Voices That Need To Be Heard

So many amazing authors don’t get read. They are not called to do publicity tours. Their voices are not represented on best seller lists. Their books sit silently on shelves hoping for the recognition that is greatly deserved. It’s sad for the authors, and it’s sad for the readers. Many times, these authors are minorities.…

The Paragon Hotel: A Review

Lindsay Faye’s novel The Paragon Hotel is a book about a lot, which is probably why I enjoyed it so much. Without giving too much away, this is an atmospheric read set in the 1920’s (cue the flappers and liquid contraband). The story is told by a character who mentally refers to herself as “Nobody.”…

Have you met Libby?

If you haven’t, you really should. She’s cute, helpful, and has a ton of free e-content, and looks a bit like the Wendy’s ™ logo. Don’t you think? Libby, Overdrive’s free app, is the easiest way to get started with digital books, audiobooks, and magazines from your public library. Libby is available for Android, iOS,…

The Library Book(s)

As Kerri announced in a post back in December, this year’s One Book, One Watertown selection is The Library Book by Susan Orlean! I’m so excited about this choice, and it got me thinking about some of my favorite children’s books about libraries and librarians. Here’s a roundup of some stellar picture books for all…

Getting a Technological Edge

If you’re a regular reader of our blog, I’m sure you know that the library offers so much more than books (not that the books are anything to sneeze at, you understand). For many years, we have tried to open access to the online world by teaching basic classes in computer use, social media, email,…

New Year, New Classics

I’ve loved mythology ever since I learned how to read. In elementary school, I would sneak into the school library during lunchtime to meet Ms. Mitchell, the librarian, who had stacks of mythology books set aside for me. She even let me sit at her desk while she checked in material, and I devoured myth…

A Triumvirate of Timepieces

At the WFPL, time is very much on our minds these days. Naturally, with the start of the new year, we have fresh planners in our pockets and blank calendars on our walls. In 2019, we will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the library, so we’re gearing up for a year’s worth of festivities. And…