Oak Harbor Library

Watercolor Paintings on Display

2012-01-30T16:58:00.000-08:00

Sue Martell is currently under contract with Geme Art, Inc. in Vancouver, WA. Her focus is on highly realistic botanical watercolors.

Her series of published botanical paintings was showcased in the March 2005 issue of Decor Magazine.

Sue was a member of the Penn Cove Cooperative Gallery in Coupeville for 10 years and has also been represented by the Blue Heron Gallery and the Insights Gallery.

Sue says of her work: "It is my greatest wish that everything made by my hands be gracious and lovely and reflect the faith that gives me peace."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHARLES DICKENS

2012-01-24T15:02:00.000-08:00

Dickens 2012 is an international celebration of the life and work of Charles Dickens, marking the 200th anniversary of his birth on February 7, 1812. Dickens’s work transcends his time, language and culture. His influence continues to inspire film, art, literature and education, and his books are as well worth reading today as ever.

At our house we've been faithfully watching Downton Abbey (via PBS web site, but we still have to wait until after it airs on Monday evenings). Like those of Dickens, its characters inhabit a place in my mind. I can completely identify with the tens of thousands of readers who clamoured for Charles Dickens' serial adventures, calling out to approaching ships, "What happened to Little Dorrit?"

Your library still has plenty of Dickens, and you don't have to wait to savor the adventure.

LEGO ANIMATION AT THE LIBRARY

2012-01-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

Children from North Whidbey recently participated in a Lego Animation program with Lukas Allenbaugh at the Oak Harbor Library as part of the Sno-Isle Winter Extravaganza. Mr. Allenbaugh proved to be a gifted instructor and the workshop was a rousing success! Children worked in teams of two or three as Mr. Allenbaugh taught them the art of stop-motion animation. The kids learned to take digital photos of scenarios they designed and constructed with Lego pieces, then used the series of photos to create their own short films. This program was enjoyed by all and sponsored by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.

-Jane Lopez-Santillana

New Classes at Your Library

2012-01-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

Current brain research points to the importance of lifelong learning. Whether it's playing cards with a friend, reading a book, or taking a class, we must find ways to learn new things and stimulate our minds throughout our lives in order to prevent disease and stay alert, healthy, and happy.

Look no further than your local library for endless opportunities to stay engaged. In 2012, we are pround to bring you a brand new series of classes called "Librarians as Information Guides."

Funded by grants from the The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation, nine librarians will teach fun and innovative classes on health, science, genealogy, healthy life planning, investing resources, travel, and downloading eBooks, throughout Snohomish and Island Counties in 2012.

Check with your local library or go online to register.

Be sure to register early -- these free classes will fill up fast and you won't want to miss these chances to learn new things and make new friends!

Hope to see you there,
Kara

Mixed Media Art by Pat Morse on Display

2012-01-03T15:19:00.000-08:00

Pat Morse is a textile artist using mixed media with an emphasis on fabric, paper and thread. Her art is inspired by the natural world around us, especially the water, mountains, and plants of the Pacific Northwest. She also incorporates designs and themes from other cultures seen while traveling.

She uses hand-dyed and printed fabrics, beads, metals, and other embellishments to create raised surfaces for machine and hand quilting.

Four of her mixed media pieces are on display at the Oak Harbor Library in January.

Free Health and Happiness at the Library

2011-12-28T10:40:00.000-08:00

Attending a community event at your local library may be more than just entertaining - it may improve your health, according to a study from Norway. Researchers who followed more than 50,000 people found that engaging in arts and cultural activities is linked to physical and emotional health. The connection held even when researchers controlled for socio-economic and health factors: free events that are emotionally engaging or creative can boost well-being. Improve your happiness by attending an event at the Oak Harbor Library this month. Here are a few ideas -

Saturday Matinee: The Help - free movie and popcorn on Saturday, January 7 at 2PM. A southern society girl returns from college determined to be a writer in this film based on the book by Kathryn Stockett. Free popcorn provided by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.

Learn how to Download eBooks, Movies & Music on Monday, January 9 at 3PM. Register now for this free introductory class on downloading from the Sno-Isle Libraries web site.

Meet local authors as Spirit of Writing contest winners read from their work on Thursday, January 19 at 3PM. Refreshments provided by Whidbey Island Writers Association.

See you at the library! Mary

Get in Line 24/7

2011-12-20T18:23:00.000-08:00

It's really easy and time-saving to place holds on your favorite books, music, and movies 24/7. Simply follow the simple steps below to get started.

1. Start at your library's homepage at www.sno-isle.org

2. Search for your favorite book, author, or subject in the catalog search box

3. Click "Place Request"

4. Enter your Library Card Number and Password (last 4 numbers in your phone number)

5. Choose your pickup location

6. Click "Submit Request"

Then, like magic, your items will arrive at your local library and we will contact you to let you know they're here. All you have to do is grab them off the holds shelf within seven days of notification and check them out. Super easy and super fast!

Great Gift Books for Kids 2011

2011-12-14T17:35:00.000-08:00

Receiving a book can be a transformative event in a child's life. Here are a few selections to help you ignite a life-long love of reading, learning and imagination.

Picture Books

Binky Under Pressure
by Ashley Spires

Blue Chicken
by Deborah Freedman

King Jack and the Dragon
by Peter Bently and Helen Oxenbury

A Place to Call Home
by Alexis Deacon

The Rain Train
by Elena De Roo

The Umbrella
by Ingrid and Dieter Schubert

Chapter Books

Everest: You Decide How to Survive!
by Bill Doyle, David Borgenicht and David Morton

The Grand Plan to Fix Everything
by Uma Krishnaswami

Okay for Now
by Gary Schmidt

Wildwood
by Colin Meloy

Wonderstruck
by Brian Selznick

Non-Fiction Books

Drawing from Memory
by Allen Say

Every Thing On It: Poems and Drawings
by Shel Silverstein

Everything I Need to Know Before I'm Five
by Valorie Fisher

If You Lived Here: Houses of the World
by Giles Laroche

The LEGO Ideas Book: Unlock Your Imagination
by Daniel Lipkowitz

Spread the joy of reading!

Jane L.S.

Great Gift Books of 2011

2011-12-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

Books make wonderful gifts. I think great novels, cookbooks, history, and art books make especially great gifts. Some of my favorite gift books of 2011 include:

Five Fiction Choices

Last Man in Tower by Aravind Adiga

Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes

The Old Spring by Richard Francis

The Tiger's Wife by Téa Obreht

Untold Story by Monica Ali

Five Non-Fiction Choices

Design Sponge at Home by Grace Bonney

A History of the World in 100 Objects by Neil Macgregor

The Kitchen Counter Cooking School by Kathleen Flinn

My Vietnam by Luke Nguyen

Super Natural Every Day by Heidi Swanson

Happy Giving and Receiving,
Kara

Take The Library With You: 24/7 Downloads

2011-11-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

Planning a trip this holiday season? Busy with last minute details? Who's got time to go to the library! The good news is, you don't have to. Why not add one more online shopping stop and visit your Sno-Isle Libraries download site. It's available 24/7 with access to free audiobooks for IPod and mP3 players, and free eBooks for your Kindle, Nook or other eReader.
We just got back from a terrific weekend in eastern Washington. On the way over and back we listened to Bill Bryson's At home: A short history of private life, which I had downloaded earlier to my mP3 player. Read beautifully by the author, it was both fascinating and thought provoking. Even more important, it made the miles speed by.
At our friends' house with time to relax, we dipped into eBooks downloaded free from the library web site: The Surrendered by Chang-Rae Lee on my Kindle; and Wallace Stegner's classic, Angle of Repose on my husband's eReader.
Of course I still love those print books - one in the hand, one on the eReader and one to listen to as I walk, ride, clean house and work in the yard is generally about right.
Learn how to download books with OverDrive's Digital Media Tutorial or sign up for a free class at your local library. Enjoy this busy season - and be sure to make time to read!

Great Design, Beautiful Library

2011-11-22T12:25:00.000-08:00

I recently visited one of the more inspiring buildings (and libraries) I have ever seen. It was the downtown Vancouver, WA, branch of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District in Southwest Washington. They opened their new Main Library in July 2011.

They clearly focused on great design, community, early learning, technology, adult learning, teens, green building, inspiration, creativity, and contemplation.

From even before I walked in the door I felt excited and inspired. While wandering around the building -- to the point of forgetting about time, just wanting to hang out -- I found myself thinking about how great design engenders great feelings.

There are floor to ceiling glass windows, bringing the outside in and letting in lots of natural light. A coffee cart, serving local coffee, tea, and pastries, greets visitors on the first floor, surrounded by comfortable seating and shelves of "Lucky Day" books of popular titles. The building's "green" design is clean and professional, and spaces are offered throughout the library for all ages and interests. The entire third floor, for example, is dedicated to children, including a whole wing for Early Learning based on the process of reading.

Comfortable places to sit and read or work, with plug-ins built into the tables, welcome laptop users, writers, and contemplatives on each floor. The top floor enjoys a beautiful terrace with benches, plants, and a great view of downtown, the Columbia River, and looking on to Portland.

These pictures show a huge wall that begins in the lobby on the first floor and extends up to the ceiling, clearly demonstrating the vision of the building and the unsurpassed value of public libraries. This wall was one of my favorite parts of this beautiful building. What is your favorite part of your favorite library (or any other) building? -Kara

Library Children's Area Reimagined

2011-11-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

Oak Harbor Library's Children's Area entryway has a gorgeous, new interactive look. Visible from the library entrance, the art installation by Celia Marie Baker clearly identifies the children's area. It welcomes and engages young children and their families, while highlighting the natural history of Whidbey Island.
Children are greeted with large trees which house a variety of woodland animals, birds and insects. Painted screen transitions from green to blue, as the artwork moves from forest to ocean. From inside the children's area the view is beach, fish, sealife and ocean birds. Early literacy concepts are employed as children are invited to find the animals and their accompanying letters (as in "U" is for urchin).
The project was funded through a grant from the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation, in support of the Oak Harbor Library's work with preschool children and their families. Come check it out - Mary

Canoe Journey Photos on Display

2011-11-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

This month, Oak Harbor Library displays photographs taken by Toni Kay Smith at the Coast Salish peoples’ annual Tribal Canoe Journey. Tribal Journeys began in 1989 with nine canoes participating in “Paddle to Seattle.”

Since 1993, various tribes in Washington State and British Columbia have hosted the canoe journeys. In July 2011, the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community hosted end of journey events on tribal land in La Conner.

November is National American Indian Heritage Month. During the second half of November, artwork by Swinomish tribal members Frank Campbell and Joe Bailey, and photographs from the 2011 Tribal Canoe Journey will be on display in the case in the library lobby.

For more information about Paddle to Swinomish 2011, visit the http://paddletoswinomish.com/ web site.

Consumer Reports Online

2011-11-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can access Consumer Reports online for free with your Sno-Isle Libraries card?

Click on the Consumer Information page where you'll find access to all Consumer Reports magazine issues back to 1985. All from the comfort of your home or phone.

Ask a Librarian if you have any questions. -Kara

Consider the Conversation: Documentary Film

2011-11-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. On Thursday November 17 at 2pm, Hospice of the Northwest invites you to take part in an intimate conversation about end of life issues at the Oak Harbor Library. Consider the Conversation is a thought-provoking film that sheds light on the 21st century American struggle with communication and preparation at the end-of-life. Forty years ago, most people experienced a quick death, but today we are more likely to suffer a slow, incremental dying process. This documentary film looks closely at the emotional, spiritual, physical and social burdens we now associate with dying, and begins to examine personal solutions.

While you are waiting for the film event, check out some of these titles:
Handbook for mortals : guidance for people facing serious illness by Joanne Lynn
A better way of dying : how to make the best choices at the end of life by Jeanne Fitzpatrick
Hard times require furious dancing : new poems by Alice Walker
Mary

Fort Casey and the Defense of the Pacific NW

2011-10-27T19:23:00.000-07:00

Terry Buchanan, author of Fort Casey : the history of Fort Casey and the defense of the Pacific Northwest , will speak at the Oak Harbor Library on Thursday, November 3 at 3:00pm. Through personal narrative accounts and remarkable photographs, Buchanan traces the history of the birth, death, and revival of Whidbey Island's Fort Casey from the 1890s to the present. The author will have copies of the book for sale, and copies are also available at the library. Supported by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.

Library as Gathering Place

2011-10-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

I was recently in the beautiful city of Montreal. One of my favorite things about that historic, French-speaking city is its vibrant cafe culture. Everyone hangs out in these sweet little cafes that are found in every neighborhood.

People meet to converse, study, read, tell stories, talk politics, listen to music, have a warm drink, and just share their lives - even if being there on their own - with their fellow friends and neighbors.

While hanging out in these cafes as much as I could while I was there, I was reminded me of how much I love this very aspect of public libraries. Places where people meet to catch up, study, relax, read, tell and listen to stories, talk politics, listen to music, and share our lives with friends and neighbors.

Libraries offer fantastic online services and we also luckily still offer wonderful spaces to gather and reflect. -Kara

Let's Talk About Books

2011-10-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

October is National Reading Group Month, sponsored by the Women’s National Book Association. Do you belong to a discussion group? Many of the Sno-Isle Libraries, including Oak Harbor Library, offer ever-evolving and always engaging book groups. Talking about books with friends and neighbors can be a transformative experience - plus you will discover titles you might never have selected on your own!
Share your love of reading and join a discussion group. On October 20 at 6:00 PM Oak Harbor's Highly Evolved Literary League (that's you) will discuss Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. The book describes the author's family's efforts to live on locally- and home-grown foods, an endeavor through which they learned lighthearted truths about food production and the connection between health and diet.
Love mysteries? Join the Whidbey Mystery Readers on October 27 at 3:00 PM as they discuss the mysteries of Marcia Muller. Choose any title by the author and drop in - the group is funded by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.
Sno-Isle Libraries and the Sno-Isle Foundation are proud to offer book discussion kits for book groups. Each kit includes 10 copies of a single title. Resources for book discussions may be found at publishers' websites, bound into some editions of the book, or at http://www.bookreporter.com/ or http://www.readinggroupguides.com/.
Happy reading,
Mary

Deception Pass Photos on Display

2011-09-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

Photographs of Deception Pass by local photographer John Pendleton are currently on display at the Oak Harbor Library. John is a professional photographer, award-winning author, poet and blogger.

Since arriving on Whidbey Island, John Pendleton has dedicated his time to unmasking the sublime beauty of the island and its people. You're invited to follow his blog at http://blogs.southwhidbeyrecord.com/northwestdream/

To see more of John's work, visit his web site: http://www.pendletonimaging.com/

Free Downloads!

2011-09-26T13:15:00.001-07:00

Sno-Isle Libraries offers you free downloads of thousands of books, movies, and music!

You can learn how to use these awesome resources at the upcoming Downloads class at the Oak Harbor Library on Thursday October 13th at 3pm. Learn more and register here.

If you can't make it to the class, you can always schedule a Book-a-Librarian class at your local library to learn how to download library books, movies, and music.

Electronically,
Kara

p.s. If you haven't heard, you can now use the Kindle to download free library books!

Celebrating the Freedom to Read

2011-09-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

Intellectual freedom—the freedom to access information and express ideas, even if the information and ideas might be considered unorthodox or unpopular—that's what Banned Books Week is all about. Skagit Valley College students will host a banned book week event on Thursday Sept 29 from 6pm – 8pm in the library meeting room. It is open to the public, who are invited to join the discussion about first amendment rights, censorship, and books that have been banned or challenged through history. The panel includes an ACLU board member, Skagit Valley College professors and a local pastor.

Sno-Isle Libraries commitment is to uphold First Amendment rights through freedom of expression, open exchange of ideas and access to information. The library is a community resource for people of all ages, races, creeds, national origins, sexual orientation, and political or social views. It is a physical and virtual place where ideas and information are freely exchanged, and every customer’s journey with materials is valued. A variety of viewpoints are represented in the library collection, and the library upholds the right of the individual to obtain information, though the content may be controversial, unorthodox, or unacceptable to others.

Around the World

2011-09-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

Planning a trip? Sno-Isle Libraries has everything you need, including guidebooks, language learning resources, maps, Internet access, and knowledgeable staff.

And, the Oak Harbor Library is hosting an Around the World travel series! All programs are on Tuesdays at 6:30pm:

September 20: What to Pack

September 27: Route 66

October 4: African Safari

Bring your dreams and friends and join us at these fun events!

Kara

Not In Our Town PBS Screening

2011-09-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

Oak Harbor Library presents a screening and public discussion of a new PBS documentary, Not In Our Town: Light in the Darkness, on Wednesday, September 21, at noon. Bring your lunch, and join the discussion!

Not In Our Town: Light in the Darkness tells the story of residents of a Long Island village taking action after a local immigrant is killed in a hate crime attack by seven teenagers. While starkly revealing the trauma of hate, the film provides a blueprint for people who want to do something before intolerance turns to violence.

The screening in Oak Harbor is part of the Not In Our Town National Week of Action, held from September 18-24. During the Week of Action, communities across the country will use the film to find ways to prevent hate crimes and anti-immigrant violence.

For information about the screening or documentary please contact the Oak Harbor Library at 360-675-5115 or visit www.sno-isle.org.

Real Answers from Real People 24/7

2011-08-31T08:34:00.001-07:00

You know how you type questions into Google and usually you get pretty good information?

Then sometimes you don't find quite what you're looking for, cannot access certain things due to restrictions, or would prefer to work with a real person but not leave your home.

When you can't find something, or need better information from a real live information professional, turn to your library, where you can chat with a librarian 24/7.

AKA: Free, professional information help in real-time!

Another way the library is your answer for high value, high quality information anytime anywhere.

Kara

Photo courtesy of Mr. Velocipede

Lifelong Learning @ Your Library

2011-08-21T15:35:00.001-07:00

The kids are going back to school, and so can you. The library is your doorway to information and lifelong learning - not just the resources, but the tools to access them along with real people who can provide assistance. Your library also provides a forum for in-person programs and events that enable discussion and debate - it's a center for people, ideas and culture.

Need to upgrade your technology skills so you can continue to participate? Book a Librarian for free one-on-one tutoring, or register for the upcoming Tech Talk series by calling the Oak Harbor Senior Center beginning September 1.

Enjoy films? Waiting for Superman, a forthright examination of education in America, will air on Monday, September 12 at 6:00 pm. On Wednesday, September 15 at 12:00 noon, bring your lunch to watch and discuss the PBS documentary, Not In Our Town: Light in the Darkness, highlighting stories of communities taking positive action to fight hate crimes.

Learn how to use the library catalog to find books and movies on Wednesday, September 15 at 3:00 pm, join one of the library sponsored book discussions, or just find something new to learn at the library. Keep growing! Mary

Reliable Medical Information

2011-08-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

Finding reliable medical information can be challenging, especially online.

Did you know that Sno-Isle Libraries provides you trusted, easy to understand medical information that is available free at the library or from your home computer with a library card?

Check out your library's Consumer Health Resources here!

Kara

This Month's Artist: James Moore

2011-08-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

This month the Oak Harbor library displays oil paintings by James Moore. He says of his artwork:

"I paint because I like discovering something’s unique beauty, as I see it, and then capturing my feelings about it in paint."

James was born to a U.S. Navy family. He grew up in Hawaii, Sicily, Pennsylvania, Florida, Virginia, North Carolina and California. With his wife, Sue Symons, he created and ran Moore & Symons, Inc., a marketing research and planning firm in Atlanta, Georgia. After selling their business, James and Sue lived in northwest Montana near Glacier Park for nine years, where he started painting professionally. They now live on Whidbey Island.

A member of Oil Painters of America, Plein Air Washington and the Puget Sound Group of Northwest Painters, Moore is represented by Insights Gallery in Anacortes, Crow Valley Gallery on Orcas Island, Gallery San Juan in Friday Harbor, Glacier Gallery in Kalispell, MT, and the Pacific Northwest Art School in Coupeville. He is a founder of the Plein Air Painters’ U.S. Open and the San Juan Preservation Trust Plein Air Shows. James instructs at his studio and is on the visiting faculty of the Pacific Northwest Art School.

You can see more of his work at http://www.jamesmooreartist.com/

Learn a Language

2011-07-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

Learning a new language is a fun way to activate your brain and prepare for future adventures.

Mango Languages offers a free and easy way to learn a foreign language and includes these features:

Learn online at your own pace

High quality audio of native speakers

34 foreign language courses

15 ESL courses

Available free at the library or from your home computer with a library card

Ask your local librarian for help learning this cool resource, which is available 24/7 from your Sno-Isle Libraries.

Enjoy!
Kara

Summer Reading: It Works!

2011-07-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

Summertime, and the library is filled with children participating in Summer Reading. It's wild and crazy as kids swarm the desks getting stamps and stickers, but what does it really accomplish?
Based on a recent study, we can now confirm what librarians have long suspected: kids who participate in library summer reading significantly improve their reading skills and avoid learning loss between one school year and the next.
In today's economy, taxpayers want proof that their dollars are being spent wisely. This study tests the theory that summer reading boosts student achievement, and shows conclusively that library summer reading programs work.
Oak Harbor Library has nearly 1,000 elementary school aged children participating in this year's summer reading program. Kids that reads 10 books get their name on the wall, and are invited to choose a free book to add to their own home collection. The program is sponsored by Friends of the Oak Harbor Library, Whidbey Naval Officer Spouses Club, and Island Thrift.
These kids will return to school better prepared and ready to succeed. We trust that by reading whatever they want, they will also establish a love of reading that will last a lifetime.
Drop in and see it in action! Mary

How much money do you save at the library?

2011-07-07T08:22:00.000-07:00

Imagine if you purchased all of the items you check out at your library. It would really add up!

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library in North Carolina created an online calculator to help you estimate this amount.

Of course, Sno-Isle Libraries is in a different state and economy, but the rough estimates will work just fine to help you see the value provided to you and your family. I was surprised by my results!

With a few books, movies, magazines, newspapers, research questions, classes and events I use and attend each month on average, I am saving over $600 each month, and over $7,000 each year!

Try it out here!

See you at the library,

Kara

Photographic Art on Display

2011-07-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

Photographer Curtis Adams says of his work:

Photography has been a big part of my life for decades. I have experience above and below the water, still and video, natural and artificial light, digital and film. My camera is instrumental in what I do professionally and personally.

Much of my recent photography is either sales/sails-related in the marine industry, or from capturing light and images while on family travel. My business involves internet and print media images for yacht sales. My personal photography tends to be capturing unusual reflections, patterns, or textures.

Although I was brought up in the age of film I shoot nearly exclusively digital now. The images on display were shot either with a Nikonos underwater 35mm camera, or with an Olympus DSLR. In either case, I enjoy the world of post-production and attempting to create something artistic. I hope looking at these photographs provides enjoyment to those who take the time to look.

First Lines

2011-06-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Books with amazing first lines really stick with me. And it's so often that an amazing first line is the entry into an extraordinary book.

So it is with this year's Orange Prize winner, The Tiger's Wife, by Téa Obreht. It reads,

"In my earliest memory, my grandfather is bald as a stone and he takes me to see the tigers."

I was pulled in immediately and wish the other parts of my life would go away so I can focus on reading this wonderful book without interruption.

Nancy Pearl also loves first lines and gives some more great famous first words reading ideas on NPR, including these:

"The past is a foreign country. They do things differently there." The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley

"Captain Ahab was neither my first husband nor my last." Ahab's Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund

Summer is a perfect time to sink into books old and new. Sno-Isle Libraries offers some great summer reading lists, and we're always here in person and on-line to provide reading suggestions made just for you!

Kara

CONA: Centennial of Naval Aviation

2011-06-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

This year marks the Centennial of Naval Aviation or CONA: 100 years of flying for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Naval aviators and the families and crews who support their work contribute immeasurably to the defense of our nation. From the earliest days of patrol missions like those of Oak Harbor's PBY, to the sophisticated reconnaissance work of today's planes, naval aviation has played a vital role in the history of the United States.

Join the celebration - check out some new titles in Sno-Isle Libraries collection:

Fly Navy: Discovering the Extraordinary People and Enduring Spirit of Naval Aviation by Alvin Townley (Thomas Dunne Books, 2011). "Townley delves beyond the Top Gun Hollywood image to reveal the true mettle and genuine story of the elite men and women of naval aviation."

Fly Navy: Celebrating the first century of naval aviation by Erik Hidebrandt. "Aviation photographer and author Erik Hildebrandt chronicles all systems serving in naval aviation with never before seen photography in this epic picture book."

Don't miss the Sea Plane Fly-In at the Oak Harbor Library Friday, July 29 - Sunday, July 31 - sure to be a great show! Mary

Read and Win!

2011-06-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Did you know that adults get to read and win during Summer Reading too?!

Write reviews online or on paper at your local library and you will be eligible to win a Nook eReader!

And, be sure to ask your local library about prizes unique to your community. For example, in Oak Harbor, after you submit five books reviews, we give you a gift certificate to Whidbey Coffee!

Read all about Adult Summer Reading here and be sure to ask us for ideas on the next great book to read!

Kara

Whidbey Island Surface Design: Fiber Arts Display

2011-06-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

Whidbey Island Surface Design is a group of artists who share an interest in surface design.

Surface design encompasses the coloring, patterning and structuring of fiber and fabric. This involves creative exploration of processes such as dyeing, painting, printing, stitching, embellishing, quilting, weaving, knitting, felting and papermaking.

The artists featured at Oak Harbor Library are Mary Burks, Pat Morse, Diane Reardon and Larkin Jean Van Horn.

Whidbey Island Surface Design also has artwork on display this month at the Coupeville Library and the Freeland Library.

For more information about Whidbey Island Surface Design and its member artists, visit

http://whidbeyislandsda.wordpress.com/

At Your Service

2011-05-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

Do you need...

--a perfect book for vacation
--a book group to join
--a free lecture to attend
--computer skills to learn
--a storytime for your children
--books to download to your eReader
--movies and music to download on a rainy night
--a writing group for your teenager
--a question answered
--a book kit for your book group
--a language to learn
--electronic books on philosophy or science
--genealogy resources
--legal forms online and in-print
--business plans online and in-print
--homework help
--car repair instructions
--Oprah and Consumer Reports online
--or a place to work on your laptop with free wi-fi?

Look no further than your local library.

Consider the library your one-stop shop for information. Online and in-person, we are at your service for all ages education and entertainment.

Kara

New Book by Whidbey Reads Author a Success!

2011-05-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

Erica Bauermeister, the 2011 Whidbey Reads author, just published her next book, Joy for Beginners, and so far it's receiving rave reviews!

It is the Indie Next Pick for June 2011 and Publisher's Weekly says the book is, “Sensual…evocative…A book designed to both fill you up and make you hungry for life.”

Click here to read more about the book, including its first chapter. And, if you missed Erica's recent visit to Whidbey Island, you can listen to an interview I hosted with the author on Whidbey's community radio station KWPA 96.9.

If "Joy," as Erica calls it, is anything like The School of Essential Ingredients, I can't wait for June to arrive!

Kara

Floral Illustrations Welcome Spring

2011-05-02T15:51:00.000-07:00

Pennie Janousek's botanical illustrations are on display at Oak Harbor Library during the month of May. Pennie says of her artwork:

Nature, particularly its flora, has held a fascination for me since my childhood. My art has always been a reflection of that love of nature in its form and subject matter. During the past eleven years I have channeled my artistic energy into one of the most demanding of art forms. Botanical illustration was historically used prior to photography as a means of scientific documentation of a species. While the onset of photography filled this need for visual accuracy, it could not replace the beauty of botanical illustration as an art form in its own right. By rendering the details and intricate structure of a plant form, my aim is to transfer to the viewer both an intimate knowledge and an artistic sensibility of my subject.

Ms. Janousek is a member of the American Society of Botanical Artists.

Joining Forces to Help Military Families

2011-05-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Last week Michelle Obama and Jill Biden announced a national campaign for U.S. military families: Joining Forces. The campaign calls for businesses, civic agencies and individuals to come up with ways to help families deal with the stresses of day-to-day life, particularly during periods when parents are deployed. It also includes initiatives for job training and financial assistance for those who are leaving the military. Here are some of the ways the Oak Harbor Library serves our military families:

Preschool story times Monday through Thursday at the library, including bedtime stories on Monday evenings at 7pm.

Free events for all ages, such as last week's great presentation by Naval Air Station Whidbey Island's Search and Rescue Team

Free wifi and laptops for jobseekers, plus a wealth of information on how to write a resume, prepare for an interview and land a job

Free test taking preparation and online tutors for all levels of education, right up through college

Join us in supporting military families 100% - Mary

Saturday Matinees

2011-04-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

Enjoy free movies and popcorn at the Oak Harbor Library on the first Saturdays of each month at 2pm.

May's movie, on May 7th, is Eat, Pray, Love, based on the still-bestselling book by Elizabeth Gilbert. Julia Roberts plays the lead role. It's a fun story of adventure, love, and self-discovery.

See you at the movies!
Kara

Local Search & Rescue Heroes at Your Local Library!

2011-04-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Whidbey Island Naval Air Station's Search and Rescue team will reveal their secrets of aircrew rescue, MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter capabilities, mountain search and rescue, and medical evacuations.

Held at the Oak Harbor Library on Thursday April 21st at 3pm.

Everyone is welcome to this exciting event featuring your local heroes!

Hope to see you there!

Kara

Library Snapshot Day in Washington

2011-04-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Washington Library Snapshot Day. Libraries across the state collected comments and pictures from the everyday life of libraries to share with others about the role libraries play in our communities and in our lives. One person at the Oak Harbor Library who came in to do some genealogy research wrote: "...librarians consistently greet patrons - ages 3 to 93 - in a cheerful, patient, motivated to help attitude..." Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us! You are right, we are motivated to help, and always glad to see you. These are just a few of the people we "snapped" yesterday (pictures by Anne Murphy, Librarian).

This Month's Artist: Stephany Vogel

2011-04-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

Stephany Vogel is a painter, photographer and book-maker. The three paintings on display at the Oak Harbor Library this month are abstracts. She comments that the two small paintings are also sewn by hand and machine. They are called 'Deerskins', mostly due to the color. The larger abstract is untitled. Stephanie describes this piece as "a reference to cells, and the microscopic world in general."

She says of her artwork:

"Much of my work is abstract, though I do figurative work as well. I paint in acrylic on canvas, sometimes using multi-media techniques, and often cut and sew the paintings as well. My work has progressed over the past 20 plus years, from photography and printmaking, to painting. Though I still work in several mediums, I mostly consider myself a painter. I find painting very creative and satisfying. I have studied art formally, at the San Francisco Art Institute and Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, where I graduated in 1993. I have exhibited and taught: mostly on the West Coast. Art making is key to my life, and my identity." Her blog address is: http://www.makepeacearts.blogspot.com/

Cool things in Polaris

2011-03-31T17:15:00.000-07:00

There are so many cool features in our new online library system, Polaris! One thing I particularly like is the "Reader rating," which gives readers' reviews with the click of a button and without having to go to another website. What other cool features have you discovered? Happy Searching! Kara

Hold Your Holds-Polaris is Coming

2011-03-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

A new online library catalog that offers personalized library experience is almost here! Starting in early April, you will be able to find library materials faster and more efficiently, personalize your account with request lists and reading history, have more control over your incoming requests and share reviews using integrated social media tools.
This much needed update replaces a system that is more than 20 years old, and the transition is a huge endeavor. At Sno-Isle Libraries it involves the transfer of 1.3 million book and other item records from one system to another, plus the accounts of nearly 500,000 cardholders.
For the next two weeks you won't be able to place new requests, and none of your previously placed holds will come in. Don't worry, your requests are safe and will be successfully transferred to the new system. In the meantime, you can still search the catalog, access library resources online, and check out and return books, movies and music. We're saving some great stuff for you at the library! Find out more at www.sno-isle.org/explore/polarisinfo
Serendipity reigns again - Mary

Local History at Your Local Library

2011-03-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

Snohomish and Island Counties are rich with fascinating local history stories and people. Be sure to check out your local library's local history resources to learn about things that Google has likely never heard of!

Happy Hunting,
Kara

Erica Bauermeister at Oak Harbor Library

2011-03-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

Erica Bauermeister, this year's Whidbey Reads author of The School of Essential Ingredients, spoke Wednesday March 9 at the Oak Harbor Library. She was funny and erudite, and appeared to be totally relaxed with the crowd of more than 60 people. She spoke about her experiences as a writer, would-be chef (she prefers cooking for those she loves) and mother, and especially about the friends who have influenced her career. The enthusiastic audience had opportunities to ask questions, purchase copies of the book from Wind and Tide Bookshop, and chat with Erica as she signed books.

Erica Bauermeister also met with students at Skagit Valley College for a more informal question and answer session on Thursday morning. Students from Gail Davern's literature class had great questions: it was clear that they had read the book with compassion and understanding. As Erica says, "in literature there is no right or wrong: it's just a place where we come together to try to understand a different point of view."

Erica describes herself as a "functional introvert" - it's hard to see any shyness, but we'll take her word for it. You can also hear Kara's interview with Erica on KWPA 96.9!

Kara (and Mary)

Poseidon's Horses: Drawings by Betty Bastai

2011-02-28T16:36:00.000-08:00

Betty Bastai was born in Italy and has an MA in Painting from Edinburgh College of Art. She creates mixed media drawings on paper and site specific installations. Bastai explores the themes of nature, the human body and language. In 2007 she was awarded a GAP Grant from Artist Trust, Art Patch Healthy Funding Award and the Patron Award from California State Polytechnic University. Her work is in the Dee Roy and Mary M. Jones Memorial Art Collection and numerous private collections in the US and Europe.

She is currently working on a community art project about self-portraiture. If you would like to submit a self-portrait please visit her Raw Bubbles blog at:
http://rawbubbles.blogspot.com/2011/01/call-for-self-portraits.html

“The works that I exhibit at the Oak Harbor Library are mixed media drawings on paper that are part of a series titled Poseidon’s Horses. They represent my experience of the Pacific Northwest filtered through my Mediterranean cultural background. They are semi-abstract seascapes where shapes, marks and figurative elements float and mingle on the picture plane striving for a balance and suggesting an ‘open-ended’ narrative. The colors reflect the brilliancy and contrast of the local sea-life. The horse is the mediator between the mysterious and fascinating natural world and my perception of it. Its captivating forms turn into a symbol of psychological freedom, personal renewal and growth.”

For more information about Betty Bastai's work, you can contact her at bettybastai@gmail.com

Best Books for Discussion

2011-02-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

Whidbey book groups gathered en masse at the Coupeville Library last week to share food, wine and good books. Librarian Terry Beck reviewed this year's notable books, and book groups presented their favorites. Here are some of the titles that evoked the best discussions (see the complete list at http://www.whidbeybookgroups.com/)

Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks

Kits for book groups, sets of 10 paperback copies with discussion questions, are available for checkout at Sno-Isle Libraries. Visit the library's web site at http://www.sno-isle.org/applications/bookcollections/ for more information about Book Discussion Kits.

Join the all-Island discussion with author Erica Bauermeister, School of Essential Ingredients, on Wednesday, March 9, 7pm at the Oak Harbor Library. Mary

Learn about eReaders at the Oak Harbor Library

2011-02-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

Learn about eReaders, such as the Nook and Sony Reader, at the Oak Harbor Library on Tuesday February 22 at 3pm.

You will see comparisons of several eReaders and learn the basics of downloading an ebook to read for free from the Sno-Isle website.

Come with your questions!

See you there,
Kara

Coming Soon To Sno-Isle Libraries: Polaris

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

Did you know that Sno-Isle Libraries contain more than a million books, movies and cds available for check-out? Have you ever experienced difficulty in using the library's clunky old online catalog? It is, after all, 20 years old - practically an antique in the world of technology. Well, there is good news: better access is coming soon! Sno-Isle Libraries ILS (Integrated Library System) will upgrade to Polaris within the next few weeks. Here are some of the improvements you'll experience:

You'll save time and get better search results with improved searching ability and ease-of-use (just try searching for It by Stephen King in the old system if you want an exercise in frustration).
You'll have more control over holds and a more powerful library experience, with features similar to those expected from sites like Netflix, Google and Amazon. For example, you'll be able to put your holds "on hold" while you are out of town and not miss them when they come in.
You'll also be able to keep a wishlist of things you want to read, view or listen to but are not quite ready for. Not only that, but you will have the option of keeping a running list of all the items you've checked out, and to edit the list at any time using your own password.

In short, you will receive more for your tax dollars and more personal service. This is a smart investment and smart spending for the library and the community. Polaris leaves our old system in the dust when it comes to efficiency of work processes. The upgrade to Polaris allows the Library to remain a relevant, valuable community resource in the 21st century.

The Denver Public Library went live with Polaris on Thursday, Feb. 3. If you visit their website, you'll find a nice list of Polaris features, many of the same things that will be available to Sno-Isle Libraries customers. We are most grateful to Denver Public Library for going ahead of us by a few weeks; we will benefit from their experience, particularly in our work to migrate data from our old system to the new one.
Mary

Meet the Author of "Circumference of Home"

2011-02-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

When Kurt Hoelting, author of Circumference of Home, realized the gap between his convictions and his carbon footprint, he gave up traveling by car for a year and stayed within 100 kilometers of his Whidbey Island home.

"The question is no longer whether I must respond. The question is whether I can turn my response into an adventure."

Join us for Kurt's presentation and book signing on Tuesday February 8, at 5:30pm, at the Oak Harbor City Hall. Funded in part by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.

This Month’s Artist: Zachary Billings

2011-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Zachary Billings uses acrylic paints, fine ball point pens and felt tip pens, markers and colored pencils to create his imaginative drawings. The 8½ x 11 originals were scanned and enlarged onto watercolor paper. Zachary explains his technique:

“I then commenced to redo all my work going over every line and detail and enhancing all my colors. I redid my work so precisely that it has proved to become a great improvement from the originals.

I loved drawing birds as a child. I did not get serious about art until I left the Army in 1980. I started out with Indian ink and a tiny brush. I was introduced to color with glycerin-based water-colors and sold my first work, The Double-Headed Dragon of the Seventh Heaven, to the owner of the Catalyst in Santa Cruz, CA. I worked my brushes down to one or two hairs. I was fascinated with intricate designs and images found on ancient vases from China. In 1982, I challenged myself with a mandala design of my own creation using a lighted glass table, the smallest brush sold on the market, and Indian ink. This later became my logo for Diamond-Point Needle Vessel Ship Productions, Inc. In 2002, I sold a portfolio of fine art illustrations to the owner of Labor Ready in Shrevesport, LA that included about thirty works.”

Zachary is interested in connecting with other artists in the Oak Harbor area. To contact him about his artwork or starting an artists’ cooperative, call 360-202-7940 or send email to zacharybillings@ymail.com.

Winter Stories: Storytime is not just for kids!

2011-01-22T16:42:00.000-08:00

Come to the Oak Harbor Senior Center on Wednesday January 26th at 12pm and enjoy short stories, essays, and poems read aloud!

Now being read to is no longer just for kids. Bring your lunch and listening ears for a nice way to spend an afternoon and enjoy great conversation with your community.

Scandinavian Film Festival in Oak Harbor

2011-01-20T18:36:00.000-08:00

Spend the day immersed in Scandinavian films without having to drive to Seattle's international film festival. Co-sponsored by the Whidbey Island Nordic Lodge and the Friends of the Oak Library. Free, and subtitled, of course! Held at the library: doors open at 9:45 a.m.

Titles and show times as follows:

10:00 a.m. Troubled Water (2008) - Directed by Erik Poppe
12:45 p.m. - Fjols Til Fjells (1957) - Directed by Edith Carlmar
2:40 p.m. Mother of Mine (2005) - Directed by Klaus Haro

Open to the public; may not be suitable for children.

Happy 2011: The Year of the eReader

2011-01-06T10:37:00.000-08:00

It seems that eReaders, such as the Nook and Sony Reader, were very popular gifts at the holidays! Look no further than your local library for eBooks to download.

To get started, go to the Sno-Isle Libraries homepage and follow these simple steps:

1. Click on Downloads on the left-hand side of the screen

2. Click on Getting Started > Quick Start Guide

3. Download the appropriate free software to get started and follow the simple steps

4. Find, check out, and start reading your free eBooks!

As always, ask your local librarian if you have questions along the way.

And, for additional help, join us on Tuesday February 22, at 3pm, for the "eReaders Explained" program at the Oak Harbor Library.

Happy Learning!
Kara

This Month's Artist: Sue Martell

2011-01-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

Sue Martell is currently under contract with Geme Art, Inc. in Vancouver, WA. Her focus is on highly realistic botanical watercolors.

Her series of published botanical paintings was showcased in the March 2005 issue of Decor Magazine.

Sue was a member of the Penn Cove Cooperative Gallery in Coupeville for 10 years and has also been represented by the Blue Heron Gallery and the Insights Gallery.

Sue says of her work: "It is my greatest wish that everything made by my hands be gracious and lovely and reflect the faith that gives me peace."

What was your favorite book of 2010?

2010-12-23T11:19:00.000-08:00

The end of the year is such a nice time to cozy up with a book, especially when it's dark all day and best books of the year lists are plentiful.

A perennially anticipated list is the New York Times' 10 Best Books list. Two of these ten are on my shelf awaiting their turn, but I thought I'd share my two personal favorites of the year in case you missed them.

The Lovers by Vendela Vida

A rich story of a widowed woman who returns to Turkey to remember her honeymoon and finds unexpected surprises along the way.

Swan: Poems and Prose Poems by Mary Oliver

Mary Oliver returns in fine form with poems that will melt your heart.

And, in case you missed these hilarious (and thought-provoking) books, here are a few to keep you laughing into the New Year:

Make Me a Woman by Vanessa Davis

A beautifully-illustrated book of comics about the trials and travails of growing up.

Simple Times by Amy Sedaris

You may not even make it to the craft table for crepe-paper moccasins or a macaroni alien mask because you'll be laughing so hard by Sedaris' kitschy humor.

Also a great last-minute gift for crafters and non-crafters alike!

What was your favorite book of 2010?
Kara

Get Ready to Read - How Parents Can Help

2010-12-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

As their first and most important teacher, you have the power to help your children be ready to read once they enter school. Here are five easy ways to do it:
1. Read at home - when your kids see you enjoying a book, they will want to read, too.
2. Read to your children every day - research has shown that children who spend 20-30 minutes a day reading and listening to stories develop the skills they need to be ready to read on their own.
3. Take your kids to the library - everyone in your family can have his or her own library card. Make visiting the library a regular event, and be sure to check out a book for yourself, too. It's free!
4. Give books as gifts - your children will treasure them as they begin to build their own library.
5. Make reading a privilege - reward your kids with an extra story when they've been extra helpful.
Play with the stories and pictures, and talk with your child about what is happening in the story. You'll be amazed at how quickly your child will begin to recognize letters and sounds, and to increase his or her vocabulary. Most of all, enjoy reading together. Choose books that you both enjoy, and make reading fun.
Find great read-aloud suggestions at the Sno-Isle Libraries web site, or ask your friendly librarian for a recommendation. If you get tired of reading aloud (or simply want to finish that last chapter in your own book), try Tumblebooks, with a wide variety of animated picture books. Your child can also listen to stories from the Sno-Isle Libraries web site, simply by clicking on the book cover.
Happy reading! Mary

Gift Books for Children

2010-12-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Receiving a book can be a transformative event in a child's life. Here are a few selections to help you ignite a life-long love of reading, learning, and imagination.

A Bedtime for Bear
by Bonnie Becker

Bear has a very particular bedtime routine. When Mouse arrives for a surprise sleep-over visit, Bear is not sure he will ever get to sleep!

The Search for WondLa
by Tony DiTerlizzi

Reminiscent of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz series, with a touch of science fiction quirkiness, this imaginative novel combines old-fashioned storytelling with sumptuous illustrations.

Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse
by Marilyn Singer

Favorite fairy tales take on a new twist in this ingenious collection of poems featuring "reversos," poems that can be read from the top to the bottom, or from the bottom up. Fun for everyone!

Stop by the Oak Harbor Library to pick up a copy of the complete list of gift book suggestions for children, teens, and adults. Or, listen to the complete list on KWPA 96.9 on Whidbey Island, or as a podcast here.

Happy Reading,
Kara

Gift Books for Teens

2010-12-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

Not sure what to give the hard-to-please teen in your life? Try these selections to either entertain or educate your favorite teens.

Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld

Fantasy meets history in this novel that tells an alternate version of WWI. Continuing the story of Leviathan, this tale is full of fantastic contraptions, creatures, and exciting adventure.

The Disposable Skateboard Bible by Sean Cliver

With over 350 pages of full-color photographs of more than 1,000 skateboard decks, this wonderful gift book includes background information about the artists who designed the boards and the skaters who rode them.

Show Off: How to Do Absolutely Everything. One Step at a Time. by Sarah Hines Stephens

Colorful drawings show you how to do everything from twirling a drumstick to making fortune cookies. Over 200 skills to learn!

Stop by the Oak Harbor Library to pick up a copy of the complete list of gift books for all ages, and listen to your local librarians talk about the books on KWPA 96.9 out of Coupeville!

Happy Holidays!
Kara

Teen Art Show @ the Oak Harbor Library

2010-11-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

Here's an event you will not want to miss: Oak Harbor Teens display the best of all mediums at the 5th Annual Teen Art Show, beginning Thursday December 9 at 7:00 PM. Enjoy free food, view the show, and meet the artists and their families at the Opening Gala on Thursday evening. You may also drop in any time between 10am and 5pm Friday or Saturday, Dec 10-11. Funded by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library and catered by OHHS Wildcat Catering, this event is open to all. Mary

Great Gift Books

2010-11-23T12:21:00.000-08:00

Oak Harbor Library's Gift Book Gala is just around the corner! Join us for a cup of cocoa and hear ideas for giving creative book gifts for children, teens, and adults:

Tuesday November 30th at 5pm at the Oak Harbor Library

Wednesday December 1st at 2:15pm at the Oak Harbor Senior Center

To get us in the spirit, here are a few suggestions for gift books for adults (and your own reading pleasure!):

Diana Comet and Other Improbable Stories
by Sandra McDonald

This is a great book of short stories, where Diana is the central character throughout. The unique stories of fireman, goddesses, and cowboys will captivate readers looking for variety, passion, and imagination!

My Favorite Ingredients
by Skye Gyngell

This fun and inspiring cookbook is based on sixteen simple ingredients and is as beautiful to look at as it is to cook with. A great choice for the creative chef!

The Surf Guru
by Doug Dorst

This character-driven book of short stories is the perfect combination of humor and insight, imagination and humanity. Sure to delight both male and female readers!

Join us at the Gift Books Galas, or if you don't make it be sure to stop by the Oak Harbor Library to pick up a copy of the complete list!

Kara

Cookbooks & Cold Nights

2010-11-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

These cold, dark days are a perfect time to cozy up inside with some new recipes. Luckily, the lists of the year's best cookbooks are starting to come out, offering some fresh ideas for good food.

Amazon's Top 10 Cookbooks

Booklist's Top 10 Food Books

NPR's 2010's Best Cookbooks: Real-Life Labors of Love

Be sure to get your name on the list of holds for these books at your local library.

Happy Cooking!
Kara

National Book Award Finalists Announced

2010-11-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

The other NBA - the National Book Award - is closely watched by readers, librarians, publishers and booksellers, and the results are generally quite surprising. This year, as has often been the case, the titles selected are mostly relatively obscure: this is not your usual bestseller list.

Two of the finalists for fiction, Lords of Misrule by Jaimy Gordon and I Hotel by Karen Tei Yamashita, are published by small independent publishers. Other finalists include So Much for That by Lionel Shriver, Great House by Nicole Krauss and Parrot and Olivier in America by Peter Carey. Four of the five fiction finalists are women (including Lionel Shriver); most are not very well known. Perhaps the NBA nominations will help you discover a new author to love!

Check out Sno-Isle Libraries Best of the National Book Award Fiction list for highlights of previous NBA winners. Which ones have you read? Was the award was deserved? Mary C

Gift Book Gala

2010-11-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Join us for a cup of cocoa or coffee while librarians offer book recommendations for holiday gift giving on Tuesday November 30, at 5pm, at the Oak Harbor Library, as well as Wednesday December 1, at 2:15pm, at the Oak Harbor Senior Center. This first annual Gift Book Gala is sure to delight all ages and interests.

Pressed for time? Pick up a copy of our top-picks booklists from the library before you go shopping and give the gift of reading!

See you there!
Kara

Northwest photos on display

2010-11-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

Oak Harbor native Curtis Adams shares more of his photos this month. These photographs were taken in various locations in the Pacific Northwest: the Columbia Gorge, Deception Pass and off-shore of Vancouver Island. Stop by the Oak Harbor Library in November to see his "painterly" images.

...A FIELD, A FRIEND, A BOOK

2010-10-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

In the 11th century Hai Gaon wrote, "To three possessions thou shouldst look: Acquire a field, a friend, a book." While we can, perhaps, in modern times, assign our field to the expert care of others, our current need for friends and books is no less urgent today.
Next to voting, the act of reading is possibly the most significant gesture of citizenship. To open one's mind to the wide field of ideas and information; to pursue knowledge wherever the spirit leads; to grasp freedom in the shape of education - all these are the cornerstones upon which the public library is built.
As for friends, it is the Friends of the Library whose cause it is to support the library and its work in the community. The Friends of the Oak Harbor Library volunteer their time and raise money through annual book sales. This year the Friends provided nearly $9000 for library equipment and furniture, outreach activities and summer reading programs, and library events such as puppet shows, authors and films. Join the Friends of the Library and support your local library. Mary

A National Digital Library?

2010-10-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

As you may know, the United States does not have a National Library. Indeed, we have a Library of Congress, with its primary intent to serve Congress, a National Library of Medicine, and a National Agricultural Library. There are also State libraries, including the Washington State Library.

These are all invaluable resources for their purposes, but there still remains the absence of a National Library, with the intent to serve and preserve the entire country.

A recent article in the New York Review of Books discussed the possibility of creating a National Digital Library. As defined, this would be "a comprehensive library of digitized books that will be easily accessible to the general public." A great, if complex, idea.

A National Digital Library, as the article describes, "would make the cultural patrimony of this country freely available to all of its citizens. It would be the digital equivalent of the Library of Congress, but instead of being confined to Capitol Hill, it would exist everywhere, bringing millions of books and other digitized material within clicking distance of public libraries, high schools, junior colleges, universities, retirement communities, and any person with access to the Internet."

In the absence of a National Library in this country, and in this Digital Age, this is a very compelling and important idea. Your thoughts?

Kara

*Image from the article.

Hand-dyed Textiles on Display

2010-10-01T10:54:00.000-07:00

Mary Burks is displaying her hand-dyed textiles at Oak Harbor Library during the month of October. Mary says of her work in textiles and mixed media:

I work with textiles because I love the tactile quality of the fibers. I generally have at least two projects going at once--the art work and the wearables. The wearables give me an opportunity for spontaneity through dyeing with the silk scarves. Silk loves dye. It is a race of the dye molecules to see which one attaches first to the silk and establishes its color. Lately I have been doing a lot of natural dyeing and find that the colors have a wonderful affinity to each other--they all go together in the finished work.

While the composition is simple, the labor involved is not. It is very time consuming. But I find it to be therapeutic and mentally calming. I like to create texture with the fibers using lots of folding, tyeing and stitching. Most of the techniques that I employ help with the control of the dye process--the adding color process. I like to think of my textile work as painting with threads and dyes. Posted by Nancy.

Cool Tricks at Your Library: GED, SAT, PowerPoint & more!

2010-09-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

Lots of people don't know to turn to the library's website to study for the GED, SAT, firefighter and nursing tests, brush up on your math skills, and learn how to use Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and more!

You can use the Learning Express Library online database from home or at the library to study for tests and gain all kinds of skills, 24/7. Some of the resources are also available in Spanish.

Give it a try, and let us know if you have any questions!

Kara

Teen Art Contest @ the Library

2010-09-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

The 7th annual Teen Art Contest at Sno-Isle Libraries is now accepting entries. Each year we hold this contest during Teen Read Month, which is the entire month of October. This year's theme is "Books with Beat" - heartbeat, musical beat, crime beat... use your imagination!
The official entry form is available at the library, or you can download and print it from the Sno-Isle Libraries web site: http://www.sno-isle.org/?id=5394
All people age 12-18 are eligible to enter. Four winners will be chosen to receive a $25 gift card from Amazon.com, and the winning entries will be printed together as a full color poster.
Turn in your completed entry at the library no later than November 1 at 5pm. We know there are some great artists in Oak Harbor - let's see what you can do! Anne

Cool Tricks at Your Library: Learn a Language

2010-09-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

Traveling to another country and want to be able to say hello and goodbye to the people you meet?

Look no further than Mango Languages from sno-isle.org from the library or at home. Choose from over twenty languages, as well as ESL courses. It's a quick, fun, and easy way to learn a new language.

Enjoy!
Kara

Image courtesy of Purdue University.

Best Books of Summer - By the Readers

2010-09-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of Whidbey Island readers submitted reviews to the libraries this summer. Winners of the $50 gift certificates to a bookstore of choice, compliments of the Friends of the Library, will be announced this week. It's always fun to see what people are reading and to hear their thoughts about books. Here are a few of this year's favorites:

Escape by Carolyn Jessop (2007). This true story of a woman born into the Fundamentalist Church of the Latter Day Saints is a story of power, corruption, and the strength of the human spirit. A must read.

Strength in what remains by Tracy Kidder (2009). After running for his life in war-torn Burundi and Rwanda, Deo manages to get to the U.S. Friendless, homeless and penniless, he survives and, through the kindness of strangers, even meets with real success.

Somewhere inside : one sister's captivity in North Korea and the other's fight to bring her home by Laura and Lisa Ling (2010). This is the true story of one sister's captivity in North Korea and the other's fight to bring her home. It tells of the hardships they faced and the friends they made. A must read.

The news where you are by Catherine O'Flynn (2010). This story about Frank Allcroft, a television news anchor who delivers his hometown news, starts slowly but soon pulls the reader in. It is a moving story of a man coming to terms with loss on many levels.

In the name of honor by Richard North Patterson (2010). In his new novel Patterson examines the shocking rates of suicide among Iraqi war vets. This very complex book is about two men who have just returned from Iraq, both with some form of post traumatic stress disorder.

Shattered by Karen Robards (2010). Lisa Grant was a rising young star in a prestigious law firm until the firm went bankrupt. She takes a job in the District Attorney's office and soon discovers a mystery in her own family. Mystery solved, romance found in the process - worth reading.

Kisser by Stuart Woods (2010). This new Stone Barrington novel is action packed and full of romance, as Stone comes to the aid of new starlet who also does lipstick ads. It will keep you entertained.

I thoroughly enjoyed Gentlemen and Players (downloaded audio) by Joanne Harris, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Steig Larsson, and Destiny Disrupted: a history of the world through Islamic eyes by Tamim Ansary. What books did you read this summer? Mary

This Month's Artist: Joan Brosnahan

2010-09-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

Watercolorist Joan Brosnahan began her career as an artist over twenty years ago and has developed a unique, unlimited style that is widely known under the signature of "Broz". Joan utilizes varied styles in her work and demonstrates her ability and imagination in combining traditional watercolor with a variety of mixed media.

More recently, Joan Brosnahan has developed a mixed media technique that has rapidly become popular. Her artwork appears in a number of galleries on Whidbey Island, including Garry Oak Gallery in Oak Harbor and Cornet Bay Gallery near Deception Pass. Joan teaches painting classes at Oak Harbor Senior Center.

Cool Tricks at Your Library: Book Discussion Kits

2010-08-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

For some reason I didn’t go to libraries much when I was a kid. Now that I work in libraries I’m constantly discovering all the cool things they offer! Since I’m sure I’m not the only one out there in this situation, I thought I’d post some not-to-be-missed tricks you’ll find at your local library.

Trick #1: Did you know that Sno-Isle Libraries offers Book Discussion Kits? In fact, there are currently 237 different books to choose from! Each kit contains ten copies of a single book title, so you and your book group can check out your own private set of beautiful books for sixty days.

And, don't forget to log in to Novelist or Reading Group Guides to prepare for your discussion.

Happy Reading!
Kara

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR GROWN-UPS, TOO

2010-08-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

This week's Whidbey News Times includes a very inspiring article about the Pardos, a pair of 77-year-olds who are learning to use computers for the first time. It's a great reminder that it is never too late to learn something new. In life, we learn or stagnate. Learning is growth. It is independence, self-reliance and development. It's even fun - try it!

Call 360-675-5115 or drop into the Oak Harbor Library to "Book a Librarian" for 30 minutes of one-on-one or small group coaching on basic computer skills, email, searching the Internet or using library online resources. Or watch the Oak Harbor Senior Center class schedule for upcoming "Tech Talks" by library staff.

Never stop learning - it is your life! Mary

Eat Pray Love

2010-08-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Eat Pray Love seems to be one of those books you either love or hate. I loved it. I devoured it and have since recommended it to everyone I know. I never intended to read the book, thinking, ‘oh it’s just another feel good, fix your life book, far too cheesy for my picky palette.’ Au Contraire!

Elizabeth Gilbert is a really great writer, and her account of a year spent traveling in Italy, India, and Indonesia to better understand herself is told with enough wit, depth, and grace to suit the pickiest of readers.

After several people recommended the book to me years ago, I finally picked it up one day and cannot remember putting it down until the last page. So, suffice it to say, I’m a fan.

I read interviews with Gilbert when I need inspiration, I cried when I watched her TED speech on creativity, and I’ve waited with impatient enthusiasm for the movie release.

In case you haven’t heard, the movie came out Friday August 13th. I bought tickets at my earliest opportunity and had a very nice time sitting through the on-screen retelling. The movie pales in comparison to the book’s original richness, but I loved it nonetheless.

Like a true fan, I recommend the movie, and, of course, the book to those last standing, yet to read this magnum opus of making sense of the modern world.

If you've already read Eat Pray Love, or are waiting for your turn to check it out, here are some similar books you might like:

Tales of a Female Nomad: Living at Large in the World

Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark

Gertrude Bell: Queen of the Desert, Shaper of Nations

Down the Nile: Alone in a Fisherman’s Skiff

--Kara

JIM LYNCH TO VISIT WHIDBEY AUG 18

2010-08-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

If you enjoyed The Highest Tide when it was featured as the Whidbey Reads book for the entire community, then you won't want to miss author Jim Lynch when he returns to Whidbey Island this week. Jim is a very successful author who enjoys talking about writing and books. His presentations are as funny and engaging as his books. Border Songs, just out in paperback, has been picked as among the best books of 2009. It is currently being adapted to the stage by Book-it Theater in Seattle, which adapted and performed The Highest Tide in 2008. Border Songs is slated for the stage in the fall of 2011.
Meet Jim Lynch at the Oak Harbor Library on Wednesday, August 18 at 6pm. Book sales and signing will be available at the event, courtesy of Diane at Wind and Tide Bookstore. See you there!

OUR VERY OWN SUPERHERO

2010-08-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

Last week we met a young man on a mission. He and his dad were visiting libraries and businesses throughout Whidbey Island. The boy, about 9 or 10 years old, had collected a large bucket of pen caps. He had caps of all colors and sizes, all separated from their various pens. His goal was to match them, one by one, to pens without caps. Each time he found a match he would record his accomplishment with a click on his counter. There was one at the information desk - click! Two more over at the check-out counter - click, click!
What I loved about this story was the role of the dad. He had discovered a way for his son to feel successful and was making it work for him. That boy was accomplishing something important to him, and his dad was the one that made it possible. Kudos to parents who take the time to find ways for their children to feel successful and competent.
Here are a few of the many excellent parenting books available at the library: find more on the shelf at 649.1
How to talk so kids will listen & listen so kids will talk
Screamfree parenting : raising your kids by keeping your cool
Help! My kid is driving me crazy : the 17 ways kids manipulate their parents, and what you can do about it
Unconditional parenting : moving from rewards and punishments to love and reason

Paintings of Cakes on Display

2010-08-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

This month's artist, Kate Hubbard, says of her art:

In my years of cake decorating, I compiled a list of cakes that were not realistic to make out of icing. For reasons of physics, probability and flavor, some just needed a different medium. When I discovered acrylic painting in 1992, I realized that Cakes in Space could actually happen. Then there were Cave cakes, Underwater cakes, and tintype photo cakes. Suddenly cake was invading the most unexpected scenarios, and popping up in all sorts of places. I even started dreaming in cake. I have now painted hundreds of versions, with a fondness for the surreal and fantastic.

I use pastry tubes and the turntable of my edible cake days, and I give lessons in both icing and paint. I welcome questions and comments, as well as random cake stories. I also love keeping track of all the countries where my work has traveled.

Ramona Quimby: Where is she now?

2010-07-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Allen's new movie, Ramona and Beezus, which follows the misadventures of Beverly Cleary's beloved Ramona Quimby, got us thinking about Ramona. What would she be like as an adult? If you loved Ramona as much as we did, you probably enjoy reading about smart, quirky characters who get themselves into trouble not matter how hard they try (or perhaps because they try so hard!) Characters, both strangely eccentric and very ordinary, reign supreme under the deft pens of the authors listed below. Families form the foundation of the stories, and all the characters revolve around their roles within the circle of the family. Many, but not all, of the protagonists are women, and humor is an important element of the story. We hope you will find these titles just as enjoyable as you did the Cleary books, back when we were kids...
Ponder heart by Eudora Welty.
Practical magic by Alice Hoffman.
Virtous woman by Kaye Gibbons.
Patty Jane's house of curl by Lorna Landvik.
Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver.
New mercies by Sandra Dallas.

Pizza and Books @ the Oak Harbor Library

2010-07-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

Teen summer reading is in full swing and going great. So far more than 50 teens have submitted book reviews, and 14 of those have already qualified for the Oak Harbor grand prize drawing by submitting at least five book reviews. There is still plenty of time to read and submit reviews before the end of the summer.

Our program this week is Bring Your own Books – Pizza and Book Club, at 3:00 pm Wednesday afternoon. All teens age 12-18 are invited to come share what they’ve been reading so far this summer, hear what others are reading, take a look at some new and interesting books available to check out right away, and, of course, enjoy some pizza. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.

Boat Photos on Display

2010-06-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

Photographer Curtis Adams is an Oak Harbor native and a Navy son. He was born in the Old Main building which is now part of the Skagit Valley College campus: the building behind Oak Harbor Library. When Curtis was born, Old Main was the dispensary for NAS Whidbey. He is an anomaly in our community as he is not Navy, retired or of Dutch heritage. He lives locally with his wife, Teresa. His mother Julia, father Tom and son Phillip are Whidbey Island residents as well.

Curt’s interest in photography started at a young age. When his father was stationed in Brunswick, Maine, his parents purchased a “Brownie” film camera for him. As a third grader, he graduated to a 35mm SLR, and was initiated into darkroom work during art class in White Rock, New Mexico. In junior high and high school in Friendly, Md. he became the yearbook photo “geek”. He literally dove into underwater photography in Bermuda, and progressed into underwater video while living in Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. He’s now shooting with an Olympus digital SLR here on Whidbey.

Oak Harbor's Highly Evolved Literary League

2010-06-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Oak Harbor's Highly Evolved Literary League invites you to share your love of reading. The group, which is open to everyone, meets at 5:30 pm one Thursday each month at the Oak Harbor Library. Books are available at the library check-out desk at the beginning of each month prior to the discussion. Pick up a copy of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak now, and join us for a lively discussion on Thursday, July 22 at 5:30 pm.
Reading selections for 2010:
July 22, 5:30 pm - The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Aug 19, 5:30 pm - Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build Nations ... One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin.
Sep 23, 5:30 pm - Midnight at the Dragon Cafe by Judy Fong Bates
Oct 21, 5:30 pm - Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Nov 18, 5:30 pm - Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Dec 16, 5:30 pm - Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards

ADULTS WHO READ WIN FAME AND FORTUNE!

2010-06-16T08:46:00.000-07:00

Summer reading is not just for kids - Sno-Isle Libraries has a great new summer reading program for grown-ups, too (yes, that is you). Beginning June 21, "Read and be rewarded" by sharing your favorite summer books with a short review (online, or written in the old fashioned way). Your name will be entered in a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate at the bookstore of your choice, funded by the Friends of the Library.

And that's not all: you may also be selected as Sno-Isle Libraries "Reader of the Week." A special booklist and poster will be created in your honor.

One book review gets you entered in both contests! Enter online, or pick up review forms at the library. Happy reading!

This Month's Artist: Cheryl Telford

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

Cheryl Telford creates vibrant abstract paintings using acrylics and mixed media. She says of her artwork:

“The artistic process helps me become aware of myself in the larger process of life; I strive to create images that offer a respite to those that view them. It is an exceptional feeling when others respond to what I have created, and is so authentically me.”

As well as being an artist, Cheryl is also the Community Libraries & Technology Director for Sno-Isle Libraries. You can view more of her artwork at her web site: http://www.cheryltelford.net

Julie&Julia: Free Movie at the Oak Harbor Library

2010-06-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the Saturday matinee at your local library on June 5 at 2:00 PM. The movie is free, and so is the popcorn, courtesy of the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library.
"Julie and Julia" stars Meryl Streep and Amy Adams. Julie is frustrated in her temp job so decides to take a yearlong culinary quest, to cook all 524 recipes in Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking. The film follows both women who discover that with the right combination of passion, fearlessness and butter, anything is possible.

Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Stanley Tucci Columbia Pictures; Directed by Nora Ephron Rated PG-13; 123 minutes; 2009

Community Supports Summer Reading

2010-05-24T16:52:00.000-07:00

Today I attended a meeting of the Officers' Spouses Club of Whidbey Island and received an amazing gift: a check for $800 to put toward Summer Reading for North Whidbey kids. Friends of the Library and Island Thrift have also given generously to this program to the tune of $1,250 each. What it means is that we can promote reading all summer long, AND provide great incentives for kids who participate in the library's program. Thank you to our wonderful donors: their support will directly benefit hundreds of children and families by promoting the love of reading and learning throughout the summer months. Let's Make a Splash at the library, and bridge that gap together!

Celebrate Friends of the Library in Oak Harbor

2010-05-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

Where can you stroll the Avenida Corrientes, enjoy some tapas, and celebrate Friends of the Library, all at the same time? At the Friends of the Oak Harbor Library annual celebration.

This is the event of the year: don't miss it!

Please join us at the Friends of the Library 17th Annual Tea on Thursday, May 20, at 3:00 PM at the Oak Harbor Library.
Introducing poet Lorraine Healy, reading from her new book, "The Habit of Buenos Aires" (Tebot Bach, $15). Whidbey Island-based Argentinean poet Healy's debut collection is, in her own words, "a love poem to a complicated, exasperating country [and] chaotic mega-city."

Meet Irish Poet: Tony Curtis

2010-05-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Winner of the National Poetry Prize, Tony Curtis of Dublin, Ireland will visit Oak Harbor Library on Wednesday, May 12. He will present a poetry writing workshop from 9:30 -11:00 a.m. at Skagit Valley College room OAK 310. A poetry reading will be held at the library beginning at noon. The reading, sponsored by Skagit Valley College, is free and open to the public.

FREE Poetry Reading: Tony Curtis

Wed, May 12 at 12:00 - Library Meeting Room - Includes free coffee, tea & cookies

Tony Curtis was born in Dublin. His collections are The Shifting of Stones (Dublin, Beaver Row Press,1986); Behind the Green Curtain (Beaver Row Press, 1988); This Far North (Dublin,The Dedalus Press, 1994); Three Songs of Home (The Dedalus Press, 1998); and What Darkness Covers (Todmorton, Lancs. UK, Arc Publications, 2003). Pickings And Cuttings, a long running column of poetry quotations by Dennis O'Driscoll in the literary journal Poetry Ireland Review, was edited by Tony Curtis and published under the title As The Poet Said, by Poetry Ireland in 1997. He was awarded the National Poetry Prize in 1993. He now lives in North County Dublin, and is a member of Aosdána.

Botanical Art on Display

2010-04-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Pennie Janousek creates lifelike images of plants. Ms. Janousek says of her artwork:

Nature, particularly its flora, has held a fascination for me since my childhood. My art has always been a reflection of that love of nature in its form and subject matter. During the past eleven years I have channeled my artistic energy into one of the most demanding of art forms. Botanical illustration was historically used prior to photography as a means of scientific documentation of a species. While the onset of photography filled this need for visual accuracy, it could not replace the beauty of botanical illustration as an art form in its own right. By rendering the details and intricate structure of a plant form, my aim is to transfer to the viewer both an intimate knowledge and an artistic sensibility of my subject.

Ms. Janousek attended Columbus College of Art and Design in Ohio. She has won numerous awards in juried shows. We invite you to view her artwork during the month of May.

Meet the Author: Kennedy Foster

2010-04-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

All Roads Lead Me Back To You author Kennedy Foster will be on Whidbey Island this week, celebrating with Whidbey Reads. The public is invited to meet her at two separate events in Oak Harbor:

Tuesday, April 27, 7:00 PM at Oak Harbor Yacht Club (doors open at 6:30 PM)

Wednesday, April 28, 10:00 AM at Skagit Valley College, Oak Hall 310

Foster will also spend time with students at Oak Harbor High School, before heading south to Langley for more engagements.

Whidbey Reads: All Roads Lead Me Back To You

2010-04-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

What if everyone on Whidbey Island read the same book? And what if that book was All Roads Lead Me Back To You, by Kennedy Foster? And what if we all got to meet the author after reading and discussing her book? We are about to find out!
Whidbey Reads is a community reading program meant to bring people together to read and talk about books. The annual program has been generating discussion, building community and bringing renowned authors to Whidbey Island since 2003. This year's program, hosted by Sno-Isle Libraries, Skagit Valley College and The Friends of the Whidbey Island Libraries, presents Walla Walla author, Kennedy Foster, who will discuss her book with college and high school students, then meet with members of the public at the Oak Harbor Yacht Club on Tuesday, April 27 at 7pm. The program is free; seating is limited.

Want to discuss the book ahead of time? Join the discussion at the Oak Harbor Library on Thursday, April 22 at 5:30 pm. Call 360-675-5115 for more information.

Textile Art on Display

2010-04-01T12:56:00.001-07:00

Pat Morse is a textile artist using mixed media with an emphasis on fabric, paper and thread. Her art is inspired by the natural world around us, especially the water, mountains, and plants of the Pacific Northwest. She also incorporates designs and themes from other cultures seen while traveling.

She uses hand dyed and printed fabrics, beads, metals, and other embellishments to create raised surfaces for machine and hand quilting.

Three of her art quilts are featured at the library in April.

Academy Aftermath...Have You Read The Book?

2010-03-10T12:19:00.000-08:00

Interesting to note that many of the Oscar winning movies highlighted at the Academy Awards this week are based on books available at your local library. Someone loved those books so much that they were inspired to make a movie. Check these out!

The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game by Michael Lewis

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Crazy-Heart: a Novel by Thomas Cobb

Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl

Invictus : Nelson Mandela and the game that made a nation by John Carlin

The lovely bones : a novel by Alice Sebold

Precious: Based on the novel Push by Sapphire

A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood

Up in the Air by Walter Kirn.

Which book will be the next to inspire an Oscar winning movie?

Cowboys and Cowgirls at the Oak Harbor Library

2010-03-04T20:13:00.000-08:00

Free event: Cowboys and Cowgirls in Story and Song, Thursday, March 11, 3pm at the Oak Harbor Library. Whidbey Reads 2010 kicks off its 9th season with legends and lore of the American West, as told in story and song by Bruce and Susan Matley (aka Nevada Slim & Cimarron Sue). Contemporary life in the American west is profoundly influenced by the rich heritage of the early cowboys and cowgirls. In song, cowboy poetry and story, this free, all-ages program relates expressions of the work ethic, hardships, and joys of frontier life.

Pick up a copy of Kennedy Foster's novel, All Roads Lead Me Back To You, the Whidbey Reads 2010 selection. The Whidbey Reads brochure also provides questions for discussion, information about the author, recommended reading and a complete listing of Whidbey Reads 2010 events, including the grand finale with the author at the end of April. We look forward to reading and discussing the book with you! Mary

Art Quilts on Display

2010-03-02T12:51:00.000-08:00

This month's artist, Nancy Luenn, draws inspiration from the natural world and from the world of the imagination. A former children's book writer, she creates quilts that tell a story. To see more of her artwork, visit her blog: http://storyquilts.blogspot.com

Nancy also has work in a show of the Whidbey Island Surface Design Association at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum through March 28. For more information, visit their web site: http://www.laconnerquilts.com

Free Film for All Ages: Beneath the Salish Sea

2010-02-16T15:21:00.000-08:00

Beneath the Salish Sea: An Underwater Odyssey through Puget Sound – Saturday, Feb. 20, 2:00 PM at the Oak Harbor Library.

Although he films all over the globe, diver, BBC cinematographer, and marine biologist Florian Graner lives right here on Holmes Harbor, Whidbey Island. His film, Beneath the Salish Sea, opens with the amazing variety of life just off Beverly Beach, and then broadens its focus to include other areas of Puget Sound. Graner, who works with Service Education Adventure (SEA), wants everyone to know just how rich the ecosystems are right here in our home waters so they will be inspired to protect them. He will answer questions about filmmaking or marine biology after the show. To add to the fun, SEA's 65-foot teaching vessel Indigo will be at the Oak Harbor Marina and open for free tours both before (11-1:30) and after the film (4-5:30pm). For more information call the Oak Harbor Library at 360-675-5115 or visit http://www.sno-isle.org/

Black History Month

2010-02-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Oak Harbor Library celebrates Black History Month with a display featuring books, movies and music about African-American history and culture.

Our art display features the work of photographer John Pendleton.
Jumping the Broom
No form of marriage was recognized for blacks during American slavery. In its absence, the ceremonial jumping of the broom served as an open declaration of settling down in a marriage-like relationship within the slave community. Jumping the broom was always done before witnesses as a public ceremonial announcement to other members of the slave community that a couple chose to become as close to married as was then allowed. -- John Pendleton

John Pendleton is a professional portrait, wedding and landscape photographer. His works are displayed at various shops on island. For more information, visit John Pendleton’s web site: http://www.pendletonimaging.com/.