Check it out!

Be a Book Giver!

2012-01-23T17:29:00.000-08:00

Here's a unique opportunity to put books in the hands of your fellow community members. April 23 is World Book Night 2012, an initiative that invites people to register as "book givers," then go out that day to give away 20 paperback copies of a beloved book. If you're chosen as a giver (50,000 people in the US will be), you'll get to select from a list of 30 titles for a book that you'd like to share with others, and 20 copies will be sent to a designated pick up location.

On April 23, your mission is to pick a place or two in the community where perhaps people don't come across reading material so easily, and give those 20 books away!

If the concept alone isn't enticing enough, here are 3 more reasons to do it:

The books are good. Organizers have chosen a diverse group of award-winning titles for many different reading tastes.

The library is involved! Our Main and Ronning locations have registered to be book pickup locations, and we'll even have a little party before the World Book Night event.

Last but not least, if you sign up and are chosen to be a book giver, you'll receive a free reusable Siouxland Libraries bag to carry your 20 books and keep for future library trips.

Sign up now--the deadline is February 1!

Keeping New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-10T10:09:00.000-08:00

We've made it through the first week of 2012! How's it going with keeping all those New Year's Resolutions? Yeah...us too.

Here's a few recent titles you'll find at the library to help you stick with your goals!

Improving physical fitness:

Complete Guide to Fitness and Health, Barbara Bushman, ed.

Fitness Illustrated by Brian Sharkey

Which Comes First, Cardio or Weights?: Fitness Myths, Training Truths, and Other Surprising Discoveries from the Science of Exercise by Alex Hutchinson

Getting a handle on your personal finances:

How to Speak Money: the Language and Knowledge You Need Now by Ali Velshi and Christine Romans.

The Handy Personal Finance Answer Book by Paul Tucci

The Real Cost of Living: Making the Best Choices for You, Your Life, and Your Money by Carmen Wong Ulrich

Eating well:

The America's Test Kitchen Healthy Family Cookbook by the editors at America's Test Kitchen

The Joy of Eating Well by Andrew Weil and Carolyn Ross

The Food Matters Cookbook: 500 Revolutionary Recipes for Better Living by Mark Bittman

Feeling successful and fulfilled at work:

The 9-to-5 Cure: Work on Your Own Terms and Reinvent Your Life by Kristen Cardinale

Quitter: Closing the Gap Between Your Day Job and Your Dream Job by Jon Acuff

48 Days to the Work You Love by Dan Miller

Lastly, if you've made a resolution to rediscover your love of reading (a worthy goal, in our opinion), check out Alan Jacobs' The Pleasures of Reading in an Age of Distraction, for his thoughts on the simple act of reading in not-so-simple times. Then be sure to take advantage of the friendly staff at your favorite Siouxland Libraries branch, who are always eager to give you reading suggestions!

Happy 2012!

The Girl Who Became a Sensation

2011-12-21T08:45:00.000-08:00

Few books achieve the status of global phenomenon the way Stieg Larsson's The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo has. We still see waiting lists for it at the library, even three years after its release. David Fincher's highly anticipated American film adaptation opens today, and many reviews have been favorable.

If you've been through Larsson's Millenium Trilogy already and are in the mood for something similar (seems like good reading for the chilly winter months, doesn't it?), check out these other Scandanavian authors who specialize in the psychological mystery:

Karin Fossum has been a favorite among our staff; translated from Norwegian, her novels feature intuitive policeman Konrad Sejer, and some very twisting plots. Another popular series character is Ake Edwardson's Inspector Erik Winter, who investigates dark crimes in Sweden. Kjell Eriksson's novels, also set in Sweden, have a police procedural feel that draws comparisons to the novels of Ed McBain.
Fans of this genre would also appreciate the work of Henning Mankell, whose character Kurt Wallander has appeared in ten novels.

Some recently buzzed about authors include Jo Nesbo, who's latest novel, The Leopard, was released this month. John Ajvide Lindqvist is frequently requested at the library--his novels have a bit of a supernatural element to them; Let the Right One In was adapted into a spine-chilling film. Library staff have also recommended Lars Kepler's The Hypnotist, the first suspensful novel it what promises to be a series from Sweden.

Will you see the new movie version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo? Did you see the Swedish version?

Art and Artists: Quilts!

2011-12-05T18:34:00.001-08:00

In December and January, our gallery wall at the Main Library will feature something a little different. Sioux Falls quilter Phyllis Schrag will be displaying her impressive work--a perfectly cozy backdrop as the chilly winter sets in! Stop by in December to see pieces with a holiday theme, then revisit in January for a new collection of quilts. Call 367-8720 for more information on the Art and Artists program.

It's That Time of Year...

2011-11-12T10:00:00.001-08:00

If you believe the commercials on TV, the holiday shopping season began sometime around Halloween! Last year one of the more popular gift categories (at least from our point of view) was eReaders and other digital devices that support downloadable books. They do make an excellent gift for all the readers on your list, and we're expecting them to be just as popular this year!

The most exciting part is that many of these devices are compatible with the library's collection of downloadable eBooks and audiobooks from OverDrive. If you are new to the world of e-reading, don't miss our free classes, which will include a demonstration of downloading library eBooks to devices like the Barnes & Noble Nook and the Amazon Kindle. And for all the audiobook fans out there, we also have thousands of digital titles you can download and transfer to portable listening devices like iPods and mp3 players.

Upcoming Classes:

Downloadable Audiobooks: Wednesday, November 16, 12-1 PM at the Main Library.
Click Here to Register

eBooks and eReaders: Thursday, November 17, 7-8 PM at the Caille Library.
Click Here to Register

eBooks and eReaders: Tuesday, November 29, 12-1 PM at the Main Library.
Click Here to Register

All sessions will also include a demonstration of the OverDrive mobile app for iPads, iPhones, Android, and Windows phones.

Use the links above to sign up for one of these sessions, or call 367-8720 to register.

Book Discussion: The Journey of Crazy Horse

2011-11-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

The Journey of Crazy Horse by Joseph Marshall, III is this year's One Book South Dakota selection. Marshall has been praised for his storytelling style in this biography, which uses Native American narrative tradition to depict the life of Crazy Horse as both a warrior and a man. Join us at the Main Library on Thursday from 12-1 PM for a lunchtime discussion of this book!

For more reading on Crazy Horse, check out these titles:

Crazy Horse (Tashunka Witko): great warrior of the Oglalas (Teton Sioux) by Harold Howard.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse by Peter Matthiessen

Crazy Horse, the Strange Man of the Oglalas: a biography, by Mari Sandoz

Crazy Horse and the Real Reason for the Battle of Little Bighorn, by A.C. Ross

Crazy Horse and Chief Red Cloud: Warrior Chiefs--Teton Oglalas, by Ed McGaa

Book Signing: Ken Alvine

2011-10-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

Join us Thursday, November 3 from 7-8 PM for a special event at the Main Library! Ken Alvine, creator of the Senior Moments comic strip, will be signing his latest collection and talking about his cartooning process. Ken has worked in the field of cartooning since the 1960s. His company, Creative Comics, creates and distributes comic strips, illustrates commercial cartoons, and produces "How to Draw Cartoons" books and manuals. He is a member of the National Cartoonists Society.

Copies of The Best of Senior Moments will be for sale at the program. Call 367-8720 with questions.

Family History Month

2011-10-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

October is National Family History Month! There are many ways to research your family tree, including library databases like HeritageQuest and Ancestry Library.

Print and online resources are handy for searching into past centuries and long ago generations, but what about more recent history? There are a lot of stories waiting to be told, and they're found in the memories of our living relatives. Learn how to get started with collecting and preserving your family's oral histories with a special program on Saturday, October 22, at the Main Library from 2-3 PM. Megan Dahle, founder of 1stpersonhistory.com, will share her expert tips, with some additional input from local genealogists. Come to share your own experiences, or get advice from others!

Call 367-8720 for more information.

Halloween on a Budget

2011-10-07T15:11:00.000-07:00

Halloween is still a few weeks away, but it's probably time to get started planning costumes, decorations, party foods, writing a letter to the Great Pumpkin, etc.

If you're looking for an inexpensive way to find new costumes for your kids, the library has got you covered! Take part in our first ever costume swap on October 15 at the Main Library. Just drop off gently used costumes at any Siouxland Libraries branch now through Thursday, October 13. We’ll give you a ticket for every costume you contribute, which you may then exchange for costumes at the swap! Customers with donation tickets may shop on October 15th from 9 to 10 a.m. All others can shop from 10 to 11 a.m.

And if you simply have some old costumes on your hands that need a new home, you are welcome to donate without shopping yourself. Any leftovers will be donated to charity.

For more low-cost and do-it-yourself Halloween ideas, check out these books:

Halloween Crafts: Eerily Elegant Decor by Kasey Rogers and Mark Wood
A Halloween How-to: Costumes, Parties, Decorations, and Destinations by Lesley Bannatyne
Halloween Pumpkins and Parties: 101 Spooktacular Ideas by Better Homes and Gardens
Easy Halloween Projects You Can Paint by Margaret Wilson
Spooky Halloween Crafts by Susan Cousineau
Halloween: a Grown-up's Guide to Creative Costumes, Devilish Decor & Fabulous Festivities by Joanne O'Sullivan
Extreme Halloween: the Ultimate Gude to Making Halloween Scary Again by Tom Nardone
Extreme Pumpkin Carving by Vic Hood
Pumpkin Chic: Decorating with Pumpkins and Gourds by Mary Caldwell

The Freedom to Read

2011-09-23T15:17:00.000-07:00

September 24-October 1, 2011 is Banned Books Week, a time to recognize the First Amendment rights that give us access to the reading material of our choice.

There are lots of ways to celebrate our freedom to read--the American Library Association has some ideas for activities and advocacy here. You can even participate in a Virtual Read Out by posting a video of yourself reading from your favorite banned book.

We invite you to play a little game with us on our Facebook page: throughout the week, we'll be posting clues describing frequently challenged and banned books. See if you can be the first to guess the book we're referring to and post your guess as a comment. The clues may pertain to the title or the plot of the story. Have fun with it--we know we will--and rejoice in your right to read!

Free Financial Seminars

2011-09-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Nowadays we could probably all benefit from new strategies for managing our personal finances. This fall, the Main Library is hosting a series of free programs to help you do just that. Stop down on your Friday lunch hour for some great tips on topics like making the most of your credit, savings, and knowing your rights as a renter or landlord. Seminars are presented by the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Lutheran Social Services.
For a list of the upcoming sessions, click here.

If you can't make it during the day, the Consumer Credit Counseling service will also be at our Sioux Falls branches for evening classes. Click here for a schedule of those.

Take advantage of some great, free financial expertise by registering for these programs!

September 11

2011-09-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

As the country reflects on the events of 10 years ago, here are some items available at Siouxland Libraries:

Click here for a list of nonfiction titles from our catalog.

Some fiction titles with 9/11 as a central theme:

A Day at the Beach, by Helen Schulman

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, by Jonathan Safran Foer

Falling Man: a Novel, by Don DeLillo

The Good Life, by Jay McInerney

Love is the Higher Law, by David Levithan

The Usual Rules, by Joyce Maynard

The Whole World Over, by Julia Glass

Windows on the World, by Fr'ed'eric Beigbeder

The Writing on the Wall, by Lynne Sharon Schwartz

For newspaper and magazine articles, our Newsbank database has a special feature dedicated to archives on the subject.

Labor Day

2011-09-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

As we enjoy this last long weekend of summer, preparing ourselves for cooler weather and perhaps a change in our daily schedules, how about rounding out your summer reading with Joyce Maynard's novel Labor Day? Henry is a 13-year-old boy living with his single mother Adele, the two of them struggling with a rather bare existence. On Labor Day weekend, as they are at Pricemart buying some back-to-school clothes for Henry, they encounter the friendly but mysterious Frank. Soon Frank reveals he is actually an escaped convict being hunted by law enforcement, but by then both mother and son have been captivated. They become his hostages, if willingly so, and Adele and Frank fall in love. The story is told through Henry's eyes, and we see the ways this peculiar Labor Day Weekend changes him both as it is happening, and later, when we get a glimpse into his future.

Not quite the breezy summer beach read you might have been savoring the last few weeks, Labor Day is a good transition into the cooler, more reflective days of fall.

Blockbuster Book: The Help

2011-08-15T16:57:00.000-07:00

Looking to get your hands on a copy of The Help, by Katherine Stockett? Requests have gone up again, with the well-reviewed release of the film version last week. As you're patiently waiting for your chance to read this acclaimed novel, check out these other titles with similar themes of female friendship, racial dynamics, and Southern settings that you might enjoy:

Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman

Mudbound by Hillary Jordan

The Summer We Got Saved by Pat Cunningham Devot

We are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg

Freshwater Road by Denise Nicholas

Right as Rain by Bev Marshall

Sula by Toni Morrison

Summer Buzz: The Astral

2011-08-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

Another novel we love this summer is Kate Christensen's The Astral. Its central character, poet Harry Quirk, has just been kicked out of his Brooklyn apartment by his wife of many years. She's discovered his latest collection of poems, written about fictional women, and is convinced he's having an affair with one of the couple's longtime friends. As Harry tries to recover from the shock, figure out if he can save his marriage, and find a job with steady income, he looks for support and answers from a memorable cavalcade of characters. His two adult children have taken wildly different paths; daughter Karina is committed to the "freegan" lifestyle of rooting through dumpsters for household items and food, and son Hector has joined a religious colony that appears perilously close to a cult.

The book deals with a man who's life is seriously crumbling, but there are many funny moments. As readers, we're only privvy to Harry's side of the story, though we sometimes get glimpses of other perspectives from his conversations with family and friends. You may occasionally question his reliability as a narrator, but you'll probably still find yourself rooting for him in the end.

Book Clubs for Busy People

2011-07-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you're new to town, or you're looking for a way to expand your reading horizons. Why not join a book club? Siouxland Libraries offers several that meet on various evenings throughout the month, but did you know we also have a lunch-hour book club downtown at the Main Library? If your evenings are full with other activities, but you don't want to miss the chance to discover and discuss new books, stop by the Main Library on the second Thursday of the month from 12-1 PM. Bring your sack lunch and we'll provide the coffee. What a way to spend the lunch hour!

Our next meeting is August 11, where we'll be discussing Lorrie Moore's acclaimed book, A Gate at the Stairs. For information on all the book clubs at Siouxland Libraries and their monthly selections, visit our website.

Summer Buzz: Robopocalypse

2011-07-09T12:52:00.000-07:00

A good summer thriller can be as satisfying as an ice cold popsicle on a hot day--even better when the book is more than just fun; it actually makes you think.

Daniel Wilson's Robopocalypse is one of those science fiction books with enough plausibility to be downright scary. It opens in the near future (an undisclosed year) after an electronic insurrection has wiped out large sections of the human race. Masterminded by a mysterious supercomputer named Archos, the takeover affects all the machines in people's lives, from the domestic robots that act as housekeepers, to the smart cars and cell phones of busy urban populations. The suspense builds steadily, going back to the beginnings of trouble, when minor "malfunctions" hint at the more serious chaos to come. One particularly vivid (and creepy) account involves a young girl's talking doll. Each chapter is written as a transcription of survelliance recordings taken by the robots, discovered by Cormac Wallace, a survivor of the war. Together, the vignettes weave the story of all the major players in the war, from the creator of Archos to the humans who banded together in various parts of the world to fight the machines.

The book has all the sci-fi action of a Steven Spielberg movie (and what do you know, word is he will be directing a film version!) but in addition to the fun, it also makes you pause--what's really happening when the power goes out or your computer has a "glitch?" After reading Robopocalypse, it might be enough to send a chill up your spine.

Next on the Summer Buzz Book List: The Astral by Kate Christensen.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-01T14:35:00.000-07:00

Make sure to wave to the Siouxland Libraries Bookmobile if you attend the Mayor's Fourth of July Parade and Picnic on Monday. You'll also see the familiar faces of some library staff there, with stickers reminding you to help us celebrate 125 years of library service to the people of Sioux Falls and Minnehaha County.

We'll be having special events throughout the summer, ending with a celebration at all branches on September 17. You won't want to miss out on the Passport Program--simply pick up a passport at your favorite library and have it stamped at any four Siouxland locations. Turn in your completed passport by September 17 to be entered into a drawing for great prizes. There will be a prize awarded for child, teen, and adult categories.

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!

All me duty to ye, Cap'n!

2011-06-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Already been to the theater this summer to see the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie? Here's your chance to continue the fun, with Mango's free "Learn to Speak Pirate" course. All of us land-lovers in Sioux Falls can unleash our inner scoundrels and prepare for International Talk Like a Pirate Day on September 19. Available online for a limited time, this course includes audio and "grammar" lessons. Visit the Mango website to get started.

And don't forget you can use Mango anytime through the library's website to study any one of 35 other languages!

Summer Buzz

2011-06-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Of the multitude of things to love about this season, one of our favorites is the lists of hot summer reads--those new books everyone wants to have in their beach bag.

The New York Times Book Review puts out a Summer Reading Issue with picks in many categories, including fiction, travel, music and Hollywood.

USA Today looks at the "Season's Hottest New Books" for different tastes.

It's not quite on newstands yet, but here's a list of People Magazine's picks for summer.

Finally, you can always count on some interesting choices from prolific author Stephen King, who submits his list as a column in Entertainment Weekly.

We can hardly wait to dive in! And we're going to...join us as we create a grown-up summer reading list comprised of some of these "buzz" books. First up: Robopocalypse by Daniel Wilson. Look for our review soon!

City Employee Art Show

2011-05-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

Siouxland Libraries' Art and Artists program takes a slightly different spin this summer, when we feature the work of City of Sioux Falls employees! The exhibit, which includes paintings, drawings, photography, and pottery, will be on display through August 31 at the Main Library, 200 North Dakota Avenue. Visitors are invited to view the pieces, which expand over two gallery walls and our glass display case near the back reading room, then pick up a ballot to vote for their favorite in a people's choice contest. Ballots are available at the Information Services desk.

You may have worked with some of these artists in their capacity as city employees--now see a different side of them. We think you'll be impressed by their many talents!

Oprah's Influence

2011-05-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

Oprah Winfrey's network talk show ends this week, and with it (at least temporarily) her high-profile book club, which brought 70 chosen titles to the attention of readers and catapulted them to top spots on bestseller lists. The Oprah touch became almost a literary award of its own, with a magic effect on sales and buzz for authors like Wally Lamb (twice selected for She's Come Undone and I Know This Much is True), Toni Morrison, (four times, for Song of Solomon, Paradise, The Bluest Eye, and Sula) and Eckhart Tolle (A New Earth). Tolle's book has turned out to be the number one bestselling selection of all Oprah titles. We always knew these books would check out when purchasing them for the library collection.

She chose fiction and nonfiction, mostly contemporary but some classic authors. The book club was not without controversial, television-worthy moments, like her reproachful interview with James Frey over fabrications in his memoir A Million Little Pieces (incidentally the second-best seller of all Oprah titles.) Author Jonathan Franzen made headlines in 2001 after insinuating that her selection of his book, The Corrections, lowered its literary integrity. He later apologized and his second novel, Freedom, was chosen for the club last year.

Oprah has said she hopes to continue the club on her new OWN network, perhaps even dedicating an entire show to books and authors.

Do you have a favorite Oprah book?

Finding Online Health Information

2011-05-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

The amount of information available online for virtually any topic can be staggering, overwhelming even. A search engine like Google can return millions upon millions of results, but not all of them are useful or relevant to your question.

This is particularly important to consider when it comes to health information--there is plenty available on the web, but you want to be sure that the facts are reliable. While no substitute for the advice of your doctor, there are great websites with trustworty, free health information and tips. Attend a Lunchtime Learning session at the Main Library next Wednesday, May 25 from 12-1 PM for an overview of websites and library databases you can use from home to find resources on medical conditions and treatments, medications, and general health knowledge.

Minding Your Manners

2011-05-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

Did you know that May 9-13 is National Etiquette Week? What a good time to pause and reflect on the way we humans interact with one another.

The mere mention of etiquette may bring to mind venerable experts on the topic like Emily Post or Miss Manners (whose special brand of dry humor is apparent in titles such as Miss Manners' Guide to Excrutiatingly Correct Behavior). But what about manners for the new millenium, where our methods of communication have changed and multiplied? Have a look at these titles:

What do You Say When...:Talking to People With Confidence on Any Social or Business Occasion, by Florence Isaacs, with tips for handling yourself in many situations, including job interviews.

The Civility Solution: What to do When People are Rude, by P.M. Forni, and Why Manners Matter: the Case for Civilized Behavior in a Barbarous World by Lucinda Holdforth give advice on rising above, breaking the cycle of rudeness, and living the authors' definitions of a civil life.

Peggy Post, great-granddaughter of the aforementioned Emily Post, provides practical solutions for sticky situations in Excuse Me, But I was Next: How to Handle the Top 100 Manners Dilemmas.

In the intriguing title category: How to be a Hepburn in a Hilton World, by Jordan Christy, and Advance Your Swagger: How to Use Manners, Confidence and Style to Get Ahead by Fonzworth Bentley (former assistant to Sean Diddy Combs).

Finally, comedian Whoopi Goldberg has a buzzed-about new book, Is it Just Me? Or is it Nuts Out There? Known for her strong opinions, she has plenty to say about the current state of manners, with chapter titles like: "A Civil Person's Handy List: Things to Think and Not Say," and "You Realize I Can See You."

So have a Happy National Etiquette Week...or shall we say, Please have a Happy National Etiquette Week!

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

2011-05-05T14:57:00.000-07:00

If the Cinco de Mayo holiday has you in the mood for Mexican food, look no further than the library shelves for the latest in cocina Mexicana:

Fresh Mexico: 100 Simple Recipes for True Mexican Flavor, by Marcela Valladolid. Who doesn't love a cookbook with "simple" in the title?

Mexican Modern: New Food From Mexico, by Fiona Dunlop. The cover alone has our mouths watering!

Antojitos: Festive and Flavorful Mexican Small Plates, by Barbara Sibley and Margaritte Malfy. Bring on the appetizers!

Fiesta at Rick's: Fabulous Food for Great Times with Friends, by Rick Bayless. Recipes from a renowned Mexican chef--sounds like a party!

Houston Classic Mexican Recipes, by Erin Hicks--for some Tex-Mex flavor.

For your burgeoning young chefs, we like Funky Chicken Enchiladas: and other Mexican Recipes, by Nick Fauchald, part of the Kid's Dish series.

Buen Provecho!

Royal Wedding Preparations

2011-04-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

Did you know there's a rather significant wedding happening this week? You may have heard about it in the news.

There certainly is something fascinating about the grandeur and ceremony behind it all, even if you haven't been a close follower of the royal family...and if you haven't, there's still time to catch up! Check out these titles for some insider knowledge on this famous clan:

Behind the Palace Doors, by Michael Farquhar details the scandalous (sometimes humorously so) side of the monarchy, starting all the way back with Henry VIII.

The Firm: the Troubled Life of the House of Windsor, by Penny Junor is an often shocking glance into the inner workings of the current royal family.

Perhaps groom-to-be William will get some advice from his grandparents, whose own relationship is highlighted in Philip and Elizabeth: Portrait of a Royal Marriage, by Gyles Brandreth.

William and Harry by Katie Nicholl is an intimate biography of the "heir and the spare."

Or if you're looking for something a bit lighter to get you in the wedding spirit, you might find a nuptially-themed novel from our catalog to suit your fancy.

So grab a big piece of cake (in honor of the wedding, of course!) and dig in!

Poetry Night

2011-04-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

Here's an idea for something to do next Tuesday night, April 26th: celebrate National Poetry Month by attending a Community Poetry Reading at the Main Library! Those in attendance are invited to read a poem by their favorite poet; or just come to listen if you prefer not to read aloud. It's your chance to introduce others to a poem you admire, and who knows--you might discover new favorites!

The program starts at 7 PM in Meeting Room A of the Main Library. If you would like to be a reader, please register for the event here, or by calling 367-8720.

We hope to see you there!

Magazines, Newspapers, and Journals, Oh My!

2011-04-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

Say you're in the market for a new refrigerator--your first step might be to grab a copy of Consumer Reports magazine, or visit their website. Some information is available on the web, but you'll likely find that the full content comes at a price. More and more, newspapers and magazines are providing abbreviated content on their websites and only allowing access by paid subscription.

Your library card to the rescue! Full current and back issue articles from thousands of publications, including popular magazines like Newsweek and People, academic journals throughout all disciplines, national newspapers, and even Sioux Falls' own Argus Leader are available to you through our databases--for free, with your card.

Visit the Databases and Websites page and select the Magazines and Newspapers category for a list of resources. Both ProQuest and EBSCO Megafile contain a large selection of magazines and journals--EBSCO is where you'll find Consumer Reports. Try Newsbank to read articles from national papers like the New York Times, or the Argus Leader archives database for local content going back to 2002. If using these resources from home, you'll be asked to enter your library card number and PIN.

So before you make that major purchase, remember you can do your preliminary research at the library, for--you guessed it--free!

Test Preparation, Anytime

2011-04-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

Our customers frequently request books to help them study for exams like the GED, Commercial Driver's License test, and ASVAB. While we do have print materials available, the waiting lists can get long.

Good news! With your Siouxland Libraries card, you have access to Learning Express Library, a program full of resources to help you study for academic and professional exams, brush up on basic skills like math and reading for all different grade levels, and even assist with job searching, creating a resume, and succeeding at interviews. Take mini online courses to help you get the concepts down, then try a practice exam. The program scores your tests instantly and provides explanations for the correct answers. Take a look at all the exams and study topics available here.

You can use this resource on library computers, or any time of day from home. And it's FREE. Simply visit our homepage and find the Learning Express Library button on the lower right hand side. You'll need to enter your library card number and PIN (the last four digits of your phone number) to gain access; then you'll be asked to create a username and password to keep track of your coursework on Learning Express. As always, do not hesitate to call us at 367-8720 if you have questions, or drop us a line through Ask a Librarian.

Have you had your Mango today?

2011-04-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

During National Library Week, we want to highlight a few services you may not have tried yet. Siouxland Libraries provides access to online resources that are not part of the free web--but they're free to you, with your library card!

One such resource is Mango, a comprehensive language-learning program with over 30 languages. Perhaps you are traveling to Mexico and would like to brush up on your Spanish...or you have made a new Finnish friend and want to call him to say "Mita kuuluu?" (What's up?) Each language has a basic course of at least 10 lessons, and many of the more common languages have intermediate courses with hundreds of lessons. An audio component in the voice of a native speaker helps you perfect your pronunciation, and exercises and quizzes are designed to make the vocabulary and grammar lessons stick with you. Create a profile to keep track of your learning and pick up where you left off each time.

If you know anyone who is working to learn English, Mango also has extensive ESL programs for speakers of fifteen common languages such as Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese.

Try Mango today! You can access it from our homepage--look for the Mango logo on the right-hand side. Enter your library card number and PIN (the last four digits of your phone number) and start learning!

National Library Week: Go on a Blind Date with a Book

2011-04-07T07:10:00.000-07:00

We are gearing up for National Library Week 2011, April 10-16! Stay tuned to our blog, Facebook, and Twitter pages for plenty of ways to celebrate. This year's theme is "Create Your Own Story @ Your Library."

To kick things off, we want to help you find your next great read. If you are in the market for something new, try our "Blind Date With a Book" activity. Simply complete a short questionnaire and either drop it off at the library or email it to us at LibAsk@siouxfalls.org (it works well if you copy the text of the form into an email message), and library staff will surprise you with a choice based on your interests. You never know what might be waiting for you when you come to pick up your holds!

Get the Blind Date with a Book form here, email us at the above address to request one, or stop by the library in person to have one printed for you. We can't wait to introduce you to your next literary love!

Money Smart Week

2011-03-31T08:49:00.000-07:00

April 2-9 has been designated Money Smart Week @ Your Library, and there are many ways to become money smart with your library card. Just check out our selection of financial books, many of which are presently on display at the Main Library.

We also have a section of our Databases and Websites page dedicated to consumer information, where you'll find links to help you inform yourself on money topics like credit reports, identity theft, and consumer protection, plus the EBSCO database, where you can access the full text of popular magazines like Consumer Reports, right from home.

In honor of Money Smart Week, the Main Library will be hosting a week of free financial seminars, presented by the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Lutheran Social Services.

Monday, April 4 11:00 AM-12:15 PM: Make the Most of Your Dollars

Tuesday, April 5 11:00 AM-12:15 PM: Make the Most of Your Credit

Thursday, April 7 11:00 AM-12:15 PM: Introduction to Home Ownership

Friday, April 8 11:00 AM-12:15 PM: Identity Theft and Predatory Lending Awareness

At the Tuesday seminar, certified credit counselors will be on hand to answer your questions. Register today for a wealth of free expert information!

Spring Cleaning

2011-03-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, we may be taking liberties in using the word "spring" here, considering the weather of late. We're confident that those warmer temperatures will return soon, though, and this time of year has many of us thinking about reorganizing, decluttering, and getting ready for a fresh new season.

Here are a few of our newest titles on the topic to help you get started:

Gazing at a houseful of clutter, you may ask yourself: What's a Disorganized Person to Do? Professional organizer Stacy Platt sheds light on that question in her practical book of tips and projects to help you take back your home. Those who share space with other people may appreciate House of Havoc: how to make, and keep, a beautiful home despite a cheap spouse, messy kids, and other difficult roommates. Marni Jameson adds a dose of humor in this guide to keeping your sanity. Part of the Knack: make it easy series, Emily Wilska's Organizing Your Home provides an illustrated step-by-step guide to getting control of your house one room at a time, and how to create systems to keep things in order all year round.

We may have aspirations of being Martha Stewart-like, but let's face it, most of us fare just fine with being Pretty Neat: the buttoned-up way to get organized and let go of perfection. Alicia Rockmore and Sarah Welch, popular bloggers, help you keep a realistic perspective on your ambitions.

For something a bit more philosophical, check out Peter Walsh's book on CD Lighten Up: Love what you have, have what you need, be happier with less, on how to do without all that extraneous stuff. Dave Bruno takes it to the extreme in the 100 Thing Challenge: how I got Rid of Almost Everything, Remade my Life, and Regained my Soul. Let the regaining begin!

Women's History Month

2011-03-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

So many things to celebrate in March: the first hints of spring, St. Patrick's Day...and Women's History Month! Join us at the Main Library on Tuesday, March 22 at 7 PM for a special program, "Well-Behaved Women Seldom Make History," to spotlight some intriguing female characters from our past. The historical presentation, put on by Lyn Messersmith, Kay Langin, and Marylin Stratmeyer, will feature stories of Pearl Hart, Baby Doe Tabor, and the women who helped advance the Underground Railroad through secret messages delivered in quilts.

It promises to be an entertaining and informative evening! This program is made possible by the South Dakota Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Call 367-8720 or visit our website for more information.

Art and Artists: Hector Curriel

2011-03-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to have local artist Hector Curriel exhibit his work at the Main Library from now through May 31, as part of our Art and Artists program. A native of Lima, Peru, Hector has lived in Sioux Falls since 2005 and worked as a freelance artist, cartoonist, and illustrator. His cartoons have appeared in several newspapers and his murals and paintings are part of many permanent collections in the region. The artist will give a gallery talk on Saturday, April 16 at 10 AM, at the Main Library.

Stop down and view this fantastic exhibit today! For more information on Hector Curriel, visit his website.

The 1040s are Here!

2011-02-16T15:22:00.000-08:00

The long awaited 1040 tax booklets have arrived and been distributed to our city branches! You can pick yours up, along with other forms you might need, at the Main, Caille, Ronning, or Oak View libraries.

Don't forget there are two more Saturdays to come to the Main Library for free tax help for qualifying individuals. VITA will be here Saturday 2/19 and Saturday 2/26 from 10 AM-4 PM. After that, you can catch them on Mondays from 3-8 PM through April 11th. (They will not be here next Monday because of the President's Day Holiday.) For more information on the program, visit the VITA website.

Celebrate Black History Month

2011-02-07T17:36:00.000-08:00

The Biography Channel has a great webpage dedicated to honoring Black History Month in February, with videos, timelines, and photos. For more reading on the subject, check out some of these titles recently added to the library collection:

Say it Loud: Great Speeches on Civil Rights is a collection of memorable discourse delivered by historical and contemporary figures, from Martin Luther King, Jr. to Condoleeza Rice.

Setting Down the Sacred Past by Laurie F. Maffly-Kipp traces the formation of African-American religious identity by examining historical narratives.

Freedom Flyers: the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, by J. Todd Moye is a new look at the first group of black military pilots, with accounts from interviews done as part of the Tuskegee Airmen Oral History Project.

The Warmth of Other Suns: the Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson chronicles the experiences of the millions of black citizens who moved from the South to the North between 1915 and 1970--the author's mother included among them.

In the fiction category, Some Sing, Some Cry by Ntozake Shange and Ifa Bayeza is a saga spanning seven generations of women who use their musical gifts to help them survive the struggles they face.

For even more items on African-American history, visit the library catalog.

We're Having a Heat Wave

2011-02-02T07:29:00.000-08:00

All right! The groundhog did not see his shadow this morning, which can only mean one thing: early spring. So, warmer by next week, then? We are all experiencing a bit of cabin fever, so today we bring you some titles that will take you to exotic locales, even if only in your imagination.

Once in a Lifetime Trips by Chris Santella takes you from the Chilean Fjords, to the Spice Islands, to a night in the ultra-luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, and is packed with stunning color photography.

Bed in a Tree by Bettina Kowalewski shows you some of the most interesting places around the world to rest your head. South Africa is where you'll find the five-star Lion Sands safari lodge, and the titular bed in a tree. A very nice tree.

Eric Weiner explores an interesting concept in The Geography of Bliss: one Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World. His travels span the globe as he attempts to discover how people from many countries measure and achieve what they call happiness.

If you're in the mood for more of a memoir, try Laura Fraser's All Over the Map. As a travel writer by trade who suddenly becomes afraid to travel, she pauses to reflect on where her journeys have led her and how they shaped her life. Fans of Eat, Pray, Love might enjoy that one. For some humor, pick up Sand in My Bra, a collection of 29 stories from funny and famous women like Sara Vowell and Ellen Degeneres. The writers share their most memorable and bizarre travel experiences.

Still looking for more armchair travel? Don't forget our DVDS, like the Ultimate Cruise Collection, or Cruise Hawaii and Tahiti, for a start.

Sounds pretty good right about now, doesn't it?

Stay Fit in 2011

2011-01-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

If you made a New Year's resolution to improve your fitness, we have just the program for you! Attend a free lunchtime learning seminar: Stay Fit in 2011, at the Main Library on Wednesday, January 26, from 12-1 PM. City of Sioux Falls Health and Wellness Coordinator Rana DeBoer will give you some tips for sticking to those fitness goals, including things you can do right in the comfort of home (helpful for these bitterly cold days!) and within your budget. You are welcome to bring a brown-bag lunch to the session; and you can register by calling 367-8720 or sign up online here.

You'll find plenty of books and DVDs in the library's collection on this topic, too. Here are just a few recent ones!

Fitness Illustrated by Brian Sharkey

Gold Medal Fitness: a Revolutionary 5-Week Program, by Dara Torres

Prime for life: Functional Fitness for Ageless Living, by Randy Raugh

The Biggest Loser 30-day Jump Start: Lose Weight, Get in Shape, and Start Living the Biggest Loser Lifestyle Today!, by Cheryl Forberg

Feel like dancing? Try the So You Think You Can Dance DVDS: Cardio Funk, or Tone and Groove. Get fit and have fun doing it!

"Civility is not a sign of weakness..."

2011-01-20T14:18:00.000-08:00

Today marks the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's inaugural address, when the famous line "Ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country," found its place in the history of American rhetoric. Watch a video or read a transcript of the speech, and it is easy to understand how he inspired a generation to public service. Today's Argus Leader features the memories and experiences of local individuals who took his words to heart.

For more on the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy, check out these titles:

An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917-1963 by Robert Dallek

The Presidency of John F. Kennedy, by James Giglio

Jack Kennedy: the Education of a Statesman, by Barbara Leaming.

John F. Kennedy: a Biography, by Michael O'Brien

A Thousand Days; John F. Kennedy in the White House, by Arthur Schlesinger.

Wait...have I read that one already?

2011-01-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

Do you keep a list of all the books you've ever read or want to read? We've seen many methods here at the library, from scraps of paper to alphabetical spreadsheets to impressive mental catalogs. If the New Year has you eager to find new ways to organize, how about using some of the great online services that are out there for keeping track of your reading habits?

One we heard about recently is FictFact, a site that lets you track your favorite series. Set up a free profile to get ordered lists of all your series, so that you always know which one to read next. Get notified when an author is releasing a new book, and share your lists with your friends! Another excellent site we often use to determine series order is the KDL What's Next Database, from the Kent District Library. It lets you search for series by title or author, and gives you a great ordered list.

We use Library Thing to post new titles at the library, and you can use it to organize your own collection of titles. Rate and review what you've read, and be social--share your booklists with friends and get recommendations based on your preferences. Another similar site, GoodReads, lets you interact with other readers and even join virtual book clubs.

Here's to another year of enjoyable reading!

About Those Taxes

2011-01-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

Tax season has begun, and as in years past, we will have your favorite tax forms at Siouxland library branches. Because of a change in legislation that happened at the end of 2010, there was a printing delay, so as of now we have not received 1040 or 1040A forms--we expect them soon, but it is a good idea to call the library before you come down to pick them up. Other things have changed this year, too--did you know, for example, that the IRS will no longer be mailing paper tax forms to individuals?

Also, VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) returns to the Main Library this year. Volunteers will be available to assist people with simple returns for income less than $48,500 on Saturdays in February from 10-4 PM and Mondays February 7-April 11 from 3-8 PM. For more information on the VITA program and who qualifies for free assistance, visit their website.

The IRS website has a good deal of information for tax filers on it, too, including printable forms and publications. Also check out their Tips for the 2010 Tax Season.

Remember you can e-file online, but if you do it on paper, here's a list of addresses where South Dakotans should send their federal tax forms.

Happy Tax Filing!

Top Tens of 2010

2010-12-27T15:46:00.000-08:00

As 2010 winds down, book critics begin proclaiming their top picks of the year. It's always interesting to compare across sources and see which titles pop up on multiple lists (Jonathan Franzen's Freedom, anyone?)

Here are the opinions of some of the big names in reviewing, to keep you reading well into the new year. Let us know if you agree or disagree with these picks, or have a "Best Books of 2010" list of your own!

The New York Times' 10 Best Books of 2010 gives equal attention to fiction and nonfiction, with five titles in each category. Their list of 100 Notable Books of 2010 highlights some honorable mentions.

Publisher's Weekly presents not only a Best 10 of 2010, but also continues with a Best 100, just in case you needed more suggestions.

NPR's list includes selections from radio personalities, and branches off with some quirkier categories, like the "Happy Holidays, Voyeurs" list of memoirs, "Us and Them: the Year's Best Outsider Fiction" and "Fiction for Piecing Together this Crazy World."

Check out Entertainment Weekly's Best Books of 2010: Fiction countdown, or a personal list from regular columnist and eminent author Stephen King.

Wall Street Journal may not come to mind immediately as a kingpin of book reviews, but they've taken steps to change that this year, with the introduction of a special books section on weekends. Here's a list of their Top Ten, especially appealing to nonfiction readers.

What are you looking forward to reading in 2011?

Out of the Ordinary Christmastime Stories

2010-12-17T14:10:00.000-08:00

You'll find many novels to put you in the holiday spirit here at the library, but sometimes it's interesting to find the stories that aren't necessarily so tidy--maybe events don't get wrapped up so nicely, but somehow they seem just a little more...real.

Stuart O'Nan's Last Night at the Lobster is a great one to pick up if you're in the mood for something different. Plus, at just 146 pages, it's a quick read for this busy time of year. The book's central character is Manny DeLeon, manager of a Red Lobster who has just found out his restaurant will close right before Christmas. On the final night, he struggles with his staff of lively characters, and a complicated relationship with one of the waitresses--not to mention a powerful New England snowstorm that brings in some unexpected clientele. Reading about the jobs of other people can be fascinating, and O'Nan includes specific and surprising details of Manny's work day, along with the kinds of coworker interactions to which many of us can relate. Manny's eternal optimism in the face of what's crumbling around him makes this endearing story one you'll remember.

Do you have a favorite unusual holiday novel?

Everyone's talking about...eBooks

2010-12-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

If an eReader is on your holiday wish list, or the list of someone you know, don't miss our Lunchtime Learning session at the Main Library on Wednesday, December 8 from 12-1. Siouxland Libraries has over 500 eBooks available for checkout, and they are compatible with many of the popular eReading devices on the market today. Attend Wednesday's class to learn which eReaders work with our digital books, and see a demo of how to download and transfer an eBook to a device!

Call 367-8720 to register, or register online.

For more information on the library's downloadable eBooks, visit our eBooks page.

Art and Artists: Julia Matuska

2010-12-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

We are now featuring a new artist on our gallery wall at the Main Library for the months of December 2010--February 2011. Come admire the work of Julia Matuska, whose award-winning art incorporates many mediums, including pencil, pen and ink, acrylics, and oils. Julia will give a gallery talk on Thursday, January 27 from 7-8 PM. You can learn more about her at her website: http://www.juliamatuska.com/, and you might just spot her in her other line of work--in the Circulation department of the Main Library!

A Cornucopia of Thanksgiving Fun

2010-11-24T16:10:00.000-08:00

You may have picked up all the Turkey Day cookbooks you need, but we've also got some Thanksgiving-themed items for your entertainment.

In the novel category, Janet Evanovich's humor lights up the story of two people brought together by a mischievous pet rabbit, a romance that leads to one big family dinner in Thanksgiving.

The Ghost at the Table by Suzanne Berne explores the inevitable tension and secrets that often surface when relatives gather for a holiday. Likewise, Jennifer Vanderbes' Strangers at the Feast tells the story of a less-than-happy family and a Thanksgiving Day that turns sinister. Mystery fans might enjoy Donald Bain's A Fatal Feast, where his beloved Jessica Fletcher character takes a post-meal stroll and stumbles upon a murder victim.

If nonfiction is your thing, try Thanksgiving: the biography of an American holiday, by James W. Baker, which explores the historical beginnings of the tradition and what it means to us today. Nathaniel Philbrick's popular book Mayflower gives a thoroughly-researched account of the Pilgrims' experiences. (For a humorous and knowledgeable take on the same subject, check out Sarah Vowell's The Wordy Shipmates).

In the mood for a movie? Home for the Holidays is a Thanksgiving must-see, with more amusing family dysfunction and a great cast including Holly Hunter and Robert Downey, Jr.

Lastly, one in the cooking category--we couldn't resist! Turn on public radio Thanksgiving morning to hear Turkey Confidential with Lynne Rosetto Kasper, a live call-in show where people get help with their potential Thanksgiving disasters (think, "Oh no, I forgot to thaw out the turkey) and the calm host soothes their worries. Kasper is host of the regular show "The Splendid Table," and you can get her latest book The Splendid Table's How to Eat Supper here at the library.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Your Favorite Authors: Gone Graphic

2010-11-15T17:54:00.000-08:00

Graphic novels: they're not just for comic book lovers. If you've never picked one up, you might be surprised by the variety of stories you can find in graphic form. Case in point--many bestselling mainstream authors are now crossing over into the graphic novel realm. Janet Evanovich has recently released two books in her Troublemaker series, which follows the antics of Sam Hooker and Alex Barnaby from her novels Metro Girl and Motor Mouth. Stephen King has brought characters from his Dark Tower series to graphic form, as well as tales from The Stand.

Author of popular titles like My Sister's Keeper and Nineteen Minutes, Jodi Picoult may not bring to mind graphic novels, but she has indeed had her hand in the genre with Wonder Woman: Love and Murder. Fans of Orson Scott Card's classic Ender's Game may be delighted to see it reimagined in illustrated form with Ender's Game: Battle School.

The graphic novel makes for quite a different reading experience, and is now just one more way to enjoy some of your favorite authors!

Native American Heritage Month

2010-11-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

In November we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, and you can find a wide variety of materials at the library to learn more about Native American culture and history--here is a list of titles from our catalog.

You might also be following the Argus Leader's compelling series "Growing Up Indian" which chronicles the struggles and successes of young people on the Lower Brule, Pine Ridge, and Rosebud Indian reservations in South Dakota. For more on the experiences faced by people in these communities, check out these books:

Being Lakota: Identity and tradition on Pine Ridge Reservation, by Larissa Petrillo

Keeping Heart on Pine Ridge: family ties, warrior culture, commodity foods, rez dogs, and the sacred, by Vic Glover

"They Treated us just like Indians": the worlds of Bennett County, South Dakota, by Paula L. Wagoner

Rosebud Sioux: a Lakota people in transition, by Claes H. Jacobson

A Warrior's Heart: a collection of poetry from students of the Pine Ridge Reservation, by students of the Red Cloud Indian School.

Library Snapshot Day

2010-10-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Next Thursday, November 4, help us create a visual record of "a day in the life" of Siouxland Libraries. Library Snapshot Day is a nationwide project created to capture the power of libraries in communities, by collecting photos, statistics, and comments that truly illustrate how people use the library on any given day. We can't do it without your help! Visit your favorite Siouxland Libraries branch on November 4 to take part and show us why the library is important to you.

You can also submit your comments through the library's Facebook and Twitter pages that day.

Author Visit--Sam Kean

2010-10-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Don't miss an exciting author event at the Main Library on Tuesday, October 19 at 7 PM. Sam Kean, author of The Disappearing Spoon: and Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements will be here to talk about his book, which has been a hit with critics and readers everywhere. You may have learned the periodic table in high school, but probably not in such an entertaining way. Kean delves into the history and people behind the discovery and use of each element--after all, it's the people, with their often scandalous ways, that make it so interesting. Be prepared to read about some truly "mad scientists," and come away with a whole new view of elements in our environment.

Sam Kean grew up in Sioux Falls, and now lives in Washington D.C., where he writes for Science magazine. Zandbroz Variety will be selling books at Tuesday's event.

Call 367-8720 with any questions.

Ooooh, a ghost story.

2010-10-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

The air is crisp, the leaves are falling...October is the perfect month for a gothic read! Here are a few suggestions to give you a good old-fashioned scare--best enjoyed with a warm blanket and a hot drink!

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. Margaret, a young bookseller, is tapped to write the biography of a reclusive writer whose personal story has never been told. As the old woman's secrets unfold, Margaret is drawn further into the tale than she ever imagined. This one is especially captivating as an audiobook.

Ghostwalk by Rebecca Stott. Also the story of a writer, who is hired by her ex-boyfriend to complete a book about Isaac Newton that his mother had been writing when she mysteriously died.

The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry. Towner Whitney comes from generations of women with the gift of reading people's fortunes in lace, a talent she is reluctant to use. Upon returning to her hometown of Salem, she is confronted with the tragedy of her aunt's sudden death and the unanswered questions around it.

The Ghost Writer by John Harwood. An Australian teenager finds a set of ghost stories written by his grandmother that somehow tell of family events that hadn't occurred at the time she wrote them. He puzzles over the mystery as he pines for his pen pal Alice, who lives in England and is something of an enigma herself.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. Prince Dracula plays a role in this tale of a graduate student who learns from his professor that the Prince is still alive, or undead, to be exact. Then the professor suddenly disappears, and the student goes on a desperate search for answers through the ancient archives and libraries of Europe.

Join us for a lunchtime discussion of another spine-tingler, The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe, on Thursday, October 14 from 12-1 PM, at the Main Library. Reserve a copy using the link above, or by calling 367-8720.

Now tell us about your favorite scary story!

Banned Books Week 2010

2010-09-27T15:40:00.001-07:00

Have you ever read a banned or challenged book? Chances are you have, and perhaps you didn't even know it. According to the American Library Association, libraries have received more than 4300 challenges over the past decade from people raising objections to the content of some materials. It is an important issue for libraries and librarians, as a large part of our mission is to protect First Amendment rights and fight censorship.

The last week in September is dedicated to celebrating the freedom of expression by showcasing banned books. Consider these titles, which have all appeared on top ten lists of frequently challenged books over the past few years:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Steven Chbosky

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer

My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult

Beloved by Toni Morrison

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Forever by Judy Blume

For more lists of titles, check out the American Library Association's Frequently Challenged Books of the 21st Century, and here's another fun article about 15 iconic movies that were based on banned books.

Do you have a favorite banned book?

Festival of Books Countdown

2010-09-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

The 2010 South Dakota Festival of Books is less than one week away, and it's going to be a great time for all! Several of the programs will take place in the meeting rooms at our own Main Library, or right across the street at the Holiday Inn. Visit the official Festival of Books site for a complete schedule of events. Remember that this year, the festival is asking those who want to attend to register; if you pre-register online you can pick up your wristband at the Main Library Youth Services desk--bring your registration confirmation with you.

Tickets are still available for the luncheon with Vicki Myron, author of Dewey, the small-town library cat who touched the world, which takes place on Friday, September 24 at the Holiday Inn Starlite Ballroom from 12:45 to 2 PM. That event is sponsored by the Festival of Books and the South Dakota Library Association. Tickets are $20, with lunch included, and may be purchased by cash or check at the Information Services desk of the Main Library.

Art and Artists: Jerry Fogg

2010-09-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

We are fortunate to have Jerry Fogg as our featured artist this fall at the Main Library. Jerry lives in Sioux Falls and is a member of the Ihanktowan Nakota Sioux Tribe. His exhibit, which runs through November 30, has the theme "Native Soul" and he incorporates a variety of media into his pieces. Stop by the Main Library for an eye-catching experience, and don't miss the gallery talk and reception on Tuesday, November 9 at 7:00 PM, where you can hear Jerry discuss his creative process and inspiration.

The Best Book I Read this Summer: Main Library Edition

2010-08-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

You know you can always ask staff at your library for reading suggestions--we love to talk about what we're reading! Here, in their own words, is a list of books that stood out to Main library staff during their summer reading:

Blue Zone by Andrew Gross. He has co-authored several books with James Patterson but this is one he wrote himself. The story is based around the witness protection program and what happens when someone enters the “Blue Zone.” This is when their cover is blown or their whereabouts are not known. It was wonderful. It has lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing throughout.

Louisa May Alcott: the woman behind Little Women, by Harriet Reisen. Her real story is even more interesting than that of her fictional counterpart, Jo in Little Women. Her unconventional father, Bronson Alcott, was friends with all of the leading lights in the Transcendental Movement, so names like Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman show up casually in her descriptions of daily life. By the way, in Little Women, it was the father who went off to the Civil War – in real life, it was Louisa!

Glass Rainbow by James Lee Burke. The latest Dave Robicheaux mystery has to do with unsolved cases of missing and murdered girls, a rich old Southern family and Dave’s relationship with his daughter, Alafair, and former partner, Clete. While his stories are quite violent, I enjoy his main characters and the wonderful way he writes about the area around New Iberia, Louisiana. His books are full of descriptive language and if you listen to them narrated by Will Patton, it’s wonderful.

Wrestling with our inner angels: faith, mental illness and the journey to wholeness
by Nancy Kehoe. I found the use of faith/spirituality in therapy interesting. I also felt it was a realistic portrait of faith.

The Gates by John Connolly. Four bored adults unwittingly create a gap in the universe that opens a portal to hell. Only a young boy and his dog witness this event and know what is really going on. With the events taking place in a small village in England, mayhem erupts and young Samuel must convince the adults what danger looms before it is too late. Connolly presents the story in a very amusing way. It should be considered for children, teens, or adults with a dark sense of humor.

Roses by Leila Meacham. It's the story of a family curse, revenge and passion spanning many generations--good character development.

Secrets of Eden by Chris Bohjalian. This book begs the question of which character is taking the moral high ground in the aftermath of an apparent murder/suicide: the minister, the surviving teenage daughter, the detective, or the inspirational author whose own parents met a similar end.

The Centurion’s Wife , by T. Davis Bunn and Janette Oke. This is historical fiction of Biblical events, featuring Leah and Alban. I think Oke writes Leah’s chapters, and Bunn writes Alban’s, which I appreciated. There is good character development. I read the sequel, too, Hidden Flame, but actually liked the first book better.

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah is an historical novel about a father’s dying request and how the sisters come to know their mother’s tragic story based on this request.

Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart. In the not-too-distant future, the U.S. is falling apart--indebted to China, and at war with Venezuela. People walk around in a stream of information thanks to "apparat" devices that keep them constantly online, broadcasting their personal lives and spending habits. Protagonist Lenny Abramov, trying to keep up with the new culture but still stubbornly reading actual books, falls for much younger Eunice Park--a love story that is super, at times sad (though often hilarious) and a vision of the future just "true" enough to be scary.

Author Visit: David Wolff

2010-08-09T17:54:00.001-07:00

South Dakota author David Wolff will appear at the Main Library Tuesday evening, August 10, at 7 PM. Wolff is the author of Seth Bullock: Black Hills Lawman, about the famed frontier marshal of Deadwood. Fans of the HBO series Deadwood may be familiar with Seth Bullock as one of its central characters, portrayed by Timothy Olyphant. Dr. Wolff has done extensive research on the life of this legendary figure and will talk about his discoveries at Tuesday's program. Don't miss this exciting author event!

This program is made possible by the South Dakota Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Book Club Spotlight

2010-08-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

The next monthly lunchtime book club at the Main Library will be held on Thursday, August 12, and we'll be discussing Dewey: the small-town library cat who touched the world by Vicki Myron. Sometimes librarians find more than just books in the after-hours book drop, which was the case with Dewey, a tiny orange kitten found by Myron at the library in Spencer, IA. The author tells the story of how Dewey's influence and companionship reached far beyond the walls of the library.

Join us at the Main Library on August 12 from 12-1 PM, and bring your lunch!

Vicki Myron will also be appearing at an author luncheon on September 24 from 12:45-2:oo PM at the Holiday Inn City Centre. The event is co-sponsored by the South Dakota Library Association and the Festival of Books, and there are 100 tickets available for the public. Purchase your ticket ($20, lunch included) at the Information Desk of the Main Library, or call 367-8720 with questions.

To Kill a Mockingbird

2010-07-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

Did you know that July marks the 50th anniversary of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird? The only novel Lee has ever published, it remains one of the most significant and influential books in literary history--despite the fact that its author has largely stayed out of the spotlight. Many of us remember when we read it for the first time--this librarian, for example, recalls an Easter weekend in 7th grade spent on the end of the couch, absorbed in the story of Scout Finch, her honorable father Atticus, and mysterious neighbor Boo Radley. The book's powerful messages about prejudice, acceptance, and overcoming ignorance still resonate in contemporary society--it has been required reading for generations of students.

You may find it interesting to revisit other classics you read in school--often you find a different perspective later in life. When the Main Library Lunchtime Book Club recently discussed The Catcher in the Rye, one particpant remarked that she had a whole new opinion of Holden Caulfield on her second reading. Many classics are now being recorded as audiobooks, which can add a new dimension to old favorites, and don't forget there's a special section of the library dedicated to Classic Reads!

Book Club Recommendation

2010-07-12T17:51:00.001-07:00

This week the Life Book Club will meet at Zandbroz to discuss Lark and Termite by Jayne Anne Phillips. Several Siouxland staff members have enjoyed this novel, which tells the story of Lark, a 17-year-old girl living with her aunt Nonie in 1959 West Virginia, and taking care of her half brother Termite, nine years old and unable to walk or talk. The story flashes between a week in July 1959 to the same week nine years earlier, as Termite's father, Robert, struggles to stay alive in the Korean War. Phillips moves in and out of each person's perspective, including Termite's world of thought and sensation, putting together the pieces of a puzzle that explains how Termite ended up on Nonie's doorstep as a baby. Lark's fierce love for Termite, and her determination to rise above their circumstances make her a compelling character. For audio book lovers, this is an engaging pick--the recorded version uses different readers for the various points of view.

Join the Life Book Club at Zandbroz on Thursday, July 15 at 6:30 PM to discuss this novel!

Cycling Adventures

2010-06-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

Many of us enjoy a good bike ride, especially in summer on the city's excellent bike trail. A select few will take place in more ambitious cycling feats, like the Tour De Kota. How about a two-year biking trip around the world? Most of us won't accomplish this, but it will be interesting to learn about when authors, photographers, and explorers Bruce B. Junek and Tass Thacker visit the Main Library on Tuesday, July 6, at 7 PM. They'll present a program on their twenty-six month cycling and hiking trip that spanned five continents, and included snorkeling in the South Pacific, climbing volcanoes in Indonesia, and taking a ten-day vow of silence in a Thailand monastery.

Check out their book, The Road of Dreams, to learn more about the journey. If you're looking for more armchair bicycle adventures, here's a list of some compelling reads:

Around the World on Two Wheels: Annie Londonderry's extraordinary ride, by Peter Zheutlin. A Boston mother of three who took a fifteen-month bicycling trip around the world in the late 1890's, transcending women's roles at the time.

Bicycle Diaries, by David Byrne. World traveler and lead singer of the Talking Heads Byrne muses on his biking experiences in several cities and the different cultures he encounters.

The Lost Cyclist: the epic tale of an American adventurer and his mysterious disappearance, by David Herlihy. A mix of mystery and history in this story of another 1890's cyclist, Frank Lenz, who set off to bike across Asia and was never heard from again.

Click here for more information on Tuesday's program.

Listen Up

2010-06-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

June is National Audiobook Month, and a great time to try this format, if you haven't already discovered its benefits. If you're like many of us who wish you could find more time to read, audiobooks are a perfect solution! Let someone read to you while you drive, cook, or clean the house--all the things we have to do anyway, made more enjoyable by a good story.

There is even a special award for particularly outstanding audiobooks, given by the Audio Publishers Association at the end of May. View a list of this year's winners for some good listening picks.

Siouxland Libraries also has a collection of downloadable audiobooks--we have over 1000 titles available in our catalog. If you're a bit unsure about how this format works, stop by our lunchtime Downloadables 101 session at the Main Library on Wednesday, June 23 from 12-1 PM for a quick primer and get your questions answered. Everyone in attendance will be entered into a drawing for a free mp3 player!

Summertime, and the reading is plentiful.

2010-06-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

Picture a breezy, sunny June afternoon, a patio chair, a glass of lemonade, and you. How could this scenario get any better? With a great book, of course! Now that the season has (unofficially) begun, lists of summer reads abound. You're sure to find something to fit your tastes, whether you're vacationing (don't forget audiobooks and downloadable books for those long road trips!), spending the day at the beach, or simply relaxing at home.

Check out USA Today's list of "Titles Worth Reading in Every Genre." They even have an interactive calendar showing hot new releases for every week.

The New York Times posted their list of "Beach-Chair-Worthy Books," and The Wall Street Journal's recommendations for Summer's Best Reads include sixteen new "Big Reads" as well as a collection of thrillers and mysteries, cookbooks, and biographies.

For a list of up-and-coming authors, look at The New Yorker's recent selection of 20 writers under 40 to watch. Some of them have books releasing this summer.

Got any books you're looking forward to digging into this summer? Share your recommendations with us!

Art and Artists at the Main Library

2010-05-14T11:35:00.001-07:00

We are excited that the new and improved Main Library includes a gallery wall for us to feature different area artists throughout the year. Our first artist is Marian Henjum, with a beautiful exhibit of her watercolors. Her paintings will be on display through August 31, and be sure to stop by her gallery talk on Tuesday, June 22 at 7 PM for a chance to meet her and learn about her inspirations. Visit Marian's website here.

Hummingbird/Bird of Paradise

Award Winning Works

2010-04-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

"Pulitzer Prize winner" is probably a pretty impressive thing to have on one's resumé. A new group of authors and journalists can make this claim, after the 2010 winners were announced earlier this month. Find some of the recently honored works here at the library:

Biography: The First Tycoon: the epic life of Cornelius Vanderbilt, by T.J. Stiles is a look at the man who some say invented capitalism as we know it.

History: The Lords of Finance: the bankers who broke the world, by Liaquat Ahamed actually talks about the years leading up to the Great Depression, with a title and subject that seem quite relevant for today.

General Nonfiction: The Dead Hand: the untold story of the Cold War arms race and its dangerous legacy by David E. Hoffman chronicles the intense conflict between two major world powers and the frightening capabilities of nuclear weapons--another historical account with implications for today.

Fiction: Tinkers by Paul Harding is the story of George Washington Crosby, a man with only a few days left to live. He reflects on the life of his father, a traveling salesman who disappeared after his wife tried to have him put in an institution for his epilepsy.

Pick up a Poem

2010-04-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

We're in the final week of National Poetry Month, but there's still time to show your appreciation for this often underappreciated art. Even if you're not a regular poetry reader, there are so many great poets to choose from, you're sure to find something you enjoy.

A great place to start is one of the Best American Poetry volumes, for a sample of a wide range of poetic styles and voices. Each year, a different prominent poet takes a turn at selecting the poems that appear in the anthology.

Rita Dove was Poet Laureate of the United States from 1993-1995, and is also a winner of the Pulitzer Prize. Her vibrant poems draw on history, social justice, mythology, and music, and adopt the distinct voices of many characters. Try American Smooth, or her latest collection, Sonata Mulattica.

Another former Poet Laureate ( 2001-2003), Billy Collins, reminds us that poetry often has a sense of humor. His poems use straightforward language, with a sly tongue-in-cheek quality that makes you want to read them again. In the title poem from his collection The Trouble with Poetry, he claims that poetry will never die, "unless the day finally arrives/when we have compared everything in the world/to everything else in the world."

And finally, (for the title alone!) check out Sleeping it off in Rapid City, by August Kleinzahler, who writes with rough affection about travels not just in these parts, but all over the globe.

Loving Libraries

2010-04-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's National Library Week! We love this time of year (okay, maybe we're a little biased). When it comes to books featuring libraries or librarians, there are a lot to choose from. In honor of the occasion, here are a few:

You might have heard about Marilyn Johnson's This Book is OverDue!, a look at the changing role of libraries in the digital age. The author will also appear at this year's Festival of Books in Sioux Falls in September.

Library services take a different shape in other parts of the world, as in Masha Hamilton's The Camel Bookmobile, about an American librarian who goes to live in Africa and operate a camel-driven bookmobile through remote Kenyan villages. Hamilton's book is a work of fiction, but camel and donkey bookmobiles are a reality in some countries--you can view clips of a documentary on the subject here.

For a fun set of mysteries, check out Ian Sansom's Mobile Library series, featuring Israel Armstrong, the mobile librarian from Northern Ireland, who finds himself caught up investigating local theft and missing persons cases, all the while handling the often humorous daily encounters with his patrons.

A great deal of other novels center on librarian characters. One personal favorite is Elizabeth McCracken's The Giant's House, about a young small-town librarian, Peggy, who forms an attachment to an extraordinarily tall young patron named James. He grows up to be the tallest man in the world, but his medical condition means he will not live to be very old. The story of their relationship, an unusual romance, is uniquely moving.

Speaking of libraries, we are so excited for everyone to see the new Main on May 7! Here's a sneak peek at some of the new fiction shelving. Check out our Facebook page for more photos.

Finding your Roots

2010-04-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

The new television series Who do you think you are? follows celebrities like Sara Jessica Parker and Spike Lee as they trace their ancestry. It makes for compelling viewing, not in the least because it is fascinating to see famous people engrossed in activities that non-celebrities can relate to, like genealogy and the search to understand our past. Stars--they're just like us!

We recently added the companion book for the series to our collection, for those interested in getting starting tracing their own family history. Also check our catalog for a list of other titles for beginning genealogists. There's a lot of excellent resources online as well, including two library databases: Ancestry Library and HeritageQuest. Ancestry can be used at a computer within any Sioux Falls library branch, and you can use HeritageQuest from home--just login with your library card and PIN. Visit our Genealogy Research page for links and information.

The Main Library has its own genealogy collection for researchers--visit us when we reopen May 7, after renovation is complete, to see what we have to offer!

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

Now that the vernal equinox has officially passed and the temperature has actually climbed above 50 degrees once or twice, many of us are contemplating the annual task of spring cleaning. Here are some recent titles that you might find useful:

Throw out fifty things: clear the clutter, find your life by Gail Blanke. Starting by tossing 50 things sounds manageable, right? The author gives tips for letting go of excess items, both physically and mentally.

Clutter busting: letting go of what's holding you back, by Brooks Palmer. Explore intriguingly titled chapters, like "We assume false identities in clutter," and "Inner clutter creates outer clutter."

Nowadays, it's not only our living spaces that may need cleanup. Douglas C. Merrill and James A. Martin discuss dealing with information overload in Getting organized in the Google Era: how to get stuff out of your head, find it when you need it, and get it done right.

Finally, for a big picture look at decluttering our world, check out Annie Leonard's The story of stuff: how our obsession with stuff is trashing the planet, our communities, and our health--and a vision for change. The book is a companion to an online film the author made in 2007.

Books of the Irish

2010-03-17T09:15:00.000-07:00

Are you dressed in green today? Are you ready to “shamrock and roll” tonight? Whatever way you choose to honor the holiday, maybe it will include one of these recent works by Ireland-born authors:

Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show, by Frank Delaney, a story set in 1932 about a family of farmers torn apart after the father is seduced away by an actress from a theater troupe, and his son attempts to bring him back.

Love and Summer, by William Trevor--a love story, as the title suggests, about a young farmer's wife named Ellie and a bachelor named Florian who fall for each other but get caught in the drama of other characters in their small town.

The Dead Republic, Roddy Doyle. A Star Called Henry introduced young revolutionary Henry Smart; this book concludes his tale as he grows old and tries to preserve the story of his life and involvement in Ireland's long conflict, though many want to distort it for political purposes.

Hea rt and Soul, Maeve Binchy--the master storyteller's latest novel centers on a heart hospital, interweaving the lives of doctors, patients, and their families, including appearances by some beloved recurring characters. Binchy also contributes to Irish Girls about Town, a fun collection of stories by Irish women writers, and a fitting read for today.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

New and Intriguing

2010-03-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Some new fiction titles this month that caught our attention:

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith. If you enjoyed the author's mash of classic Brit lit and the undead in Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, you'll be pleased that he's returned with the untold story of our 16th president and his battle with mythical creatures.

Doors Open, Ian Rankin. Library Journal calls it a "rousing good yarn," about a trio of would-be art-thieves trying to plan their caper. Expect many plot twists!

False Mermaid, Erin Hart. Third in a series of Irish mysteries following forensics expert Dr. Nora Galvin as she investigates the death of her sister--this one is set in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Hole We're In, Gabrielle Zevin. A timely story about a family struggling to survive financial turmoil and the unexpected life decisions of their adult children, with a dose of humor.

Union Atlantic by Adam Haslett. Successful banker Doug finds an ideal place in Massachusetts to construct a lavish home. His plans are complicated by Charlotte, a retired history teacher who claims the land belonged to her grandfather, in a power struggle that mirrors the present financial crisis.

Remember you can always find a complete list of new fiction, nonfiction, movies and music at the What's New? page on our website!

Women's History Month

2010-03-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

In March we celebrate the achievements of notable women in history, and we've got a display at the Main library to help you do just that! "Women who left their stamp" will get you started reading about the intriguing lives of women who accomplished extraordinary things in their fields. A few of the titles that might catch your eye:

Everyday Revolutionaries: working women and the transformation of American Life by Sally Helgeson, a study of the impact women entering the workforce has had on society.

Women's Letters: America from the Revolutionary War to the present, edited by Lisa Grunwald and Stephen J. Adler. Original letters can be a fascinating read, especially when they reflect major historical events in this country.

How Jane Won: 55 successful women share how they grew from ordinary girls to extraordinary women by Sylvia Rimm. Accomplished women tell stories of the challenges they overcame to become inspiring role models.

The Brontes: a life in letters by Juliet Barker. Another set of letters, this one chronicling the drama and tragedy of a beloved literary family.

Of local interest you might find Becoming Laura Ingalls Wilder: the woman behind the legend by John E. Miller, and one especially popular subject these days is profiled in Nancy Verde Barr's Backstage with Julia: my years with Julia Child.

Enjoy reading about these exceptional women, and tell us about your favorite biographies!

Book Club Selection: Last Moon Dancing

2010-03-01T14:21:00.000-08:00

This month's Eclectic Book Group choice is Last Moon Dancing by Monique Maria Schmidt, which chronicles the author's experience in the Peace Corps, teaching English in the West African nation of Benin. Several other authors have written on the life and cultural lessons they learned while serving in the Peace Corps, and readers of Schmidt's book may also want to check out:

Nine Hills to Nambonkaha: Two Years in the Heart of an African Village by Sarah Erdman, or First Comes Love, then Comes Malaria: How a Peace Corps Poster Boy Won my Heart and a Third-World Adventure Changed My Life by Eve Brown-Waite.

Josh Swiller's The Unheard: a Memoir of Deafness and Africa tells of the unique challenges he faces as a person who is hearing-impaired, serving in the Peace Corps.

The Eclectic Book Group meets at the Caille Branch Library, on the first Monday of every month. Click here for more information.

Books with a bite

2010-02-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

Our latest episode of It's Your Library- Check It Out! is on the air and ready to view on the City Link 16 web page. In this episode, viewers will learn how the "My Account" feature on our Web site works.

Also in this episode, Jill will discuss the phenomena of vampire literature and romance. If you are not familiar with this genre, check out the episode as Jill shares her knowledge and love of these books. We have posted a list of authors of vampire fiction or "Books with a bite" on our Facebook page. Click here to access this list.

Vampire fiction is a hot topic. With the popularity of the HBO series True Blood and the Stephenie Meyer series Twilight, vampires are everywhere. NPR featured a story about this trend. You can read or listen to the story, "For Love of the Do-Good Vampires: a Bloody Book List", here. Make sure you scroll to the bottom to see the list of books recommended by the author, Margot Adler.

Do you have a favorite vampire novel or author?

Book Club Selection: The Unit

2010-02-18T07:22:00.000-08:00

The Life Book Club will discuss Ninny Holmqvist's novel The Unit this week, about a society where people of a certain age and social standing are forced to move into the Second Reserve Bank Unit, where they eventually become organ donors for other people--people that have been deemed the "necessary" ones. It may remind some readers of Kazuo Ishiguro's 2005 novel Never Let me Go, which follows a group of children raised separately from society for vaguely referenced purposes that become more ominous as the novel progresses. Ishiguro's book has actually been made into a movie, releasing later this year.

Join the Life Book Club at Zandbroz on February 18 from 6:30-7:30 PM to discuss The Unit, or if you can't make it in person, add your discussion here!

Dog Show!

2010-02-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

Many of us will enjoy watching the amazing athletes of the Winter Olympics for the next two weeks, but there's another fierce competition, of the furry variety, that plays out this week. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is an annual favorite, and today we highlight a few of the dog-show themed titles you can find in our catalog. If you're interested in the history of the Westminster show, check out William Stifel's: The Dog Show: 125 Years of Westminster for an inside look at the culture of this event over the years. Fiction fans who are also dog lovers may be familiar with canine romps like Susan Conant's mysteries featuring dog trainer Holly Winter, or Laurien Berenson's Melanie Travis Series. More recently, Spencer Quinn's debut novel, Dog On It , introduced Chet, a clever hound who finds himself wrapped up in the investigations of his partner Bernie, a human detective. In the second installment, Thereby Hangs a Tail, Chet and Bernie end up on a case involving the abduction of Princess, a show dog. Mystery lovers will appreciate the fast pace and sharp writing of the books, and the endearing humor of dog-as-narrator may remind some people of Garth Stein's The Art of Racing in the Rain.

After it's over, if you still need more dog show fun, pick up a copy of the movie Best in Show, a funny and loving portrayal of human and animal participants in the fictitious Mayflower Dog Show. Have any other doggone favorites? Let us know!

Black History Month at Siouxland Libraries

2010-02-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

The Main Library is excited to feature artist Porter Williams from now until February 19, as he works on his sculpture of cowboy Nat Love, also known as "Deadwood Dick." Nat Love was a skilled rider and marksman, known for his bravery. In 1876 he won a shooting contest in Deadwood on Independence Day and earned his nickname. Read more about him in a couple of books from the library: The Story of Nat Love, and 100 African Americans who Changed American History, or check our Biography Resource Center database for his detailed biography.

When the sculpture is completed, it will be placed in the South Dakota African American History Museum at the Multicultural Center, with some of Porter Williams' other pieces.

Oscar Time

2010-02-02T10:09:00.001-08:00

Winter may not be your favorite time of year, but at least it coincides with another exciting season...that's right, awards season! Nominees for this year's Oscars were announced this morning. As usual, a lot of the nominated films are still in theaters or on the festival circuit, but you can find some of them on DVD in our catalog, like A Serious Man, District 9, The Hurt Locker, Inglorious Basterds, and Up, which all received a nod for Best Picture.

Let's not forget some of the lesser known awards--perhaps this is usually the time during the Oscar telecast when you get up to fix a snack. Check out some of these movies and you'll want to see how they fare in their categories:

In the Loop, a biting political satire nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Paris 36, a French musical with a nomination for Best Original Song.

Bright Star, story of the romance between the poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne, nominated for Best Costume Design.

We also have two of the films nominated for Best Documentary Feature: The Cove, a chilling investigation into a secret dolphin-hunting industry in Japan, and Food, Inc. a behind-the-scenes examination of our nation's food supply industry and corporate agriculture (Warning: you may never look at a chicken nugget the same way again).

Happy Viewing!

Selector's Spotlight

2010-01-25T17:29:00.000-08:00

Our selectors are always hard at work, looking for interesting new titles to purchase for the library. We also take suggestions! Here are some recently added nonfiction items that Carla and Marty, two of our adult selectors, are excited about:

Mayo Clinic diet: eat well, enjoy life, lose weight, by the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Mayo Clinic’s first weight-loss diet book. No fad diet here – medically sound and tested advice.

Making the most of your money now: the classic bestseller completely revised for the new economy, by Jane Bryant Quinn. The respected money maven’s advice for how to make the most of your money. Consumer’s Union called the earlier edition the best personal finance book on the market. Library Journal says it’s “an excellent primer, especially for those new to managing their money.” I think all of us feel pretty new to managing our money these days!

You: having a baby: the owner’s manual to a happy and healthy pregnancy, by Michael F. Roizen, M.D., Mehmet Oz, M.D., et al. These guys have a little industry going with their “You” books, starting with the mega-success of You: the owner’s manual. This is the sixth book – a topic by topic look at the basics of pregnancy and other peripheral issues, such as “pregnancy brain” (?!).

How not to die, by Jan Garavaglia, M.D. Written by “a high profile forensic expert” (she’s on TV), this book gives useful advice on how to keep yourself alive. (Who knew you shouldn’t drive with your windows half down?)

Moral Underground: How Ordinary Americans Subvert an Unfair Economy by Lisa Dodson. This tells about countless unsung heroes who bend or break the rules to help fellow Americans in a system that puts a decent life beyond the reach of the working poor.

2012 Story by John Major Jenkins, an overview of how 2012 has come to be viewed by many as a world-changing year.

Thanks, Carla and Marty!

Robert B. Parker, 1932-2010

2010-01-20T19:48:00.000-08:00

Many of today's mystery authors name Robert B. Parker as a significant influence--he was certainly one of the most popular and prolific writers in the genre. His myriad fans were saddened to learn of the author's passing on Monday, at 77 years old. Over the span of his career, he produced more than 60 novels, many featuring no-nonsense detective Spenser, probably his most memorable character. In later books he introduced Jesse Stone, police chief of Paradise, MA. The New York Times described his writing style as "blunt, masculine prose...often described as Hemingwayesque. But his writing also seems self-aware, even tongue-in-cheek, as though he recognized how well worn such a path was."

Visit our catalog for a list of books by this well-loved American author.

Remembering Civil Rights

2010-01-18T17:49:00.000-08:00

Kathryn Stockett's debut novel The Help appeared on several "best of" fiction lists in 2009-- USA Today even named it Book of the Year. It has definitely been popular at the library! The story takes place in Mississippi during the early 1960s, and focuses on the relationships a young white woman develops with a group of black women who work as maids for local families. As she attempts to write a book that tells their stories, all the women confront the racial tension and barriers that pervade their segregated sourthern community.
This week as we remember the Civil Rights Movement and one of its definitive leaders, Martin Luther King, Jr., here are a few other books that evoke this time with a mix of compelling fictional characters and real history:

We are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg, also set in 1960s Mississippi, centers on a white woman who has been paralyzed, her teen daughter, and her caregiver, a black woman whose boyfriend is involved with the Civil Rights movement.

The Summer We Got Saved by Pat Cunningham Devoto interweaves stories of characters from two generations in Bainbridge, Alabama, as they are awakened to the burgeoning Civil Rights movement and the fight for integration.

Fire in the Rock by Joe Martin revolves around young friends Bo and Mae Maude, who are white, and Pollo, who is black. Their bond is gradually challenged by the racial and religious conflict of the time, culminating in an incident that changes their lives forever.

Four Spirits: a novel by Sena Jeter Naslund portrays college student Stella, who becomes active in the Civil Rights cause in volatile Birmingham. The story blends her perspective with those of several other characters from both sides of the conflict.

Young Adult novels :

The Watsons go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis is the fictional story of Kenny, a young boy whose family travels to Birmingham to see his grandmother, where they witness the 1963 bombing that killed four young girls at the 16th Street Baptist Church.

The Rock and the River by Kekla Magoon just won the Coretta Scott King Award for New Talent, and centers on a fourteen-year-old boy from Chicago whose father and brother clash over their different approaches to fighting for Civil Rights.

Happiness is...a good book.

2010-01-11T18:27:00.000-08:00

If you caught any of the series This Emotional Life on PBS last week, you saw Harvard psychologist Daniel Gilbert's look at the scientific side of being happy. His book Stumbling On Happiness reveals the ways our imagination affects our sense of well-being, with plenty of the human stories that made the documentary so interesting. It is the start of a new year, after all--a time when many people think about the "big" questions. For example: can a person achieve true happiness in one year? Gretchen Rubin sets out to find the answer in her new book The Happiness Project: or why I spent a year trying to sing in the morning, clean my closets, fight right, read Aristotle, and generally have more fun. Her systematic, month-by-month approach may sound a bit unusual, but results in some surprising, humorous discoveries.

Fiction fans interested in this theme may want to pick up Lisa Grunwald's novel Whatever Makes You Happy, the story of Lisa Farber, a New York writer who decides to write her next book about happiness. Her research leads her to examine her own life and family--is she happy with the way things turned out?

For your own journey to well-being this year, check out the display "Be Good to Yourself" next time you're at the Main Library, for plenty of titles to reenergize you in these winter months--and let us know what else you're reading to make you happy!

Welcome to our Blog

2010-01-06T14:13:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about working in a library is talking with our customers about what they are reading, listening to, and watching. We love providing suggestions and talking about what the library has to offer, and it works both ways--often our customers get us interested in different authors, artists, and movies. Now we're taking it online! Our blog will feature titles we're excited about, staff recommendations, and opportunities for discussing what the community is reading.

We hope you'll discover some new favorites, and join the discussion from time to time!