Ming Yao get his start in basketball?

Beijing Bears
Shanghai Sharks
Atlanta Hawks
Gonzaga Bulldogs

High School

Who helped William Faulkner realize that his true metier was not poetry but the novel?

Phil Stone
Sherwood Anderson
Elizabeth Prall
Maurice Coindreau

Adult

Of the cities listed below where can you find the American Dipper year round?

Plentywood
Broadus
Kalispell
Lewistown

Find the answers by using the library electronic resources (databases) available online.

All answers must be submitted electronically and will be verified for correctness, as well as for the library resources used. Submit your answers at http://mymontanalibrary.org/treasure/

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-12T00:01:00.000-06:00

The questions for Tuesday, April 12, 2011 are:

Elementary: What ended open range in the west?

Middle School: How do our eyes perceive light?

High School: When was vegetarianism first documented?

Adult: When should you not take ginger?

Find the answers by using the library electronic resources (databases) available online.

All answers must be submitted electronically and will be verified for correctness, as well as for the library resources used. Submit your answers at http://mymontanalibrary.org/treasure/

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

2011-04-11T07:14:00.014-06:00

In celebration of National Library Week, Missoula Public Library will be a gateway to the scavenger hunt organized by the Montana State Library. Visit this blog and read the questions for the day. You will then find the answers by using the electronic resources available online at the library's website http://www.missoulapubliclibrary.org

Answers will be submitted electronically by going to http://mymontanalibrary.org /treasure/ and filling out the online submission form.

There are 4 separate contest categories: Elementary School, Middle School, High School and Adult. Each category will be awarded 2 prizes with winners announced on April 29th. Statewide prizes include six Apple iPods, which will be presented to the winners in the middle school, high school and adult categories. Two pizza parties will be provided for the winning elementary school classrooms. The prizes for the contest are provided by Gale, part of Cengage Learning, the vendor that provides the electronic resources used for the Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State.

The questions for Monday, April 11, 2011 are:

Elementary: Where does the Lewis’ woodpecker like to hang out in the summer?

Middle School: What makes people who are called Heyoka special?

High School: Who is considered the father of Magical Realism?

Adult: What are the estimated sales of Montana Coffee Traders?

Submit your answers at My Montana Library

Have Fun!

Francis Ponge & The Pleasures of the Door

2011-04-09T15:05:00.000-06:00

April is Poetry month, so I will be posting some of my favorite poems here. Just a quick word about reading poetry first: I used to hate it. I used to think it took too much effort to get to the bottom of what a poem was trying to say, like there was some all-encompassing interpretation I needed to grasp before I could enjoy a poem. Instead, too often, my eyes would glaze over, then I would have to start over again, and usually I would just give up on it altogether. And, to be honest, I still suffer from this sometimes. But now I believe there are better ways of approaching a poem. Just enjoying the music of the words (reading aloud is best) or the pleasures of conjuring an image inside the mind. If we're open to it, poems can de-familiarize the world around us and make us notice things we otherwise wouldn't. This first poem is a good example of that.

The Pleasures of the Door by Francis Ponge

(translated by C.K. Williams)

Kings never touch doors.

They're not familiar with this happiness: to push, gently or roughly before you one of these great friendly panels, to turn towards it to put it back in place -- to hold a door in your arms.

The happiness of seizing one of these tall barriers to a room by the porcelain knob of its belly; this quick hand-to-hand, during which your progress slows for a moment, your eye opens up and your whole body adapts to its new apartment.

With a friendly hand you hold on a bit longer, before firmly pushing it back and shutting yourself in -- of which you are agreeably assured by the click of the powerful, well-oiled latch.

Image courtesy of Giampaolo Macorig

Book Art

2011-04-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

http://weburbanist.com/2011/03/07/literary-love-12-works-of-book-art-architecture/

Man, all I do is read my books. And, of course, if you borrow a book from the library, that's all you should do with it, too. But if you have some old books that no longer serve a purpose, then why not try making a giant tower out of them, or a scorpion sculpture, or maybe a chandelier? The choices are seemingly endless.

Also, we have some of our own altered books that are currently being displayed in the old Macy's storefront window. Come check them out.

Image courtesy of library_mistress

Word Woman

2011-04-07T08:26:00.002-06:00

Welcome to another astonishing episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! April has arrived and some folks out there are busy enjoying Spring Break even as we speak. Now is a good time to give your brain a break from ordinary, everyday words by learning something new. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Vicissitude:

1. the quality or state of being changeable; mutability
2 a. an unexpected change or fluctuation
b. a difficulty or hardship usually beyond one's control

"Vicissitude", http://www.merriam-webster.com/word-of-the-day/2011/02/09/ , 3/22/11

Example: The vicissitude of his work schedule at the delivery service drove Steve to look for a position with more predictable hours .

April 6 is National Tartan Day!

2011-04-05T14:41:00.000-06:00

Today, over eleven million Americans claim Scottish and Scotch-Irish roots -- making them the eighth largest ethnic group in the United States. These are the people and accomplishments that are honored on National Tartan Day, April 6th, a special holiday for all Scottish-Americans.

Books for Children and Young
Adults on Scotland

Betrayal at Cross Creek, by Kathleen A. Ernst
(Ages 9 to 12) This historical fiction (aimed at 10-12 year olds) by an award-winning author of young adult books, offers the perspective of a young girl about the Highland Settlement at Cross Creek, North Carolina, during the American Revolution.
The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses, by Robert Louis Stevenson
A fierce war rages between two powerful and bitter rivals:on one side the House of Lancaster; on the other the House of York. The prize? The crown of England! Young Richard Shelton finds himself torn in his loyalties. Should he serve the interests of his villainous master. or throw in his lot with the dashing outlaw Ellis Duckworth and his band known as the Black Arrow? Richard must decide wisely, for his fate--and the fate of England--hangs in the balance....
Castles of Scotland, Text by J.K. Anderson, models by Nick Taylor
A very detailed black and white "cut out & put together" book, with two Scottish castles: Doune (31 pieces) and Caerlaverock (51 pieces). Parents, you'll have a great deal of cutting and pasting to help with (not the computer kind, but the "real thing"). With patience and care, these paper models, especially when colored with marker pens prior to cutting, will make impressive additions to any child's room...
The Celts, by Hazel Mary Martell
(Grades 5 to 8) This book offers readers a beautiful blend of history and mythology - providing a new approach to exploring the Celts. This book retells a selection of important myths, using dramatic illustrations and supplementing them with historical and cultural information, including realistic maps and diagrams.Information is gathered in short paragraphs and arranged under subheadings and headings for easy accessibility. Daily life, crafts, houses, foods, government, and weapons are not only described, but also pictured in full-color drawings and photographs of museum objects and archaeological findings. As an added attraction, transparencies are inserted over architectural drawings that, when lifted, reveal the interiors of fortresses, homes, and burial sites.
David Balfour: Being Memoirs of the Further Adventures of David Balfour at Home and Abroad, by Robert Louis Stevenson
The further adventures of David Balfour (of Stevenson's novel Kidnapped) in which he continues his friendship with Alan Breck Stewart and support of the Scottish highlanders' cause, travels abroad to complete his education, and finds romance. Ten magnificent full-color plates complement Stevenson's action-packed sequel to Kidnapped, as David Balfour struggles to exonerate James Stewart, becomes a captive, and romances Catriona Drummond.
Drums, by James Boyd
(Ages 9 to 12) An action story about the American Revolutionary War. Johnny Fraser, the son of Scottish immigrants now living in North Carolina, is torn between his lifelong loyalty to the British Crown and the exciting talk of independence passing among his neighbors, and he joins the fight for freedom aboard the Bonhomme Richard.
Hamish and the Wee Witch, by Moira Miller; 1986: Cannongate Books, Edinburgh
"Hamish and Mirren live in a little farmhouse by a beautiful loch. They are very happy - until one day a wee witch comes and steals the milk from their cow. Can they outwit the witch and live a peaceful life once more?"
A Highland Christmas, by M.C. Beaton
(Young Adult) With Christmas fast approaching, Police Constable Hamish Macbeth finds the community of Lochdubh, Scotland, facing another holiday under the dreary influence of Calvinism. He manages to schedule a carol sing and party at the local retirement home, puts up a tree, and sets about solving a long-open case of petty thievery in the area. Although a tremendous amount of joy and goodness stems from the officer's actions, he never seems to realize any of the positive results.The story leaves a warm glow of contentment and has several humorous moments.
The Jacobites, by Antony Kamm
(Ages 4 to 8) From the "Scotty Books" informational books for young readers series. Each full-color, exciting title "contains a wealth of interesting facts, stimulating activities and suggestions for places to visit. Who were the Jacobites? What were their aims? And what did they achieve? The most colorful period in Scotland's past is brought vividly to life. Follow the risings of Viscount Dundee (1689), the Earl of Mar (1715), and Bonnie Prince Charlie (1745), and read about other events and people of their times.Share the fortunes of Rob Roy MacGregor as you play the Rob Roy game, break the code in the message sent to James VIII, plot the course of two armies; draw your own plan of the Battle of Culloden."
Kidnapped, by Robert Louis Stevenson
(Grade 6 and Up) This novel remains one of the classic coming-of-age stories for children and young adults today. After the death of his father, David Balfour sets out to meet his uncle and claim his inheritance. This adventure takes him through the highlands of Scotland where he embarks upon a long journey back from treachery and deceit.
Prince Lachlan, by Nette Hilton
(PreSchool to Grade 1) Prince Lachlan, l'enfant terrible, makes his presence felt in the Kingdom of Hill. Noise, confusion, and catastrophe are his constant companions. His behavior is put to good use when the Great One, a nefarious villian, schemes to take over the throne. Apparently the Great One has no tolerance for noisy, disruptive children, because a visit from Prince Lachlan sends him packing.
The Scottish Chiefs, by Jane Porter
(Ahes 9 to 12) A romantic, suspenseful novel of Scotland's 14th-century heroes, Sir William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. William Wallace encounters secret passageways, disguises, and a quintet of horrible villains as he fights for Scotland at the turn of the fourteenth century.
Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson
(Grade 7 and up) Climb aboard for the swashbuckling adventure of a lifetime. Treasure Islandhas enthralled (and caused slight seasickness) for decades. The names Long John Silver and Jim Hawkins are destined to remain pieces of folklore for as long as children want to read Robert Louis Stevenson's most famous book. With it's dastardly plot and motley crew of rogues and villains, it seems unlikely that children will ever say no to this timeless classic.
Adapted from "Cameron Kids Online Books," located at http://www.clan-cameron.org/kids/books.html

May I recommend?

2011-04-03T19:30:00.000-06:00

I read an excellent article/blog from the New York Times Business Day Personal Tech section about gadgets that we should or should not keep based on the current technology. If you are wondering whether you should get a new digital camera or desktop computer or even a USB drive, take a look at this article, Gadgets you should get rid of (or not) by Sam Grobart from March 23rd. He has some interesting recommendations on what is necessary (or not) and why in the field of current technology gadgets that may surprise you. I don't necessarily agree with his recommendations but do agree that they are food for thought.

His final recommendation I do agree with only slight reservations. Books- recommendation is to keep them with one exception, cookbooks. I prefer, personally, to read books in printed format for all the reasons he gives in his recommendation. I do believe that e-Books are a convenient way to transport titles when traveling or where space is an issue but I do not own an eReader and have no plans to purchase one.

However, I am a cookbook reader just because I find them interesting and inspiring (just bought Greg Patents' latest and can hardly wait to dig in). I love to collect old cookbooks, just because they are fun to have, and yes I use them to cook from, finding recipes and ideas that the new ones don't have. I use online websites and food blogs regularly so I do agree that for expediency's sake online for recipes is good but don't know that I'm convinced about cookbooks - hooray for 641.5 and it's extensions.

And remember, as Grobart points out, "You can even borrow them for free at sites called libraries."

Word Woman

2011-03-31T08:19:00.001-06:00

Welcome to another entertaining episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! As tomorrow is the first of April, also known as April Fool's Day, be on the lookout for pranks and tricks designed to trip you up. Speaking of which, here is a word which always tripped me up until I got a good grip on it:

Supine:

1. (a) lying on the back or with the face upward
(b) marked by supination

2. exhibiting indolent or apathetic inertia or passivity; especially : mentally or morally slack

3. (archaic) leaning or sloping backward

"supine", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/supine?show=1&t=1300202264 , 3/15/2011.

Example: Bill's supine position on the couch was characteristic of his supine attitude toward life in general.

Word Woman

2011-03-24T08:25:00.001-06:00

Welcome to another fine and frolicsome episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Are you thinking about Spring Break yet? It's not very far away. While you're busy making plans for a little getaway, why not treat your vocabulary to a vacation from ordinary, everyday words by learning a new one? Like the Word of the Week, for instance:

Mellifluous: having a smooth, rich flow

-- "mellifluous", http://www.merriam-webster.com/top-ten-lists/top-10-peoples-favorite-words/mellifluous.html , 3/9/2011.

Example: Did you know that James Earl Jones, the famous actor, developed his mellifluous voice through years of practice aimed at overcoming his childhood habit of stuttering?

Gluten free? Options for you @ MPL

2011-03-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

So you're gluten free, for what ever reason, and you've got the hankering for pizza. What to do? You have about three local options... or you can make a stop at the library and check out our selection of cookbooks on the topic, for example:

The gloriously gluten-free cookbook spicing up life with Italian, Asian, and Mexican recipes 641.5638 MALTIN

American Dietetic Association easy gluten-free 641.5638 THOMPSO

Gluten-free girl and the chef 641.5638 AHERN

You may notice a trend here of 641.5638 which is the call number for gluten free cookbooks. If you are interested in looking at information on gluten free diets check out the 613.25 section.

We also have electronic databases that have information on gluten free diets. For instance, a search in Infotrac for gluten free found a video on a gluten free pizza fest held in TX that was broadcast on 20 February 2011. We've got a great selection so come in and see what we have for you.

Think... more!

Susan Orlean

2011-03-22T13:06:00.010-06:00

I just heard that Susan Orlean will be giving a craft lecture and nonfiction reading this Thursday, March 25th. Orlean is kind of like a big deal: she's a regular contributor to The New Yorker and the author of The Orchid Thief, among other books. Some of you cinephiles might recognize The Orchid Thief as the basis for Charlie Kaufman's screenplay for the movie Adaptation. Orlean's character was played by none other than Meryl Streep, so she has that going for her too. You can find Orlean's reaction to the movie, which strayed quite far from the book, here.

Her craft lecture will be from 12:10 to 1 pm at McGill Hall 210. The nonfiction reading will be in the Dell Brown Room of Turner Hall at 7 pm. Here's a campus map if you have no idea where those buildings are located.

Image courtesy of mtkr

Winter Reading Club a huge success!

2011-03-21T09:44:00.000-06:00

Out three-month-longWinter Reading Club finished up last Tuesday, March 15. Judging from the number of book reviews we received, there were a lot of books read. We had 173 participants in the Club this year – 148 reader forms were turned in, which means that 444 books were read as part of the 2011 Winter Reading Club!

Those who penned book reviews were entered into a drawing for prizes at the end of the Winter Reading Club. The following people were winners in the drawing for Missoula Public Library, Big Sky Branch, the Frenchtown Branch , and Homebound participants:

MPL Mug & Tea – Lynn Weger

MPL Mug & hot cocoa – Jerry Hanowell

MPL Mug & hot Cocoa – Alain Burrese

F&F gift card – Kathy Jones

Shakespeare & Co – Lynn Weger

Downtown Association Gift Card – Debra Unruh

Downtown Association Gift Card - Gloria Wahlin

Downtown Association Gift Card - Lynn Weger

Downtown Association Gift Card - Anne Pfeiffer

Thank you for participating in the Winter Reading Club. We're already looking forward to next year!

Word Woman

2011-03-17T07:37:00.001-06:00

Welcome to another fun-filled installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Sure, and it's a fine St. Patrick's Day I'll be wishing you all out there, and may the luck of the Irish be with you today. Here's a Word of the Week in keeping with the spirit of the day:

Auspicious:

1. showing or suggesting that future success is likely; propitious

2. attended by good fortune; prosperous

"auspicious", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/auspicious , 3/3/2011.

Example: An auspicious start to the company's future was evident when the stocks rose sharply on the day the new president took charge.

The Complicated Machinery to Make a Sentence

2011-03-11T09:00:00.009-07:00

I love to hear how writers work: what their habits are like, what time of day they write, even what type of pen they use. (True story: when I found out Harold Bloom wrote on yellow legal pads with Pentel Rolling Writers, I went down to Office Depot and ordered a few years' supply of each--only to abandon them a couple months later.) Basically, I want to know the nitty gritty of how a writer bridges that gap between the dream inside the mind and the actual words on the page. Maybe I'm hoping that if I could just figure out the right process, then I too might become a successful writer. But that hope is probably illusory. There's no magic key, and no amount of aping another's compositional methods will open the door to good writing. But, still, it can be fun to hear how others do it.

http://www.onfiction.ca/2009/02/art-of-prose-fiction-i-flaubert.html

With that in mind, I share with you a fellow blogger's post from 2009 on the compositional methods of Gustave Flaubert. The author of Madame Bovary would spend long hours at his desk, writing and re-writing his sentences in search of just the right word (le mot juste). He once admitted in a letter to spending five days (five!) on a single page. His methods, exhaustive and exhausting, are certainly not for everyone, but if you're engaged in that sometimes lonesome process of making sentences, there's nothing like turning to a master for a little company and instruction.

And don't forget: you can share your methods and your writing with our adult writer's group here at the public library. It meets on the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. in the Boardroom.

Image courtesy of Curtis E. Oso

Word Woman

2011-03-10T08:29:00.003-07:00

Welcome to another wild and wonderful episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! A mind is a terrible thing to waste, so keep yours firing on all cylinders with life-long learning. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Myriad: (noun)

1. Ten thousand

2. A great number

"myriad", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/myriad , 3/1/2011.

Example: Such a myriad of people arrived before opening on the day of the big sale that the employees feared that the security gate would not hold long enough for them to open the store.

Tournament of Books

2011-03-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.themorningnews.org/tob/

In case you didn't know, the annual Morning News Tournament of Books starts today. It's like March Madness for reading, where judges (culled from the publishing and lit-blog worlds) pit sixteen books against each other in head-to-head match-ups, with a champion chosen by month's end. The method is totally subjective, and more often than not your favorites will lose to books you've never heard of or even dislike. That's okay because it's more about the discussions that follow than it is about any assumed winner. And likely--and this is what's great about it--you'll find a gem of a book that you might not have heard about otherwise.

Artwork by Jean-Leon Gerome, whose incredible paintings can be viewed here.

Word Woman

2011-03-03T08:42:00.003-07:00

Welcome to another astonishing installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Spring is just around the corner, and now is a great time to sweep all of those winter cobwebs out of your head by learning new words. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Redoubtable:

1. causing fear or alarm, formidable

2. illustrious, eminent; broadly: worthy of respect

"redoubtable", http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redoubtable , 2/11/2011.

Example: The redoubtable reference librarian ruled her department like a lioness and no matter how obscure the question posed to her, she was able to answer it.

Read Across America Day!

2011-03-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

March 2 is the birthday of Theodor Geisel, known to generations of young readers as Dr. Seuss. In his honor, it has been declared Read Across America Day by the National Education Association. This is the 14th year that thousands of participating schools, libraries and community centers will celebrate the day by reading together. Geisel died in 1991.
Washington, D.C., will celebrate Read Across America Day with First Lady Michelle Obama reading "Green Eggs and Ham" at the Library of Congress at 11 a.m. She'll be joined by actress Jessica Alba, Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver, NEA President Dennis Van Roekel, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and others.
Dr. Seuss' works are central to the project, and publisher Random House has a package of special Read Across America Day materials available for educators at the website Seussville.com. The website on its own is pretty Seuss-er-ific.

The official Dr. Seuss app-maker is also celebrating. All week long, Dr. Seuss e-book apps are on sale, 25% to 75% off. The Dr. Seuss Happy Birthday to You Camera app is free.

Toni Morrison turns 80

2011-03-01T13:40:00.003-07:00

For those that are fans of Toni Morrison, you may want to brush up on her accomplishments as we wish her a happy birthday. She was born in 1931 and made her debut as a novelist in 1970 with her first novel, The Bluest Eye. She has been awarded a long string of awards and prizes, including the Pulitzer Prize in 1988.

If you are a fan you might enjoy taking the quiz at http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/quiz/2011/feb/22/toni-morrison-80-quiz and see just how much you know about her.

You'll find her works in the library in the children's section in the Easy books and in the children's non-fiction section under 379.263, in the adult fiction section under MORRISO, and in the adult nonfiction section under 374.7326 as well as in the literature section under 808.8, 810.9803, 813.52 and 818.52.

Seussentennial a bit hit!

2011-02-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

Over 150 fun-loving people attended the Seussentennial event at the library on Sunday, Feb. 27. Sponsored by the America Reads America Counts program at the University of Montana and the Missoula Public Library, this fun event featured a fishing pond, stories, craft, refreshments, and prizes. All to recognize the birthday of beloved children's author Theodor Geisel, the creator of the Dr. Seuss stories. The red and white stovepipe hats just can't be beat!

Throwing Words Into the Water

2011-02-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

With our writing contest finishing up and a new writing group for adults beginning in March, I thought it might be worth it to share some links to interesting conversations about the pleasures and difficulties of writing fiction.

http://bombsite.com/issues/108/articles/3305

In this first post we visit Bomb magazine for a lengthy interview with Nam Le, an excellent short story writer from Down Under. Interviewing Le is Charles D'ambrosio, who was the Hugo Visiting Writer at the University of Montana in 2006. They grapple with some deep, interesting stuff here, and it's a real treat to read what to they have to say about their craft. If you haven't done so already, make sure to check out their most recent books from the Staff Picks section of the library.

Also, if you want to try your own hand at writing, come join us and other aspiring writers at our first adult writer's workshop on Saturday, March 5th, from 10:00-12:00 in the Boardroom.

Image courtesy of torre.elena

Word Woman

2011-02-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another weird and wonderful episode of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! Your brain is designed to last a lifetime, so keep it in great condition by doing a little mental exercise every day. One way to stretch those neural synapses is to expand your vocabulary. Here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Precarious:

1. depending on the will or pleasure of another

2. dependent on uncertain premises : dubious

3. a. dependent on chance circumstances, unknown conditions, or uncertain developments

b. characterized by a lack of security or stability that threatens with danger

“precarious”, http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/precarious , 2/8/2011

Example: Anna tried to coax the cat down from its precarious perch on top of the Christmas tree by opening a can of tuna.

Prepare to be thrilled!!

2011-02-22T16:17:00.003-07:00

This evening, as a part of our Winter Reading Club events, you are invited to join us for an evening of chilling winter stories read by Jeff Medley and Rebecca Sporman from the Montana Actor's Theater. Jeff will be reading a short story by Roald Dahl and Rebecca will read two short thrillers by Poe and Asimov. Civitella will be making Blood Orange Punch and White Chocolate Cinnamon cocoa (so come for the treats, if not for the stories!). See you at 7 pm in the large meeting room and prepare to be thrilled.

NextReads is a wonderful resource for readers!

2011-02-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Our reference staff received a cool e-mail this week regarding one of our free databases: NextReads. "Hey you guys!! I just got my first e-mail from your new program that gives suggestions for checking out specific categories of titles. It is wonderful! Gives just enough information about the title and a short enough reading list to easily make selections." We're always glad to receive e-mails from patrons who like what we do. And we're pretty pleased with NextReads ourselves.

So what is NextReads?

• NextReads is an eimail newsletter subscription service that provides reading suggestions for all ages in more than 20 reading interest categories.

• Since you are able to sign up for whatever newsletters they want, you will receive reading suggestions tied directly to your interests.

• Title selections are made by professional librarians using the same sources

libraries use for collection development.

• Each book in every newsletter is accompanied by a brief, original annotation

packed with Readers’ Advisory content and handcrafted by professional

librarians.

• Each entry has a link to Missoula Public Library's catalog. You can simply click on the

link, search our catalog, and place holds on titles you are interested in.

• The newsletters are sent out on a regularly scheduled basis so you'll always have new reading suggestions!

Please check out NextReads on www.MissoulaPublicLibrary.org. We think you'll be glad you did.

Word Woman

2011-02-17T08:08:00.002-07:00

Welcome to another amazing installment of Word Woman's Weekly Work-Out! A mind is a terrible thing to waste, so keep yours it tip-top condition by solving crossword puzzles, sudoku and cryptoquotes. Another great way to exercise your brain is by learning new words, so here's the Word of the Week to get you started:

Euphemism: the substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive expression for one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant; also, the expression so substituted

"euphemism", http://www.merriam-webster.com/euphemism , 2/3/2011

Example: Carrie's frequent use of euphemisms at work to protect the delicate sensibilities of her many and varied co-workers rendered her conversations so cryptic as to be nearly incomprehensible at times.

Want to learn more about euphemisms? There is an interesting new book out called "Euphemania: Our Love Affair with Euphemisms". Amazon.com has it at http://www.amazon.com/Euphemania-Our-Love-Affair-Euphemisms/dp/0316056561/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297802635&sr=1-1

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Family Summer Reading Program starts today!

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More Missoulians get caught reading!

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Looking for an uplifting read?

Library Week Treasure State Treasure Hunt contest winners announced!

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And all that Jazz...

May is Get Caught Reading Month in Missoula!

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Upgrade your computer skills

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Become Someone Else

Happy Easter, y'all

Celebrate Earth Day @ your library!

Submitted by Megan McFarlane in

Heads UP! Our Website to be DOWN!

National Library Week revisited

The Frenchtown Branch is closed for the rest of the day

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The Help - the movie

How to Steal Like an Artist

Teddy Bear Sleepover at Missoula Public Library

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Day 7 of the Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Day 6 of the Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Friday, April 15, 2011

Elementary

High School

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Here are the questions for Thursday, April 14, 2011.

Elementary

Middle School

High School

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Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Elementary

Middle School

High School

Adult

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Treasure Hunt for the Treasure State

Francis Ponge & The Pleasures of the Door

Book Art

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April 6 is National Tartan Day!

May I recommend?

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Gluten free? Options for you @ MPL

Susan Orlean

Winter Reading Club a huge success!

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The Complicated Machinery to Make a Sentence

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Tournament of Books

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Read Across America Day!

Toni Morrison turns 80

Seussentennial a bit hit!

Throwing Words Into the Water

Word Woman

Prepare to be thrilled!!

NextReads is a wonderful resource for readers!

Word Woman