Past Events: Dolly Parton Imagination Library Kick-Off Party, January 2011

The first year Andover Public Library offered the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, we held a party to celebrate. Click here for more information about the program. Sign up forms are available in the library any time.

Our friendly Andover Policeman reading a story.

One of the local Fireman reading another story.

Finding Great Books: AR Book Finder

In this blog post series, we'll introduce you to some of the websites, apps, and tools we librarians use to help patrons find the books they're looking for.

AR Book Finder

What it is: AR Book Finder is an official website for Renaissance Learning's Accelerated Reader program, used in many school systems including Andover schools. The program analyzes children's and young adult books to establish their reading levels.

URL: www.arbookfind.com

How we use it: We like to use AR to help us find books for young children. Grade school children who are just learning to read are selective about their reading choices and can easily be frustrated by books that are too difficult for them. AR levels are a great way to figure out if a book is appropriate for your child's reading abilities.
The Book Finder's advanced search allows you to search for books not only by reading level but also by genre. If you see titles that interest you, you can click the "Add to AR Book Bag" button to save them to a list that you can print out and take with you to the library or book store. Unfortunately, you can't save the lists on the site so be sure to print anything you want to keep for later.

How we don't use it: It's important to remember that this is not a library catalog. Books may show up on the AR website that we do not have in the library.
Additionally, parents often visit the library asking for books "on a higher reading level". This may be a mistake! Reading level does not equate to the quality of the book. Most fiction books, even adult fiction titles, are written at a "5th grade level". This does not mean the books are low quality: it simply means that most native English speakers have learned how to read fairly well by 5th grade! Focus on the quality of the characters and the story rather than the grade level of the book.
For assistance finding AR books on your child's level, talk to librarian Kathy on our evening shift, who works in Andover school libraries during the day, or our YA librarian Tori, a former school librarian and experienced AR administrator. 

Conclusion: This is a great site for parents of young children, but also user-friendly enough that children can learn to use it too. Work together with your child to find books he or she wants to read.

Due Dates 101: Holidays and Library Closings

It happens a lot around the holidays: you've driven up to return your books only to find that the library is closed. What do you do now?

First, don't panic. No books are due on days when the library is closed for any reason, whether it's a holiday, a snow day, or a city event such as Greater Andover Days. Books and movies whose due dates would land on a calendar day that we are scheduled to be closed are AUTOMATICALLY due on the first library day AFTER the scheduled closing.

For example, if I check out a DVD (which normally checks out for only seven days) on a Monday, it would be due on the next Monday. However, if the next Monday is a holiday and the library is closed, my DVD is not due until the next Tuesday.

Secondly, remember that no fines are charged on days when the library is closed. If I have a book due on Saturday but I fail to turn it in, there will be no fine for Sunday (because the library is always closed on Sundays). Whether I return the book to the outside return bin on Sunday or wait until Monday morning, the fine will be the same. Likewise, if my book was due the day before a holiday but I fail to turn it in, I will not be charged a fine the day of the holiday, only the day after.

So while you are gathered with your family this holiday season, don't worry about your library books. The library will still be there when the holidays are over.

Library Buzz: Reading Options for the Young at Heart

(Originally published in the Andover American 2/7/13. "Library Buzz" is written by Toria Hamilton.)

It’s sort of obvious when you walk in our front door: we love kids here at the Andover Public Library. From the colorful archway made of giant books, marking the entrance to our children’s section, to the interactive story times, to the art and science camps we offer during our summer reading program, the library goes out of its way to make children feel welcome. However, you might not be aware of what we have to offer older kids… like, much older… like, retired ones. Check out these goods and services that will appeal to elderly patrons. 

If you still have a young mind behind old, tired eyes, fear not! We offer many of our most popular titles in both regular and large print. Come by anytime to browse our large print collection, with nearly two thousand titles including the best inspirational stories from Beverly Lewis and Karen Kingsbury and suspenseful mysteries from James Patterson and J.D. Robb. If we don’t have the large print title you want, consider filling out an Inter-Library Loan request. Using this free service, patrons can check out other libraries’ books directly from the Andover Public Library, granting access to multiple library collections from one convenient location.

Patrons who can’t see well enough to read print should try one of our audiobooks. Try John Lithgow’s memoir, “Drama”, read by the man himself, describing his life and career with refreshing candor. Or try New York Times bestseller “Eat Pray Love”, read with genuine emotion by the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, adding a new dimension to an already stellar book. If you like horror or suspense, try “Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris, smoothly narrated by actor Chris Sarandon. Of course, most audiobooks are narrated by professional voice actors you won’t recognize from TV or movies but who are no less talented at bringing books to life. Try several books to see if you can find a new favorite reader.

Patrons who aren’t able to visit the library due to age or infirmity can still check out books. Using our Novel Journeys homebound program, patrons can receive a bag of library books once a month, carefully selected by book-savvy volunteers. Patrons can specify favorite authors or genres, as well as limit their selections to large print or audiobooks. The books are delivered and picked up by caring volunteers from the local Rotary Club at no charge to the patron. All it takes to enroll is a library card. Call the library for more information at 558-3500.

Whether you’re young or merely young at heart, you never outgrow the love of a good story. Stop by the library anytime to see how we can meet your reading needs.

New Inspirational Titles on Sunflower eLibrary

Do you like inspirational fiction? Do you have a favorite Christian-fiction author? If so, you should check out these new titles available as ebooks from our Sunflower eLibrary:

A Bride for Keeps by Melissa Jagears
A Cast of Stones by Patrick W. Carr
Chasing Hope by Kathryn Cushman
Deadly Devotion by Sandra Orchard
An Elegant Solution by Paul Robertson
Five Days in Skye by Carla Laureano
The Gift by Lauraine Snelling
A Heart Deceived by Michelle Griep
A Home for My Heart by Anne Mateer
Into the Whirlwind by Elizabeth Camden
The Language of Sparrows by Rachel Phifer
Leaving Lancaster by Kate Lloyd
Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio by Serena B. Miller
Love in a Broken Vessel by Mesu Andrews
Made to Last by Melissa Tagg
The Measure of Katie Calloway by Serena B. Miller
A Promise to Love by Serena B. Miller
Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund
Return to Me by Lynn Austin
Sweet Sanctuary by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Swept Away by Mary Connealy
Trouble in Store by Carol Cox
The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen
Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade
An Untamed Heart by Lauraine Snelling
Welcome to Last Chance by Cathleen Armstrong
When Love Calls by Lorna Seilstad

For more information about Sunflower, check out the Sunflower section on the library website or visit Sunflower's Help page. 

Holiday baking with our cake pan collection

Andover Public Library is one of only a handful of libraries in the state of Kansas to have a collection of cake pans available for checking out. Our collection includes holiday shapes like candy canes and Christmas trees (as well as shapes for other major holidays like Easter and Halloween). We also have many of your children's favorite characters like Elmo, Batman, and Dora the Explorer. To browse our collection, visit our catalog and search for "cake pan" (make sure you search for "pan" and not "pans"; only the singular will work!), or visit the library: you'll find the cake pans in the children's section, across from the children's DVDs. 

Our cake pan collection is one of the best in the state. Visit us before your next birthday, holiday dinner, or other special occasion to see how we can improve your dessert options.

Event Report: Hometown Christmas 2013

On December 12, 2013, the library participated in Andover's annual Hometown Christmas event by providing Christmas crafts and tables for cookie decorating. We also gave out information about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. We had a wonderful time and we hope everyone in attendance did as well!

Meet the Librarian: Karyn, Administrative Director

Name: Karyn Schemm
Position at the library: Administrative Director

1. How long have you been at APL?  13 and ½ years

2. What’s your favorite thing about APL?  Our fun and friendly atmosphere

3. What is your favorite book and why? How could I pick just one? But I do read everything I can on JFK and Jackie Kennedy

4. Do you have any other book or author recommendations? Gillian Flynn

5. Do you have any hobbies? (Besides reading?) Motorcycle riding and camping. I just love being outdoors. My husband and I ride a Harley. I navigate, but do hope to get my own license someday. We have taken some long trips on the bike and hope to take many more in the future.

6. If you weren’t a librarian, what would you be? Something in banking…(is anyone surprised?)

7. What’s your favorite food? Glazed, smoked ham

8. What is the funniest experience you’ve ever had at the library? In our old building we had a sign on the bathroom door that said, “passports processed Mon-Fri, 9-3”. One day as a young woman started to open the bathroom door she turned to us and asked, “Do I need a passport to use the bathroom?”….there are many stories about that bathroom because it was right across from the circ desk……

9. What does your dream library look like? After working in the old library for 8 years, this building IS my dream library…..maybe with some more storage space :)

10. Talk about other stuff you like (movies, TV, music, games, etc.)  I listen to rock music. My favorite bands are Shinedown, Volbeat and Otherwise.  I enjoy attending concerts with my husband and daughter. I am a huge fan of the TV shows Nashville and Grey’s Anatomy. But my favorite was Breaking Bad….so long Heisenberg! And like so many other people, I am hopelessly addicted to Candy Crush…..and on Sunday afternoons,  it is all about FOOTBALL!

Karyn handles the logistics of running a library, like ordering office supplies, paying the bills, and keeping the other librarians in line. We couldn't do it without her!

Get 'em while they're holds!

You're a brilliant reader with fabulous tastes, so you know you want to read that new book everyone is talking about. Unfortunately, it's checked out already. Consider placing your name on the item's hold list. When your name comes up, we'll give you a call and save the item for you for at least three days. You can place holds in person, by phone (558-3500), or online (username is your library card number, password is your last name in lowercase).

Here are some popular items you might want to place on hold:

Sycamore Row by John Grisham
Returning to the Ford County law practice of Jake Brigance of Grisham's first novel, A Time to Kill, this novel follows another controversial court case. After a terminally ill rich man apparently commits suicide, a new, handwritten will comes to light, leaving his family scandalized and the community in turmoil. It's up to Jake to sort out the mess.

Takedown Twenty by Janet Evanovich
In Stephanie Plum's latest adventure, mob boss Salvatore “Uncle Sunny” Sunucchi is wanted for murder and Stephanie is set to take him down—if she can find him, that is: none of her usual sources are willing to snitch. In the meantime, Stephanie helps Ranger and her own Grandma Mazur investigate a murder at the senior center.

Killing Jesus by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
From the team that brought you Killing Lincoln and Killing Kennedy comes a riveting work of nonfiction about the pillar of Christianity. Killing Jesus lays out the details of the events leading up to Christ's death as we know them from historical accounts, written in a straight-forward style that keeps readers engaged and increases understanding of the political climate of the time.

In our DVD collection, get your name on the list for Star Trek: Into Darkness, The Croods, The Great Gatsby, After Earth, or Pacific Rim.

Of course, if you don't feel like waiting for holds, just browse our shelves. Hundreds of new releases and thousands of great older titles are available now.

Library Buzz: These are a Few of Our Favorite Things

(Although this article was originally published 12/6/12, and the "upcoming" and "new" titles mentioned are old news by now, these recommendations are still good. Please note that this year's Hometown Christmas is December 12. "Library Buzz" is written by Toria Hamilton.)

I recently saw this gift-giving advice online: “One thing they want, one thing they need, one thing to wear, and one thing to read.” I can’t help you with the first three items, but for giftable book ideas, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few titles you might not have heard about for the readers in your life.

Elementary and middle grade readers may enjoy “Dragonbreath” by Ursula Vernon, about a young dragon’s encounters with monsters, ninjas, ghosts, and other oddball antagonists, making these the sort of off-the-wall, non sequitur stories that some kids can’t resist. Peppered with humorous illustrations like the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books, the Dragonbreath series currently consists of seven books, with more scheduled to come out next year.

For history buffs, I recommend Simon Winchester. Winchester’s books are well researched but cover events that don’t come up in history class. Personal favorites are “The Professor and the Madman”, about the creators of the Oxford English Dictionary, and “The Map that Changed the World”, about a pioneer in the geological sciences. Winchester’s books read like novels and will appeal to fans of adventure stories as well as historical fiction.

For fantasy fans, go for Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series, starting with “The Eye of the World”. With a politically charged, pseudo-medieval fantasy setting, this series will appeal to fans of George R.R. Martin’s “A Game of Thrones”, but with less sex and violence, making it safe for younger advanced readers who have already enjoyed “Eragon” or “Lord of the Rings”. The fourteenth and final book, “A Memory of Light” co-written by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan’s death, is due out in January.

Mystery readers might enjoy Louise Penny, whose 2005 debut “Still Life” introduces readers to Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, a Canadian officer in a small village in Quebec. This elegantly written series, currently eight books, will appeal to fans of Alexander McCall Smith with its diverse characters and cozy plots. The newest book, New York Times bestseller “The Beautiful Mystery”, came out in September.

If you need other gift suggestions, check out the booklists on our website, www.andoverlibrary.org/APLreadinglists, or ask a librarian during Hometown Christmas, Thursday December 13, from 5:30PM to 8:00PM. From all of us at the Andover Public Library, we hope you’ll give the gift of reading this Christmas, and we wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season.

Library Buzz: You'll Shoot Your Eye Out

(Originally published in the Butler County Times Gazette 12/5/13. "Library Buzz" is written by Toria Hamilton.)

My childhood was absolutely normal. Plain vanilla. I don't have anything like “A Christmas Story” in my background: no leg lamps, no licking lamp posts, no ruined Christmas dinners. It's a downright mystery how I grew up to be so quirky. I do, however, enjoy reading other people's humorous memoirs. These three will have you laughing so hard you’ll be embarrassed to read them in public.

Ever since I read her essay about being trapped in a fitting room after trying on a shirt which turned out to be too small to take off again, I have known Laurie Notaro and I are spirit-sisters. Although that essay is in her excellent book "It Looked Different on the Model", I also recommend “An Idiot Girl’s Christmas: True Tales from the Top of the Naughty List”, a collection of holiday anecdotes. Notaro, Arizona native and former newspaper columnist, is bound to make readers feel better about their own holiday stresses, if only by comparison.

David Sedaris, whose autobiographical works feature his cynical mother, artistic friends, and peculiar siblings, began his career on talk radio, so he truly shines as the narrator of the audio versions of his books. I recommend “Me Talk Pretty One Day”, which chronicles his failed career in the arts, his failure to understand restaurant menus, and his failed attempts to learn French. Another of his books, a collection of Christmas stories called “Holidays on Ice”, will make you laugh until you cry as Sedaris describes the horrors of working as an elf in Santa’s village at Macy’s.

Jenny Lawson, a freelance writer who collects taxidermied animals and almost makes it sound normal, entertains readers on her blog at thebloggess.com, but in her #1 New York Times Bestselling memoir “Let's Pretend This Never Happened”, Jenny describes her childhood in Texas, her awkward teenage years, and her struggles with depression. While this summary may sound harmless enough, Jenny is like that one friend we all have who says exactly what she’s thinking without considering the consequences, making her memoir both irreverent and refreshing, though not appropriate for polite conversation.

If stories of your own childhood are equally inappropriate, check out the new release “Writing Your Life: A Guide to Writing Autobiographies” by Mary Borg. You might have a bestselling memoir on your hands. Just be sure to mention the Andover Public Library in your dedication.

Teen Reads: Pretty, Pretty Princesses

Sometimes you need a break from gritty, realistic fiction full of angst and drama. You want fluff. You want romance. You want a happy ending. Ladies, put on your pink pajamas and grab a pint of ice cream: it's time for young adult princess books.

1. The Frog Princess by E. D. Baker
When princess Emma kisses a frog she meets in the swamp near her castle, a magical mishap causes her to be turned into frog as well. Together, Emma and Eadric hop across the countryside looking for a cure. First in a series of eight books that are not at all related to the Disney cartoon "based" on this title.

2. Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
Princess Cimorene hates being a princess and is absolutely opposed to the marriage her parents are trying to arrange. She runs away to live with the local dragons, meets a friendly witch and some unfriendly wizards, and soon uncovers a plot that could endanger the dragons' way of life. The book has three sequels (and also, talking cats).

3. Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris
Christian, a commoner who lives in a cave with his (adopted) troll-dad, loves the beautiful princess Marigold from afar, but what can he do when he learns that Marigold's evil mother is plotting to take over the kingdom by eliminating both Marigold and the king? Not only is this the fluffiest fluffy book that ever fluffed, but it also has a sequel.

4. Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
Shortly after a prophecy declares that the prince's future bride will come from Miri's mountain village, palace officials arrive to set up a mandatory princess-training school for all the village girls. Though the competition at first divides the girls, danger to the academy soon brings them together.

5. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Newbery Honor book Ella Enchanted retells the classic Cinderella story with a twist. This author is fond of princess stories and has a number of princess-themed novels. They're not part of a series, so feel free to pick up any of them.

6. The Princess Bride by William Goldman
The basis of the cult-classic movie, this timeless novel tells the story of the love between Buttercup and Westley. While the movie is a faithful adaptation of the book, a few scenes were excluded for time and true fans will adore these little extras. 

Get Ready for Hometown Christmas!

The City of Andover will be hosting Hometown Christmas this year on Thursday, December 12, from 5:30PM to 8:00PM. Enjoy kids' crafts, hay rides, pictures with Santa, and other fun activities. Pay $2.00 to sample the offerings in the annual chili cook-off, then head over to the fire pit to make yourself a s'more for dessert. The cost of admission is a small donation to Andover Caring and Sharing of either a canned good, a new toy, or cash. All donations benefit Andover families.
It promises to be a fun night and we hope to see you there. Check out these pictures of Hometown Christmases Past. 

Genre Spotlight: Christmas Books

Okay, "Christmas books" isn't really a genre, but we just can't resist. We have Christmas romances, Christmas mysteries, Christmas adventures, and Christmas comedies, all on display this month. Come have a seat by our "fire" and try one out.

Christmas books are available by the front desk.

Plan your holiday menus using one of our cookbooks. While you're at it, take a look at librarian Cheri's impressive Depression Glass collection.

Our "fire" may not be warm, but it is cozy!

Event Report: Barnes and Noble Bookfair 2013

On Saturday, Nov. 23, 2013, Barnes and Noble at Bradley Fair hosted a book fair to benefit the Andover Public Library. Here is Librarian Cheri greeting people at the door. 

Several books we wanted for the library collection were on display near the entrance. Thanks to the generosity of our patrons, we will be able to acquire $1000 worth of free books for our library.

Teachers from Primrose Academy hosted a face painting table. They also painted hands.

Thank you, Primrose Academy, for helping with our book fair.

The Prairie Creek Panthers elementary school choir performed a selection of holiday songs for a large crowd.

The choir's performance could be seen from the café . 

Costumed Star Wars characters promoted our event and posed for pictures with customers. Here we have librarian Tiffany (right) posing with Aayla Secura (left).

Library director Tom (center front) poses with two imperial gunners and Han Solo (in his cold-weather Hoth gear, center back).

In the afternoon, the Corry Academy of Irish Dancers showcased their award-winning dancers of all ages and all levels.

Just look at those lovely, traditional Irish dancing costumes! Thank you, Corry Academy, for a wonderful performance!

In Our Gallery: Connor Sharrock

From now through December, the library is pleased to host the artistic creations of Connor Sharrock. A resident of Andover, Connor is a self-taught artist who began painting less than two years ago. This is his first show.

Haley's Children's Book Reviews

Do you like to collect things?  Well Professor Wormbog collects beasties.   In fact, he has all the beasties starting with the letters A to Y.  The only one he is missing starts with the letter Z.   Read Professor Wormbog In Search For The Zipperump-A-Zoo by Mercer Mayer and join the professor on his grand adventure as he searches for the Zipperump-A-Zoo.

Lulu and her dog, Bingo, are excited when they look outside and see the yard is covered in snow.  Lulu bundles up in all her warm clothes followed by her Ladybug costume.  Now she is Ladybug Girl and Ladybug Girl can do anything!   Ladybug Girl And The Big Snow written by David Soman and Jacky Davis will get kids excited for winter and the first day they look outside and see their yard covered in snow.

Bang by Leo Timmers is the perfect book for kids who like to use their imagination and make up their own story.  The fun colorful pictures help inspire the imagination!

APL's Barnes and Noble Bookfair

Support your local library while you get your Christmas shopping done with Andover Public Library's Barnes and Noble Bookfair. This Saturday at the Bradley Fair Barnes and Noble, Andover Library patrons can do both by having a percentage of their total sale contributed to the library. Simply present a bookfair voucher to cashiers (like the one you can print from here) or tell them our Bookfair ID number (#11207412).

Although our ID number is also good both online and in stores from November 23 through November 28 (shop online through BN.com/bookfairs), we are hosting several fun events at the Bradley Fair store on Saturday from 12:00-4:00.

We will have face painting provided by Primrose Academy as well as costumed Star Wars characters available for photographs from 12:00-4:00. At 1:30, Prairie Creek Elementary Choir will be performing in the store for about an hour. At 3:00, the Corry Academy of Irish Dance will perform. Additionally, APL librarians will be available periodically throughout the day to help shoppers select books for that special, hard-to-shop-for loved one on your list.

It's going to be a fun event and we hope to see you there!

Children's Story Times

Encourage your children to read at a young age by bringing them to story time. Our talented children's librarian, Cathy Catt, makes reading fun by presenting the best picture books with enthusiasm and style. We have three types of story time to choose from:

Baby & Me
This story time is designed for children aged 0-24 months. Children and caregivers can have fun with rhymes, songs, puppets and book time (children hold their own board books). This early literacy program lasts 15-20 minutes followed by a play time for "social skills" practice. Registration is required for each 8-week session, with groups meeting Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays at 9:30 AM. Register in person or by phone, 558-3500.

Twos Time
This early literacy program is especially designed for two-year-olds. Fun activities include rhymes, songs, puppets, action activities and stories. The 20 minute program is followed by a craft time with simple projects. Twos Time meets Mondays at 10:30 AM. Registration is not required.

Preschool Story Time
Preschoolers can exercise their imaginations and get ready for reading with fun rhymes, songs, puppets, movement activities and stories. The 30 minute program is followed by a craft time that coordinates with the weekly theme. For children ages 3 - 5, on Tuesdays and Wednesday at 10:30 AM and Thursdays at 1:30 PM. Registration is not required.

Need a magazine?

If ever you need a quick read, why not try a magazine from our periodical collection? Our magazines check out for one week. We have back issues (which are kept in a compartment behind the current issue) going back up to one year for most titles. With topics ranging from cooking to crafts to celebrity gossip, we have something for every taste.

Try "Threads" or "Scraps and Stamps" if you need craft ideas. Both magazines feature patterns and examples, with lists of sources for the craft supplies needed and articles on technique from experts.

For recipes, try "Weight Watchers", "Taste of Home", "Better Homes and Gardens" or "Everyday with Rachel Ray". All of these include ideas for special occasions, and themed recipes for parties and holidays.

For the physically active (or those who aspire to be), we have "Women's Health", "Men's Health", "Sports Illustrated", and "Sports Illustrated for Kids".

If you love the outdoors, check out "Field and Stream", "Birds and Blooms", or "Ranger Rick", but if you love the indoors, we also have "People", "US Weekly", or "Entertainment Weekly".

Families with young children might enjoy the activities and games from "Homeschool Enrichment", "Family Fun", or "Highlights".

Have magazines at home that you've already read? Consider bringing them to the library! We accept current magazine donations on our magazine exchange rack (just off the lobby, across from the public restrooms). Patrons can donate up to ten magazines at time if they were printed in the past twelve months. Feel free to grab a magazine or two on your next library visit and keep them as long as you want.

Meet the Librarian: Tom, Library Director

Do you ever wonder about the people running your library? In this new blog post series, we'll highlight a different staff member each month. First, we'd like to introduce our new director, Tom Taylor, who only recently started working here at APL and does not yet know what he's got himself into.

Name: Tom Taylor

Position at the library: Director

1. How long have you been at APL?  1 week

2. What’s your favorite thing about APL? It's an exciting opportunity for me because this is a fantastic institution.

3. What is your favorite book and why? That's a tough question. Who has just one? I suppose it depends on when you ask. Right now, it's Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis. I first read that as a college student in Greece so it has personal meaning to me.

4. Do you have any other book or author recommendations? For a living author, I recommend Neil Gaiman. he has a wonderful, vivid imagination, rooted in literature and folklore. Otherwise, I recommend Fyodor Dostoevsky, for the great dialogue and the cerebral nature of his works. 

5. Do you have any hobbies (besides reading)? I enjoy following certain sports. I like IndyCar racing and I'm a big Kansas City Chiefs fan. I also enjoy college sports (though I won't say which teams... yet). And I have two young boys, so they take up most of my time.

6. If you weren’t a librarian, what would you be? Definitely a teacher. History, at the middle school or high school level.

7. What’s your favorite food? Coconut. I like coconut anything: coconut treats, coconut desserts, coconut water... I cook with coconut oil. I love coconut.

8. How did you end up in the library field? My mom was the librarian at McPherson College, so I grew up around libraries, using libraries, but it still never occurred to me that I might go into the library field. Then, in grad school for history, I realized I enjoyed the research and the teaching, but I hated the writing. That eventually led to reference librarianship. Then I got a job at Newton Public Library. 

9. What does your dream library look like? Spacious, modern, clean, and busy.

10. Talk about other stuff you like (movies, TV, music, games, etc.) I like Doctor Who - I grew up on it, so I like the older stuff, but I've seen some of the new stuff as well. I like travel, learning. I used to enjoy video games, strategy games, and board games, but I don't have much time for that now. 

Welcome to the library, Tom!

Library Buzz: Welcome to my Spaceship!

(Originally published in the Butler County Times Gazette 11/7/13. "Library Buzz" is written by Toria Hamilton.)

At the library we’ve recently installed a set of automatic sliding doors. It’s like I’m working aboard the Starship Enterprise and (along with the new “Ender’s Game” movie,) it’s put me in a science fiction mood. Of course, my scifi tastes may be too fluffy for some – I tend to ignore petty details like the laws of physics – but I think I’ve picked a little something for everyone… unless you’re an alien. I don’t know what sort of books appeal to aliens. Keep that in mind.

A great introduction to science fiction is Douglas Adams’ “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”, arguably one of the funniest books ever written in any genre. Many fans are unaware that there is a sixth book in the five-book trilogy, “And Another Thing…” written by Eoin Colfer with the blessing of Adams’ estate.

If you’re anxiously awaiting BBC’s Doctor Who 50th Anniversary special later this month, consider Stephen Baxter’s “The Wheel of Ice”, a Doctor Who novel featuring the Second Doctor as he investigates a hole in time near a mining base orbiting Saturn. Long-term Whovians will enjoy the many references to classic Who episodes peppered throughout the book.

In another Stephen Baxter title, “The Long Earth”, co-written with Sir Terry Pratchett, a simple invention grants mankind the ability to “step” between realities. As adventurous individuals set out to colonize these new frontiers, one man scouts the new worlds with the help of a sentient super-computer, but what they find in the Earths far from our own is not what they expected.

Teens and adults both will enjoy the new young adult title “The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey. Starring a strong female main character in a gritty post-apocalyptic struggle for survival when the world has been devastated by wave after wave of alien attack, this book will appeal to fans of “The Hunger Games” and “Maze Runner”, as well as adults who like to pretend they’re too old for teen books.

We also have science fiction titles for older elementary- and middle-school-aged children. I recommend “Other Worlds” by Jon Scieszka, part of his wonderful “Guys Read” anthology series which is targeted to young boys who don’t like to read, featuring short stories by Rick Riordan, Tom Angleberger, and Ray Bradbury.

Need more suggestions? Come by the library and ask a librarian. Better yet, ask for Tom, our new director. Word on the street is he’s a science fiction fan. Drop in and say hello.

Until next month, may the force be with you.

Now beam me up, Scotty.

Join the Friends!

If you would like to contribute to the betterment of the Andover Public Library, consider joining the Friends. The Friends group is a nonprofit organization that contributes to library programs both financially and through volunteer work. Membership costs $25 annually and covers up to four family members who live in the same house. This tax-deductible membership fee, along with money raised by the Friends' Used Book Sales in the spring and fall, funds a variety of library events and programs such as the summer reading prizes for children, summer art camps, Ballet in the Park, and many more. Additionally, Friends volunteers help the library by planning and running special events (like these: click here, here, or here) and providing additional staffing around the library. The Library couldn't function without the wonderful volunteers in our Friends of the Library organization. Visit the APL Friends page on the Library website for more information or to join.

Hayley's Children's Book Reviews

Kids will enjoy using their imaginations along with Joe Kulka in Vacation’s Over! Return Of The Dinosaurs.   Imagine what it would be like if dinosaurs weren’t extinct but had just been on an extended vacation to outer space.   As kids read this book it will help them think about some of the changes dinosaurs would find if they came back from vacation today and would the world as we know it be able to handle the return of dinosaurs?

Past Events: Star Wars Day, November 2011

As part of our Andover Caring and Sharing Toy Drive, we invited costumed Star Wars re-enactors from the 149th War Wolves of Kansas to spend the day at the library.

The War Wolves posed for pictures with patrons and throughout the library all day.

We featured a variety of Star Wars memorabilia in our display cases to help set the mood.

Even the librarians wore costumes.

Darth Vader returns his books on time. Do you?

Teen Reads: Wilderness Survival

Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors or prefer to read about it from the comfort of your air-conditioned home, these survival books are sure to keep you entertained. Bonus: All of these titles are great for boys who don't care for reading.

1. Life of Pi by Yan Martell
A young boy from India knows his life is changing forever when his zookeeper father announces that the family is moving to Canada, but when the ship transporting Pi’s family and all of the zoo animals sinks, the only survivors are Pi and a ferocious tiger. A great book for older teens, with philosophical themes covering religion, destiny, and the wonders of nature.

2. My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
Sam runs away to his great grandfather’s land in the mountains. With limited supplies, he lives off the land, makes a house out of a tree, and contends with local wildlife, all the while worried that he’ll be discovered by the authorities and sent home to the crowded apartment he shared with his large family. The book has two sequels and two related picture books.

3. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
When the pilot of a small, two-seater airplane dies of a heart attack, Brian, the passenger, makes an emergency landing on a lake in the woods. Now stranded, Brian must learn to survive with nothing but a hatchet as he waits for rescue. A Newbury Honor book with four sequels.

4. Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth Speare
Waiting at a newly built frontier cabin for his father to return with the rest of the family, Matt befriends Attean, a Native American from the local tribe. As months pass with no sign of his family, Matt must decide if he will continue to wait for them or join Attean’s tribe, which will soon migrate to new lands.

5. Nation by Terry Pratchett
After surviving a tsunami by clinging to a small canoe, islander Mau returns to the site of his village and finds only death. In his dreams, he hears the voices of his ancestors: “You have to survive because you are the only one left. You are the Nation.” Soon, Mau meets survivors from other nearby islands and they must all work together to prepare the village before the terrifying Raiders come.

6. Genghis: Birth of an Empire by Conn Iggulden
This well-researched biographical novel chronicles the life of Genghis Khan from his childhood – scraping by with his mother and brothers on the plains after being exiled from their tribe – to his teenage years when he won his first battles. Other books in the series follow his growth as a leader and warlord. Great for older teens.

Event Report: The Library's 5th Birthday Bash

On Saturday, October 26, we had an excellent turnout for our 5th birthday celebration.

We went a little crazy with the streamers around the library...
Party hats and favors were also available.

Our entertainment for the day, Richard Holmgren of Salina Kansas and his "Flying Debris" juggling show, was a huge success with our patrons. 

A willing audience member helps Mr. Holmgren perform a trick called "The Fountain".

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and signed our guest book!

Cookies and cake balls were purchased from Andover's own Stadium Bakery, (316)218-4600 ext. 51900

We can get that!: Inter-Library Loan services and you

When the library doesn't have the books you want, you have several options. You can visit every library within an hour's drive and fatten your wallet with dozens of shiny new library cards; you can order the books from Amazon or your local book store, taking your wallet back down to size;  or, if you'd like a wallet-neutral solution, you can head back to the library and apply for Inter-Library Loan.

The Inter-Library Loan system allows the Andover Library to ask other Kansas libraries if we can borrow their books on your behalf. You pick up and return the items at Andover Library with your Andover Library card - we handle the shipping and other logistics. It's a great way to get the items you want without having to drive to distant libraries or spend money on books you may only read once. 

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• Inter-Library Loan takes time. Between waiting for other libraries to respond to ILL requests, and waiting for the items to arrive in the mail, it can take more than a week to get your items. This can be a problem if you need the item for a school assignment.
• We'll call you! If we aren't able to find your item anywhere, we will call you as soon as we know. Otherwise, we won't call you until the item comes in. 
• When the item arrives, it is automatically checked out to you. Don't be shocked when you see the strange item on your account and have no memory of checking it out! This is normal!
• The lending library sets the due date. We keep the item on our hold shelf from the time it arrives until either you pick it up OR the due date passes. If you don't pick it up until the last day, we cannot change the due date. Although we can call the other library and ask them to renew the item for you, the other library may say no.
• If you have a question about your requests, you want to talk to Kathy. It's complicated borrowing so many different items from so many different libraries for so many different patrons! To minimize confusion, only ONE librarian processes ILL requests. Additionally, ILL requests require a separate system from regular library transactions, so no other librarians can see the status of your requests.
• Some items cannot be Inter-Library Loaned. You cannot request an item that is less than six months old (though you can ask us to buy a copy). You also cannot request an item that the Andover Library already has, even if our copy is checked out, unless the item is designated as "Lost" or "Missing" in our catalog. 
• It's free! That's pretty self-explanatory.

Library Buzz: Mysterious Circumstances

(Originally published in the Andover American 11/1/12. "Library Buzz" is written by Toria Hamilton.)

There's not a lot of mystery in real life. For example, I don't remember the last time I found a body... because that's never even happened. Most people don't find bodies in the normal course of their day. My biggest mystery is usually what I'm going to have for dinner. Depending on how recently I've done the grocery shopping, this particular mystery doesn't always have a happy ending. I find that to get my daily dose of Mystery I have to supplement my life with mystery books. If the most mysterious part of your day is wondering what you're going to read next, check out these mystery book suggestions from the library staff.

Cheri, who adores Nathan Fillion, suggests the new "Frozen Heat" by Richard Castle. Astute observers will know that Richard Castle is not a real person, so "Who actually wrote Richard Castle's books?" is a fun mystery on its own, but according to Cheri "Frozen Heat" is a quick and flirty whodunnit that will keep you guessing until the end.

Cathy, our children's librarian, recommends "Beekeeper's Apprentice" by Laurie R. King. This is the first book of the Mary Russell series, in which young Mary receives detective training from a retired Sherlock Holmes. The series, which currently stands at twelve books, will appeal to fans of historical fiction and classic mysteries.

Librarians Karyn and Carla both recommend anything by Gillian Flynn. While you await your turn on the hold list for her newest novel, "Gone Girl," consider some of her other books, such as "Dark Places" and "Sharp Objects." Karyn says, “If Gillian Flynn wrote a new novel every month, that might be enough.”

What do I recommend? As the Young Adult librarian, I’m all for pushing my YA collection. I suggest “Silverfin,” first book of Charlie Higson’s Young James Bond series, which takes place years before Bond  ever becomes the iconic 007, pitting him against a villain set on world domination. The upcoming Bond movie “Skyfall” may be rated PG-13, but “Silverfin” is appropriate for middle school and up.

While we’re on the topic of mysteries, let me solve a few library mysteries for you: the password for your account online is your last name in lowercase letters, patrons can check out fifty items at a time, including four DVDs per card, we do have computers available for public use, and yes, we check out cake pans. Have other questions? Check the FAQs page of our website at www.andoverlibrary.org.

Mystery solved.

Happy Birthday to Us!

This month, the library celebrates five years in its current location on Central Ave. Come celebrate with us at a birthday party on Saturday, October 26, from 10:00AM until 3:00PM. There will be food and party favors while supplies last and a performance by juggling sensation Flying Debris at 1:30PM. Party guests can also enter a drawing for one of four $25 Barnes and Noble gift cards.

We've been busy these past five years:
Since October of 2008, we've added 10,500 patrons, for a total of more than 17,000.
We started with 14,000 items (including books, audiobooks, and movies), but now we have 52,000.
We've had 1,366 library sponsored programs with 34,600 attendees.
Our 17,000 patrons have had 967,000 check outs, placed 26,000 holds, and logged in to the library catalog 159,000 times.

We at the Andover Library would like to thank the Andover community and all of our patrons for making our library such a wonderful place. Here's hoping the next five (or ten or fifty) years are just as wonderful as the first five!

Past Events: Fire Truck Visit, July 2013

On July 30 this year, we enjoyed a visit from the Andover Fire Department. Although it was not sunny or hot enough for playing in the fire hose like we were able to do last year, librarians and children were still able to explore inside the fire truck, try on some fireman gear, and enjoy fire safety lessons from the Andover firemen.

Teen Reads: Genuinely Creepy

Ready for Halloween? Get into the (restless and mournful) spirit of things with these titles that are sure to give you the chills.

1. The Dreaming by Queenie Chan
Twins Amber and Jeanie enroll at the prestigious Australian boarding school where their aunt teaches, but the school harbors a terrible secret: namely, a history of students going missing in the surrounding countryside. This graphic novel trilogy leaves you guessing and some of the art is the stuff of nightmares.

2. Courtney Crumrin and the Night Things by Ted Naifeh
Courtney’s gold-digging parents agree to move in with her rich, eccentric great-uncle to take care of him in his old age, but Courtney soon learns he’s actually a powerful warlock who doesn’t need anyone’s help—what he needs is a student. It’s a great graphic novel gathering of monsters from legend and myth, recently published in full color.

3. Coraline by Neal Gaiman
Coraline finds a door that leads to an apartment much like her own, where her Other Mother lives and wants to play with her forever… and, you know, steal her soul. You’ll never look at buttons the same way again (trust me). Lots of cringe inducing moments in this one: if you’ve only seen the movie based on the book, you’re missing out.

4. Malice by Chris Wooding
When a group of friends attempt the ritual in the back of the Malice comic books, they find themselves trapped within its pages, where the monsters are real and absolutely hungry. Half novel, half comic book, it’s like if the Wimpy Kid series took place in a darker version of Jim Henson’s Labyrinth.

5. Unwind by Neal Shusterman
In a world where every part of the human body can be medically transplanted, unwanted teenagers are sent away to be “unwound”, a process that is widely accepted because the teenagers don’t technically die. Three teens on their way to be unwound escape and must work together to elude authorities. Although this one is technically more of a scifi novel than a horror story, there are a few scenes that are bound to disturb you—expect to have nightmares.

6. Attack of the Vampire Weenies and Other Warped and Creepy Tales by Dave Lubar
You’d think with a name like “Attack of the Vampire Weenies”, this would be a children’s book. While it is actually in our juvenile section, don’t let that fool you. These short stories are surprisingly gruesome. Like, people are getting eaten up in here. Don’t read it all at once: spread the horror around.

None of these sound scary enough for you? Stop by to check out our adult horror novels now on display. Too scary? Stop by to check out something else. We don’t judge.

Passport Services

If you've looked at applying for a U.S. passport, you might have seen Andover Public Library listed as an Acceptance Facility on the Department of State's website, travel.state.gov. Although the steps for getting a U.S. passport are quite specific, they aren't difficult. The instructions on the official website are very detailed, including instructions for first time applicants, instructions for minors, processing times, and fee information. Check out their Frequently Asked Questions page if you run into trouble.

Here's what you need to know about applying for a passport through Andover Public Library:

• Our agents are available Monday to Friday from 9:00AM to 4:00PM. Applications are processed on a walk-in basis. No appointments are necessary, but you are welcome to call ahead to verify that an agent will be available at a particular time.
• Agents stop accepting applications promptly at 4:00PM. If you arrive after 3:45PM and there are other applicants waiting to be seen, we cannot guarantee that an agent will be able to see you.
• Saturday appointments are available on a limited basis, from 9:20AM to 11:00AM at twenty minute intervals.
• If you are late for your Saturday appointment, you may be moved to the next available appointment slot, depending on the size of your party and the appointment schedule for that day.
• The library does not have the equipment to take passport pictures. Check the official site for photo guidelines or do a Google search for "passport photo processing" to find a facility that takes pictures in your area.
• We cannot accept cash or credit cards for your passport fee. You must have a check or money order for each application. Remember to check the passport website for fee information.
• The passport desk is not open if the library is closed for federal holidays or inclement weather.

If you have any other questions, call the library at 558-3500 or the passport office at 1-877-487-2778. 

Join the Lego Club!

Children ages 5-11 are invited to Lego Club on the last Wednesday of each month from 4:00PM to 5:00PM. At each meeting, builders are given a theme, an hour, and a bucket of Legos. Past themes have included airplanes, lunar landers, dinosaurs, and fire trucks. Sometimes, librarians Benjamin and Tori get bored and include Lego challenges such as Tallest Tower contests and other timed events. You never know what you'll get at Lego Club! 

Registration is required in person or by phone (558-3500).