One of the biggest disappointments of the 2010s for me in education was the K-12 digital book market never evolved into much of anything with Apple, Amazon, or Google. They have little leverage with textbook publishers, and in reality, there is very little money to be made for the big technology publishers without making a few acquisitions. When Apple announced digital textbook support back in 2012, they had high hopes, but sadly, not much came of it. Even beyond textbooks, Apple and Amazon, have done little to reinvent the library experience in schools. Amazon would be an ideal partner for schools, but their education offering is weak. Sora looks to be the perfect solution for K12 libraries wanting to make a digital transformation.

About Making The Grade: Every other Saturday, BradleyChambers publishes a new article about Apple in education. He has been managing Apple devices in an education environment since 2009. Through his experience deploying and managing 100s of Macs and 100s of iPads, Bradley will highlight ways in which Apples products work at scale, stories from the trenches of IT management, and ways Apple could improve its products for students.

A few months back, I wrote anarticle about the Kindle functionality with the US public library system was a killer feature that Apple Books needed to adopt. One of the apps/services I have been testing out is Libby. Libby is built by OverDrive, who has long had integration with the US library system. Even if you dont have a Kindle, you can use Libby to read ebooks on your iOS devices and listen to audiobooks. While its not as large as the Audible database, there are still several great options to listen/read books for free.

I recently learned about another product that OverDrive offers: Sora. Sora is to your schools library catalog to what Libby is to your public library.

Sora is your schools gateway to the industrys largest catalog of ebooks and audiobooks in the classroom and beyond. Students can read and listen on any device, and teachers can assign and track students progress.

With Sora, schools can license a certain number of books/audiobooks for their school, and then students can log in to access them oniOS, Android, or on the web. All progress is synced back to an account the student registers when they sign up for Sora (schools have to register themselves ahead of time). Students can also access all of their licensed content across all of their devices. It also allows teachers to cater to each students individual reading level, create lesson plans, and more.

Almost eight years after Apple unveiled its plan to reinvent the books in the classroom, Sora has picked up the mantle. They are offering a robust platform for schools to manage, license, and loan out digital books and audiobooks. While Apple offers options to mass purchase books for schools, they dont have a way to loan them and the get the license back in the future. For schools that reuse books year after year, this difference is a key driver.

Sora has a large catalog of books (5,000+ publishers) and offers a variety of licensing options. They offer options to purchase individual titles (perfect for frequent use books), book leases (set a number of checkouts in a pre-determined period), short term rental for groups, pay-per-use, and simultaneous (perfect for high volume titles). Sora is now available in 23,000 schools across the US. For schools that rely on Google Classroom to assign content and homework, Sora is compatible with that as well.

I discovered Sora back in late 2019, and Ive loved the platform. Its really what schools are looking for when it comes to transforming their libraries into a digital model. They have the infrastructure built out. They have the content for fiction/nonfiction books. They have relationships with the publisher.

After thinking about the problems that K-12 schools face, Sora might be the platform that transforms the digital textbook market in the future. If you want to check out Sora for your school, visit their website.

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Making the Grade: Sora is the solution for K-12 libraries wanting to make a digital transformation - 9to5Mac

Robbie Anderman says Middletown was an exceptionally friendly place when he was growing up in the 1950s and 60s.

To me, everyone was helpful, Robbie says, in a phone conversation from his Morninglory Farm in Killaloe, Ontario, Canada.

One of my favorite places was Thrall Public Library, he says. The librarians encouraged and nurtured my love of reading and of books. As the years went by, they also encouraged my looking beyond my school assignments to do deeper research from the librarys collection.

In 2017, Robbie wrote and published The Healing Trees: The Edible and Herbal Qualities of Northeastern Woodland Trees and recently donated a copy to Thrall in gratitude.

Robbie was born in Middletown in 1948 and graduated from Middletown High, now the Twin Towers Middle School, in 1966.

We lived at the corner of Linden Place and Linden Ave and we walked everywhere, he says. I played French horn in the band and lettered on the soccer, swimming and tennis teams.

My father was a dentist, he says. And I had friends from all corners of the city.

After graduation, he headed off to Haverford College where his love for nature came to the fore.

They have a great arboretum there, he says. Including the offspring of the original William Penn Treaty elm tree. Its a wonderful place.

He transferred to Rochdale College in Toronto and honed his natural food cooking skills at a restaurant in Woodstock, N.Y. Robbie then spent six weeks in Bethel setting up campsites and a free kitchen to serve music lovers at the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival in 1969.

A friend came up from Middletown and told me about this music festival that was planned outside of town, Robbie says. To me it was more of a demonstration of peace rather than anti-war, so I came down and helped out.

It was the co-operation, sharing, and feeding each other while enduring challenging weather and enjoying great music, he says.

Robbie was also a member of the Please Force and the Hog Farm and recently donated an armband to the Museum at Bethel Woods.

He returned to Canada, settled in Killaloe, in the Ottawa River valley, and co-founded a 100-acre land-based off-grid community that is still his home today. His love of nature grew and Robbie developed into an orchardist, nurseryperson, tree pruner, luthier, woodwind musician, off-grid forest homesteader, sustainable tree harvester and tree herbalist.

Land up here was pretty inexpensive back then, he says. Thats how we ended up here.

Fast forward 50 years and Robbie and his wife, Christina, were recently nominated for the Canadian National Farmers Union Hall of Fame.

Today, he works with his adult son, Ethan, and Christina in their pear and apple juice, cider and vinegar business; shares his organic orcharding and gardening knowledge and experience with visitors and offers tree medicine workshops.

But its the helpfulness of the Thrall Library workers of the 1950s and 60s that stuck with him.

Im grateful for all I learned there that helped lead me towards writing and publishing my book, he says.

John DeSanto is a freelance photojournalist. Find more of his 845LIFE stories, photos and videos at recordonline.com. Reach John at jjdesanto@gmail.com

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845LIFE: Library nurtured Middletown natives love of reading - Times Herald-Record

Chesterfield Township Library

Teen Night 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 27, featuring games, a craft and other activities. Pre-registration is requested, but not required.

4:30 Funtime 4:30-5:30 p.m. Jan. 28 for children in grades K-5. "Game Day" program. Pre-registration is not required.

Books and Babies for those ages 6-24 months with a caregiver from 10:15-10:45 a.m. Jan. 22 and 29 Lapsit songs, interactive baby rhymes, simple storybooks followed by playtime with toys. Preregistration not required.

Toddler Time for children ages 2-3 years old with a caregiver from 10:15-10:45 a.m. Jan. 27. Includes stories, rhymes, songs and moving activities followed by group playtime. Pre-registration is requested but not required.

The library is located at 50560Patricia, Chesterfield Township. To register or for more information, call 586-598-4900 or visitchelibrary.orgregarding any of the above programs.

We Love Winter Reading program runs Jan. 15 through Feb. 29. Participants need to read for 20 days to complete the program and collect a prize. Children will receive a book. Teens will receive a grab bag prize and entry into a drawing for a Kindle 8. Adults will receive their choice of a CMPL ceramic or travel mug. Those participating may register and log reading online at cmpl.beanstack.org

Screening of nine short films at 2 p.m. Jan. 26. Films were presented at the Ann Arbor Film Festival, including experimental, animation, documentary, narrative and hybrid films and performance based works intended for adults. Discussion will follow the screening. Refreshments will be provided. Registration can be done by calling 586-226-5020 or visit the Events page online.

The South Branch will feature a special guest reader from the Clinton Township Police Department at the storytime sessions at 10 a.m. Feb. 4 and Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. Little Learners Plus a weekly storytime for ages 2 and up at the South Branch, exposes children to stories, songs and activities that encourage early literacy skills. To register, call 586-226-5073 or visit the Events page online.

Stories of Michigan at 7 p.m. Feb. 5 at the North Branch. Historian Alan Naldrett and Forgotten Tales of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Program is suitable for teens and adults and will feature the lore of compelling characters who once lived in Michigan. Registration is required. To register, call 586-226-5083 or visit the Events page online.

Celebration of World Read Aloud Day Feb. 5. Tales and Talk for adults at 10:30 a.m. Adults can come and hear a short story read aloud by a librarian, followed by a discussion of the story with coffee and tea. Registration is required. Call 586-226-5050 or visit the Events page online to register.

The librarys Main Branch is located at 40900 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township. For more information and locations of other branches, call 586-226-5000 or visitcmpl.org.

Bar Trivia Night at Total Sports at 7 p.m. Jan. 23. Tickets are $5 if purchased by Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. at the library or $6 if purchased at the door. Arrive with a team or be matched to one. Total Sports is located at 40501 Production Drive, Harrison Township.

Puzzle Competition 1 p.m. Jan. 25. Gather your team and see which team can assemble a 500 piece jigsaw puzzle the fastest. Prizes to the winning team. All participants will enjoy pizza and pop. Register your team or you can be matched to one.

Sweet Dreams Bakery Demonstration 6:30 p.m. Jan. 29. Sweet Dreams Bakery owner will demonstrate and share techniques used at his bakery and attendees will have the chance to taste pastry creations. Registration is required.

1000 Books before Kindergarten ongoing initiative parents and caregivers can join anytime to read 1000 books to your little one before the start of kindergarten. Come to the library to register, receive a materials packet that includes a book log and a description of the program. For reaching each milestone in the program, the child will receive their name on the librarys Wall of Fame and a free book and certificate of completion are awarded to those reaching the 1000 book goal.

The library is located at 38255 LAnse Creuse Ste. A, Harrison Township. To register for programs where required or for more information, call 586-329-1261, email librarian@htlibrary.org, visithtlibrary.orgor stop in the library.

Winter Reading 2020. All ages can participate in the Winter Reading Challenge to read at least 12 hours in January and log it at macdonaldlibrary.beanstack.org.

The library is located at 36480 Main Street, New Baltimore. To register for programs where required or for more information, call 586-725-0273 or visitmacdonaldlibrary.org.

Ray Township Library and Historical Society has released a 2020 calendar, Greetings from Ray, Romeo, Washington: 1920's-1930's The calendar features images from the early to mid-1900's. They are available for $10 at the Ray Township offices and Public Library and throughout the community, including Heritage Oaks, Jarvis Accounting, Jarzyna Farms Fine Meats & Deli, KO Music Studio, and Vince and Joes on Romeo Plank. Proceeds from the sales within Ray Township support the Ray Township Public Library's programs and archival preservation. Calendars sold by the Romeo Historical and Greater Washington Area Historical Societies support each organization's projects and programs. For more information, call 586-749-7130 or visitrayhistory.org.

Baby Storytime 10:30-11:30 a.m. or noon-1 p.m. Jan. 20 and 27. Those 0-2 with a caregiver can join in songs, stories, lap bounces and sensory play time. No registration required.

Toddler Storytime 10:30-11:30 a.m. Jan. 21. For children ages 2-3 and a caregiver. Stories, music, movement and a craft.

Teen Anime Club 6-8 p.m. Jan. 21. Those ages 12-18. Love anime and reading manga? Come watch anime, do crafts and eat all the Pocky! Registration not required.

Super Smash Brothers Gaming Night 6-8 p.m. Jan. 22 for those in grades 6-12. Play Super Smash Bros., Pokken Tournament and Mario Kart. Snacks and refreshments available. Feel free to bring your Nintendo DS. No registration required.

Preschool Storytime 10:30-11:30 a.m. Jan. 23 and 30. For preschoolers ages 4-5 without a caregiver. Stories, songs, movement and a craft. No registration required.

UrbanForestry: Improving your Community with Trees 7 p.m. Jan. 23. Join for a presentation from regional leaders in urban forestry and a discussion on how we can work together to plant trees and learn to care for existing ones.

Everything eBoks & Audiobooks 2-3 p.m. Jan. 27. Learn about everything related to eBooks the library offers, including OverDrive, Libby and Hoopla Digital. Registration is required.

Living With the Enemy at 7 p.m. Jan. 30. In the 1940's captured German soliders were put to work on Michigan's farms and other places needing a large labor source. Historian Greg Sumner will present. No registration required.

The Library is located at 65821 Van Dyke, Washington Township. For more information or to register where required, call 586-752-0603.

Crochet group 5:30-7 p.m. Jan. 21 and 28. Join as attendees share patterns, problems and laughs. Beginners welcome.

Baby and Me Storytime 11:30 a.m.-noon Jan. 21 and 28. Special storytime for those ages 0-2 and their caregivers. Lots of songs, rhymes and interactive fun. Siblings welcome. No registration necessary.

History's Mysteries Book Group meets 5:45-7 p.m. Jan. 21. Join for a discussion of historical mysteries, suspense and thrillers. Copies are available at the Kezar Library.

Family Storytime 11:30 a.m.-noon Jan. 23 and 30. Bring the family for stories, songs and crafts. No registration required.

Manitou Mysteries 6-7 p.m. Jan. 23. Ross Richardson will speak about the legends, histories and mysteries of the Manitou Passage. Program will feature historical imagery and underwater footage of shipwrecks. Books will be available for signing.

Crafting with Creative Bug 6-7 p.m. Jan. 28. Learn the ins and outs of the Creative Bug database. Learn how to navigate classes such as crochet, cake decorating, jewelry making and more.

The library is located at 107 Church Street, Romeo. For more information or to register where required, call 586-752-2583.

Toddler Lapsit for children 2.5 to 3 years old accompanied by parent or caregiver at 9:30 a.m. Fridays. Nursery rhymes, fingerplays, songs, puppets and picture books. Registration required. Session I: Jan. 17-Feb. 7.

Preschool Storytime for children 3.5 to 5 years old at 11 a.m. Fridays. Children will enjoy songs, puppets, crafts and stories. Registration required. Session I: Jan. 17-Feb. 7.

MLK Day of Service Plarn Making 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 20. Adults, teens and tweens can bring their own plastic grocery bags or use the ones the library has collected to make plarn to make sleeping mats for the homeless for Macomb Feeding The Need.

RHGS Program: General Macomb with Dan Heaton at 6 p.m. Jan. 21. Stories of Gen. Alexander Macomb are now mostly forgotten but statues of him exist in Detroit and Mount Clemens.

Teen Mario Kart Tournament at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 22. For those ages 6-12. Sing up to participate in the tournament begins 30 minutes before the tournament begins and must be done in person to get a spot.

Adult Trivia Night 6 p.m. Jan. 23. Come and test your trivia knowledge against others. Bring your friends and sign up in a group of four. No group? Can be placed in one. Registration required.

Stem Saturday Year of the Rat at 2 p.m. Jan. 25. All ages can celebrate the habitats and habits of the rat. No registration required.

Air Fryer Demonstration 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Get an Air Fryer or interested in learning more about them? Learn to make healthier food options with less oil than conventional frying. Chef will teach you ins and outs of frying with your air fryer. Samples of the dishes made will be enjoyed by all participants.

Teens in grades 6-12 can join the Magic the Gathering card game event from 3:30-5:30 p.m. every Monday. Casual game play for players of all skill levels. Some starter decks will be available for those who dont bring their own. No registration required.

The library is located at 29777 Gratiot Ave., Roseville. For more information or to register for programs that require it, call 586-445-5407 or visitrosevillelibrary.org.

St. Clair Shores Cultural Committee offers "Behind the Seen" talk on 'Pop Art' (1960-1975) at 7 p.m. Jan. 27. Learn about artworks created by artists in the 1960's that celebrated American modern culture. Event is free and open to the public.

STEAM Stories 2-3 p.m. Feb. 1. Children ages 6-10 and their adult can enjoy a story and STEAM related hands on projects. Registration is required and can be done in person or by calling the library. Space is limited.

Preschool Storytime at 10 a.m. Mondays starting the week of Jan. 13 for those independent listeners ages 3 1/2 to 5 years. No registration required.

Family Storytime at 7 p.m. Tuesdays starting the week of Jan. 13 for children outside of those age range or those who would feel more comfortable with a grown up joining in. No registration required.

Toddler Storytime at 10 a.m. Tuesdays starting the week of Jan. 13 for those ages 24 to 42 months with an adult. Registration required.

St. Clair Shores Historical Commission is seeking residents to participate in oral history project. Those who have a story to share of life in St. Clair Shores, contact Jerry Sielagoski at gsielago@hotmail.com or leave a message at the library by calling 586-771-9020.

Historical Society of St. Clair Shores is selling different matted photographic reproductions, one photo of the Shores Inn, Shores Theater, both which date back circa 1940 for $20 each, a print of the Hilgendorf Service Station circa 1935 for $10; the E.C. White House circa 1955 for $10 and a color print of the Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum for $15 Stop by the library to purchase them. Limited number of prints available.

St. Clair Shores Cultural Committee is seeking new members. No experience necessary, just a willingness to be involved and help bring cultural events and activities to the city. Meetings are generally the second Wednesday of each month.

St. Clair Shores Cultural Committee and the Public Library present at 1:30 p.m. Fridays, classic movies are shown in the librarys William R. Gilstorf Meeting room.

The Library is located at 22500 E. 11 Mile Road, St. Clair Shores. To register or details on any of these programs, call 586-771-9020 or visitscslibrary.org.

Teen Advisory Board meets at 6:30 p.m. first Thursday of the month. Teens in 7-12th grade can join a council of teens that create teen displays, decorate the library and plan events for teens at the library. Earn community service hours for attending or come hang out and enjoy some snacks. Teens should fill out a TAB application from the website or reception desk.

The library is located at 51680 Van Dyke, Shelby Township. For more information or to register for a program, call 586-739-7414 or visitshelbytwplib.org

Gone With the Wind 80th anniversary at 7 p.m. Jan. 23. Discussion will cover Margaret Mitchell's life, her bestselling novel and the Oscar winning film. Learn about the Detroit opening in 1940 and its local connections too. Vintage and contemporary memorabilia will be available for viewing starting at 6:30 p.m.

The library is located at 40255 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights. To register for programs where required, call 586-446-2640 or visitshpl.net/610

Poetry Reading at 7 p.m. Jan. 27. Participants are encouraged to read their own poetry, though the works of other artists can be recited. Free event. No registration required.

The library is located at 7530 Auburn, Utica. To register for a program or for more information, call 586-731-4141.

Cold Snap Crafts 2-3:30 p.m. Jan. 25. Children ages 3-11 can make crafts to celebrate the icy season.

Family Storytime at 6:30 p.m. Mondays for those ages 4-8 and their entire family. Stories, songs, rhymes, a craft and toys for the littlest ones. Registration required.

PAWS for Reading at 4:30 p.m. Mondays. New and struggling readers can read to a therapy dog. Children are invited to stop by and read to Faith.

The library is located at 23333 Ryan Road, Warren. For more information or to register where programs require it, call 586-353-0580

Anime Club 2-4 p.m. Jan. 25. Like anime and manga? Longtime fans invited to watch anime, talk to other fans, sing karoke, create themed crafts and enjoy snacks. Registration required. Teens only.

Preschool Storytime at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays for independent listeners from 3.5 to 5 years with caregiver. Stories, songs, rhymes and a craft. Registration required.

StorytimeShakeup 11 a.m. Fridays. Children ages 2-5 will enjoy a story, song and other fun stuff, including hands on activities at different stations and movement and sensory activities. Register for each monthly series individually.

PAWS To Read program at 4:30 p.m. Mondays or 5 p.m. Wednesdays, new and struggling readers can read to therapy dog, Smart, a yellow Labrador Retriever, to improve their skills and learn to love reading. No registration required.

The library is located at 1 City Square, Suite 100, Warren. To register where programs require it, call 586-751-0770 unless otherwise noted.

Dash Robot Coding 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Children ages 6-11 can learn basic coding skills to program the library's Dash robots to do such tasks as speak and move. Registration is required.

Baby Lapsit 2 p.m. Wednesdays the week of Jan 13 through the week of Feb. 29. For those ages 0-12 months with a parent or caregiver. Singing, clapping, bouncing, listening to rhymes and stories and time to play. Registration required.

Book Tots 6:30 p.m. Thursdays or 10 a.m. Fridaysthe week of Jan. 13 through the week of Feb. 29.. For those ages 1 to 2.5 with a parent or caregiver. Short storytime with stories, rhymes, songs and a time to play. Registration required.

Toddler Time 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and and 9:30 or 11 a.m. Thursdays the week of Jan. 13 through the week of Feb. 29. For toddlers ages 2 to 3 with a parent or caregiver. Storytime including stories, songs, rhymes and a craft. Registration required.

Teen Winter Beach Party 6-8 p.m. Jan. 24. Those ages 10-14 and 15-17 can join for an evening of fun in the sun with warm crafts, popsicles, beach volleyball, flip flop toss, and building edible sand castles at this after hours lock in. Registration required.

The library is located at 5460 Arden in the Warren Community Center. For more information or to register where required, call 586-751-5377 or visitwarrenlibrary.net.

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Events at Macomb County libraries week of Jan. 19 - The Macomb Daily

HUNTINGTON As the new decade begins, libraries in the Tri-State are encouraging patrons to take advantage of the many digital resources available to them, all accessible online through a cost-free library card.

Its important for people to know that libraries are changing, Mary Lou Pratt, assistant director for adult services at the Cabell County Public Library, said. A lot of people think the library is just a building with stacks of books inside, but theres much more to it, and its available for anyone with an internet connection; if you dont have internet, we have it here.

The Cabell County Public Library and its branches offer digital collections of e-books, magazines, movies, music and more and online resources like journal articles and consumer reports, which can all be found through the librarys website, Pratt said.

People may not realize, but we have the entire collection of Disney movies, Pratt said.

The library uses the digital media service platform Hoopla in order for patrons to stream content, and similar to mainstream platforms, it keeps track of what users have watched and what they may be interested in later on.

Users can download content on Hooplas app or onto their computers or TVs for offline streaming.

The library also offers free courses online from learning a new language to preparing for the GED or other standardized tests, Pratt said the librarys online medium has it all.

The Boyd County Public Library in Ashland offers similar services to its patrons.

People can actually (visit the) library from their couch, Library Director Debbie Cosper said in a news release. Most everything that is available by visiting the actual library also is available from the librarys website.

The Boyd County Public Library houses more than 500,000 items available online through its website as well as digital classes.

According to the release, reciprocal borrowing agreements allow Boyd County patrons to use services at libraries in Cabell and Wayne counties, as well as Lawrence County in Ohio.

The Putnam County and Wayne County public libraries also offer Hooplas services and other various databases.

In order to access these resources, you do need a library card, Pratt said. You can get a library card at any one of our branches, and you just need an I.D. that shows your current address.

Library card applications for Cabell County are available online in order for patrons to fill them out in advance, and Pratt advised new cardholders to be sure to know their PIN number in order to access the digital platforms.

Library cards are free for county residents.

Original post:
Local libraries push for digital use in the new year - Huntington Herald Dispatch

Very Busy People Book Club, 1 p.m., West Fargo Public Library, 109 Third St. E., West Fargo, really busy readers are invited to join this book club for an interesting read, treats and lively discussions; free.

FM Choral Artists: Cathedral Classics, 2 p.m., Sts. Anne & Joachim Catholic Church, 5202 25th St. S., Fargo, enjoy a world premiere of a new, seven-movement work by Connor Koppin by the the FM Choral Artists; $15.

"Interface," 9 a.m., North Dakota State University Memorial Union Gallery, 258 Memorial Union, Fargo, explore the relationship between painting and photography through student-made artwork, runs through Jan. 23; free.

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Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2020, 9:45 a.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, "Not Racist" the white moderate myth, featuring keynote speakers Ijeoma Oluo and Janaya Khan; free.

Pinochle for Seniors, 12:45 p.m., Ed Clapp Senior Center, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, seniors are invited to play pinochle with other seniors for an afternoon of fun and friendly competition Monday through Friday; $1.

Fargo Moorhead Area Music Club presents Michael Helm at their Jazz in January Program, 1 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 650 Second Ave. N., Fargo, Michael Helm presents a program of his jazz accompaniments used for famous singers; free.

NAMI Connections support group, 7 p.m., Fargo Public Library, 102 Third St. N., people or family members who have a mental illness are invited to join this group therapy session; free.

Arc Games & More, 7 p.m., Murray Hall at Minnesota State University Moorhead, 1510 Ninth Ave. S., connect with others and the community through games and more; free.

Exercise for Seniors, 9:30 a.m., Ed Clapp Senior Center, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, seniors are invited to join these age-appropriate exercises and meet some new friends, also on Thursday; free.

Grief Journeys for Men Support Group, 10 a.m., Hospice of the Red River Valley, 1701 38th St. S., Fargo, ongoing grief support group for men who have experienced a loss through death; free.

Prairie St. John's Meet and Greet, noon, Moorhead Public Library, 118 Fifth St. S., enjoy treats and cocoa as you learn more about the programs and services offered at Prairie St. John's; free.

Pinochle for Seniors, 12:45 p.m., Ed Clapp Senior Center, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, seniors are invited to play pinochle with other seniors for an afternoon of fun and friendly competition Monday through Friday; $1.

iStock / Special to The Forum

Memory Cafe, 1 p.m., First Lutheran Church, 619 Broadway N., Fargo, individuals living with early to midstage memory loss and their care partners are invited to gather, laugh, learn and develop meaningful connections with others in a safe, welcoming environment; free.

Teen Time at the Carlson Library, 3:30 p.m., Fargo Public Library, 2801 32nd Ave. S., teens and tweens ages 10-18 are invited to the library to enjoy activities, projects and snacks; free.

Life and Pregnancy After Loss Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Hospice of the Red River Valley, 1701 38th St. S., Fargo, ongoing support group focused on pregnancy and life after experiencing the loss of a baby; free.

Storytime, 6:30 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 115 Fifth St. S., children of all ages are invited to the library to enjoy stories, songs, poems and crafts on a weekly theme; free.

Chess Club, 6:30 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 118 Fifth St. S., join chess players of every skill level for a chess skill share, boards and books will be provided; free.

Twisted Stitchers, 6:30 p.m., West Fargo Public Library, 109 Third St. E., bring your own supplies and join this group of experienced knitters; free.

Classy and Trashy Book Club, 7 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 118 Fifth St. S., interested readers are invited to join this book club for a discussion of "The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek," by Kim Michele; free.

Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Moorhead Public Library, 115 Fifth St. S., children of all ages are invited to the library for stories, songs and poems on a weekly theme; free.

Wiggle Worms Baby Storytime, 10:30 a.m., West Fargo Public Library, 109 Third St. E., babies from birth to 18 months and their caregivers are invited to the library for rhymes, lap bounces, songs and books to spark the joy of reading through early literacy; free.

Technology Tutoring, 4 p.m., West Fargo Public Library, 109 Third St. E., drop in for a one-on-one tutoring session to learn to use your electronic device; free.

iStock / Special to The Forum

Northern Lights Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m., El Zagal Shrine, 1429 Third St. N., Fargo, brush up on your waltz and dance the night away, lessons begin at 7 p.m., with a social dance to follow; $5 for Northern Lights Ballroom members, $10 for non-members.

Go Club at Main, 7:30 p.m., Fargo Public Library, 102 Third St. N., all ages and skill levels are invited to the library for Go; free.

Baby Bounce, 10:15 a.m., Moorhead Public Library, 115 Fifth St. S., infants, preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to enjoy songs, stories, action poems and playtime at the library; free.

iStock / Special to The Forum

Faculty Art Exhibition at Concordia, 4 p.m., Cyrus M. Running Gallery, Concordia College, Moorhead, this exhibition runs through Feb. 23.

Jazz, 7 p.m., Delta Hotels by Marriott, 1635 42nd St. SW, Fargo, enjoy a fun night of jazz standards great for a nice dance, date or evening with friends, featuring Kathie Brekke and the 42nd St.; free.

GriefShare, 7 p.m., Faith Journey Lutheran Church, 127 Second Ave. E., West Fargo, people grieving the death of a family member or friend are invited to join this support group; $20.

West Fargo Public Schools' State of the Schools, 7 p.m., Sheyenne High School, 800 40th Ave. E., the community is invited to this second-annual event to learn statistics, demographics and the steps school officials are taking to achieve WFPS vision and mission; free.

No events scheduled.

iStock / Special to The Forum

60th Annual Red River Valley Coin Club Show, 9 a.m., Ramada Fargo, 3333 13th Ave. S., come out to enjoy watches, coins, tokens and more at the Red River Valley Coin Club Show, also on Sunday; free.

Brunch Women as Political Actors and Changemakers, 10 a.m., Minnesota State University Moorhead Comstock Memorial Union Ballroom, 615 14th St. S., Moorhead, join the MSUM Women's Center and members of the FM chapter of American Association of University Women for brunch and a talk by MSUM professor Deb White; $17 in advance, $20 at the door.

Pine Needle Baskets Beginner's Class, 10 a.m., West Fargo Public Library, 109 Third St. E., join skilled weaver and North Dakota artist Eileen McEnroe for an all-day workshop on pine needle basket weaving; $15.

Kindergarten Success: Storytime Series, 10 a.m., Fargo Public Library, 102 Third St. N., get your child ready for kindergarten by exploring literacy and STEAM topics through music, stories, songs and play; free.

High School Choral Festival Concert at Concordia, 3 p.m., Memorial Auditorium, Concordia College, Moorhead, the High School Choral Festival weekend concludes with a concert at Concordia; free.

Lego Club, 6 p.m., Moorhead Public Library, 118 Fifth St. S., people of all ages and creative ability are invited to make their own Lego creations at the library's Lego club; free.

==============

To have an event considered for publication in this calendar, please enter it online at redrivervalleycalendar.com. The deadline for submissions for Sunday editions is Tuesday at noon.

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Things to do the week of Jan. 19, 2020, in Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo - INFORUM

NORTH HAMPTON Unless things change in a day or two, Town Meeting voters will face two warrant questions in March seeking approval for a new or expanded North Hampton Library.

A 60% approval is needed for either article, and like most competing proposals, the devil is in the details.

After spending $130,000 over three years of listening, researching upgrades, planning, designing and redesigning, the Library Board of Trustees is seeking to rehabilitate the current library and expand its footprint by half to 10,500 square feet.

The entire cost to bring forth the trustees' vision is $3,354,000, which includes interior equipment and furniture, system and technological upgrades, and a community meeting room. With $780,000 from the Library Capital Reserve Fund and another $300,000 in contributions, the trustees' petition article requests permission to bond for $2,274,000.

The competing warrant article to build a brand new library comes from Selectmen Jim Maggiore and Larry Miller, after about six months of planning and $19,000 for design, surveys, and bid documents. Select Board member Kathleen Kilgore, also a library trustee, recused herself from the selectmens proposal since her home abuts where the library would be built: the Homestead lot.

Miller chose the architect to design the 10,500-square-foot new library with similar space inclusion as the trustees plan. He chose three construction firms to offer bids. Maggiore and Miller chose the lowest bid of the three: $2,723,907.

With $100,000 in promised donations including Millers and $348,907 from the towns unassigned fund balance (reserves), the selectmens warrant question requests permission to bond for $2,275,000. The amount is exactly $1,000 more than the trustees proposal so the selectmen's article could be placed before the trustees article on the warrant.

Although the dollar requests are basically the same, the selectmens proposal builds a library building shell, without the interior accouterments and upgrades included in the trustees plan, according to resident Frank Ferraro.

At the Jan. 13 meeting, Ferraro challenged the selectmen after analyzing the bid document. He said there were no accommodations for new furniture and equipment, upgraded and new technology like staff and patron computers, card catalogs or moving costs. Millers answer was that the trustees have $780,000 in the Library Capital Reserve Fund with which to buy those things, indicating the true cost of the selectmen's plan is more than the amount requested for a functioning library.

But, Maggiores and Millers project has one very significant plus going for it. It would build a new library on the Homestead lot, a longed-for dream of many.

That exact proposal was nixed by both selectmen years ago, said resident Paul Marquis, who asked Miller why using the Homestead lot for the library this time is palatable? Miller said since voters turned down the municipal complex plan three times, he now believes building a new library on the Homestead lot is the only possibility.

The selectmens proposal also offers another advantage, according to Miller and Maggiore: Its a first step in easing the towns space and building insufficiencies.

Building a new library would vacate space in the current library, Miller said. The town's administrative offices could move there, he said, vacating the second floor of the police station, into which the Police Department could move to remedy its space needs. As a result, Miller believes the selectmens proposal saves $1.5 million because the town wont have to build new space for town administrative offices.

However, there are no monetary requests to renovate the current library for town administrative use or to renovate the police station.

In the Bauen Corporations Municipal Complex Cost Study from 2015, based on square footage renovation costs, the Chauncey plan estimated it would take $890,000 to renovate the current library for town administrative use. Further, estimates for police station renovations were hundreds of thousands of dollars more.

Library Trustee Chairwoman Susan Leonardi challenges Miller on cost savings. She said with the price of executing the renovations to the library and police station, there would be few if any savings, in spite of not building a new administrative building.

Additionally, given that state law gives library trustees complete authority over all library dealings and buildings, there is the outstanding question of whether the Select Board has the authority to build a library. No matter what happens at the polls, taxpayers may end up paying legal fees so the court can decide who has the authority to build the library.

At the beginning of the Jan. 13 meeting, Maggiore took a moment to explain to residents that the selectmens library alternative is an endeavor to give voters a choice between two library proposals.

This is not an attempt to divide our community, he said.

See the original post:
Dueling library projects on the ballot in North Hampton - Seacoastonline.com

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- The Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library has hit a milestone. For the first time in its 100-year history, the library system has circulated more than 2 million items in a single year.

Director Nancy Levin confirmed the number with CLEVNET, the library consortium that manages the Heights Libraries online catalog and tracks the circulation of its member libraries.

This was a very busy year for us, so the numbers dont really surprise us, but we are thrilled to hit this milestone, Levin said in a news release. With so many different ways to access materials, people are borrowing more now than ever.

As of Dec. 31, Heights Libraries circulation had hit 2,072,833 for the year.

Circulation for physical holdings still far outnumbers that for electronic holdings. A total of 1,868,673 -- or 90.15 percent -- of the 2019 circulation was comprised of physical holdings, such as books, DVDs and CDs.

Electronic holdings -- such as eBooks, audiobooks, online magazines and streaming media (movies, TV shows and music) -- comprised 9.85 percent.

The eMedia circulation, while lower than the physical holdings, demonstrates that were offering access to a wide variety of materials to as many people as possible, wherever they may be, Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Ackroyd said in that same release. Customers consume media differently than they used to, and we are keeping up with those trends.

I truly believe physical books will never go away, but if its 10 p.m. and youre, lets say, stuck at the airport and want a book to read, you can download one instantly," she said. "Or if your child needs a resource for a school project after library hours, you can go online.

Another possible factor contributing to the high circulation numbers, according to the CH-UH system, is the librarys fine-free policy, instituted in 2018. Customers who previously may have been intimidated by punitive policies that prevented them from checking out items now feel welcome again.

Levin also wonders if the library systems ever-increasing circulation numbers could be part of a larger social trend, what some call the sharing economy.

It seems that young people are less interested in owning things and more interested in finding a way to share resources, like cars and housing, said Levin. Libraries have always operated on the principle of sharing, so we cater naturally to the values of millennials and younger generations who believe in it, too.

Gold and silver: The winners of the 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition are now known, as named by the Cleveland Institute of Art. And Laurel School in Shaker Heights has informed us that 19 of the gold and silver key award winners attend that school.

Taking home gold keys -- the top prize -- were Cleveland Heights Kate Goldberg, Class of 22, for her work in the ceramics and glass category, and Cleveland resident Hannah Mitchell, 20, in the photography category.

Winners of silver keys were Elizabeth Bogusz, 20, photography, Cleveland; Mei Hashimoto (winner of two silver keys), 20, mixed media, Beachwood; Jane Jusko, 21, mixed media, Lakewood; Eriana Kellis, 20, photography, Chagrin Falls; and Anna Soeder, 20, photography, University Heights.

Winning a silver key writing award was Maggie Chen, 23, short story category, Concord Township.

In addition, 11 Laurel students earned a total of 14 honorable mention awards.

On the list: If the name of your school is Dean College, do you have a deans list? I dont know, but Dean College in Franklin, Mass., does have a presidents list, and making that list for the fall, 2019 semester was Shaker Heights resident Zeki Zai. Congratulations to Zeki.

Also, making the deans list at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea were Christian Smith, a business administration major from Cleveland Heights, and Liam Stilson, an acting major from University Heights.

Meanwhile, achieving deans list status at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa., were Kate Amaddio, a biomedical engineering major from Beachwood; Owen Laframboise, a biology major from Shaker Heights; Molly Paine, an accounting and financial management major from Cleveland Heights; and Elizabeth Stack, an international relations major from Shaker Heights.

And, lets not forget that Shaker Heights Josie Lowell has made the deans list at the University of Vermont, in Burlington.

State of the city: University Heights Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan will give his state-of-the-city address at 7 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Jardine Room at John Carroll University. All residents are invited.

Also from Brennans At Your Service email newsletter, we are informed that the city has begun removing damaged and diseased trees from residents tree lawns. There is a complete list of affected properties that can be found at universityheights.com.

Replacement trees will be planted late this year. Residents with questions can call the citys service department at 216-932-7800.

Kids Comic Con: Cleveland Heights Lake Erie Ink will be hosting its eighth annual Kids Comic Con from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 29. At this all-day event, youths ages 8-18 will have the chance to attend workshops with experienced comic creators.

Last year, the one-of-a-kind comic convention for young writers and artists drew nearly 150 young people from all across Northeast Ohio. Workshops will cover both aspects of comic creation -- drawing and writing -- as well as the ever-popular create your own comic character in clay session.

New this year is a teens-only (grades 6-12) program that will debut after the initial programming. The teens-only program runs from 5 to 8 p.m. It features a Make Change with Comics panel, during which teens will have the opportunity to learn the difficult balance of making money through art, while simultaneously making a positive difference in their community. The program will also feature a cosplay fashion show and a Snack n Sketch zine exchange.

From Terri Libenson, a nationally syndicated comic strip artist who worked on The Pajama Diaries from 2006-2020, to Studio JS, whose most recent projects include a family-friendly comic about pickles called Tickle Pickle James and the Sweet Pickles, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from artists and writers that represent a wide range of styles, experience and backgrounds.

Doors open at 9 a.m., followed by the workshops at 10 a.m. Costumes are encouraged. Admission is $10 at the door. Scholarships are available. Lunch will be sold on-site, or attendees can bring their own. Comics and graphic novels will be available for purchase. Adults are welcome if accompanied by a child; teachers are welcome with a staff ID.

Youths can register here, or by calling 216-320-4757. Pre-register to save a spot.

It all happens at Lake Erie Ink, 2843 Washington Blvd.

Be a Red Cross volunteer: There is a critical need for local disaster response, blood drive and transportation specialist volunteers and, at the same time, the Red Cross is looking to grow its volunteer teams in disaster and blood services.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in these areas, the American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio will be holding two information sessions at its regional headquarters, 3747 Euclid Ave. in Cleveland. The sessions will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Jan. 25 and Feb. 29.

Stop by one of these sessions and find out the many ways to make a difference as a volunteer, hear from and ask questions of current Red Cross volunteers, and take the opportunity to complete a volunteer application.

To RSVP for one of the information sessions, contact Gail Wernick at 216-431-3328 or at gail.wernick@redcross.org.

Discussing racism, anti-Semitism: With incidents of racism and anti-Semitism on the rise, Park Synagogue and Cory United Methodist Church invite the community to Real Talk: Racism & Anti-Semitism, at 1 p.m. Feb. 9 at Park Synagogue Mains Rosenthal Ballroom, 3300 Mayfield Road in Cleveland Heights.

The program is promised to offer an environment where all people -- black, white, brown and yellow -- can explore thoughts and feelings about racism and anti-Semitism through facilitator-led table discussions that will give everyone an opportunity to participate. The programs goal is to help all participants make positive changes in the community and individually.

All adults and teens are welcome to attend the event. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. for registration and refreshments, with the program beginning at 1 p.m.

The program is free and open to the community, but RSVPs are required by Jan. 31. RSVP to Ellen Petler at epetler@parksyn.org or by calling 216-371-2244, ext. 122.

The event is sponsored by the Park-Cory Connection, a committee of Park Synagogue and Cory United Methodist Church members who work together to enhance the relationships between the two historic congregations.

Fake news: We hear the term fake news all the time these days, and the University Heights Library, 13866 Cedar Road, will appropriately conduct a Tech Talk session titled How to Spot Fake News, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 30.

The internet and social media sites may be filled with links to incorrect, inaccurate and often harmful false reporting, and in this session you can learn more about why they exist and ways to spot these fake stories.

Of course, you wont be seeing the name Press Run popping up at this session -- at least I dont think you will.

Anyway, register by calling 216-321-4700.

And, be aware that the Lee Road Library will be holding its annual Teen Poetry Slam from 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 30. Hosted by Heights Libraries, Lake Erie Ink and Cleveland Heights High School, the slam is open to all high school students. Performers will compete for a panel of guest judges and should have three or more poems ready for the competition. Register by emailing teen@heightslibrary.org.

The library branch is located at 2345 Lee Road in Cleveland Heights.

Sharing is a good thing: Temple Emanu El held a successful ShareFest intergenerational day of service in late 2018. This year, the temple will build upon that success by conducting its second ShareFest from 9:30 a.m. to noon Feb. 2 at the temple, 4545 Brainard Road in Orange.

Hosted by the Tikkun Olam (Social Action) Committee, this free event encourages all temple members to Create. Collect. Nourish, and to give back to the Cleveland community with done-in-a-day projects that suit all ages.

Featured projects will include making cards for soldiers, dog treats for rescue animals and chocolate chip cookies for Boys & Girls Clubs.

The first ShareFest, held on Dec. 9, 2018, brought participation from 225 people whose work benefited more than 10 local organizations. It is anticipated that between 200 and 300 people will attend this years event. For more information, call the temple at 216-454-1300.

Casual Fridays at the library: If you visit the Shaker Heights Public Library on a Friday and think that the staff is dressed a little on the casual side by wearing jeans, be assured that they are doing so for a good reason. Those wearing jeans, and even some dressed in standard attire, will have donated $1 to the staff-created initiative Taking a Bite Out of Hunger, which benefits The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland.

In 2019, the staff donated more than $1,000 to the Hunger Network to benefit local food banks.

And, while were on the subject of the Shaker Heights Library, it is offering free tax preparation help for seniors at its main branch, 16500 Van Aken Blvd.

Additionally, the main library will host Closing the Achievement Gap: Preschools and Early Childhood Education Forum, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 30. The role of Pre-K in closing the achievement gap is strong. Attendees can engage with experts, including a four-person panel, in discussing the difference early childhood education can make and Shaker Schools Pre-K plans. For more information, call 216-367-3005.

If you would like to see an item appear in Press Run, send me an email, at least 12 days prior to an event, at jeff.piorkowski@att.net.

Read more from the Sun Press.

The rest is here:
CH-UH Libraries break circulation record, at more than 2 million items: Press Run - cleveland.com

On National Handwriting Day, come learn the secret language that your handwriting reveals at Shannon Staub Library in North Port.

Judy Kaplan will deliver this fun and informative presentation on What Handwriting Reveals About the Writer. Bring samples of your handwriting for Judy to analyze.

This program is for people of all ages. Its set for 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23 at 5 p.m. Check the online calendar at scgov.net/library or visit the branch for the most up-to-date information.

This week at Shannon Staub Library:

Saturday, Jan. 18

Teen Advisory Board, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Make a difference at your library while accruing community service hours! Snacks provided. Must be in grades 6-12.

Monday, Jan. 20

Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Tuesday, Jan. 21

Teen Anime Club: Learn Japanese with Kate OHara, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Watch anime, eat snacks and explore Japanese culture. In this special session of Anime Club, learn some beginners Japanese with special guest Kate OHara. Recommended for grades 6-12.

Wednesday, Jan. 22

Partners in Play, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in this free parenting education groups. From birth to 5 years old. Offered by Forty Carrots Family Center. Space is limited, pick up a ticket at the Youth Desk the day of the event.

Baby Time: Welcome to Our World, 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Join other families navigating the newborn phase in a supportive, fun, and informative class with Forty Carrots Parenting Educators. For parents and babies from birth to 7 months old.

Teen Free Draw, 4-5 p.m. Draw in a relaxing environment with friends. Snacks are provided!

Zumba, 6-7 p.m. Six-week program; come to one session or all. Zumba is a fun and effective dance fitness class that provides a total workout. Wear workout clothes and sneakers; bring a bottle of water and a towel.

Thursday, Jan. 23

Yak and Yarn, 10-11:30 a.m. Socialize with fellow knitting, crocheting and sewing enthusiasts. All skill levels welcome. Bring your current project to work on or create something new. For adults and seniors.

Baby Time: Polar Animals, 10-10:30 a.m. Early literacy begins at birth. Bond with your baby through stories, songs, parachute time and peek-a-boo scarf songs. For ages 0-2.

Toddler Time: Polar Animals, 10:30-11 a.m. Featuring great stories, singing, dancing, and movement activities young children learn valuable skills and enjoy being with other children. For ages 2-3.

Story Time: Polar Animals, 11-11:30 a.m. Fun-filled morning of reading, songs, dancing, learning Kindergarten readiness skills and craft activities. For ages 3-6.

Open Lab in the Creation Station, noon-8 p.m. Build, experiment, and create with our 3D printer, laser cutter, sewing machines, and more. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Growing Young Readers and Writers, 4-5:30 p.m. A club where reading and writing are fun. For ages 6 and up.

What Handwriting Reveals About the Writer, 5-6 p.m. Learn what specific strokes, shapes, and lines reveal about the person who wrote it! This event is open to all ages, and registration at scgov.net/library is recommended.

Friday, Jan. 24

Socrates Caf, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Friendly philosophic conversation involves people from different backgrounds getting together to exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the central theme of the Socratic method: that we learn more when we respectfully listen and debate ideas with others. No preparation is necessary; just come with an open mind and a friendly attitude and be willing to let your mind expand.

The library at 4675 Career Lane, on the campus of the Suncoast Technical College at Toledo Blade and Cranberry.^p

View original post here:
COLUMN: Find out what your handwriting reveals at Staub Library - yoursun.com

WASHINGTON - Batman, Wonder Woman and the Incredible Hulk all make appearances in "Comic Art: 120 Years of Panels and Pages," but this Library of Congress exhibition doesn't emphasize the superheroes who ate Hollywood. As its subtitle indicates, the show covers a lot of history, beginning in 1896 with "The Yellow Kid" and concluding with a video screen that cycles through examples of almost 20 web comics posted online since 2009. Along the way, the selection features many comics that were unconventional or underground.

The first American newspaper strips were comic, if sometimes surreal. So this is a mostly good-natured array, with little space devoted to despicable villains and grandiose heroes. (One exception is a bombastic post-9/11 vignette in which Superman poses with heroic New York first responders.) There are no war or horror comics, but Archie, Blondie and Snoopy are all on hand.

The earlier half of "Comic Art's" chronology shares the focus of many comics histories and anthologies published since the art form began to be taken seriously. The show favors the most ambitious and eccentric early strips, including Winsor McKay's "Little Nemo in Slumberland," George Herriman's "Krazy Kat" and Walt Kelly's "Pogo." All avoided typical characters and standard gags in favor of idiosyncratic outlooks and genre-bending styles and layouts. No doubt there were as many mediocre strips in earlier eras as there are today, but they seem to have crumbled along with the newsprint on which they were printed.

Among the more recent pages and panels are the work of the heirs to that innovative earlier tradition, including Trina Robbins ("Rip Off Comix"), Jaime Hernandez ("Love and Rockets") and Chris Ware ("Oak Park"). The relatively small assortment of comic books mostly forgoes the bestsellers. Instead, it offers a 1953 edition of "Mad" (before it switched to a magazine format); a copy of the feminist "Twisted Sisters" and the one and only issue of "All-Negro Comics," published in 1947.

D.C. was never a comics center, but this show does contain items of regional significance. Among these are contributions from the Small Press Expo, which began in Bethesda, Maryland, in 1994, and Stephen A. Geppi, a Baltimore comics retailer and distributor. There's a sequence from the brilliant "Cul de Sac," created by the late Richard Thompson and originally published in The Washington Post. One curiosity the show's organizers could hardly have resisted is a "Zippy the Pinhead" strip in which the mummu-clad hero is disappointed to learn that a valuable "Atomic Duck" archive is headed, like Geppi's collection, to the Library of Congress.

"Comic Art" doesn't just pack several dozen artifacts into a modest-sized gallery. It also provides information on each piece, distilling a comprehensive introduction to American illustrated storytelling into captions. The publishing wars started immediately, with a battle between the New York World and the New York Journal over which one owned "The Yellow Kid" after its artist, Richard Felton Outcault, departed the first paper for the second. (The text is instructive but not infallible: The note on a 1952 "Peanuts" strip identifies Patty, one of the strip's original characters, as Peppermint Patty, who wasn't introduced until 1966.)

Comic strips and books, however imperfectly preserved after publication, are mass media. So there's no need to travel to Capitol Hill to see examples of "Mickey Mouse" and "Gasoline Alley," or even Harvey Pekar's autobiographical and utterly unheroic "American Splendor." What distinguishes this show, in addition to the rarities it presents, is lots of original art. Visitors can see the pencil lines beneath the India ink, and the white-out on top. "Comic Art" shows how everything from Brenda Starr's newsroom to Little Nemo's dream world was conjured, line by line. In a time of CGI-heavy superhero flicks, that simplicity is immensely appealing.

View original post here:
At the Library of Congress, 'Comic Art' offers an appealing history of comics - Independent Tribune

CANFIELD

Butter-Making Class, 11 a.m., Canfield Library; for adults and teens, bring own small mixing bowl; register at 330-744-8636 or online.

DAMASCUS

Community breakfast, Damascus United Methodist Church, 7 10:30 a.m.

DEERFIELD

Deerfield Historical Society dance, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Deerfield Town Hall, 1450 SR 14. Deerfield House Band will provide entertainment. Admission $4; refreshments will be available.

GREENFORD

Greenford High School Class of 1958, 11:30 a.m., Inner Circle Canfield.

HANOVERTON

United Local High School Class of 1967, dinner, 5 p.m., Arbys in Salem. For information, call 330-692-1858.

LISBON

1-on-1 Computer and Smart Device Help, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Lepper Library. Call 330-424-3117 to register.

Ukulele Workshop, 1-3 p.m., Lepper Library. Call 330-424-3117 to register.

Book Club will discuss Where The Crawdads Sing, 1 p.m., Lepper Library. Call 330-424-3117 to register.

LISBON

Legally Blonde the Musical Jr presented by Stage Left Youth Players, 7 p.m., Trinity Playhouse, 234 E. Lincoln Way; $14 adults, $12 senior citizens and $10 students; tickets available at the door; reservations at StageLeftPlayers.org.

NORTH LIMA

Community Day Camp Grab & Go soup fundraiser, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Calvary United Methodist Church, 12062 South Ave. Choices of soup are zucchini chowder, wedding, ham and bean, stuffed pepper, baked potato, and broccoli cheese and more. Cost is $8 per soup.

ROGERS

Square dance, Rogers Auction Dining Hall, 7-10 p.m. Admission $5. Music by the Country Squares. Caller will be John Hively. Lunch stand provided by Farmers Pride 4-H Club.

SALEM

Salem High School Class of 1953, noon, Annabells.

Salem High School Class of 1966, 11:30 a.m., BB Rooners.

Scrabble Tournament, 1-4 p.m., Salem Public Library Quaker Room; register:www.salem.lib.oh.us or 330-332-0042.

Salem VFW Post 892, Dam and the Man, 7-11 p.m., no cover, open to the public. Kitchen open 5-7 p.m. Information: 330-337-8015.

Radio Edit concert, 9 p.m., Salem Eagles; kitchen open 8-10 p.m.

SUN/19

COLUMBIANA

Knights of Columbus Councils from Columbiana and East Palestine, benefit spaghetti dinner for Sophia Womens Center, 1-4 p.m., St. Jude Activity Center, 180 Seventh St.; $8 adults, $5 children 12 and under, free for children and under; carry out available.

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP

Messy Church entitled Strong Faith, 4 to 6 p.m., East Goshen Friends Church, 16800 state Route 165; information at 330-537-3177 or eastgoshenfc.org.

LISBON

Legally Blonde the Musical Jr presented by Stage Left Youth Players, 2 p.m., Trinity Playhouse, 234 E. Lincoln Way; $14 adults, $12 senior citizens and $10 students; tickets available at the door; reservations at StageLeftPlayers.org.

Lisbon Lions Club Bingo, 6 p.m., 3840 Industrial Park Road; doors open at 4 p.m.

NEW WATERFORD

New Waterford Eagles, breakfast, 8 a.m.-noon, Queen of Hearts available.

SALEM

Public breakfast, 8-11 a.m., Salem VFW Post 892 Auxiliary, 496 Arch St., haystacks or a traditional breakfast consisting of eggs, pancakes, hash browns, sausage patties, toast, orange juice and coffee available, cost $6 per meal.

A Little Live Music featuring Marilyn Mong, 2-3 p.m., Salem Public Library Adult Reading Room.

Kent State Salem Communiversity Choir with the Kent State Nova Jazz Singers free concert, 3 p.m., Kent State Salem City Center auditorium.

MON/20

LISBON

Columbiana CountyPark Board, special session, 9 a.m., Columbiana Country Park District office, 130 W. Maple St.

NEW WATERFORD

New Waterford Class of 1956, lunch, 11:30 a.m., Josies in Columbiana.

SALEM

Historical Society Museum and Gift/Book Shop, 239 S. Lundy Ave., open, tours by appointment, 9 a.m. noon, 330-337-8514.

Salem Book Club monthly meeting, noon, Smucker House, South Broadway; guests welcome; for information call Barb Yonkers 234-567-3098.

WASHINGTONVILLE

Village Council, 6:30 p.m., Village Hall.

TUE/21

ALLIANCE

Coffee Talk with West Branch Schools Superintendent Timothy Saxton, 9 a.m., Perkins Restaurant.

CANFIELD

Baby Brilliant: Tales & Talk for 2s & 3s, 10 a.m., Canfield Library; activities to help children ages 2 to 3 become readers.

Mah-Jongg Mondays, 1-3 p.m., Canfield Library; for adults (Mah-Jongg sets not provided).

EAST LIVERPOOL

Columbiana County Hope Festival Relay for Life meeting, 6 p.m., Community Learning Center; for information, call Dawn Bednarke at 234-736-6757.

HANOVERTON

United Local Class of 1961, lunch, noon, Adeles Place.

LEETONIA

Crochet for Charity, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Gentle Yoga, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Library Board of Trustees, 5:30 p.m., Leetonia Community Public Library.

LISBON

Columbiana County Educational Service Center, 38720 Saltwell Road, January organizational meeting, 4:30 p.m. with the regular January meeting to follow.

January general membership meeting of the Columbiana County Family & Children First Council, 10:15 a.m., conference room, Columbiana County ESC, 38720 Saltwell Road. January mandated membership meeting of the Columbiana County Family & Children First Council, 9 a.m., ESC board room.

SALEM

Electric Furnace breakfast, 9 a.m., Adeles Place.

Bank One Retirees and Friends, noon, Annabelles; RSVP at 330-427-0304.

Salem High School Class of 1964, 12:30 p.m., Rickys English Pub.

WED/22

CANFIELD

Gotta Move Story Time, 10 a.m., Canfield Library; for children ages 2-5 with caregiver.

National Popcorn Day & Other Snack Foods, 6:30 p.m., Canfield Library; for adults and teens; register at 330-744-8636 or online.

LEETONIA

Toddler Playgroup, 10-11:15 a.m., Leetonia Community Public Library.

SALEM

Historical Society Museum and Gift/Book Shop, 239 S. Lundy Ave., open, tours by appointment, 9 a.m. noon, 330-337-8514.

Salem High School Class of 1950, lunch, 11:30 a.m., Mikes Penn Grille.

Salem Eagles Bingo Night Backroom, 6 p.m.; members and guests.

Go Wild in the Park, sponsored by the Salem Parks and Recreation Dept., Little Beaver Creek State and National Wild and Scenic River. In the librarys Quaker Room, 821 E. State St.

Guest speaker will be Matthew Smith, Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Manager of the ODNRs Scenic River Division. Attendance is free of cost and open to the public. Registration is required and may be done online at http://www.salem.lib.oh.us or call the library at 330-332-0042 for registration assistance.

YOUNGSTOWN

Dana School of Music free percussion clinic, 5-9 p.m., Youngstown State University Bliss Hall Room 2326; information is available by calling the Office of Community Engagement and Events at 330-941-2307.

THU/23

CANFIELD

Baby Brilliant: Bonding with Babies & Books, 10 a.m., Canfield Library; for caregivers and little ones 6 to 23 months old.

Using Newspapers for Genealogical Research, 6:30 p.m., Canfield Library; for adults and teens; register at 330-744-8636 or online.

COLUMBIANA

Oasis Food Ministry distribution, 4-6 p.m., First Christian Church, 39 Cherry St.; anyone 60 and older may come from 1 to 2 p.m.

Crestview Board of Education, special meeting, 5 p.m., high school Zoom Room, 44100 Crestview Road.Purpose to review proposal in executive session and to consider design service.

HANOVERTON

United High School Classes of 1959 and 1960, 9 a.m., Adeles.

LEETONIA

Exercise, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; Crochet, 4-6 p.m., Leetonia Community Public Library.

LISBON

David AndersonHigh School Class of 1955, lunch, 11:30 a.m., Hecks Restaurant.

NEW WATERFORD

New Waterford Eagles, wing night, 4-9 p.m. Queen of Hearts available.

SALEM

Kaiser and National retirees, breakfast, 8:30 a.m., Adeles.

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