So Many New Things and People

Since I last blogged (which was a long time ago) we have hired two pre M.L.S. Librarians - Jaime Heller and Michelle Loera. They are both doing tons of stuff to enrich the library programs for kids and teens. I also want to welcome Kristin DeForge a two week new employee. And tomorrow we have one more employee starting to work - Diana M. I want to officially welcome all of our new employee and I ask you to join me in welcoming them and we continue to strive to provide superior service to our library patrons.

At the same time I want to thank our previous employees for their service, especially Christina S. and Leslie J. We miss you both.

Four Letter Words

No, not those four letter words ... This is the title of a book by Michelle Arnot about the importance of words with four letters in solving crossword puzzles. Who knew? Now I am not a big fan of crosswords but they are supposed to be good for keeping your brain functioning...so I might just have to give one a try. Lots of puzzle solving tips and tricks are outlined in the book. Our call number for this book is 793.732 ARN.

What's In Your Wallet?

The August issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine (page 168) has a little blurb that says: "Forget the credit cards - the most important piece of plastic in your wallet is your library card. People who live well and live long tend to be avid, curious readers. Brush your card off and put it to use today."

September in August???

I wanted to get a book club going and now Harriett Herman has volunteered to do just that! The club will hold their first meeting on Tuesday, August 26th from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the library board room. The book selection for August is "Septembers of Shiraz" by Dalia Sofer. I want to offer a big thank you to the Friends of the Library who have purchased three additional copies of the book. So, - - check it out - - read it - - and join us for the first of, hopefully, many enjoyable afternoons discussing wonderful books with like minded souls.

Catch The Reading Bug

Our summer reading program is in full swing - - - Next Wednesday Smiley the clown will entertain everyone starting at 2:30p.m. Our teen activities continue this week with the making of dream catchers. And remember, we are waiving fines for every child who signs up for the summer reading program! What a great deal - so join us and catch the reading bug in Banning!

Murals Are Coming

Last week the Banning Mural Council approved renderings for a hip, urban mural for the walls that face the parking lot. Joshua Alce, our muralist, is planning to paint the murals in late August.
Jose Clemente Orozco, a famous Mexican muralist said (translated), "The most natural, purest and strongest form of painting is the mural. It is also the most generous, since it cannot be turned into an object for personal profit; it cannot be hidden for the benefit of the privileged few. It is for the people. It is for everyone." I couldn't agree more. This will be a wonderful addition to our building and I can't wait to see it come to life.

The Hills Are Alive

...With the sound of music. Or they will be soon. The Banning Public Library recently purchased a large number of music CD's. They will be available for check out starting May5th. There will be a $1.00 charge per CD to check these items out. The money will be going directly to our Friends of the Banning Library group - and they will be doing great things for the library with the money.