North Olympic Library System

Barcelona-themed Books

2012-01-27T11:44:00.000-08:00

Blustery winter weather has leftme dreaming of exotic locales. To combat my wanderlust, I recently read twofiction novels set in a city I have always wanted to visit – Barcelona.

Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon is a 20^th century taleof murder, mystery, madness, and doomed love. Cathedral of the Seaby Ildefonso Falcones is a captivatingly rich story again centered inBarcelona, but the time period is the 14^th century and theInquisition is casting a dark shadow over Spain. Friendship, revenge,love and war are the themes in this absorbing novel.

If you too are suffering fromcabin fever, try reading a novel set in a location you’d like to explore. Ohthe places you’ll go…….

Click the images above to request it in catalog

January Art Blast in Port Angeles

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

On a frosty evening in January, a crowd of 300 enjoyed the warm tunes of The Cornstalks - at the Art Blast the heart of the Port Angeles Library.

Creating A Reading Map

2012-01-17T10:26:00.000-08:00

As a reader my tastes are all over the spectrum. In fiction, I read mysteries, romance, westerns, graphic novels, Sci-Fi and fantasy, religious fiction, and historical fiction. I admit to being rusty in the areas of thrillers and horror. Often when reading fiction, I will want to know more about the actual time period or place depicted in the book and that leads to discoveries in nonfiction for all ages. Charting such reading is like making a map. I start where I am.

For instance, the Port Angeles Library Book Discussion group recently read the popular historical fiction novel Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford. From there I can explore many routes to learn more about the era, setting, and characters in the book.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, set mostly in WW II era Seattle, recounts a love story between a Chinese boy and a Japanese girl before, during, and after the relocation of Japanese Americans to internment camps. The Panama Hotel featured in the book is a real place. Visit http://www.panamahotel.net/ for more information. Unfortunately, the camps were also real. To hear real life stories of actual northwest Japanese internees from Bainbridge Island visit the website of the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community at http://www.bijac.org/. One can follow an actual road map and visit the places mentioned in the book including the memorial to those interned from Bainbridge.

A reading map is also beginning to emerge. To learn more about the setting of Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet, try Seattle’s International District: The Making of a Pan-Asian American Community by Doug Chin. The internment camp at Puyallup fairgrounds is the subject of Camp Harmony: Seattle’s Japanese Americans and the Puyallup Assembly Center by Louis Fiset.

Another element of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is the early Seattle Jazz scene. The song Ally Cat Strut by Oscar Holden does not exist, but Holden was an early father of Seattle Jazz. His son has recorded some of his father’s music. You can check out and listen to: Roots to Roots and Beyond by Dave Holden. To learn more about the Seattle Jazz Scene check out: Jackson Street After Hours: The Roots of Jazz in Seattle by Paul De Barros which features biographical information about Oscar Holden and many other great musicians.

In addition to exploring nonfiction, a good novel will pique my interest in read-a-like novels. Read-a-likes are novels which share common factors such as time period, geographic setting, genre, tone or pace. Thinking about read-a-likes for Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet leads us to October’s PALS selection, The Samurai’s Garden by Gail Tsukiyama. Enter the Samurai’s Garden and watch as a young Chinese man comes of age in Japan during World War II. This book was universally popular with book club participants and comes highly recommended. The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka is a poetic novel about the lives of Japanese picture brides coming to America at the turn of the century.

Chinese Americans are also featured in Jaime Ford’s novel. Additional books to try include The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or Thousand Pieces of Gold: A Biographical Novel by Ruthanne Lum McCunn. A search in Novelist, an e-resource for readers available at http://www.nols.org/ (click on E-Resources > Language and Literature), turned up these read-a-like suggestions for books featuring Japanese Americans in World War II: When The Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka, Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata and Baseball Saved Us by Ken Mochizuki.

Now it’s your turn. Start from a novel or nonfiction book you enjoyed. Explore the library catalog for other books and materials related to your topic, peruse Novelist and see where you end up on your reading journey. Need recommendations? E-mail Collection Management Librarian Lorrie Kovell at lkovell@nols.org. All these titles and resources are available through your local branch of the North Olympic Library System or via the online catalog at http://www.nols.org.

Are you in a Book Club?

2012-01-05T17:36:00.000-08:00

Are you in a book club, or do you want to start one? Frustrated because you don’t have enough copies of your book selection for everyone in your group? You can borrow a book discussion kit from the Library! Each kit includes 10-12 copies of a given title, plus discussion questions.

Book Recommendation: A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore

2011-12-31T11:00:00.000-08:00

A book recommendation from your e-services librarian in Port Angeles:

In Christopher Moore's A Dirty Job we meet Charlie Asher, a self-described beta male, who until now has embodied all things mild-mannered. This begins to change as he is saddled with new responsibilities as a Death Merchant. He navigates this thankless job with the help of his new friend Minty Fresh and his trusty “Big Book of Death.” Christopher Moore's black humor and likeable, three-dimensional characters will especially appeal to fans of Jasper Fforde, Terry Pratchett, Douglas Adams, Tom Robbins, and Carl Hiaasen.

Read about this book in Novelist or place a hold in our online catalog.

Ahoy, matey!

2011-12-28T12:42:00.000-08:00

Landlubbers took to the water on Wednesday December 21 for the Port Angeles Library's Pirate Party at the William Shore Memorial Pool. There were cupcakes for strength and courage, oranges to prevent scurvy, and pirate stories told poolside by Youth Services Librarian (and Head Pirate) Jennifer Knight. A good time was had by all.

Children Picture Book Recommendation: New Socks

2011-12-15T13:10:00.000-08:00

The Sequim Youth Services librarian says, “If you are looking to start a giggle fest in your home at bedtime, New Socks by Bob Shea is just the ticket. The simple drawings of a chicken with socks on and the silly text will have you and your child giggling from the start! Don’t be surprised if your child wants a brand new pair of orange socks by the end of this fun picture book!”

Read about this book in Novelist or place a hold in the online catalog.

Adult Book Recommendation: The Witch of Hebron

2011-12-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

A recommendation from the Port Angeles Web Librarian:

I just finished reading The Witch of Hebron by James Howard Kunstler, the sequel to World Made by Hand. These two novels describe a not-too-distant future in an America that has no more oil or electricity. The local Kmart is an empty shell, and transportation is by horse and buggy. And, you know what? Life isn’t too bad!

Read about this book in Novelist, place a hold in our online catalog, or listen to the audio book by downloading it from Washington Anytime (good news! this is available for both Mac and PC users). There is even a small audio sample to listen to before you decide to download it.

A Teen Book Recommendation: Unwind

2011-12-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

A Book Recommendation from your Youth Services Librarian:

Unwind by Neal Shusterman

A book for Grades 7 & up, Unwind takes place after the Second Civil War. When their children are between the ages of 13 and 17, parents can choose to have every part of their kids’ bodies harvested and donated to other people so that, technically, they don't really die. Three teens are about to learn about the dark road that leads to "harvest camp" and the hidden mysteries involved in “unwinding.”

Read about this book in Novelist, place a hold in our online catalog, or if you are a PC User listen to the audio book by downloading it from Washington Anytime.

New Young Adult Recommendation

2011-12-05T11:42:00.000-08:00

A Young Adult Book Recommendation from your Youth Services Librarian:
Wrapped
by Jennifer Bradbury
Ages 11 and up

Mummies, murder, espionage, Jane Austen, and corsets abound in Agnes Wilkin’s world. When Agnes finds a mysterious object in the wrappings of a mummy during a mummy unwrapping party at the home of a handsome suitor, strange things start happening around her. Is it the mummy’s curse, or is there something more sinister at play? Washington author Jennifer Bradbury spins an action-packed historical mystery tinged with the supernatural. Jane Austen fans, mystery aficionados, and readers interested in Egyptology will rejoice in the plucky Agnes and her adventures. Click the link to request it today.

Request it here in our online catalog

Jamestown S'Klallam drummers at Sequim Library

2011-11-30T13:07:00.000-08:00

At the Sequim Library's preschool storytime on November 16, drummers from the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe performed for the children in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. They shared three traditional songs and the kids were given a chance to try their drums. They also learned a traditional dance and heard stories read by Susan Johnson from the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribal Library. From left to right: Jeremy Monson, Danielle Lawson, Trina Bridges-Jeffery, Robin Hall, Susan Johnson, Vicki Lowe, Melissa Smith and Jan King.

Graphic Novel: Anya’s Ghost

2011-11-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

A Graphic Novel Recommendation from your Port Angeles Librarian:

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol is a graphic novel whose appeal to young teens will be immediately apparent. However, it is sure to win over adult readers with its charm, smart and funny characters, and surprisingly spooky turns.

Request it here

Children's Music CD Napper’s Delight by Dean Jones

2011-11-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

A Children’s Music CD Recommendation from your Youth Services Librarian:

Napper’s Delight by Dean Jones

Napper’s Delight is hypnotic. Once you start listening, it’s hard to stop; there’s a soothing, irresistible quality to the music, in spite of edgy, innovative musicianship. Jones uses a variety of instruments to create a unique sound reminiscent of work by OMD in the 80’s. The talented Elizabeth Mitchell adds her soulful voice to the album adding a traditional sound to the creative sound Jones creates. Turn on the music, and get ready to rock with your baby!

Click here to request it today.

A Favorite Children Music CD

2011-11-18T14:15:00.000-08:00

A Children Music CD Recommendation from your Youth Service Librarian:

"Fascinating Creatures by Frances England This is a favorite music CD. England’s voice is addictive, with a smooth agreeable quality without as much of the saccharine found in other kids’ music. It’s the perfect CD for a rainy day with soup and music with your baby! Click the link to “check it out”

Request it today so you can pick it up the next time you come to the Library.

Abraham Lincoln:Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

2011-11-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

A Book Recommendation from your Sequim Branch Manager: "Abraham Lincoln:Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith. It’s going to be made into a movie in 2012.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter reveals the hidden life of the sixteenth U.S. president, who was actually a vampire-hunter obsessed with the complete elimination of the undead, and uncovers the role vampires played in the birth, growth, and near-death of the nation."

Picture Book Extenders

2011-11-17T16:30:00.000-08:00

Words from your Youth Services Librarian: Great features for children in the Novelist e-resource are Picture Book Extenders. You can find them under the "more" tab at the top left-hand corner of the Novelist home page. Picture Book Extenders are additional activities and questions to do with your child after reading a picture book. Take a look at this fun one for "Duck! Rabbit!"

Click Here To View The Picture Book Extender

Novelist

2011-11-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

Words from your Youth Services Librarian:

"Want to find out which book is next in a series? Find other authors like J.D. Robb? What's the latest vampire book? Novelist is a wonderful e-resource that provides book reviews, orders of books in series, reading lists, and much more! You only need your library card number and password to access this useful resource."

Click Here

Happy Halloween from Sequim

2011-10-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

Things were spooktacular at the Sequim Library today!

Happy Halloween from Forks

2011-10-31T14:06:00.000-07:00

Follow the yellow brick road to find the staff at the Forks Branch Library!

Historic Views of Port Angeles

2011-09-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

As a part of Port Angeles' Heritage Festival in August, now retired NOLS' librarian Beth Witters created and narrated two fascinating slide shows using photographs from the Bert Kellogg Collection.

Reader ratings and reviews!

2011-09-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can now review books and movies in the catalog for other library users to see? NOLS has contracted with ChiliFresh.com to put interactive content, including reviews and comments from library users at thousands of other ChiliFresh libraries, in the NOLS catalog. You’ll need a library card to post your own reviews, but anyone can read reviews from other members of the NOLS community and beyond. If you like the reviews and ratings that you see at Amazon.com, you'll like this new feature. Check it out, and let us know what you think!

Trailblazing Photojournalist: Margaret Bourke-White” Program

2011-08-31T14:57:00.000-07:00

“Trailblazing Photojournalist: Margaret Bourke-White” Program at West End Branches

Lynne Iglitzin will present the compelling program “Trailblazing Photojournalist: Margaret Bourke-White” at the Clallam Bay and Forks branches of the North Olympic Library System later this month. The Clallam Bay event takes place on Thursday, September 15 beginning at 7pm. In Forks, Ms. Iglitzen will speak at 7pm on Friday, September 16.

“Trailblazing Photojournalist: Margaret Bourke-White” will explore the life of one of the early 20th century’s eminent photographers. From images of the Great Depression to World War II photographs in Life Magazine, Bourke-White’s groundbreaking work opened the door for women in photography.

Lynne Iglitzen lives in Seattle and was a Professor of Political Science at the University of Washington for many years and is the author of several books. She is also a founding board member of Youth in Focus, a program that promotes photography as a tool for motivating youth.

Lynne Iglitzin from Humanities Washington on Vimeo.

This presentation is sponsored by Humanities Washington through their state-wide Speakers Bureau. The Speakers Bureau brings Washington’s finest scholars, historians, musicians, and storytellers to local communities to give dynamic presentations at libraries, schools, museums, and other community organizations. Additional support is being provided by the Friends of the Clallam Bay and Forks Libraries.

Learn. Create. Connect.

2011-08-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

At their July meeting the Library Board adopted NOLS' Strategic Initiatives for 2012-2014. These initiatives were developed by the Library's management team, with input from the entire staff. To help NOLS transition into full implementation of the NOLS 2012 business plan, strategic initiatives provide guidance and direction to the Board and staff in evaluating the importance and value of programs, services and opportunities, particularly when the NOLS 2012 plan is not explicit about programs and services. The initiatives will set the course for the Library, from broad strategic decisions to the specifics of individual and team work plans, for the next couple of years. The slogan "Learn. Create. Connect." summarizes the Library's mission of service to the Clallam County community, and inspires each strategic initiative.

NOLS values community partners and will work with them whenever possible to achieve these strategic initiatives:
Provide education and enrichment opportunities for people of all ages, especially young children.
Empower people to make the most of library resources.
Foster creative social interaction by being the "Third Place".
Provide library facilities that are safe, comfortable, convenient, pleasant and energy-efficient.
Respond nimbly to community needs.
Support local workforce development.
Support development of local economies.

We welcome your feedback on the strategic initiatives and the NOLS 2012 plan.
Paula Barnes
Library Director

Belly dancing Art Blast in Port Angeles

2011-07-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

A belly dancing demonstration and workshop with Shula-Azhar highlighted the July 8 Art Blast! celebration at the Port Angeles Library. You can do that in the Library!

West End Presentations June 29 and June 30, 2011

2011-06-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

“What is That? Unusual and Offbeat People, Places, Things and Events in Washington State” coming to West End Branches

Harriet Baskas will present the program “What is That? Unusual and Offbeat Places Things and Events in Washington State” at the Clallam Bay and Forks Libraries. The Clallam Bay event takes place on Wednesday, June 29th beginning at 6:30 pm. In Forks, Ms. Baskas will speak at 6:30 pm on Thursday, June 30th.

Harriet Baskas is an award winning author and radio producer and has written six books including Washington Curiosities and Washington Icons. She is the president of Reel Women Productions and manages three Northwest public radio stations.

“What is That?” will explore unusual objects, events and stories and their many influences on state and local history.

Harriet Baskas from Humanities Washington on Vimeo.

July 9 Art Blast! Outdoor Concert in Sequim

2011-06-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

Deadwood Revival at the Sequim Branch Library

On Saturday, July 9, the Sequim Branch of the North Olympic Library System will present the first of its new Art Blast! outdoor concerts from 6pm until 8pm.

The featured band, Deadwood Revival, delivers what has been called “the best feel-good show around.” Deadwood Revival features Jason Mogi’s inventive twists on the claw-hammer banjo, Kim Trenerry’s driving rhythm on her ’65 Gibson acoustic guitar, Julie Campbell’s fiery fiddlin’, and Ches Ferguson’s creative ukulele-bass lines. Kim and Jason’s powerhouse vocal harmonies give Deadwood Revival its unique and unmistakable sound. The band is known for playing a foot stompin', banjo pickin', harmony singin', spirit liftin' spin on traditional bluegrass.

Pacific Northwest-based Deadwood Revival not only exhibits fine musicianship, they are talented song-writers as well. Their CD releases have received rave reviews across the U.S. and Canada. In live performance, the positive energy they exude draws people in and keeps them coming back again and again.

The concert will take place behind the Sequim Branch library using bleachers and a new outdoor stage generously funded by the Friends of Sequim Library. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for additional seating.

This event is suitable for all ages; pre-registration is not required. For more information about this and other Library programs coming up this summer, contact the Library at Sequim@nols.org or 360.683.1161.

NOLS at Sequim Irrigation Festival parade

2011-05-16T11:54:00.000-07:00

Drill team members Emily, Christie, Lauren, Lisa, Wendy, Laura and Margaret

Banner carriers

Practicing the "circle-up and circulate" maneuver

NOLS' award winning Strait Paced Librarians took to the streets of Sequim yesterday, a dazzling parade entry in the annual Irrigation Festival. Thanks to all the staff, Board members and volunteers who participated. Did you know the Irrigation Festival is the longest-running festival in the entire state of Washington?

2011 Poetry Slam big success

2011-04-23T18:43:00.000-07:00


NOLS Poetry Slam winners left to right: Danielle Grimes, Jeffrey Mordecai-Smith, Makala Curry, Laura Rooney, Sharona Klahn, Mesa Maddux and Faith Junker

Over 45 sixth through ninth grade poets regaled an audience of 170 with their poems of love, self-reflection, humor, and gravity at the Port Angeles Library’s first-ever poetry slam for young people on Thursday, April 21. Seventh grade poet Ashlyn Thayer, the author of Alzheimer’s From the Inside won an iPod Nano as the grand prize winner. Thayer’s powerful poem takes the viewpoint of a person with Alzheimer’s. Poets throughout the evening talked about everything from ninja penguins, to bacon, to, more serious topics like cutting, suicide, and abuse.

Michael Mills, editor of Tidepools Magazine, April Bellerud of Odyssey Books, Larry Welch of the Port Angeles Friends of the Library, and Alan Simon Turner of Port Book and News judged the contest. “I am impressed with the participation and the bravery of everyone involved” commented April Bellerud. Original poems were judged on topic development, elements of poetry, language conventions, complexity, and overall impact. Poems entered into the recitation category were judged on accuracy, fluency, expression, complexity and overall impact.

Youth Services Librarian Jennifer Knight (r) congratulates Grand Prize Winner Ashlyn Thayer

First prize winners won an iPod Shuffle, second prize winners won a $20 gift certificate to Port Book and News, and third prize winners won a $15 gift certificate to Odyssey Books.

Grand Prize

Ashlyn Thayer, Alzheimer’s From the Inside

Recitation

First Place: Alanna Brown, We Alone by Alice Walker

Second Place: Faith Junker, Songs of Innocence by William Blake

Third Place: Danielle Grimes, Nothing Gold by Robert Frost

Original

First Place: Jeffrey Mordecai-Smith, Somber

Second Place: Mesa Maddux, A Pet Is Never Lost

Third Place: Madison Kuss, Untitled

Performance Category (no order)

Sharona Klahn, Laura Rooney, Makala Curry, Bacon Balm

Marin Williamson, Snyder’s Cinnabombs

The Poetry Slam, part of the North Olympic Library System’s ongoing series of programs and events for youth, was made possible with generous support from the Port Angeles Friends of the Library in honor of National Poetry Month.

Women Suffragists Visit Port Angeles Library

2011-03-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

Rebecca Redshaw (left) talks to Stephanie Speicher,
Caitlin Macy-Beck (center) and Sharon DelaBarre (right

Actors portraying activists from the women’s suffrage movement greeted the attendees of the showing of Iron Jawed Angels, a film depicting the struggles of women who fought for the passage of the 19th Amendment. The three actors were sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Clallam County who co-sponsored the event at the Port Angeles Main Library on March 18.

Actresses Caitlin Macy-Beckwith, Stephanie Speicher, and Sharon DelaBarre, introduced the program with a moving rendition of Will the Circle be Unbroken followed by an introduction by film critic, Rebecca Redshaw.

Sharon DelaBarre as
Carrie Chapman Catt

Carrie Chapman Catt (DelaBarre) greeted people at the door with a firm handshake and self-introduction setting the mood of the docudrama by modeling similar tactics used by suffragettes in their successful campaign for the right to vote. In 1920, Catt founded the League of Women Voters upon ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Stephanie Speicher as Alice Paul

Speicher, as Alice Paul, was raised as a Quaker and remembers seeing pictures of early 20th century suffragists including Elizabeth Cady Stanton as she was growing up on the East Coast. In researching her character, Speicher found the following quote from Paul particularly insightful: "When the Quakers were founded...one of their principles was and is equality of the sexes. So I never had any other idea...the principle was always there."

Caitlin Macy-Beckwith
as Lucy Burns

Macy-Beckwith, portraying Lucy Burns, a co-founder of the National Women’s Party, bore a striking resemblance to the real life suffragist. Macy-Beckwith commented she was brought to tears while watching the film and said she will no longer take her voting rights for granted.

“Washington was the 5th state to grant women the right to vote,” (more about this) explained League president, Lounette Templeton. “After seeing this film I think you will never miss another chance to vote.“

Redshaw conducted a question and answer session post-screening and the audience voiced their reaction to the film and shared their appreciation for all the efforts of the League of Women Voters.

The evening concluded with the “suffragists” reciting activist/songwriter, Annie Lennox’s moving essay (more about this) on the status of women in the 21st century).

Funding for licensing the film was generously provided by the Port Angeles Friends of the Library. More about joining the Port Angeles Friends of the Library.

Technology for all

2011-03-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

Circulation Supervisor Noah Glaude pats down the Selectric typewriter before returning it to its post.

Did you know the Port Angeles Library provides a typewriter for people who need to fill out paper forms? When the aged Selectric started acting squirrelly recently, we thought the Library's public typewriter might need to be retired forever. But Noah was able to make it operable, even though he'd never touched a typewriter before!

For more information about the public typewriter, as well as other newer technology at the Library, please ask any staff member, call the Library at 360-417-8500, or email PortAngeles@nols.org.

Sequim Technology Fair

2011-03-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, the NOLS team of Lauren and Lauren (Systems Librarian Lauren Corder and Sequim Branch Manager Lauren Dahlgren) helped staff the NOLS booth at Sequim's first ever Tech Fair, held at the high school. They demonstrated many of the Library's technology resources, including downloadable audio books and eBooks, self-contained mp3 players loaded with individual audio books, web-based databases on subjects like car repair and genealogy, and much more. Pictured: Lauren Corder.

Berm, baby, berm!

2011-01-25T18:31:00.000-08:00

Last year the Sequim Library abandoned its septic tank in favor of connecting to the City of Sequim sewer system. A casualty of the project were the junipers on the landscaped earth berm on the south side of the building, where the sewer line joins the building. Replacement landscaping was installed this week, and it looks great. Thanks to the NOLS Facilities Department, especially Victoria and Dave, for making it happen.

Claymation Masterpieces

2010-12-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 11, 2010, twenty-five aspiring filmmakers in Port Angeles and twenty-one in Sequim created claymation videos at a program offered by the Clay Animation Network. Funding was provided by the Friends of the Library at each branch.

Port Angeles

Sequim

Staff picks: "The Other" by David Guterson

2010-12-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Title: The Other

Author: Guterson, David

Call Number: Guterso

Formats: Audio and Print

Set in the Pacific Northwest, David Guterson's The Other captures the essence of life in Seattle and the northwest wilderness over the past 20 years. This is the story of the friendship between John William Barry from one of Seattle’s elite families and Neil Countryman, a descendant of the working class. Despite the differences in background, a bond of friendship takes them from youth to middle age; from idealism to fanaticism. Neil’s biography of the “hermit of the Hoh” brings him fame and heartache as he recalls his friendship with his complex and brilliant friend.

Suggested by Beth

Forks Family Literacy Day

2010-11-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

Exercise your mind!

Family Literacy Day on November 6, 2010 was a huge hit at the Forks Branch with more than 107 participants getting "Fit to Read". More than 60 books were given away to children. 15 high school students and other volunteers were also on hand to help with the various activities set up throughout the branch.

Choosing books to read.

Puzzled?

In the photos you will see a young patron taking timeout from reading to give the hula hoop a whirl. Other kids workout their brains with some puzzle worksheets. In another picture, a family takes their time choosing some great books to take home. And as you can see, one boy couldn't wait to get home to begin reading his special new book.

As usual, Pat Soderlind and her helpers put together another fantastic event!

Early Literacy Program.

Theresa Tetreau
Forks Branch Manager

What's your opinion?

2010-10-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

Libraries are increasingly looking to electronic resources to help patrons find the information they need. The Washington State Library is conducting a survey to find out your opinion. What resources would you like your library to provide? Please take the five minute survey linked below. (Your answers are anonymous.)

Getting Connected: Online Social Networking

2010-10-12T09:22:00.001-07:00

Learn new ways to build connections with your family, friends and customers using Facebook, Twitter, blogging and more. Renne Brock-Richmond will give an introductory talk on using online social media Monday, November 1, at 7pm at the Port Angeles Main Library. She will also provide information on how to create accounts, use marketing strategies and potential security concerns.

Funding for this program is generously provided by the Port Angeles Friends of the Library and is free of charge. Preregistration is not required.

Renne Emiko Brock-Richmond teaches computer, digital media and social media use through Peninsula College, is an Education Mentor for the University of Washington Certificate in Virtual Worlds Program, conducts workshops for TechSoup Global on marketing and social media networking and offers her own independent courses.

Go green! Get your notices via email.

2010-10-06T13:39:00.000-07:00

Go green! Switch to email notices today. Email is the fastest way to receive notice of held and overdue materials.

You’ll receive email notices faster than using regular mail. Email notices are environmentally friendly and they reduce the Library’s postage, copying and paper costs, allowing a more efficient use of your tax dollars.

Ask staff to help you "Go green" by visiting or calling your local library
(Port Angeles: 360.417.8500, Sequim: 360.683.1161,
Clallam Bay: 360.963.2414, Forks: 360.374.6402
or email director@nols.org).

Playaways in Forks

2010-09-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

At the Forks Branch Library, vampires listen to Playaways at twilight!

A Playaway is a tiny audio player that comes preloaded with an entire audiobook. Check them out in the Audio Book section of any NOLS branch, or request them online by keyword searching for Playaway.

Playaway – the audiobook that plays itself!

2010-09-14T08:40:00.000-07:00

The Playaway audiobook player -- check it out!

If you aren’t familiar with Playaways, you’ll want to check them out. A Playaway is a tiny audio player that comes preloaded with an entire audiobook. Playaways are simple, portable, and hassle free … just put in one AAA battery, plug in your own ear buds, and press play! Small enough to fit in your pocket, and compatible with standard car adaptors – so your favorite book can go anywhere you do!

Check them out in the Audio Book section of any NOLS branch, or request them online by keyword searching for Playaway.

Happy listening!

Now what??!!

2010-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

The voters of Clallam County said Yes! to the North Olympic Library System on election day, August 17, when they passed the “Library Levy Lid Lift” with 59.11% of the vote. This means that the property tax that supports Clallam County’s public library will increase effective January 1, 2011, from the current 33 cents to 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation. This will result in an approximate increase of $1.3 million over the Library’s 2010 revenue level. Property tax bills are sent out in mid-February. The first payments are due April 30. The Library will begin receiving the additional revenue in May, 2011.

With the successful passage of the levy, the Library will be able to implement the NOLS 2012 business plan. The plan can get underway when the augmented revenue begins flowing to the Library in May, 2011. It’s called NOLS 2012 because although the plan will begin to be put in place next year, it will be fully implemented in 2012.

Library patrons will see two major improvements as a result of the NOLS 2012 plan: longer, more convenient hours, and more new books and other materials on the shelves. Starting near the end of 2011, the new hours in Sequim and Port Angeles will be Monday-Thursday 10am to 8pm, Friday 10am to 6pm, and Saturday 10am to 5pm. In Clallam Bay, the hours will be Monday-Wednesday 10am to 7pm, Thursday 10am to 5pm, and Friday and Saturday 12pm to 5pm. In Forks, the hours will be Monday-Thursday 10am to 7pm, and Friday and Saturday (yes, Saturday, year round!) 10am to 6pm. We plan to hire additional staff in the summer of 2011, and to expand the hours once the staff have been trained. The goal is to have the new hours in place by the end of 2011. Similarly, we plan to increase the number of new materials purchased starting next summer. You should see more titles and more variety on the shelves of your local library by the fall of 2011.

Once the NOLS 2012 plan gets rolling, Library users will notice other changes, as well. For example, the plan includes a system-wide teen services specialist. This staff member would work in all the Library’s branches to build collections and plan and present programs especially suited to teens. The plan also allows for more children's programs and events at the Clallam Bay and Forks Libraries, and more custodial help, to keep the library buildings cleaner, safer and more enjoyable to use.

The business plan will be our road map, but there’s ample room for revisions in response to your needs and interests. You can read the NOLS 2012 plan online, and you can always email me with your questions and suggestions, or call me at 417-8525.

Flowerboxes in Forks

2010-08-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

The flower boxes in front of the Forks Branch Library offer a bright welcome to Library customers and passers-by.

Toddler dance party in Port Angeles

2010-07-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

Toddlers and Youth Services Librarian Jennifer had a honey of a time at the Toddler Dance Party at the Port Angeles Library. The next one will be on Friday, July 30 at 10:15am.

Summer Reading: Toddler Dance Party

2010-07-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

There are still two more dance parties to attend at the Port Angeles Library, July 23 and July 30 at 10:15am. Look at how much fun they were having last week! Find out more.

"Scene" around your library: Forks

2010-07-21T10:18:00.000-07:00

These girls visited the Forks library and picked out some really cool books! Summer is a great time to read.

Port Angeles Friends of the Library website

2010-07-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

The Port Angeles Friends of the Library have a brand new website. You can visit it at www.palibraryfriends.com. Congratulations to our wonderful Friends on their beautiful new arrival!

What goes best with books and reading? Pigs!

2010-07-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

Valentine's Performing Pigs were on parade at the Port Angeles Library on Wednesday afternoon 7/7, as part of the Library's annual campaign to keep kids reading during the summer months. Make a splash - READ is the theme for 2010. Visit any NOLS Library: Port Angeles, Sequim, Forks and Clallam Bay to learn more about it, or check it out here.

Library drill team in Port Angeles on July 4

2010-07-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

Going to the Port Angeles July 4 parade? Watch for the North Olympic Library System's Strait-Paced Librarians precision book cart drill team! Show us your library card, and cheer for your public library!

Art in the Library Openings a Big Success

2010-06-17T11:58:00.000-07:00

The Sequim Branch Library hosted its Art in the Library reception on Friday, June 4. Jazz music by the Ed Donohue Quartet set a festive atmosphere for the people enjoying local artists' work.

The Port Angeles Main Library's reception took place on Friday, June 11, with many in attendance to view local art and to tap their toes to the music of the Port Angeles High School Jazz Combo.

Art in the Library is an ongoing event at both the Sequim Branch Library and the Port Angeles Main Library.

OVERDUE FINES TO INCREASE TO 20 cents/day ON JULY 1

2010-06-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

At their regular meeting on May 27, 2010, the Board of Trustees of the North Olympic Library System voted unanimously to increase the fine for overdue books and other materials from 10 cents per day to 20 cents per day, effective July 1, 2010. The maximum fine of $5.00 per item will not change.

At a series of town hall meetings and community presentations earlier this year regarding the Library’s NOLS 2012 business plan, several attendees urged the Library to increase the overdue fines as a way to boost revenues and get overdue materials back to the Library faster. In 2009 NOLS collected $48,166 in overdue fines and charges for lost and damaged books and other materials. This is about 1.5% of NOLS’ operating budget.

Prior to setting a new fine rate, NOLS reviewed its own history of charging fines as well as the rates at neighboring libraries. NOLS first started charging overdue fines in 2003 and the rate has not been adjusted since that time. The Kitsap Regional Library charges 25 cents per day, and the Timberland Regional Library, which began assessing overdue fines in 2009, charges 15 cents per day.

Read Policy 3.5: Penalties for Overdue and Lost Materials. Contact the Library Director.

Find out about your library's events!

2010-06-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Watch this video to see how to find out what's going on at your Library.

Friends of Sequim Library launch new website

2010-05-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

You're familiar with their wildly successful monthly used book sales behind the Sequim Branch Library...but did you know the Friends of Sequim Library have a brand new website? The site is packed with information about their sales, projects and programs funded by the Friends, and suggestions for how you can get involved. NOLS is in the process of adding a link on its website, and once it's there, you'll be able to visit the Sequim Friends' site from the NOLS Friends of the Library page. In the meantime, until NOLS staff can make that link, just click here. Thank you, Friends of the Library, for all you do to support the public library!

Strait-Paced Librarians in Sequim's Irrigation Festival Parade

2010-05-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

NOLS' Strait-Paced Librarians had a blast in Sequim's annual Irrigation Festival parade on Saturday, May 8, 2010. Thanks to the Board members, staff, volunteers, and children and friends of staff who helped by decorating the carts, carrying the banner, managing the music and distributing bookmarks, and thanks to the team for another outstanding effort. A good time was had by all!

Port Angeles: Pioneer Dance Tunes Entertains Many With Music and Stories

2010-05-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

Audience Participation:
Toes tapped and heads nodded as Vivian and Phil Williams performed pioneer dance tunes played in the Far West from the 1850s to 1880s at the Port Angeles Main Library on April 17th. The audience of nearly 50 laughed, chuckled and sighed at the humorous and sometimes poignant stories recounted from journals and interviews of early Washington and Oregon settlers.

Basics used for social get together:
Before towns, groups of neighbors would gather in the late afternoon in a barn or other large space and dance until midnight. After the traditional midnight dinner, music and dancing would continue until daylight allowed a safe return home. In a time of few musical instruments, simple hand claps or stomping of boots alone would often suffice with dance moves being called out. To the delight of all, Phil demonstrated the use of “straws” (in this case skewers were used) that added a percussion beat to the music as they were struck on the fiddle strings while the tune was played.

Stories of fun and mischief:
Among the humorous tales told was one of a dance where the ladies (always in short supply) became tired and wanted to leave after the midnight meal. Cleverly, some of the men set all their horses loose and thus dancing had to continue until dawn. Frequently the largest place available would be the “Dance Hall” where proper ladies would never enter. Once the pictures were turned to the wall and the bar closed, dances were deemed acceptable to the ladies.

Return promised:
The Williams continually research and gather tunes and stories in their visits to northwest communities. Their research has led to the discovery of regional variations on a tune and long unheard local songs. The Port Angeles Main Library’s Northwest Collection was naturally inspected for such stories with a promise was made to return and research our local Clallam County music.

Impromptu Fiddle Session:
In attendance were members of the Washington State Old Time Fiddlers who were so inspired that they stayed after for nearly an hour “jamming” with their fiddles and other stringed instruments. The meeting room door remained open and many library users who had missed the program stopped in to chat and learn more about the music in our local community.

Sequim: Out with the junipers, in with native plants (soon, anyway)

2010-03-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

Now that the inside of the Sequim Branch Library is so lovely, the Friends of the Library and the staff agreed that there are still some spots on the outside that could use some spiffing up. Earlier this week the junipers on the south side of the building were removed, and the rotting retaining wall was demolished and replaced with a poured concrete enclosure. After the soil is amended a bit, staff will be adding ground cover that requires little to no watering, and which will hold the soil in place. Watch this space!

Thanks to Friends of Sequim Library for their support and encouragement of this project.

Screening of the Film "Babe" a Huge Success!

2010-03-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

The February 26th screening of Babe in Port Angeles was attended by almost fifty people, many children dressed in pajamas with pillows and stuffed Teddy bears in tow.

Main Library Manager Keitha Owen created a movie-watching experience better than any movie theatre! Chairs were set up for the adults, and children lounged on carpet squares. Volunteer Kay O'Neill served up tasty popcorn and animal crackers.

Keitha introduced author, playwright, and film critic Rebecca Redshaw who shared interesting tidbits from the film and the book written by Dick King-Smith upon which it was based. One of the Hoggett family members made a surprise appearance—actually, actress Charlotte McElroy from Sequim--who read from the book.

The sheep in Babe had an uneasy relationship with the herding dogs, but when Tim Whetstine from Gentle Paws brought his dog Crikey in, everyone saw how gentle and loving dogs can be!

Look forward to attending a future movie screening based on an excellent book. Tell your friends, and come on down!

All NOLS libraries will be closed March 29 - April 3

2010-03-02T09:57:00.000-08:00

All branches of the North Olympic Library System will be closed from Monday, March 29 through Saturday, April 3 as a cost-saving measure. All employees, including non-union and management staff, will be on an unpaid furlough leave during this time. The Library’s website will not be available, bins for returning library materials will be locked, community meeting rooms will not be available, and all NOLS buildings will go dark. All NOLS libraries will reopen for business on Monday, April 5 at their regular times.

The salary savings will amount to about $35,000 for this one-week period. Other savings in such areas as utilities are estimated to be about $1000. The Library Board is implementing this library closure, and a second one in late summer 2010, to help close an anticipated $163,000 budget shortfall. The balance of the shortfall will be made up by other personnel reductions, buying fewer new books and other materials and by transferring approximately $88,000 from the Library District’s reserve funds. The budget gap is the result of the cumulative effects of inflation, the loss of timber revenue, and Washington law which caps the Library’s property tax budget at no more than a 1% increase per year without a vote of the people.

The Library Board is considering asking the voters of Clallam County to approve a property tax levy rate increase from 33 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation to 50 cents per $1,000 in November 2010.

The dates of March 29-April 3 and August 30-September 4 were selected for several reasons. Two separate one-week closures allow the Library to maximize the savings derived from shuttering its buildings and technology. These dates also minimize the impact on the Library’s staff by allowing them to spread what is the equivalent of a 3.8% wage cut over four paychecks (March, April, August and September). The Library employs 51 people throughout Clallam County, 45 of whom are members of the union Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). The Library Board appreciates the cooperation of the employee union in agreeing to these furloughs.

For more information about the upcoming Library closure, contact me at Director@nols.org or call me at 360.417.8525.

Paula Barnes

Library Director

Look forward to attending Sequim's annual Author Fair!

2010-02-19T09:13:00.000-08:00

The Sequim Branch Library will host the 2010 Sequim/Dungeness Valley Local Author Fair on Saturday, May 22 from 1 - 4pm.

Published authors living in the Sequim/Dungeness Valley area are invited to submit an application form, accompanied by a copy of their book or media item, to Lauren Dahlgren, Branch Manager, at the Sequim Branch Library, by March 22. Library staff will evaluate the applications and select up to twenty authors to participate in the fair.

Space will be made available throughout the Library for authors to display, discuss and sell their publications on the day of the fair.

Click here for guidelines and application forms, or pick up copies at the Sequim Branch.

Town Hall meetings about proposed property tax levy increase for NOLS

2009-12-31T11:10:00.003-08:00

The North Olympic Library System will hold public meetings at each of the four NOLS libraries in January and February to introduce NOLS 2012, a business plan for the Library. Still in draft form, NOLS 2012 outlines service improvements for each of the NOLS libraries in Clallam Bay, Forks, Port Angeles and Sequim, and establishes a plan for fiscal stability for the Library system. The plan is based on the establishment of a Library Foundation and an increase in the Library’s property tax levy from 31¢ to 50¢ per $1000 in assessed valuation, to be put before Clallam County voters in November 2010. The Library Board of Trustees, staff, and representatives from each of the Friends of the Library groups have worked on developing this draft plan for the past 18 months.

The Board and staff are seeking input from the community members on the elements of this plan at a series of Town Hall meetings:

Port Angeles Main Library on Wednesday, January 13 at 7pm

Sequim Library on Thursday, January 21 at 7pm

Forks Library on Tuesday, January 26 at 6:30pm

Clallam Bay Library on Wednesday, February 3 at 6:30pm

Each meeting will open with an overview of the NOLS 2012 plan presented by members of the Library Board and staff, followed by questions, comments and suggestions from the audience.

Copies of the NOLS 2012 plan are available at each NOLS Library. A 2-page summary of the plan is also available.

For more information about the Library System or the NOLS 2012 plan, contact Library Director Paula Barnes.

Monday Manga Madness!

2009-12-30T16:42:00.001-08:00

Port Angeles Main Library

Monday Manga Madness! If you like comic books, manga, graphic novels or drawing, join Manga Madness on the second Monday of each month at 3:45pm: January 11, February 8, and March 8. Registration is not required. For grades 6-12.

Port Angeles Friends of the Library holiday bazaar

2009-12-11T17:18:00.000-08:00

Wonderful literary gifts abound at the Port Angeles Friends of the Library holiday gift bazaar this weekend in the Raymond Carver Room of the Port Angeles Main Library.

Library Road

2009-12-08T11:42:00.000-08:00

Caught walking across Orcas Street in front of the Port Angeles Library early one morning last month, members of the Library staff were an eerie reminiscence of a certain famous album cover from almost exactly 40 years ago.
(Pictured from left to right: Port Angeles Main Library Manager Keitha Owen, Library Director Paula Barnes, Administrative Services Manager CJ Wolfer, and Assistant Library Director Margaret Jakubcin).

Software maintenance successful

2009-12-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

The software maintenance performed on December 7 was successful. Thank you for your patience during the work. Please let library staff know if you encounter any problems with the catalog or other services.

This maintenance will allow expanded features in the catalog, which are coming soon. The web site will feature an overview of the catalog’s new capabilities. Stay tuned for updates!

Next Library Board meeting will be WEDNESDAY January 27

2009-12-07T13:24:00.000-08:00

The date of the monthly meeting of the Library Board of Trustees will be changed in January 2010. Instead of meeting on the fourth Thursday of the month, the Board will meet on the fourth Wednesday of January, 1/27/10, at 5pm in the Carver Room of the Port Angeles Main Library. The date for the Board meeting is being changed because the Library Director needs to be in Seattle for a meeting on the fourth Thursday, 1/28.

Sequim Library Parking lot will be closed Mon 12/7-Fri 12/11

2009-11-30T17:05:00.000-08:00

The parking lot at the Sequim Library will be closed from 8am Monday, December 7, 2009 through 9am Saturday, December 12 to allow the Sequim Branch to be connected to the City of Sequim sewer service. The Library itself will remain open during the entire project.

Library parking will be available at the Sequim Worship Center next door to the Library to the north. Pedestrian access to the Library is available from this adjacent parking lot. Unfortunately, drive-up access to the book return bins will not be available, but the bins will be available for walk-up traffic. Access to the sidewalk along Sequim Avenue will also be restricted for much of this time.

The Friends of Sequim Library booksales will take place as planned on Friday and Saturday December 11 and 12, with parking available at the church next door.

Once the Library is connected to the City sewer system, the existing septic tank will be abandoned in accordance with City and State regulations. The cost of the entire project is $62,764 including permits and fees, construction and sales tax. Quadra Engineering of Sequim was in charge of project design and engineering. Primo Construction of Carlsborg is doing the construction. For more information contact Library Director Paula Barnes at Director@nols.org.

2010 Budget update

2009-11-27T09:52:00.001-08:00

At the Library Board meeting on November 19, 2009, the Board unanimously adopted the 2010 budget of $3,051,080 for the library district, including 2 one-week unpaid furloughs for all staff. This budget is $37,267 more than the 2009 budget of $3,013,813. During the staff's unpaid furloughs, all NOLS libraries will be closed for a week in the spring and another week in the fall. The tentative dates for these closures, and for the staff to be on unpaid leave, are March 29-April 3, 2010, and August 30-September 4, 2010. These dates have not yet been approved by the Board. The Board directed staff to make additional cuts totalling $22,948 in personnel costs in 2010. The approved budget also includes a transfer of $88,021 from the Reserve Fund for Economic Uncertainty. This combination of reserve funds and spending reductions reduces the $176,043 budget shortfall to $0.

The Board anticipates needing to draw from the Reserve Fund for Economic Uncertainty again in 2011. If the levy election planned for November 2010 passes, the additional property tax funds will not start coming in until April/May 2010, probably resulting in another shortfall. If the planned election fails, or if the Board decides to not seek an increase in the Library's property tax rate, even more will be needed as the Library initiates a phased downsizing of staffing and services.

At the November 19 meeting, the Board also formally directed staff to seek additional revenues and cut spending as ways to reduce the impact on the Reserve Fund for Economic Uncertainty.

For more information about the North Olympic Library System's plan for fiscal sustainability, check out the NOLS 2012 business plan or email LibraryBoard@nols.org.

Family Literacy Day at NOLS was a Success

2009-11-18T10:26:00.001-08:00

Fire fighters read to the children and showed them their fire trucks. It was a bright, sunny day--perfect for reading.

Port Angeles

Sequim

Halloween at the Forks Branch Library

2009-11-05T13:31:00.000-08:00

Forks patrons met some famous personalities on Friday, October 30. From left, Sarah Palin, Groucho Marx, Charlie Chaplin, and Harpo Marx posed for the camera. Actually, it was Theresa Tetreau, Laura Kesey-Farrell, Rebecca Barker, and Christie Stallman--always helpful library employees and playful characters!

Photo courtesy of Chris Cook, Forks Forum

NEW! Library budget situation

2009-10-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

Recent newspaper coverage of the Library's budget situation has raised the possibility of employee lay-offs, unpaid employee furloughs, and library closures in 2010 in order to bring expenditures in line with projected revenues and achieve a balanced budget. The Library Board is working closely with the library staff and the employees' union to balance the 2010 budget in such a way as to minimize the impact on services for library users and save jobs.

Since 2001 the North Olympic Library System has been shaving costs by cutting staff hours, spending less on books and other materials, reducing training, stretching the amount of time between hardware and software upgrades, deferring building maintenance, and taking other steps to live within the state law that limits taxing districts from collecting more than 101% of the property taxes received during the previous year, despite an average inflation rate of 2.8%. For 2010, despite a 4.5% decrease in the budget for books and other library materials, there are no more such "a little here, a little there" options, leaving the district with a projected $176,000 shortfall.

Between now and November 19, 2009, the Library will continue to refine its budget estimates and give further consideration to the reductions currently on the table: layoffs of up to 4 employees, two 1-week furloughs during which all libraries in the system would go dark, and/or a one-time transfer from the System's reserve for capital improvement/replacement.

Between now and November 19, when they will adopt next year's budget, the Library Board welcomes your comments and suggestions. Please email them at LibraryBoard@nols.org or fill out a customer suggestion card at any NOLS library.

If you would like to join the email list to receive regular updates about the Library's budget crisis and the Board's plan for long-term fiscal stability, email Library Director Paula Barnes at Director@nols.org.

Library plan for financial stability

2009-10-21T14:18:00.001-07:00

Find out more about the Library Board's draft plan for library service: NOLS 2012. This plan, currently in development, responds to community demand for more convenient, consistent hours and more books. It addresses ongoing infrastructure maintenance and explains why lifting the Library's property tax levy from 31c to 50c will secure financial stability for the Library system for at least the next 10 years. The Board wants to get your input to this plan before they finalize it. Please share your ideas and reactions by emailing the Library Board of Trustees at LibraryBoard@nols.org, and watch the NOLS 2012 webpage for updates.

Campfire helpers at Port Angeles Library

2009-10-16T11:19:00.001-07:00

A local 4^th Grade Campfire troop recently helped the Port Angeles Main Library with an alphabetization project. The troop volunteered four hours of their time to the library. Thanks to their efforts, the project is now complete!

Stop, drop and read!

2009-10-09T10:47:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, November 7 at all North Olympic Library System locations, the Clallam County Literacy Council and the Library will present Family Literacy Day. Don't miss your chance to hear stories read by local firefighters, to get a tour of a fire truck, and receive a free book. You can "Stop, Drop and Read" at the Clallam Bay and Forks Libraries from 11am to 1pm, and at the Sequim and Port Angeles Libraries from 10am to 12noon. For more information, contact your local library.

NOLS and Port Angeles School District receive collaboration grant

2009-10-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

The Port Angeles School District and the North Olympic Library System’s (NOLS) Port Angeles Library have received a $12,000 “Supporting Student Success” grant from the Washington State Library. The grant provides money to purchase books and other library materials to support the civics and history Classroom-Based Assessments at Port Angeles High School, Dry Creek Elementary School and Hamilton Elementary School. The assessments, developed by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, are used by classroom teachers to gauge student understanding in social studies, the arts, and health and fitness. Duplicate copies of these materials will be available in the classrooms as well as at the Port Angeles Library, where they will all be available for check-out. Library staff will train teachers to use NOLS online database of historic local newspapers and other databases.

“Supporting Student Success” grants are given to public libraries and schools in Washington that collaborate to help students complete CBAs in social studies, and to educate students and teachers about public library resources and services that can help in this area.

The project will begin in October and conclude in June 2010.

Know What to Do about the Flu

2009-09-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

Visit the official government site to get more information: http://www.flu.gov/.

Hard Times Resource Guide

2009-09-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

The Washington State Library has developed a comprehensive website that brings together a number of valuable resources to help people cope with the current economic crisis. The site includes help with finances and money management, housing, health, and job-seeking. Shortly, you'll be able to click on a link on the NOLS website to get there. In the meantime, you're encouraged to check it out at

http://www.secstate.wa.gov/library/hardtimes/

Instant plays in Clallam Bay

2009-08-21T16:24:00.000-07:00

Holly Gwinn-Graham came to the Clallam Bay Branch Library on August 11 and everybody had a blast. Holly creates plays on the spot with suggestions from members of her audience, who then become actors under her direction. This program was part of the annual Summer Reading Program for children. Summer Reading Program events, prizes and activities at the Clallam Bay Branch are generously sponsored by the Clallam Bay Friends of the Library.

How many kids does it take to hold a python?

2009-07-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Seven fearless young people displayed a huge albino python at the Sequim Branch Library on July 22 when Scott Peterson, the Reptile Man, came to visit with an assortment of his more exotic friends. This event was part of the Library's Summer Reading Program, and it was sponsored by the Friends of Sequim Library.

Valentines Performing Pigs were a hit!

2009-07-23T14:10:00.001-07:00

Approximately 1200 people attended the pigs’ performance at the Sequim Middle School cafeteria. NOLS extends a huge THANK YOU to the Sequim School District for allowing the use of their facility. The children were delighted, and the pigs could not have been cuter!

Just Go Fly a Kite!

2009-07-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

And that’s exactly what they did! On July 8 in the field behind the Sequim Branch Library Daniel Schwenk showed the kids how to make and decorate their own kites. Within minutes, the kids hoisted their kites aloft—tail and all—on a perfect, sunny day with just enough breeze to make them sail.

Pirates invade Clallam Bay Branch Library

2009-07-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Shiver me timbers! Puppeteer Terri Church-Knoop presented The Treasure of Pirate's Cove at the Clallam Bay Branch on Saturday, July 11th. An audience of 37 kids and 25 adults enjoyed the show.

Your Participation in the T-Shirt Slogan Contest

2009-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

NOLS would like to thank everyone who participated in the first ever t-shirt slogan contest. It was a rousing success with over 150 entries! The winning entry was submitted by Susan Pennington. Her slogan, “Libraries… expanding our world, enriching our lives” was chosen by the judges for its broad appeal. Susan will receive a free shirt for her efforts and her picture will be posted on the Library’s website.

Shirts are on sale at each branch of NOLS for only $9.00, with proceeds going to the Friends of the Library. Thank you to the Friends of the Library groups in Port Angeles, Clallam Bay, Forks and Sequim for sponsoring this contest. And special thanks to Alan and Cindy Turner of Port Book and News and Richard Stephens of the Peninsula Daily News for being on the panel of judges.

Debut of the NOLS Strait-Paced Librarians

2009-07-06T12:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday July 4, the crowds along the parade route couldn't believe their eyes as the North Olympic Library System's book-cart drill team, the "Strait-Paced Librarians", demonstrated their precision maneuvers as part of the City of Port Angeles' Independence Day parade. The team, made up of Lauren D., Sandra H., Jennifer K., Wendy O., Keitha O., Susan P., and Karen U. and led by Margaret J., showed off a lot of fancy footwork and boundless good humor from beginning to end. YouTube fame and invitations to the Rose Bowl and Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parades are undoubtedly just around the corner.

Strait-paced librarians

2009-07-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

How do librarians celebrate the fourth of July? By performing precision book cart maneuvers in Port Angeles' Independence Day parade, of course. Don't miss the debut of NOLS' "Strait-paced Librarians" book cart drill team in tomorrow's parade. Fast. Friendly. Fun. Fantastic. That's your North Olympic Library System, and tomorrow, the emphasis is on "Fun"!

Save money, save paper, save time

2009-06-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Chances are, if you currently receive your hold and overdue notices through the US mail, you're probably not reading this blog. However, for anyone who is still getting library notices via the USPS, this is a plea to switch to email notification. You'll get your notices faster, it costs the Library nothing to send them, and we'll save trees and paper by not printing them. Making the change is easy - just ask any staff member the next time you're in the Library. Thanks for helping the Library save money and improve service to you.

State Auditor completes Library audit

2009-05-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

The North Olympic Library System was recently audited for the fiscal years 2006 and 2007. The Washington State Auditor's Office spent about two months earlier this spring, reviewing numerous documents, records, and files, and interviewing staff, in order to determine that the Library is complying with all state laws and accounting standards.

NOLS is a junior taxing district, organized under Washington state law and supported primarily by property taxes. Washington has high standards for fiscal accountability, and cities, counties and taxing districts such as fire districts, hospitals and libraries are expected to conduct their business transparently, so that citizens can be part of the process. The State Auditor's office regularly audits public agencies to assure compliance in all areas.

The Board of Trustees is proud to note that the Library district passed the audit with no qualifications or reservations. The auditor's reports can be found here. For more information about NOLS or this audit, feel free to contact me at Director@nols.org.

Summer Reading Program begins June 15

2009-05-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's an annual tradition at public libraries across the country, and NOLS is no exception. As summer kicks into high gear, libraries launch a major effort to help kids maintain, and even build, the reading skills they mastered during the school year. Summer Reading Programs are just that: a menu of activities and incentives all designed to keep kids' noses in books on a regular basis throughout the summer months, so when they return to school, they haven't lost ground in their reading ability.

This year at all NOLS libraries, kids and the adults who love them are going to be blown away by SRP 2009: Be Creative @ Your Library. Magic, puppets, crafts, snakes will abound, along with lots of fun, interesting and engaging books. All summer, the mission of the staff will be to match every child with just the right books that they will love and remember. And maybe to stretch their interests and reading levels a bit beyond their comfort zones.

The Summer Reading Program would not be possible, this year or any year, without the generous support of the Friends of the Library. The Friends groups in Clallam Bay, Forks, Port Angeles and Sequim each contribute money and person-power to hire the performers, print the publicity, purchase the prizes and take care of all the details that go into a successful summer program. Thank you, Friends of the Library.

Make sure your children, grandchildren and students are signed up for the NOLS Summer Reading Program this year. It's going to be a summer to remember!

2009-05-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

Summer Reading 2009 Kicks into Gear!

NOLS is gearing up for another exciting Summer Reading Program at the Clallam Bay Branch, the Forks Branch, the Sequim Branch and the Port Angeles Main Library. This is a great opportunity for children to build their reading skills while enjoying exciting free activities. “Be creative @ your library” is the theme for 2009.

Beginning June 15, children of all ages may pick up an activity sheet at their local library and earn prizes while enjoying fun and interesting reading. Special events throughout the summer include a magician, puppet shows, movement workshops and a reptile expert! Check your local branch for more information. The program ends August 21.

2009-05-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

The Clallam Bay Branch is getting a new public service desk. After the expanded building opened in September 2008, many customers asked for a new desk to match the spiffy new surroundings. The Board, staff and Friends of the Library agreed. The new desk is scheduled to arrive next week, and the Library will be closed on Wednesday, May 28 and Thursday, May 28, 2009 to allow staff to demolish and remove the old desk and install the new one. To offset the inconvenience of the Library being closed on these two days, the Clallam Bay Branch will be open instead on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, and Tuesday, June 2, 2009 from 11am-7pm.

The Clallam Bay Branch Library’s normal operating hours are Monday and Wednesday 11am to 7pm; and Thursday and Friday 10am to 5pm. The Branch is closed on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Clallam Bay Branch Library is located at 16990 Hwy. 112 in Clallam Bay. For more information you can call the library at 360.963.2414 or email at ClallamBay@nols.org.

Enhancements coming to NOLS website

2009-05-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

Within the next couple of weeks the NOLS homepage will have a new look. A new area on the right side of the page will feature the latest postings from the NOLS blog. An area at the bottom of the page will highlight the latest Library news. There's lots of Library information to share, so we're expanding the capacity of the homepage to allow this to happen. Please let us know what you think.

New Library Board member

2009-05-13T10:12:00.001-07:00

The Library has a new member of the Library Board of Trustees. Jim Roberts of Sequim was appointed by the Clallam County Commissioners on April 21, 2009 to complete the 5-year term of Sue Cohn, who resigned because she is moving out of the area. His term will end on December 31, 2013.

Mr Roberts, a retired physician, has lived in the Sequim area for the past 7 years. He serves on the Board of Directors of Providence Health and Services, a regional hospital and health care network, and he has served on the boards of numerous non-profits. He is a past member of the Friends of Sequim Library and he recently chaired the Citizens Advisory Committee on the Sequim Branch Library. His first Library Board meeting will be Thursday, May 28 at the Port Angeles Main Library at 5pm.

Sequim Branch reopens

2009-04-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

I had a nightmare the night before the reopening celebration of the Sequim Branch Library, which took place on Saturday 4/25, after its 3-month-long closure for a major renovation. In my dream, everybody had forgotten that Sequim had a Library. We threw open the doors to welcome back the community, but nobody showed up. Fortunately, I'm not clairvoyant. The community returned to the renewed and refreshed Sequim Branch...in fact they came back in hordes! And as you can see from the smiles in these photos, people seem to like what they're finding. New carpet, new paint, attractive and comfortable seating, a colorful area for children, and new space for teens, among other features. It's the same 6,000 sq ft, but collections and seating areas have been rearranged to be easier to navigate.

Instead of two staffed check-out stations, there is one, and instead of one express check-out station, there are two. This was done deliberately, as operating costs continue to increase but revenues don't, in order to free up staff time from performing tasks the computer system can do. We didn't want to set up the false expectation that there will always be three staff members at the public service desks, when in fact there are times when there can only be two, or even one. This doesn't mean there won't be staff available to help you - they just won't be stuck behind desks.

NOLS hasn't given up completely on the idea of an expanded library for the Sequim-Dungeness Valley area. But the Library first needs to augment its funding in order to maintain existing service levels and address aging infrastructure throughout the system. In the meantime, we hope the renovated Sequim Branch Library will bring much pleasure and satisfaction to the community it serves. Thank you for your patience while the renovation project was underway. It's great to be back in business!

Thanks, volunteers

2009-04-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

The Port Angeles Main Library said thanks to its volunteers at a reception on Monday, April 20, 2009. Volunteers, including members of the Port Angeles Friends of the Library, do so much to help provide library service, from cleaning and shelving returned books, to delivering books and other materials to clients in the Outreach Program, and many other tasks. Members of the NOLS Board of Trustees and the Library staff all expressed their thanks at this fun and festive event. Storyteller James the Obscure provided the entertainment, and staff members provided the refreshments. Each volunteer received a small pot of lavender as a gesture of the Library's deep appreciation.

T shirt slogan contest coming

2009-04-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Put your thinking caps on and be a library booster! Beginning Monday, April 27, the North Olympic Library System will kick off its first-ever T-shirt slogan competition. All ages are invited to enter. The library is seeking the most creative, clever, and catchy slogan, in sixteen words or less, about the Library, reading, or books.

A panel of community judges will select the winner. The winning contestant will receive a free T-shirt printed with his or her successful slogan and will be featured on the North Olympic Library System website. T-shirts will be available for sale at each Library in Port Angeles, Sequim, Clallam Bay, and Forks beginning in July, at which point you and your entire family can proudly proclaim your support for your Library on your chests! Thanks to the Friends of the Library at each Library location for their sponsorship of this contest. Proceeds from T-shirt sales will be returned to the Friends of the Library.

Contest rules:
1. The winning slogan will be a clever, creative or catchy saying about the value of books, reading and/or the North Olympic Library System.
2. The winning slogan will be no more than 16 words.
3. The winning slogan must be original. No quotations or previously printed sayings.
4. All ages are eligible to enter.
5. You do not need to be a resident of Clallam County to win.
6. You may enter as often as you wish.
7. NOLS Board and staff are not allowed to enter this contest.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, May 30. Send your entries to Erin Shield, Technical Services Assistant, at eshield@nols.org.

Library Board to meet at Sequim Branch Library on 4/23

2009-04-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

The NOLS Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting at the newly-renovated Sequim Branch Library on Thursday, April 23 at 5pm. The Library Board will continue discussing the development of its business plan: NOLS 2012, among other items on the agenda. Board members and members of the audience will also get their first look at the new interior of the Library. The public is always welcome at NOLS Board meetings. For more information, go to www.nols.org and click on "About NOLS" and then "Board and Administration".

Library Board vacancy

2009-03-30T22:08:00.000-07:00

Library Board Chair Sue Cohn has submitted her resignation from the Library Board of Trustees, effective in June 2009, as her husband Gary has been selected to be the new Superintendent of Schools for the Everett School District, and he starts work in his new position in July. The County Commissioners are in charge of recruiting for new Board members, and they will be running an ad in the Peninsula Daily News within the next week or two.

If you are interested in serving on the Library Board, or if you know someone who is, please consider submitting an application. You can do so by going to www.clallam.net and clicking on "Citizen Participation", then "Citizen Advisory Boards".

The Library Board of Trustees is the governing board for the North Olympic Library System. The Board performs long range planning for the Library, sets policy, determines the annual operating budget and supervises the Library Director. They meet monthly in addition to special meetings as required.

Over the next year, the Board will continue to study the pros and cons of pursuing a "levy lid lift", or an increase in the Library's levy rate. Due to inflationary increases in costs, the Library's expenses will exceed revenues in 2010, and the Library Board will need to decide what to do about this situation. This is just one of the challenges facing the Library in the coming years. For more information about the Board, feel free to contact me at Director@nols.org.

Copy services back at Port Angeles Main Library

2009-03-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the climax of income tax season, the Port Angeles Main Library once again has a functional copy machine for public use. Thanks to a public-private partnership with Pacific Office Equipment, library customers may make copies at 10c per page. POE maintains and operates the copy machine and collects the fees. NOLS provides the service and does not have the major capital and operating costs of running a copy concession. We hope it's a win-win-win, for Library customers, for POE and for NOLS. You'll find the copier in the usual spot. Thanks for your patience as we worked to identify a replacement machine on NOLS' super tight budget.

2009-03-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

Dateline: Clallam Bay Branch Library 3/26/09. Even though the expanded and renovated Clallam Bay Library opened to the public last September, it needed a few finishing touches. Since that time, staff have been working on filling in the gaps. New furniture for children and teens arrived last month, and today the staff emailed me a photo of the newest acquisitions, which should make reading at the Library a lot more comfortable. My understanding is that new shades for the windows will be installed sometime later today. If you haven't visited the Clallam Bay Branch lately, maybe these new features are a reason to do so? Thanks to the Clallam Bay Friends of the Library for their support of the building expansion and upgrade project.

Sequim Branch Temporary Closure

2009-03-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

For your safety, during the last phase of remodeling, the Sequim Branch Library will temporarily close from Wednesday, March 11 until mid April. The building must be entirely closed to the public during this time. Since it will not be possible to continue providing holds pick up service at the branch, you will need to decide how you wish the library to handle your holds while the Sequim branch is closed. For details on your holds options, see the closure flyer.

The book drops are available anytime for returns.

Tough economic times mean busier NOLS libraries

2009-02-21T20:52:00.000-08:00

The 2008 statistics are in, and use of the NOLS libraries in Port Angeles, Clallam Bay, Forks and Sequim is up by 10% over 2007. The economic crisis is making people more careful with their money, and this means more people are checking out more books, DVDs and other materials. They're checking out books instead of buying them, and borrowing DVDs instead of renting them from the video store, or using online subscription services. More people are cancelling their broadband services and using the public computers in the libraries, or bringing their own wireless devices to the library to use the free WiFi network. And more people are turning to the library's resources for resume writing, job hunting, strengthening small businesses, avoiding foreclosure, and other topics. You'll be seeing your library respond to community needs in other ways over the coming year: with guest speakers and other programs to help you cope in these challenging times. If you have ideas for how the Library can help, please email Director@nols.org.

Library Board to seek community input

2009-02-12T14:37:00.001-08:00

Due to rising operating costs and the 1% budget growth limitation required by Washington state law, the Library system will face substantial service reductions in another 2 years, unless the Library's property tax levy rate is increased. The Library Board of Trustees has been weighing the options, and they plan a "listening tour" during the summer and fall of 2009, to present some possible alternatives and get community feedback before deciding on next steps. Would you like to be on a mailing list to be part of the Library Board's discussion about the future of the Library? Just send an email to Director@nols.org and your name will be added to the list. You'll be notified of upcoming meetings and other opportunities to share your views.