Shorewood-Troy Public Library Showcase

Taken by Robert Crais

2012-01-24T13:36:00.004-06:00

When the police tell a wealthy industrialist that her missing son has faked his own kidnapping, she hires Elvis Cole and Joe Pike-and Cole soon determines that it was no fake. The boy and his secret girlfriend have been taken, and are now lost in the gray and changing world of the professional border kidnappers who prey not only on innocent victims but also on one another-buying, selling, and stealing victims like commodities. Fortunately, the kidnappers don't yet know who the boy is, but when Cole goes undercover to try to buy the two hostages back, he himself is taken and disappears. Now it is up to Pike to retrace Cole's steps, burning through the hard and murderous world of human traffickers . . . before it is too late.
-From Amazon.com

New releases this week!

2012-01-03T09:38:00.002-06:00

To place a hold on a title, please click on the book cover below:

New releases today!

2011-11-22T08:33:00.005-06:00

Click on a cover to place a hold:

New Releases this week!

2011-11-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Please click on a cover to place a hold:

Get Spooked with Familiar Spirits!

2011-10-11T15:17:00.003-05:00

Join us tonight at 7 p.m. for Familiar Spirits: Tales of Murder, Mystery, and the Macabre!

Storyteller William Pack will be your guide during an evening of supernatural "ghost" theater, an interactive performance of spine-tingling horror stories, eerie history, and inexplicable supernatural occurrences.

The show is an assortment of spine-tingling horror stories, eerie history, and inexplicable supernatural feats. This isn't an applause show -- it is a gasps and stunned silence show. Think of a night with Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, Dracula, Frankenstein, Jack the Ripper, and H.H. Holmes all together. Prepare to be entertained. Prepare to be fascinated. Prepare to be spooked.

New Releases this Week!

2011-09-26T14:07:00.006-05:00

To place a hold, please click on a book cover:

New features available for Career Transitions

2011-09-15T12:39:00.003-05:00

Our database, Career Transitions, has just been upgraded! In addition to features like multiple job search options, additonal enhancements include:

Interactive interview practice

The ability to match work and military experience to new careers

Guided resume and cover letter creation

Expert advice and industry-leading content

Education and training options by career, program, and location

Hundreds of career overview videos, including "A Day in the Life" series featuring real people who work in those occupations

And more!

To sign on to Career Transitions, please visit www.shorewood.lib.il.us/databases. You will need your Shorewood library card number to access this from home.

New Releases this Week

2011-09-12T15:03:00.006-05:00

Please click on book cover to place a hold:

New releases today!

2011-08-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

Please click on a book cover to place a hold:

Have you read "The Help" yet? What are you waiting for?

2011-08-29T11:42:00.004-05:00

Three ordinary women are about to take one extraordinary step.

Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.

Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.

Minny, Aibileen's best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody's business, but she can't mind her tongue, so she's lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town to know her reputation. But her new boss has secrets of her own.

Seemingly as different from one another as can be, these women will nonetheless come together for a clandestine project that will put them all at risk. And why? Because they are suffocating within the lines that define their town and their times. And sometimes lines are made to be crossed.

In pitch-perfect voices, Kathryn Stockett creates three extraordinary women whose determination to start a movement of their own forever changes a town, and the way women--mothers, daughters, caregivers, friends--view one another. A deeply moving novel filled with poignancy, humor, and hope, The Help is a timeless and universal story about the lines we abide by, and the ones we don't.

-Synopsis taken from www.kathrynstocket.com

The Adult Book Discussion Group will be meeting to discuss "The Help" on Wednesday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Shorewood-Troy Public Library. Please join us!

September's Upcoming Releases - Books

2011-08-15T09:56:00.005-05:00

Wondering what is being published in September? Well, look no further! I've listed all of the biggest releases:

Albert, Susan Wittig - "Tale of Castle Cottage"
Black, Lisa - "Defensive Wounds"
Blackstock, Terry - Shadow in Serenity"
Bowen, Rhys - "Naughty in Nice"
Brandman, Michael - "Robert B. Parker's Killing the Blues"
Brown, Sanda - "Lethal"
Burke, James Lee - "Feast Day of Fools"
Child, Lee - "Affair"
Coehlo, Paula - "Aleph"
Collins, Jackie - "Goddess of Vengeance"
Connelly, John - "Burning Soul"
Cussler, Clive - "The Race"
Dekker, Ted - "Forbidden"
Deveraux, Jude - "Heartwishes"
Feehan, Christine - "Dark Predator"
Graham, Heather - "An Angel for Christmas"
Harback, Chad - "The Art of Fielding"
Howard, Linda - "Prey"
Jenkins, Jerry - "Betrayal"
Khoury, Raymond - "The Devil's Elixir"
King, Laurie R. - "The Pirate King"
Lewis, Beverly - "Mercy"
Macomber, Debbie - "1225 Christmas Tree Lane"
McCrumb, Sharyn - "Ballad of Tom Dooley"
Miller, Linda Lael - "A Lawman's Christmas"
Mitchard, Jacquelyn - "Second Nature"
Palmer, Diana - "A Man for all Seasons"
Peterson, Tracie - "To Have and to Hold"
Rendell, Ruth - "Vault"
Robb, J.D. - "New York to Dallas"
Roby, Kimberla Lawson - "Secret Obsession"
Weber, David - "How Firm a Foundation"
White, Kate - "Sixes"
Woods, Stuart - "Son of Stone"

New Releases this Week!

2011-08-08T10:39:00.005-05:00

Please place a hold by clicking on the title:

New Releases today!

2011-08-02T10:06:00.003-05:00

Click on the cover below to place a hold:

New this week!

2011-07-19T11:26:00.010-05:00

Below is a sampling of new books this week. Click on the cover to place a hold!

New books this week!

2011-07-05T08:51:00.022-05:00

Click on the book cover below to place a hold.

New DVD Releases

2011-06-21T15:45:00.000-05:00

Click on the DVD below to place a hold:

New Releases This Week!

2011-06-21T09:27:00.013-05:00

Click on a book cover below to place a hold:

She's baaaack....

2011-06-19T13:58:00.003-05:00

Dead bodies are showing up in shallow graves on the empty construction lot of Vincent Plum Bail Bonds. No one is sure who the killer is, or why the victims have been offed, but what is clear is that Stephanie’s name is on the killer’s list.

Short on time to find evidence proving the killer’s identity, Stephanie faces further complications when her family and friends decide that it’s time for her to choose between her longtime off-again-on-again boyfriend, Trenton cop Joe Morelli, and the bad boy in her life, security expert Ranger. Stephanie’s mom is encouraging Stephanie to dump them both and choose a former high school football star who’s just returned to town. Stephanie’s sidekick, Lula, is encouraging Stephanie to have a red-hot boudoir “bake-off.” And Grandma Bella, Morelli’s old-world grandmother, is encouraging Stephanie to move to a new state when she puts “the eye” on Stephanie.

With a cold-blooded killer after her, a handful of hot men, and a capture list that includes a dancing bear and a senior citizen vampire, Stephanie’s life looks like it’s about to go up in smoke.

-From Amazon.com

"Smokin' Seventeen" will be released on Tuesday, June 21st. Place a hold for it today!

New Releases this Week!

2011-06-05T14:46:00.011-05:00

Click on the image below to place a hold:

Get your Shakespeare fix at the library!

2011-06-02T18:53:00.001-05:00

Just in! We have tons of DVDs based on Shakespeare's plays. Don't let your brain turn into mush this summer - check these DVDs out for FREE and get a little culture. We promise you will enjoy them!

What's new at the library this week!

2011-06-01T14:02:00.008-05:00

Book Review - The 13th Hour by Richard Doetsch

2011-05-13T10:22:00.000-05:00

Looking for a thriller with a twist? Look no further than Richard Doetsch's remarkable novel that will leave you guessing.... to the beginning.

The book starts with Nick, our hero, under arrest for the murder of his beloved wife, Julia. Nick, having been set-up, is being interrogated by a duo of good cop/bad cop cousins when a stranger comes in and offers Nick a chance to save his wife. He hands Nick a letter and timepiece, and promptly disappears. Nick is catapulted back in time one hour at a time and he must stop the killer before he reaches the thirteenth hour.

Bored? Here's a website to get you thinking!

2011-05-11T14:51:00.000-05:00

Check out www.sporcle.com for some great mental stimulations - all timed of course! Can you:

Name the state capitals?
Remember all the US presidents?
Guess the most commonly used English words?
Guess the most published supervillains?

Book Review - "Juliet"

2011-05-07T11:51:00.000-05:00

Juliet by Anne Fortier

First time novelist Fortier takes us on a journey to Siena, Italy, in this gem of a novel featuring reluctant heroine Julie Jacobs.

The story begins with the death of Julie’s beloved Aunt Rose, who raised Julie and her snobby twin sister Janice, after the early death of their parents in Italy. Janice is left with the house and estate while Julie is bequeathed with next to nothing – just a passport, plane ticket, key, and a secret – her real name is Guilietta Tolomei.

Arriving in Siena, Julie discovers that she is a descendant of the Tolomei and Salimbenis families of Siena, Shakespeare’s inspiration for the feuding families of Romeo and Juliet. The feud is still going strong, some 600 years later, as Julie soon finds herself immersed in discovering the truth of her family and her famous ancestor, the original Giulietta Tolomei.

The story bobs and weaves between Julie’s present and Guilietta’s 14^th century past with great detail. Fortier has created a fast-paced and romantic novel that reads like the DaVinci Code, complete with historic relics such as a painting, journal, knife, and ring that are clues to solving the mystery. Check it out today!

New Releases this Week

2011-05-02T09:03:00.013-05:00

Place a hold by clicking on the book cover below:

New Releases this Week

2011-04-26T12:21:00.008-05:00

Place a hold by clicking on the cover below:

New Releases in May!

2011-04-21T17:45:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peek of a few of our new books in May!

New books this week!

2011-04-05T08:19:00.000-05:00

Below is a list of books hot off the press! Click on the title below to place a hold.

Mobbed by Carol Higgins Clark
Once Upon a Time, There Was You by Elizabeth Berg
Mourning Gloria by Susan Wittig Albert
All That is Bitter and Sweet by Ashley Judd
Crunch Time by Diane Mott Davidson
Elizabeth I by Margaret George
Eva's Kitchen by Eva Longoria
Red Glove by Holly Black
The Love of my Youth by Mary Gordon

New fiction books this week!

2011-03-29T09:26:00.006-05:00

Click on the titles below to place a hold with your library card:

Big Girl Small by Rachel DeWoskin
My Jane Austen Summer by Cindy S. Jones
The Judge ment by Beverly Lewis
Dead by Midnight by Carolyn Hart
Anthem for a Doomed Youth by Carola Dunn
Mystery by Jonathan Kellerman
Phantom Evil by Heather Graham
Land of Painted Caves by Jean Auel

New Books for April!

2011-03-27T16:00:00.000-05:00

Click on the book below to place a hold:

Downloading eBooks to your Nook

2011-03-24T13:21:00.010-05:00

We've had a lot of questions lately about transferring eBooks from our free downloadable service, OverDrive, to your Nook, so I wanted to give you some step-by-step instructions, including screen shots, courtesy of Being Ruth (http://beingruth.co m/t utorial-library-books-nook-overdrive).

To begin with, once you visit our consortium's website (www.omnilibraries.org), you will need to download and install Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) on your computer. ADE is needed to handle digital rights management for OverDrive. Once downloaded, you will be prompted to either log in using your Adobe ID. Most likely, you do not have one. Please create a free account, as prompted. If you do not, you will not be able to transfer books to your device.

Step 1 : Check out your ebook

Visit our consortium's website (www.omnilibraries.org). Select the books you wish to checkout (make sure they are ebook format, not audiobooks!) and add them to your cart. Proceed to check-out before your book expires in your cart. Confirm checkout. A drop-down menu will let you specify the period you want to check the book out for.

Step 2 : Download and Open in Adobe Digital Editions

On your bookshelf, click the download link to download a file which Adobe Digital Editions will use to download the actual ebook. You can save the file to your computer, but since this isn't the actual ebook and won't need it later, you can also just choose to open with Adobe Digital Editions.

Adobe Digital will download the actual ebook and open it on your computer.

Click on the Library icon(where the red arrow is pointing above) and return to the library view. This is where you'll transfer the book to your Nook.

Step 3 : Transfer the ebook to your Nook

If your Nook isn't yet connected to your computer, use the USB cable to connect it and turn it on. You should get a prompt on the computer screen to register your Nook with your Adobe ID. Make sure this is the same email address and password you used to register Adobe on your computer. Once your Nook is authorized, it should appear in your Adobe Digital Editions library page as shown:

Please note: If your turn on your Nook and it doesn't show up in ADE, simply exit and reopen ADE. Before reopening ADE, double check that your Nook is on and is displaying the USB connection screen. Also, if you have a Nook Color, it may show up as "Media" rather than as "Nook" in ADE.

Now, click on the book you want to transfer to your Nook and drag it to your Nook icon as shown below:

The transfer to your Nook takes only seconds. Disconnect your Nook and enjoy! Please note that the transferred book is located in the "My Documents" area of your Nook Library.

Step 4 : Return the ebook from your Nook and computer

Your library book will expire after the lending period is over and you won't be able to access it on your Nook anymore. But if you want to return the ebook before the lending period is over, either so that you can check out more or just because you want other people to have access to the book.

Returning it is super easy! On Adobe Digital Editions, you will notice a tiny white arrow in the upper left hand corner of the book you wish to return. Click on the arrow, and select "Return Borrowed Item" from the drop-down.

Questions:

Still have questions? Call us at 815-725-1715 and ask for the reference department and we can help. Or, feel free to email me at llovato@shorewoodtroylibrary.org with your name, library card number, the problem you are encountering, the exact text of any error messages, and a phone number to reach you at.

Happy reading!

New fiction books this week

2011-03-23T13:48:00.014-05:00

Here are just a few of the new books we have this week! Click on the title to place a hold.

The Saturday Big Tent Wedding by Alexander McCall Smith
Cold Wind by C.J. Box
Leaving by Karen Kingsbury
All the Time in the World by E.L. Doctorow
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
Started Early, Took my Dog by Kate Atkinson

Get inspired for spring cleaning!

2011-03-02T09:32:00.000-06:00

We've got all you need to get your home ready for the year!

Spring cleaning may not be everyone's favorite, but it doesn't have to hard work. The library has tons of books on organizing and cleaning - take a look!!

March New and Notable

2011-02-28T10:11:00.015-06:00

Romance titles for Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T13:09:00.007-06:00

Love is in the air! And make sure you come to the library to get your fix on romance! May I suggest:

Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor by Lisa Kleypas
Mark Nolan's happy-go-lucky bachelorhood is interrupted by the death of his sister and his subsequent guardianship of her six-year-old daughter, Holly, who is traumatized into muteness and desperately seeking a maternal figure. Enter Maggie Collins, a toy shop owner who lost her own husband to cancer.

When Harry Met Molly by Kieran Kramer
Handsome wastrel Lord Harry Traemore is drafted into a wager in which one unlucky bachelor must marry, unless his mistress wins the title of "The Most Delectable Companion." When Harry's mistress abandons him, he's forced to bring his childhood foe, Lady Molly Fairbanks, to the wager.

Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer
A new schoolteacher has a small 1880s Nebraska town up in arms over her newfangled teaching methods in this charming prairie romance.

Ransom my Heart by Meg Cabot
Finnula needs money for her sister's dowry, and fast. Hugo Fitzstephen, returning home to England from the Crusades with saddlebags of jewels, has money, and lots of it. What could be simpler than to kidnap him and hold him for ransom? Well, for starters, Finnula could make the terrible mistake of falling in love with her hostage.

February New and Notable

2011-02-07T09:35:00.015-06:00

It's ok to want more Harry Potter!

2011-01-11T09:25:00.007-06:00

Sadly, the Harry Potter series is done, and it may be breaking your heart. I know that when I closed "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows", my first thought was "what do I have to look forward to next year? There won't be another publication." But don't worry, fellow young adult fantasy lovers - there are plenty of great series out there that will take your mind off Harry, Ron, Hermione and the rest of the gang (at least temporarily). My suggestions:

Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians series:
1. The Lighting Thief
2. The Sea of Monsters
3. The Titan's Curse
4. The Battle of the Labyrinth
5. The Last Olympian

Cornelia Funke's Inkheart Trilogy
1. Inkheart
2. Inkspell
3. Inkdeath

Christopher Paolini's Inheritance Cycle series
1. Eragon
2. Eldest
3. Brisingr

Angie Sage's Septimus Heap series
1. Magyk
2. Flyte
3. Physik
4. Queste
5. Syren

January Programs

2011-01-04T19:23:00.006-06:00

We've got some great programs this month to entice you out of your house and into the library! Sign up on our website or give us a call!

Save Money with the Citizen's Utility Board
Monday, January 10 at 6:00pm
Who isn't looking for ways to save money? A representative from the Citizen's Utility Board will be here to discuss ways to save on your gas, electric, and telephone services. You don't want to miss out on these helpful hints!

Cyber Sleuthing Your Family Tree
Thursday, January 20 at 7:00pm
Genealogist Tina Beaird will show you how to use paid databases as well as free genealogy websites to trace your family tree. You will also learn how to evaluate web sites and to find the most reliable sources of information and learn what's new in the genealogy community.

Marble Painting Notecards
Tuesday, January 25 at 7:00pm
Turn boring white notecards into beautiful works of art with a fun and easy marbling technique. Whether for birthdays, congratulations, or just to say hello, these cards will be sure to impress their recipients!

New Years Resolutions made Easy!

2010-12-27T14:39:00.000-06:00

So the other day I was checking out some government websites (you never know when they will come in handy for research questions) and stumbled upon www.mypyramid.gov. This website is operated by the US Department of Agriculture and is it informative and fun! Besides explaining the food pyramid and healthy eating, there are also different interactive tools you can use to record your meals and fitness. My favorite link is the MyPyramid Menu Planner - you can actually plan out your daily meals and find out how well it is fulfilling the pyramid. Balanced nutrition doesn't get any easier that that!!!

January - New and Notable

2010-12-23T15:58:00.000-06:00

Book Review - "The Distant Hours"

2010-12-20T15:58:00.000-06:00

"The Distant Hours" by Kate Morton

A letter posted in 1941 finally reaches its destination in 1992 with powerful repercussions for Edie Burchill, a London book editor, in this enthralling romantic thriller from Australian author Morton (The Forgotten Garden). At crumbling Milderhurst Castle live elderly twins Persephone and Seraphina and their younger half-sister, Juniper, the three eccentric spinster daughters of the late Raymond Blythe, author of The True History of the Mud Man, a children's classic Edie adores. Juniper addressed the letter to Meredith, Edie's mother, then a young teen evacuated to Milderhurst during the Blitz. Edie, who's later invited to write an introduction to a reprint of Raymond's masterpiece, visits the seedily alluring castle in search of answers. Why was her mother so shattered by the contents of a letter sent 51 years earlier? And what happened to soldier Thomas Cavill, Juniper's long-missing fiancé and Meredith's former teacher? Despite the many competing narratives, the answers will stun readers. -Publishers Weekly

Get in the Chrismas spirit with these wonderful novels!

2010-12-07T10:26:00.026-06:00

A Christmas Promise
by Anne Perry

The Christmas Train
by David Baldacci

A Redbird Christmas
by Fannie Flagg

The Christmas Box
by Ruchard Paul Evans

The Christmas Quilt
by Jennifer Chiaverini

The Christmas Sweater
by Glenn Beck

Christmas, Present
by Jacquelyn Mitchard

Finding Noel
by Richard Paul Evans

The Christmas List
by Richard Paul Evans

December New and Notable

2010-11-28T12:18:00.000-06:00

Book Review - "Altered Paper Jewelery"

2010-11-23T11:59:00.004-06:00

Altered Paper Jewelry by Jenn Mason

Are you looking for a craft that's unusual yet stylish? Why not try creating jewelry from colorful paper? Jenn Mason has published a simple to follow book on incredible looking jewelry that is sure to garner you tons of compliments. There are pictures and instructions on every page, making it easy to find the style and level of difficulty that's right for you!

Check it out today!

Get Decorating!

2010-11-09T10:33:00.000-06:00

"501 Decorating Ideas Under $100" by Better Homes and Gardens

I opened up this book, and just thought "wow." The pictures are incredible, the ideas are incredible. And the title does not lie - every single one of the decorating ideas do cost less than $100. Ideas include everything from storage pieces to wall hangings to furniture. This book is perfect if you are just looking for ideas to freshen up a room.

Book Review - "Liar Liar"

2010-11-08T14:15:00.004-06:00

"Liar Liar" by K.J. Larsen

On Saturday, the library had quite a treat - Kari, Kristen, and Julianne Larsen, the trio of sisters who write under the pen name K.J. Larsen stopped by for a book signing and Q & A session of their debut novel, "Liar Liar". We had a great turn-out, and everyone I've talked to so far loves the book. Here's a brief synopsis, taken from Publisher's Weekly:

Cat DeLuca, owner of Pants on Fire Detective Agency and member of the large and largely dysfunctional DeLuca family of mostly honest Chicago cops, makes a strong first impression in Larsen's comic, sexy debut. Inspired by her own marital experience with cheater Johnnie Rizzo,, Cat nails cheating spouses or follows suspected cheaters like Chance Savino until she nails them. Explosions like the one that puts cat in the hospital and supposedly kills Chance get everyone excited and lead to more fireworks. Mama DeLuca thinks Cat is crazy, brother Rocco thinks she needs protection, and Chance makes unexpected appearances that only Cat sees. Larsen surrounds her heroine with lots of Italian food, handsome men, and resourceful family members. Things turn deadly when a client turns up dead and someone wants Cat off the case permanently.

November New and Notable

2010-10-26T11:20:00.014-05:00

Friends of the Library Event

2010-10-18T10:14:00.002-05:00

Friends of the Library Meet and Greet
Tonight at 7pm

Get to know the library's new director, Jennie Cisna Mills!
Get to know other great library volunteers!
Learn a little about the library's goals for the future and how you can help!
Enjoy free apple pie and cider!
Play literary trivia games!

From our director's blog

2010-10-11T15:45:00.003-05:00

There will be some changes happening in the next several months involving our consortium (Prairie Area Library System). Our director Jennie, explains it below best she can.

It's not news to anyone that the State of Illinois is in financial trouble, and it's affecting all sorts of State agencies, including library systems. Library systems have received very little of the funds budgeted for them by the state this year, causing financial shortfalls. All of the systems have had to do lay-offs, in many cases laying off employees who had put in decades' worth of service. In one case (North Suburban Library System), almost everyone was laid off, and libraries had to commit local dollars in order to maintain core services.

Why did libraries choose to do that? Well, because library systems do a lot of the back-end stuff that help local libraries, including delivery of requested items among the libraries in their system. Our library system is the Prairie Area Library System (PALS), and due to their budget problems, PALS is looking to merge with four other Northern library systems (there are currently 9 total library systems). The five Northern systems that will be merging are: Alliance Library System, DuPage Library System, Metropolitan Library System, North Suburban Library System, and Prairie Area Library System.

There is a Merger Design Team in place, made up of representatives from the five systems. The Design Team meets regularly (there's a meeting scheduled for tonight, October 4th, at Metropolitan System headquarters), and subcommittees are forming. Representatives are working hard to see that everything is in place before the June 30, 2011 merger. Library Directors (including myself) are taking a great deal of interest in the meetings, and making an effort to attend each one.

And yes, I know that all of this is a little confusing, and you're wondering how it affects the Shorewood-Troy Public Library. The answer is, "I don't know." A lot depends on whether the State ever makes good on its commitment to fund systems. A lot depends on how the new System (name To Be Announced) sets up its rules and structures. A lot depends on a lot of different things, actually, and it's very hard to say what will actually happen. That's why the Library Directors are spending so much time going to these meetings and watching and talking.

But here's a good idea of what could potentially happen:

Delivery of items may be affected. There may be fewer delivery days, which will mean longer waits for material.
There may be restrictions on the types of materials that could be requested from other libraries: you may not be able to place requests for "new" items and the quantity of items you may request at one time could be limited.
The Shorewood-Troy Library may have to pick up additional costs to support the delivery of items. This will mean less money available for books and programs.

I do want to point out that the Shorewood-Troy Library will be here, serving our community, for many years to come. The Systems are having financial troubles because they are funded by state dollars. Your Shorewood-Troy Library is funded (mostly) by local property tax dollars, and we operate in a fiscally sound manner.

But the things that Library Systems support, like delivery, that . . . well, that is a different story. Without money (and I don't mean they are just a little short. They have no money), it may mean lots of adjustments for local libraries.

As decisions are made that affect you and your family, as you make use of the library, I'll be sure to keep you updated. Also, I know this might be as clear as mud, so please feel free to email me at jmills@shorewoodtroylibrary.org or stop in and see me, and I will try to answer any questions as best I can.

-Posted October 4 by Jennie Cisna Mills

Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale

2010-10-07T08:58:00.002-05:00

Our annual book sale starts tomorrow! Come on in for a great selection of books, music CDs, and movies. All proceeds benefit the library.

What: Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale
Where: Shorewood-Troy Public Library meeting room
When: Friday and Saturday, all day

Thank you in advance for your support!

Oprah's Pick

2010-10-06T09:26:00.000-05:00

You've probably seen Oprah and are dying to read her newest pick: "Freedom" by Jonathan Franzen. You are not alone. But while you are waiting for your turn to check out the book, why not take a look at her Book Club picks from years past?

2009 Selection:

Say You're One of Them" by Uwam Akpan

2008 Selections

"The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" by David Wroblewski
"A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle

2007 Selections

"The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett
"Love in the Time of Cholera" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
"Middlesex" by Jeffrey Eugenides
"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy
"The Measure of a Man" by Sidney Poitier

Book Review - Never Less than a Lady

2010-10-04T11:12:00.003-05:00

Never Less than a Lady by Mary Jo Putney

Regency romance novels have been published for decades, and I for one never tire of them. They may be considered "fluff", but when I'm finished with the stresses of the day, there is nothing more I like to do than curl up with a tale of Edwardian-era chivalry, manners, and of course, romance.

Never Less than a Lady is the second in a series titled "Lost Lords." This book begins with Major Alexander Randall coming to the rescue of Mrs. Julia Bancroft, whose wicked former father-in-law wants to see her dead. In order to keep Julia safe, Randall propses marriage, which Julia has no choice to accept. Of course, this is not the ending by any means. Julia is actually the disowned daughter of a duke, and that leads to some new problems.

The book is light and fun and of course leads to a happy ending. Check it out today!

October New and Notable

2010-09-29T13:52:00.012-05:00

Upcoming Events

2010-08-27T14:46:00.002-05:00

Thursday, September 2, 6pm
Young Adult Writers Group

Monday, September 6
Library Closed in observance of Labor Day

Tuesday, September 7
Fall Storytime Begins

Wednesday, September 8, 7pm
Adult Book Discussion Group

Thursday, September 9, 7pm
Board of Trustees Meeting

Tuesday, September 14, 4:30pm
Flowing Yoga Begins

September New and Notable

2010-08-16T14:16:00.014-05:00

August New and Notable

2010-08-16T10:33:00.016-05:00

Book Review - "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls

2010-07-19T16:22:00.003-05:00

Ever thought your family was strange? Well, without even knowing them, I am going to bet that they cannot even hold a candle to Jeannette Walls eccentric parents.

"The Glass Castle" is a stunning memoir, both humorous and shocking about Walls' unorthodox upbringing. Her parents were unconventional to say the least - they moved the children around, always in search of a new adventure (or in many cases, running away from authorities). With a fantastic storytelling knack, Walls describes the father that was her childhood hero, even though he did have the tendency to "drink a bit" and her go-with-the flow, artistic mother. The Walls children learned to support themselves, eating out of trashcans at school or painting their skin so the holes in their pants didn't show. Buck-toothed Jeannette even tried making her own braces when she heard what orthodontia cost. One by one, each child escaped to New York City. Still, it wasn't long before their parents appeared on their doorsteps. "Why not?" Mom said. "Being homeless is an adventure."

If you haven't read this book yet, add it to the top of your list.

Make a fun craft this summer!

2010-07-06T11:28:00.006-05:00

School has been out for a month now, and the weather has been great for all sorts of activities. However, there will be a time in the not-so-distant future when "I'm bored!" will echo the walls. Why not stop by the library and pick up one of our many books on fun crafts? We have tons to choose from! Below are a few of my favorites:

"Pet Crafts: Everything you Need to Become your Pet's Craft Star!" by Megan Friday
"Fairy World Crafts" by Kathy Ross
"Picture this: Fun Photography and Crafts" by Debra Friedman"
"Earth Friendly Crafts for Kids" by Heather Smith

Try out this craft at home!

Bubble Print Art

Materials Needed:

Tempera Paint
Liquid Dish Soap
Paper
Drinking Straws

Instructions:
Stir together 1/2 cup water, 1-2 tablespoons paint, and 1/2-1 tablespoon dish soap; pour it into a shallow dish, such as a pie pan. Place one end of a straw in the paint/soap mixture and gently blow to make bubbles. Blow until the bubbles are almost over the edge of the pan. Place a piece of paper on top of the bubbles and hold it in place until several bubbles have popped and transferred their shape onto the paper - this makes a fun bubble print! Continue the process with different colors if you want. Blow more bubbles as needed. Set aside to dry. When dry, you can add drawings to your bubble pictures if you want.

July New and Notable

2010-06-29T12:08:00.012-05:00

Book Review - "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova

2010-06-25T09:25:00.004-05:00

Castle ruins, Eastern European folklore, and a sinister evil await you in Kostova's debut novel. The story begins in 1972 Amsterdam, when a teenage girl discovers an ancient book in her father's study that contains only a woodcut of a large dragon within its blank pages. Also hidden within the pages are a series of yellowing letters, all addressed to "My dear and unfortunate successor." When the girl questions her father, Paul, about these findings, he reluctantly tells her of a time twenty years ago when his mentor and friend, Professor Rossi, disappeared suddenly after confiding of his belief that Dracula was still alive. After Paul shares this information with his daughter, he too disappears, leaving only a note behind.

"The Historian" spans across four decades and consists of three story lines - one from the 1930s, when Bartholomew Rossi begins his treacherous search for Dracula, the next from the 1950s, when his student Paul takes up the search after Rossi's disappearance, and then the main narrative from 1972. Travels take each of the searchers deep into Eastern Europe, the home of Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula.

Ride to Read at the library this summer!

2010-06-19T11:23:00.003-05:00

The library is offering a great program this summer! We want to reward you for doing your part in helping the environment and our community.

Every time you ride your bike or walk to the library this summer, stop at the circulation desk for a raffle ticket to enter in our drawing for a great prize. We will be awarding prizes bi-weekly, so you have a great chance to win!

Book Review - "Chocolate Cows and Purple Cheese..." by Tom Hernandez

2010-06-17T11:45:00.003-05:00

Our book discussion group was fortunate to have Tom Hernandez, author of "Chocolate Cows and Purple Cheese and Other Tales from the Homefront" speak at our meeting last week. Tom's book is a true gem in today's changing world; he helps us remember that family is still one of the most important aspects of our lives.

Tom is a columnist for a local Plainfield paper, and "Chocolate Cows..." is a composition of his essays from the past ten years or so. He writes with humor and grace, offering tidbits of wisdom and advice that he's accumulated as a son, husband, and father. Even though I am not any of those three, I certainly identified with many of his tales. I often found myself smiling to myself as I recalled my own experiences as a mischievous child to an exasperated parent or having to retake the driving test and blanking on what road sign is what.

Because of the shortness of each essay, this book is great for reading each morning during breakfast, on the road, or even just for a few minutes when your busy life gives you time. Check out a copy today!

Summer Read Kick-off Party

2010-06-12T10:58:00.002-05:00

WHAT:
Our 2010 Scare Up a Good Book! Summer Reading Program Kick-off Party

WHERE:
Shorewood-Troy Public Library

WHEN:
Monday, June 14th from 1-3pm

WHY:
We want to get you excited for summer read! Not only do you get a cool gift for signing up for the program, but you will also have a chance to enjoy the amazing (and spooky) activities we have planned, including:

A haunted house maze
A live DJ
Our Scholastic Book Fair
A spooky train ride
A Henna tattoo artist
Lots of free refreshments!

Book Review- "The Forgotten Garden" by Kate Morton

2010-06-08T15:02:00.004-05:00

In the year 1913, a four year-old girl is found on the docks of an Australian port with no clue of her identity. Her only possession is a small white suitcase that contains a few personal effects, including a book of fairy tales. Taken in by the harbormaster and his wife, the girl, whom they call Nell, is raised as their own. On the night of her twenty-first birthday, Nell is told of her mysterious arrival to Australia, shattering her sense of self that she's had her entire life.

With little to go on, Nell travels to England to trace her story and find her true identity. Her search takes her to the wild Cornish coast, the imposing Blackhurst Manor, and to the heart of the doomed Mountrachet family. However, it is Nell's granddaughter Cassandra, who takes up the search after Nell's death, that finally puts the pieces of the puzzle together. At Cliff Cottage, on the grounds of Blackhurst Manor, Cassandra is able to find the forgotten garden, and solve the mystery surrounding the beautiful book of fairy tales and its mysterious writer, the Authoress.

This novel left me spellbound. The book skips between telling different characters' story, which fits right in with the flow of the book. Her characters are vivid and unforgettable. And the mystery in the heart of the book is sad yet beautiful. This novel is a wonderful read. Pick it up today!

Summer Read 2010 Line-Up!

2010-06-04T08:12:00.000-05:00

We have an amazing line-up of events this year for our Summer Read Program. The theme is "Scare up a Good Book" so we hope you get the chills (and thrills!) while attending our events listed below:

2010 Summer Reading Program Kickoff Party
Monday, June 14 from 1-3PM
All ages

Scholastic Book Fair
Monday, June 14 - Thursday, June 17
Ages 12 and under

Spooky Diorama Contest
Monday, June 14 - Saturday, July 10
Ages 12 and under

Adult Book Discussion - "Under the Dome" by Stephen King
Wednesday, June 16 at 7PM
Adults

JJC Presents "The Villian Wore a Dirty Shirt or... Always Wash Your Long Johns..."
Friday, June 18 at 1:30PM
All ages

Summer Storytime
Tuesday, June 22 at 11AM
Ages 2-6

Wii Gaming - Mario Cart
Wednesday, June 23 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Adult Book Discussion - "Dead and Gone" by Charlaine Harris
Wednesday, June 23 at 1PM
Adults

Crafty Creatures
Friday, June 25 at 1PM
Ages 12 and under

Anime Club
Friday, June 25 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Summer Storytime
Monday, June 28 at 11AM
Ages 2-6

Haunted Illinois with Chad Lewis
Monday, June 28 at 7PM
All ages

Floats and Ghosts
Wednesday, June 30 at 2PM
Ages 12 and under

Adult Book Discussion - "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova
Wednesday, June 20 at 7PM
Adults

"Scare Up a Good Book" Magic Show
Thursday, July 1 at 2PM
Ages 12 and under

Crafty Creatures
Friday, July 2 at 1PM
Ages 12 and under

Anime Club
Friday, July 2 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Musical Stories
Wednesday, July 7 at 11AM
Ages 2-6

Wii Gaming - Guitar Hero World Tour
Wednesday, July 7 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Adult Book Discussion - "Ghost Country" by Sara Paretsky
Wednesday, July 7 at 3PM
Adults

Crafty Creatures
Friday, July 9 at 1PM
Ages 12 and under

Anime Club
Friday, July 9 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Houdini: His Life & His Legend
Monday, July 12 at 7PM
All ages

Creepy Crawly Worm Race
Tuesday, July 13 at 11AM
Ages 3-12

Adult Book Discussion - "Secrets of Eden" by Chris Bohjalian
Wednesday, July 14 at 7PM
Adults

Summer Storytime
Thursday, July 15 at 11AM
Ages 2-6

Crafty Creatures
Friday, July 16 at 1PM
Ages 12 and under

Anime Club
Friday, July 16 at 1PM
Ages 13-18

Summer Storytime
Friday, July 23 at 11AM
Ages 2-6

Crafty Creatures
Friday, July 23 at 1PM
Ages 12 and under

Spa Day
Friday, July 23 at 3PM
Ages 13-18

Summer Reading Program Roller Skating Party
Sunday, July 25 at 4PM
Ages 12 and under

To sign up or find out more information about any of these events, please inquire at the library or click on the events and registrations page link to your right.

June New and Notable

2010-06-02T10:10:00.000-05:00

Book Review - "Austenland" by Shannon Hale

2010-05-27T10:02:00.001-05:00

Thirty-three year-old Jane Hayes, who has a fairly serious (and unhealthy) addiction to the Colin Firth version of Pride and Prejudice goes on a once-in-a-life trip to Pembrooke Park, the location of a resort where guests dress, talk, and act in ways Jane Austen would approve. Refusing to conform into a "socially-acceptable" nineteenth century woman in Austen's England, Jane finds herself quickly overcoming her obsession of Mr. Darcy that may have had her wishing for the fairy tale romance all her life.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the different characters at the resort. If you are a fan of Jane Austen or contemporary works based on her books, I'd suggest giving this book a read. Stop by the reference desk to pick up a brochure on other Austen-related works.

Visit Starved Rock this summer!

2010-05-22T12:35:00.001-05:00

If you have never ventured the hour south to visit Starved Rock State Park, you are missing out. The park is 2,630 acres in size, boasts miles of walking and horseback trails, and is home to gorgeous waterfalls. It's a great day trip to plan this summer, so pack a picnic lunch, put on some sensible walking shoes, and explore the deep canyons and nature trails.

Visit the park website at http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/i&m/east/starve/park.htm

Also, check out the following books from the library and learn the history and what else to do at Starved Rock:

"Starved Rock State Park" by Nancy Hill Barta (917.327 BAR)
"Legend of Starved Rock" by Steve Stout (J977.3 STO)
"Starved Rock Stories" by Steve Stout (977.327 STO)
"The Starved Rock Murders" by Steve Stout (364.1 STO)
"Chicago: Weekend Getaways, Nature Hideaways..." by Karla Zimmerman (917.7311 ZIM)
"More Chicago Haunts: Scenes from Myth and Memory" by Ursula Bielski (133.1 BIE)

Book Review - "Return to Beauty" by Narine Nikogosian

2010-05-17T15:44:00.002-05:00

These days, beauty is a $50-billion a year industry. However, expensive creams and other skincare items may no longer be the most economical use of your money. Therefore, take a look at this book-- included are facial remedies for just about every type of skin, using natural and organic ingredients.

The book is broken down into three different sections: Seasons, Sun Signs, and Simple Solutions. The first section, Seasons, contains recipes for each skin type for every season. The recipes in the second section, Sun Signs, are intended to be playful- find out which sign you are and the best products for you! The third section, Simple Solutions, helps deal with everyday problems, like breakouts, wrinkles, haircare solutions, and age spots. Two bonus features include how to give yourself a facial at home and basic skin care for the man in your life.

I've tried a few of the recipes: Bubbly Strawberry Cleanser and No-Puffy Eyes Potato Cream are two I love!

Book Review - "Life Expectancy" by Dean Koontz

2010-05-14T18:55:00.001-05:00

Jimmy Tock comes into the world on the very night his grandfather leaves it, as a violent storm rages outside of the hospital. At the very height of the storm's fury, Josef Tock suddenly sits up and speaks for the first and last time since his stroke. What he says turns out to be a prediction of Jimmy's years to come - that there will be five dark days in his grandson's life - five dates whose horrible events Jimmy will have to prepare himself to face. Jimmy's father, Rudy, is all too ready to discount his father's last words, until he finds out that Josef also predicted other facts about his grandson: Jimmy's birth down to the minute, as well as his exact height and weight, and the fact that he was born with a physical deformity on his foot. Suddenly, the dying man's prediction takes on a chilling significance. What terrifying events await Jimmy on those five days? As the novel unfolds, picking up Jimmy's story at each of these crisis points, the path he must follow will leave you wondering how it will all end.

Disclaimer: If you have a fear of clowns, you might want to skip this book. Take my word for it.

What should I read next?

2010-05-11T13:53:00.000-05:00

At the reference desk, we're doing our best to help you take the guess work out of what you should read next. We have some great tools at our disposal, namely Novelist, which is a database that tracks authors with similar styles. Say you just finished James Patterson's newest novel, and have no idea what author to read next. We can give you a whole bunch of suggestions, including John Sandford, Jeffrey Deaver, and Ridley Pearson.

Also, if you happen upon the reference desk the next time you are in the library, you might notice the colorful brochures. These are subject guides, designed by Sara and myself to help you find a book within a specific genre. Some of the different subjects we have include: cozy mysteries, chick lit, thrillers, science fiction and fantasy, and classics. Grab one today!

Book Review - "Bitter is the New Black" by Jen Lancaster

2010-05-10T10:59:00.000-05:00

Jen was a powerful, no-nonsense dot com executive who had a fetish for fine dining, hair highlights, and anything Prada. However, after the September 11 attacks, she finds herself out of a job, and more frightening, out of the lifestyle she has grown to love.

"Bitter is the New Black: Confessions of a Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smartass, Or, Why You Should Never Carry a Prada Bag to the Unemployment Office" is the first memoir by Chicagoan Jen Lancaster. This was a great read -- in the beginning, you love to hate Jen and her self-absorbent lifestyle. But when Jen hits dirt bottom, you can't help but admire her perseverance, individuality, and courage to start fresh.

If you've ever been unemployed, a shopaholic, sorority girl, whatever, you will identify with this book. Check out her other memoirs too!

Area hiking and walking trails

2010-05-07T08:07:00.000-05:00

If you haven't noticed (and that means you are trapped in the basement) it is getting absolutely gorgeous outside. So what are you doing inside, reading this blog? Get outside and enjoy the fresh air and warming temperatures. I want to share a few books with you that highlight the great walking and hiking trails in the area:

"60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Chicago" by Ted Villaire

"Illinois Hiking and Backpacking Trails" by Walter G. Zyznieuski

"Hiking Illinois" by Susan L. Post

Review - Stephanie Plum series

2010-05-05T11:57:00.002-05:00

Janet Evanovich's newest Stephanie Plum novel, "Sizzling Sixteen" will be out in June and it's sure to be a bestseller, just like the other nineteen or so books of the series. So why not find out what everyone is talking (and laughing) about?

It's never too late to become a Stephanie Plum fan, and I became just that a few months ago when I picked up Evanovich's "One for the Money" and began reading. The series centers around New Jersey-born Stephanie Plum, an unemployed lingerie buyer who decides to go to work for her cousin Vinnie as a bounty hunter in order to make a quick buck. Unfortunately for Stephanie, and all who are around her, she is a bit of a walking disaster when it comes to nabbing her man (or woman) and she finds herself in scrapes more often than not. You will love Evanovich's plethora of irresistible characters and storylines that are laugh-out-loud funny.

Here's the first few in the series to get you started:
1. One for the Money
2. Two for the Dough
3. Three to Get Deadly
4. Four to Score
5. High Five

May New and Notable

2010-05-02T13:09:00.000-05:00

Book Review - "The Penguin Book of Baby Names"

2010-04-27T08:45:00.000-05:00

Of all the decisions a new parent makes, choosing that special name is the most significant, and the most rewarding. This book is a helpful, easy-to-use guide that will give you thousands of suggestions for picking the perfect name for your new arrival.

Separate section for boys' and girls' names
Thousands of names to choose, from well-loved favorites to something a bit more exotic
The most popular celebrity names, from Apple to Rafferty
Facts about the true meanings and stories behind each name

Library In-Service Recap

2010-04-25T13:08:00.003-05:00

You may or may not have been aware, but the library was closed this past Friday. The reason? Long-due staff training. And I'm not talking about learning how to issue a library card or shelf a book. No, I'm talking about safety training.

Over the past few years we've had several staff and policy changes, and one thing we wanted to make sure was clear to all was safety and security of the library, patrons, and ourselves. So we closed the library for a day, yet still came to work. However, instead of checking out your books and answering reference questions, we learned CPR, determined and practiced emergency routes for disasters, and met with the local fire fighters and police to talk about safety. We feel prepared should problems or events arise in our library that require quick thinking and immediate action. We take your safety seriously.

Celebrate Earth Day 2010!

2010-04-21T08:20:00.002-05:00

April 22nd will be the 30th anniversary of Earth Day, a world-wide celebration of the environment. It's a perfect time to reflect about what you can do (or are already doing) to protect our planet. I've put together some ideas below that you can implement to make it a great Earth Day:

1. Plant trees. Trees help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cleans pollution, and secures soil to prevent erosion. Did I also mention that they provide lovely summer shade and are fun to climb?
2. Learn more about the environment. The best place to do this, of course, is at the library. Currently we have a great display of books and DVDs available to help you live a greener life.
3. Reduce, reuse, and recycle all day long. Buy as little as possible and avoid items that come in an access amount of packaging. Buy a water bottle container instead of using plastic water bottles and don't use disposable plates or cutlery. Oh, and those cloth grocery bags? Use them!
4. Get children to recycle their old toys and games. This is a great way to get kids involved. For one thing they will learn the importance of recycling and reusing instead of throwing stuff away, and they will also learn the generous feeling of giving to others. You can even do this with some of you own items, such as clothes, electronics, books, etc.
5. Pick up litter. Back in college, my sorority adopted a patch of highway that we cleaned up a few times a year. I'm not suggesting you go out to I-55 and comb the median for garbage, but would it hurt to pick up litter in a neighborhood park? Try it-- you'll feel really good about it.
6. Cook a special Earth Day meal. My advice for this? Choose locally grown food! Favor veggies and bean products, as these use less resources that meat. However, if you still need meat, try to find locally produced or organic meat.
7. Ride your bike. If possible, use your bike to commute to work, school, or run errands. I live 30 minutes from the job, so riding my bike to the library is out of the question, but you'd better believe it that I'm riding to my local CVS and ice cream shop a mile away from my house.
8. Remember: Every day is Earth Day! Just don't make this a once a year deal! It's never too late to save the planet by recycling, reducing emissions, and not buying so much. Make a difference today and tomorrow.

Book Review - "Soldier Field: A Stadium and its City" by Liam A. Ford

2010-04-20T08:22:00.003-05:00

Long before Walter Peyton and William "the Refrigerator" Perry came onto the field, Soldier Field held a plethora of activities such as high school games, NASCAR races, ethnic festivals, and even rodeos. The stadium hosted such celebrities as Judy Garland, Johnny Cash, and the Grateful Dead's final show. And in the 1970s, when the Bears called Soldier Field home for the first time, the stadium was resurrected from its failing, decrepit state to the pride and glory of Chicagoans.

Tribune staff writer Ford has taken the dramatic history of Chicago's beloved Soldier Field and turned it into a tell-all tale of political intrigue and civic pride.

This Day in History...

2010-04-18T09:06:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what historical events happened on your birthday? Anniversary? Today? Well now you can with the History Channel's "This Day In History" website. Did you know that today, for example, is the anniversary of the disastrous 1906 San Francisco earthquake? Or that in 1775 on this day was Paul Revere's famous ride, warning "...the Redcoats are coming!"? Also taking place on April 18, 1956 was the wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier of Monaco...

Visit the website at www.history.com/this-day-in-history.

Book Review- "Caught" by Harlan Coben

2010-04-14T14:38:00.003-05:00

This book has been praised as one of Coben's finest works in years; it is reminiscent of his earlier novels when the pages were filled with twists and astonishing thrills. Dan Mercer is a teen social worker who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Thinking he is going to help a troubled girl, he finds himself caught up in a Internet predator sting that ruins his reputation. Reporter Wendy Tynes soon finds out, however, that not all is as it seems, especially when she is witness to a murder. Wendy goes on a hunt to make sense of the murder she saw, find out how this correlates to five college roommates whose lives are falling in ruins, and learn how this all connects to the disappearance and possible murder of a teenage girl.

Find out what's happening in Chicago!

2010-04-12T17:32:00.004-05:00

I just wanted to share this great website with you:

http://eventful.com/chicago/events

Eventful lists upcoming events in Chicago and its surrounding areas. It's a great source for finding upcoming concerts, exhibits, sporting events, festivals, conferences, and so much more! Not sure what to do this weekend? Make sure to stop at Eventful -- you'll have plans in no time!

Computer Drop-In Session: What is it?

2010-04-09T09:47:00.002-05:00

I am guessing since you made it to this blog, you are pretty comfortable with using a computer and navigating the Internet. That being said, I'm sure many of the computer classes offered at the library are a bit too basic for you. That is why Sara and I (your reference librarians) decided to start offering the Computer Drop-In Session. This is not a class; it's more like a 30 minute tutoring session. There are no handouts, no lesson plan-- just you, me, and a computer. Take this time to ask us your burning computer questions, and we'll do our best to answer them (please note: Sara and I are fairly intelligent when it comes to computers, but by no means are we technology geniuses. Please keep that in mind if you stump us).

What are some of the things we can help you with? Well, how about:

Set up a Facebook account
Attach photos and documents in your e-mail
Create snazzy fliers for upcoming events
Get resume help with special software
Start your own blog!

And there is plenty more! All you need to do is stop by the reference desk at least a day before the session and sign up for your 30 minute spot! Our next session is on Tuesday, April 13 from 2pm to 4pm. I hope to see you there!

Movie Review - "Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief"

2010-04-08T13:39:00.004-05:00

It's a big movie with an all-star line up, including Sean Bean, Pierce Brosnan, and Uma Thurman. Based on Rick Riordan's popular series of the same name, "Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief" tells the story of Percy Jackson, an ordinary kid who discovers that he's the son of a Greek god. Soon life is anything but ordinary when Zeus's lightning bolt is stolen-- and Percy is the prime suspect. Together with two friends, Percy begins a cross-country journey to find the bolt, all while encountering monsters straight out of Greek mythology.

The cast was astounding, especially Uma Thurman as the snake-haired Medusa. The special effects rival that of the Harry Potter movies. The adventure and action sequences are just the right balance of kid-friendly and adult entertainment. All this being said however, I was disappointed by how loosely the movie followed the book. A lot was cut-out or changed in the movie adaptation that I would have liked to see on the big screen. My advice? Read the book first, especially if you plan on reading the rest of the series.

Book Review - "Twenties Girl" by Sophie Kinsella

2010-04-06T09:18:00.001-05:00

"Twenties Girl" by Sophie Kinsella

Lara is a sweet yet slightly naive Londoner who has been given the unfortunate task of tracking down her recently deceased great-aunt's necklace. Of course, it wouldn't be so unfortunate if the one demanding the necklace was none other than Great-Aunt Sadie herself, appearing to Lara in the prime of her life as a 1920s flapper! Although the relationship is rocky at first (why wouldn't it be with a brash and nagging ghost?), Lara and Sadie discover love and respect for one another by the end.

If you've enjoyed Kinsella's other books (notably the Shopaholic series), I really think you'll like this book. It has a little bit for everyone (chick lit, paranormal, mystery, and romance), so I urge you to pick this one up today!

April Programs at the Library

2010-04-01T10:03:00.001-05:00

Youth Services Programs:

Spring Storytimes: Lapsit (for children up to 23 months)
Mondays at 10am
Spring Storytimes: 2 and 3 Year-Olds
Tuesdays at 11am and 1:30 pm
Spring Storytimes: 4 and 5 Year-Olds
Wednesdays at 11am and 1:30pm
Spring Storytimes: 6 to 9 Year-Olds
Saturdays at 10am (no storytime on April 3)

Young Adult Programs:

Writers Group
Thursday, April 8 at 6pm

Adult Programs:

Refreshing Yoga (waiting list only)
Tuesdays at 4:30pm (no yoga on April 27)
Taste and Talk Series: "Into the Beautiful North" and South of the Border Snacks! Wednesday, April 7 at 7pm
Computer Drop in Session
Tuesday, April 13 at 2pm
Adult Book Discussion Group, "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" by Steig Larssen
Wednesday, April 14 at 7pm
Internet Basics
Tuesday, April 20 at 2pm

Please call the library or visit our event calendar to sign up for any of these great programs!

Spring is in the air - why not do some gardening?

2010-03-31T13:38:00.008-05:00

I don't know about you, but this beautiful weather gets me in the mood to start gardening. Why not stop at the library and pick up some books to find out what will work best in your space? We have a great selection to choose from, and a lot of them are region specific. I've listed some books below to get you started, but why not browse our gardening section the next time you're in?

If you are looking for information on flowers:

The Illinois Gardener's Guide by James A. Fizzell, 635.9 FIZ

Gardening Through the Year by Ian Spence, 635.9 SPE

If you are looking for information on vegetable gardening:
The Vegetable Gardener's Bible by Edward C. Smith, 635 SMI

Vegetable Gardening: From Planting to Picking by Fern Bradley, 635 BRA

Short on space? No problem! Try container gardening:

Crops in Pots: How to Plan, Plant, and Grow Vegetables, Fruits, and Herbs in Easy Care Containers by Bob Purnell, 635.9 PUR
Successful Container Gardening: 75 Easy-to-Grow Flower and Vegetable "Gardens" by Joe Provey, 635.986 PRO

If you are looking for garden design ideas:

The Big Book of Garden Design by the Editors of Time Life Books, 712.6 BIG
Sunset Midwestern Landscaping by Craig Bergmann, 712.6 MID

For general gardening tips, stop by our magazine stand and pick up "Chicagoland Gardening." Current and back issues are available!

Book Review- "Friday Night Bites" by Karen Berman

2010-03-30T09:54:00.005-05:00

Not limited to Fridays, this cookbook is for any of those nights when the whole family is home and wants to spend some time together in the kitchen. In this book you'll find the blueprints for 20 or so themed dinners with food and activities that will appeal to kids. Some of the different themes include "Dinner on the Moon" (Green Cheese Tortellini Alfredo and Moon Rock Chocolate Biscotti) and "You're a Grand Old Flag" (Patriotic Potato Salad and Yankee Doodle Chicken Skewers). If you're looking for gourmet, this cookbook is not for you. But if you're looking for recipes that will ensure family fun-time, this a book to check out.

Did you know this about Easter?

2010-03-29T15:11:00.004-05:00

As Easter quickly approaches, I thought it would be fun to list some interesting facts. These are tidbits I didn't know, so I'm hoping they are new to you too. Have a fun and safe holiday everyone!

The name Easter owes its origin from Eastre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess who symbolizes the hare and the egg.
Pysanka is a specific term used for the practice of Easter egg painting.
Each year witnesses the making of nearly 90 million chocolate bunnies.
When it comes to the eating of chocolate bunnies, it is the ears that are preferred to be eaten first by as many as 76% of people.
The first chocolate eggs were made in Germany in the 19th century and remain one of the
most popular Easter candies today.
The initial baskets of Easter were given the appearance of bird's nests.
The Easter Egg Roll on the White House lawn has been a tradition since 1878.
After Halloween, Easter is the biggest candy consuming holiday.

Book Review- "Under the Dome" by Stephen King

2010-03-24T12:47:00.008-05:00

Don't let the sheer volume of "Under the Dome" turn you off-- it is engaging and a real page-turner. What starts as a typical fall day for the small town of Chester's Mill, Maine turns into a battle of survival when a huge, clear dome cuts off the townspeople from the rest of the world. Although gore and murder play parts in the book, it is more unsettling than scary.

Within days, murder, conspiracy, corruption and increasing fear are in place all over the town. The town's police fall under the control of a charismatic town selectman with dictatorial ambitions. Vocal dissenters are jailed--or worse. Soon the air quality inside the dome begins to change. Illnesses are on the rise. Children begin to have seizures and frightening dreams. As tension mounts, the stage is set for a final showdown between those who will stop at nothing to see to their agenda for the town and those who believe the town's increasingly dangerous leaders must be stopped at any cost.

This book will leave you guessing, and not just about why the dome is in place or how it will end. Check it out at the library today!

This is it!

2010-03-23T16:25:00.001-05:00

No, I will not be blogging about Michael Jackson today, RIP. I'm here to tell you about our new blog here at the Shorewood-Troy Public Library. Our goal is to keep you informed of all our library's events, programs, and announcements while in the comfort of your own home, office, school, or wherever you use the Internet.

This blog is pretty easy to navigate, so hopefully you will have no problems finding the information you need. First off, what you are reading right now is a post. These will show up every time I have something new and (hopefully) interesting to write. Older posts will continue to be pushed down the page until they disappear (but not really--I'll show you how to find them in a bit).

On the left side of the page is our menu bar. This is where you can navigate the blog. Right below the picture of the library, you can click on the links to use our catalog, visit our databases, or check out our events calendar. Below that are all the upcoming events. These are linked to each sign-up page-- please sign up for events!! Below that are all the labels that we have associated with blog posts. So if you are maybe looking for a good romance book, click on "romance" under the labels and it should take you to all the book reviews that were posted on the blog. Hopefully you get the idea. The archives below will also take you to past blog postings; this time though you pick the year and month of an entry you wish to see.

Thanks for reading!

Shorewood-Troy Public Library Showcase

Taken by Robert Crais

New releases this week!

New releases today!

New Releases this week!

Get Spooked with Familiar Spirits!

New Releases this Week!

New features available for Career Transitions

New Releases this Week

New releases today!

Have you read "The Help" yet? What are you waiting for?

September's Upcoming Releases - Books

New Releases this Week!

New Releases today!

New this week!

New books this week!

New DVD Releases

New Releases This Week!

She's baaaack....

New Releases this Week!

Get your Shakespeare fix at the library!

What's new at the library this week!

Book Review - The 13th Hour by Richard Doetsch

Bored? Here's a website to get you thinking!

Book Review - "Juliet"

New Releases this Week

New Releases this Week

New Releases in May!

New books this week!

New fiction books this week!

New Books for April!

Downloading eBooks to your Nook

New fiction books this week

Get inspired for spring cleaning!

March New and Notable

Romance titles for Valentine's Day!

February New and Notable

It's ok to want more Harry Potter!

January Programs

New Years Resolutions made Easy!

January - New and Notable

Book Review - "The Distant Hours"

Get in the Chrismas spirit with these wonderful novels!

December New and Notable

Book Review - "Altered Paper Jewelery"

Get Decorating!

Book Review - "Liar Liar"

November New and Notable

Friends of the Library Event

Friends of the Library Meet and GreetTonight at 7pm

From our director's blog

Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale

Oprah's Pick

Book Review - Never Less than a Lady

October New and Notable

Upcoming Events

September New and Notable

August New and Notable

Book Review - "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls

Make a fun craft this summer!

July New and Notable

Book Review - "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova

Ride to Read at the library this summer!

Book Review - "Chocolate Cows and Purple Cheese..." by Tom Hernandez

Summer Read Kick-off Party

Book Review- "The Forgotten Garden" by Kate Morton

Summer Read 2010 Line-Up!

June New and Notable

Book Review - "Austenland" by Shannon Hale

Visit Starved Rock this summer!

Book Review - "Return to Beauty" by Narine Nikogosian

Book Review - "Life Expectancy" by Dean Koontz

What should I read next?

Book Review - "Bitter is the New Black" by Jen Lancaster

Area hiking and walking trails

Review - Stephanie Plum series

May New and Notable

Book Review - "The Penguin Book of Baby Names"

Library In-Service Recap

Celebrate Earth Day 2010!

Friends of the Library Meet and Greet
Tonight at 7pm